news
News from Prior-Lake Savage Area Schools
Twelve exceptional Prior Lake High School student-athletes signed their National Letters of Intent (NLI) this on Wednesday, February 5. The NLI is a document used to indicate a student-athlete’s commitment to participate at an NCAA college or university.
This achievement reflects their dedication, talent, and perseverance as they take the next step in their academic and athletic careers after graduation. PLSAS is incredibly proud of their hard work and can’t wait to see all they accomplish at the collegiate level!
Logan Buss - Baseball - Bethany Lutheran College
Morgan Daugaard - Softball - Minnesota State University, Moorhead
Sabrina Hauschildt - Softball - College of St. Benedict
Reese Haycraft - Swimming - University of Nebraska, Omaha
Hannah Helberg - Soccer - Bethel University
Nate Hetland - Baseball - Luther College
Bree Holmes - Softball - University of Wisconsin, La Crosse
Liev Jacquemart - Football - University of Wisconsin, La Crosse
Zach Johnson - Baseball - Bethel University
Natalie Kuboushek - Swimming - University of Northern Iowa
Ava Loftness - Track & Field - Gustavus Adolphus College
Lauren Thurk - Softball - University of Wisconsin, La Crosse
Community Education Service Preschool Teacher Annie Thoraldson has been named the January 2025 recipient of the Anchored in the Laker Way Award. This monthly award celebrates Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools Community Education Services staff who are anchored in providing a strong foundation of community service, an innovative and supportive leader, a respectful team member, and committed to lifelong learning and excellence.
Here is what the nominator(s) shared about Annie:
“I am honored to nominate Annie for this award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to our district and community education services programming. Annie exemplifies a strong work ethic and has a thorough understanding of her job responsibilities. She serves as a positive role model for students and staff alike, consistently going above and beyond to make a meaningful difference. She constantly goes out of her way to make sure all of her families feel included. Parents and students love Annie for the strong, authentic connections she builds. She has a remarkable ability to foster a sense of belonging, ensuring everyone feels valued and included. Her initiative, creativity, and genuine care for others shine in every aspect of her work. Annie is a true team player, putting students first and working tirelessly to promote our programs. Her passion for combining nature and education inspires those around her. She brings positivity and an unparalleled willingness to go the extra mile, whether it’s supporting a colleague, mentoring, or contributing fresh ideas to strengthen our initiatives.”
“As a dedicated mentor, Annie empowers others to grow and thrive. She is deeply committed to her own professional growth and fosters the same drive in those she works with. Her daily actions consistently demonstrate Laker Pride and her efforts significantly contribute to improving our district and community education services as well as support the growth of the nature preschool program. Annie’s kindness, integrity, and enthusiasm make her a beloved member of our community and truly deserving of this recognition.”
On January 20, the Prior Lake Savage Education Association (PLSEA) held a celebration to honor the 2024-25 Teachers of the Year for all of their hard work and dedication to our mission of inspiring and empowering each student to reach their full potential.
Pictured left to right:
Nichole Tuma, La ola del lago at Grainwood
Kathy Castor, Edgewood
Jordan Yetzer, Five Hawks Elementary
Dana Hardy, Prior Lake High School
Carley Leake, Hidden Oaks Middle School
Karen Russell, Jeffers Pond Elementary
Jessica Robison, Glendale Elementary
Allyson Hovorka, Hamilton Ridge Elementary
Jordan Hatchett, Redtail Ridge Elementary
Amy Handevidt, WestWood Elementary
Not pictured:
David Bloom, Bridges Area Learning Center
Rachel McKay, Twin Oaks Middle School
The Prior Lake Rotary, in partnership with Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools, hosted the 4th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration at Prior Lake High School on Monday, January 20.
This year’s event featured a variety of meaningful and inspiring activities. The program began with a beautiful performance by the Prior Lake High School Choir Treble Ensemble. Keynote speaker Alex Krafft shared an inspiring message about the power of stories to bring people together. To honor Dr. King's legacy, Student Advisory Groups recited Amanda Gorman’s "The Hill We Climb," and the winners of the "I Have a Dream" poetry contest were recognized by Amenah Agunwamba from the City of Savage Equity Commission and PLSAS Superintendent Dr. Michael Thomas. The program concluded with a fantastic performance by the Glendale Elementary 4th/5th Grade Choir.
Attendees also enjoyed samples of multicultural foods while participating in thoughtful table discussions.
We are pleased to announce that Brooke Marquardt and Sam Holm are Prior Lake High School’s 2024-25 MSHSL AAA (Academics, Arts, and Athletics) Award nominees! 🎉
Presented by the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL), the AAA Award recognizes 12th graders who excel in academics, fine arts, and athletics.
Brooke shines in band, cross country, Nordic skiing, and track and field, while Sam excels in band, choir, robotics, cross country, and Nordic skiing. In addition to their outstanding talents and dedication, AAA Award nominees must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Regional finalists will be honored at a recognition luncheon, where one senior girl and one senior boy from each class (A and AA) will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
Join us in celebrating Brooke and Sam for their hard work, talent, and commitment to excellence! 👏
#WeArePLSAS #LakerPride