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Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools proudly recognizes American Education Week from November 17–21, 2025. This annual observance honors the dedication of all education employees — from teachers and administrators to custodians, bus drivers, nutrition staff, and support personnel — who serve our students and community with professionalism and care.

Public schools are the backbone of our democracy, providing students with the skills, knowledge, and hope for a productive future. We thank all staff and volunteers who make learning and growth possible for every student in our district.

Parents of incoming kindergartners for the 2026-27 school year can join us for our Kindergarten Information Night to learn about our traditional kindergarten program as well as our La ola del lago Spanish immersion option. 

Monday, December 1, 2025, 6:00-7:00p.m.
Jeffers Pond Elementary School
14800 Jeffers Pass, Prior Lake 

Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools (PLSAS) is proud to announce the 2025–26 Teachers of the Year, as selected by their fellow educators. These outstanding staff members have been recognized for their dedication, passion, and positive impact on students, colleagues, and the entire school community.

Each year, PLSAS educators nominate and select peers who exemplify the district’s mission of helping all learners reach their full potential. The Teacher of the Year program celebrates those who demonstrate excellence in teaching, innovation in the classroom, and a deep commitment to academic and personal growth for every student.

• Nikki Antonson – Hidden Oaks Middle School

• Sarah Bring – Hamilton Ridge Elementary

• Jessalyn DeRusha – Edgewood School

• Caren Groll – Redtail Ridge Elementary

• Alissa Guse – Five Hawks Elementary

• Jessica Louis – Twin Oaks Middle School

• Christine Nelson – Bridges Area Learning Center

• Jessica Reilly – La ola del lago at Grainwood

• Justin Schramm – Prior Lake High School

• Megan Waller – Jeffers Pond Elementary

• Megan Young – Glendale Elementary

• Heather Zehnder – WestWood Elementary

Community Education Services Early Learning Screening Lead Gina Hendrickson has been named the October 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 Gina:

“Gina is passionate about early childhood screening. She goes above and beyond to ensure our system of screening is high quality, family friendly, and meets expectations. She has sought out high quality training, provided opportunities for the entire team to calibrate and ensure inter-rater reliability.”

“Gina has embraced her screening role and has shown great leadership in the position. She lives and breathes screening and knows the importance of a first impression when entering a school district. She is professional, detailed, and open to learning. She is a cheerleader for her screening peers and works collaboratively across the program to make sure we are in compliance as well as meeting all students’ needs. She has shown flexibility and a willingness to do what it takes to meet the community’s needs. Gina is a solid Anchor for the team and a great leader for PLSAS.”

Congratulations to Gina on this award! 

Prior Lake High School is proud to recognize 562 students as this year’s School Board Scholars for achieving a cumulative GPA of 3.8 or higher.

Today, students were honored during School Board Scholar Day, receiving certificates and pins during their lunch hours in recognition of their hard work and dedication. These students exemplify academic excellence and commitment both in and out of the classroom.

View the full list of this year’s honorees at plsas.org/boardscholars