DeRusha Named as February Anchored in the Laker Way Award Recipient

Jessa DeRusha, an Early Learning teacher with Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools Community Education Services, has been named the February 2026 recipient of the Anchored in the Laker Way Award.

The monthly award recognizes staff who exemplify a strong foundation of service, leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to lifelong learning and excellence. Colleagues describe DeRusha as a dedicated educator and mentor who brings creativity, inclusion, and care to her classroom while supporting fellow staff and students across the program.

Here is what the nominator(s) shared about Jessa:

“Jessa is not only a strong leader in the classroom but also in the building. She has only been with us for two years but she is an extremely talented teacher who offers insight to all teachers and is a great mentor to many. She listens thoroughly to all who may approach her and offers a different point of view on how to teach, respond, and interact with kids. Jessa goes beyond the basics of preschool by displaying initiative and creativity, and shows a genuine respect and concern for others including fellow employees, students and community members. She does this by making sure she celebrates all that come in her classroom through pictures, holidays, awareness months/weeks, and disability awareness. As a special education teacher, I know that the IEP is being implemented and that accommodations are being made without even having to check in because she genuinely cares about ALL of our littlest learners and wants to make sure that they are able to achieve tasks successfully. She has taught me so much in her two years and we are extremely blessed to have her. She exemplifies all that it means to be a Laker!”

Please join us in congratulating DeRusha on this well-deserved recognition.