The Jefferson High School library has been named one of ten schools across South Dakota honored with the School Achievement through Libraries (SATL) Award for the 2025-2026 school year. Presented annually by the South Dakota State Library, a division of the SD Department of Education, the award celebrates school libraries that demonstrate exemplary practice in the three pillars of school librarianship: Program, Place, and Professional.
Jefferson was recognized alongside four other Sioux Falls schools: George McGovern Middle School, John Harris Elementary, Sonia Sotomayor Elementary, and Terry Redlin Elementary.
To receive this award, schools must show that their libraries not only provide resources but also make an impact on student success. Highly effective libraries support students by encouraging reading for both academic and personal growth, developing research strategies for creating and sharing knowledge, teaching ethical digital citizenship, and promoting a culture of lifelong learning.
Jefferson’s application highlighted a vibrant and growing reading community as well as innovative programming that extends beyond books. From activities that encourage creativity and problem solving to the addition of board games that foster collaboration in social settings, the library has become a hub for both learning and connection.
With this recognition, Jefferson joins a distinguished group of schools across the state proving that school libraries play a vital role in the success of every student.