Winners

February 15, 2026 - February 21, 2026

School

Scotland School District (605-583-2237)

GPA

3.97

Activities

It is my pleasure to recommend Jennifer as a Scholar of the Week. Throughout her high school career, she has exemplified outstanding leadership, dedication, and character—both within FFA and throughout our school community. She has been an active FFA member for four years, serving as an FFA officer every year and leading the chapter as President during her senior year. Her skills and professionalism also helped propel her team to become a National Qualifying Parliamentary Procedure Team, an achievement that demonstrates her communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities. Her involvement extends across a wide range of school activities. She is a dedicated member of the National Honor Society, an active participant in Cheerleading, and supports athletics as a Volleyball and Basketball Statistician. Her academic achievements are equally impressive, earning Academic All-State recognition as well as being on the Honor Roll all four years. Her leadership shines through her four years in Student Council, where she served as President her senior year and Treasurer her junior year. She is also deeply involved in her faith and community through Fellowship of Christian Athletes and her Youth Group. In addition, she contributes her talents to the arts as a member of Choir, Band, Oral Interp, and participates in the school Play. She has also represented our school with honor as a Girls State delegate. She regularly shares her voice by performing the National Anthem at school events and supports the classroom environment as a Computer Teacher’s Aide. Jennifer is a model of integrity, service, and commitment. She embodies the core values of our school and sets a high standard for her peers. It is with great pride that I nominate her as Scholar of the Week.

Jennifer Stark is from Lesterville, SD, located within Bon Homme-Yankton Electric Assn., a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

February 8, 2026 - February 14, 2026

School

Elk Point-Jefferson (6053565901)

GPA

4

Activities

Activities: Track, NHS president, Newspaper, Youth Discipleship Accomplishments: 4.0 GPA, ranked #1 in class, 2024 class A 100 hurdle state champion, 6 school records in track, 2x all conference, 13 state medals

Lauren McDermott is from Elk Point, SD, located within Union County Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

February 1, 2026 - February 7, 2026

School

Aberdeen Central High School (6057258117)

GPA

4.56

Activities

ACTIVITIES Sports: I lettered in varsity soccer for six years, and was offensive player of the year in 2024. I also received the iron man award four seasons, which is earned by playing every half in every varsity game for the whole season. I captained our team my senior season. I lettered in varsity track for five years, and was rookie of the year in 2023. I won two Eastern South Dakota Conference high jump championships. I was also a member of the basketball team for three years and received one letter. MedX: As a junior I participated in the MedX program through Sanford Health in Aberdeen. For this program, participants learned about various health and medicine careers from doctors and nurses. Captain's Club: Coaches nominate players to be members of the CHS Captain's Club. Captains meet monthly to discuss qualities of being a captain and ways to demonstrate leadership. Youth Group: I am a part of a Christian youth group through a local church. We gather weekly to discuss the Bible and how we can improve our religious connections. Science Fair: As a junior I competed in the regional science fair with a partner. We studied the effects of water disruption on mosquito hatching rates and won a second place prize for biology. We will be competing again this year. National Honor Society: I was inducted into the local chapter of the National Honor Society. Members need to meet high academic and character requirements. I completed more than 30 hours of community service for the NHS. Job Shadowing: I am observing the resident orthopedic surgeon in the operating room for 10 hours at Sanford Health in Aberdeen. COMMUNITY SERVICE Even the Odds: I created a community event called Even the Odds. My purpose was to help parents by relieving the economic pressure of purchasing sports equipment. I held collection drives to gather donations of over 300 used sports items and then hosted a giveaway. The event made a difference in the lives of many children who received shoes, bikes, camping gear, fishing poles, hockey equipment, and golf clubs. I have had requests to make this an annual event because of its impact on my community. Commodity Boxes: Every month, members of the local National Honor Society meet at the Salvation Army to pick up boxes with food items. We deliver to people in need. Special Olympics Bowling: Starting in eighth grade, I have volunteered at the annual Special Olympics State Bowling Tournament. I kept score and encouraged young bowlers. Eagle Squad: As a senior I volunteered to be a part of the CHS Eagle Squad. We helped with freshmen orientation and conducted activities to help freshmen get acclimated to school. We also meet with students throughout the year to answer questions. Track: I was tasked with running the high jump event at our middle school meets. I also helped during elementary school track activities days. Track athletes led students through long jump, hurdles, and relays. Little Eagles: Since eighth grade I have volunteered to help with the Little Eagles soccer camp through the CHS Boys Soccer team. Team members ran soccer activities where campers worked on dribbling and teamwork. AWARDS AP Scholar With Distinction Award, 10 AP courses taken/enrolled - Nation-wide Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award - School-wide Rural and Small-Town Recognition Award - Nation-wide College Board School Recognition Award - Nation- and School-wide Honor Roll - 9, 10, 11, 12 - School-wide

Tyler Bain is from Aberdeen, SD, located within Northern Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

January 25, 2026 - January 31, 2026

School

Wilmot High School (605-938-4647)

GPA

3.81

Activities

Carson exemplifies the qualities of a true Touchstone Scholar through his leadership, character, and unwavering commitment to those around him. Known for his outgoing personality, Carson brings a positive energy into every space he enters. He consistently shows a genuine care for others, offering help to both younger students and adults alike. His willingness to support those around him has made him a trusted friend and a dependable role model within the school community. Carson’s involvement in activities reflects his drive for excellence and his dedication to teamwork. As a Football Captain and active member of the Basketball Team, he demonstrates discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. His participation in Envirothon showcases his curiosity and desire to engage in meaningful, real-world learning. Academically, Carson’s achievements on the Honor Roll reflect his strong work ethic and commitment to his studies. Beyond athletics and academics, Carson is a standout leader. Serving as Student Body President, he advocates for his peers and works to strengthen the school community. As Secretary of the National Honor Society, he upholds the values of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. His compassion extends further through his work as a mentor in the PAWS Buddy Reading Program, where he encourages younger students and fosters a love of learning. Carson’s blend of leadership, kindness, and commitment to service makes him an outstanding candidate for Touchstone Scholar of the Week. He is a true example of what it means to lead with character, support others, and make a positive impact each day.

Carson Jurgens is from Wilmot, SD, located within Whetstone Valley Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

January 18, 2026 - January 24, 2026

School

Brookings High School (605-696-4100)

GPA

4.05

Activities

Taya Haselhorst is an exceptionally dedicated student and a determined individual whose tenacity, compassion, and leadership have defined her high school career. She sets ambitious goals for herself and consistently achieves them through hard work, initiative, and service to others. FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America) – Grades 9–12 Taya has been deeply involved in FCCLA throughout high school, taking on numerous leadership roles and completing impactful community projects that have reached far beyond her local community. Community Service Projects Each of Taya’s projects were independently developed and presented at the South Dakota State FCCLA competition. “Get Loud for Reading Out Loud” This project focused on advocating for childhood literacy and raising awareness of the one million word gap—the difference in vocabulary exposure between children who are read to regularly and those who are not. Taya organized a book drive that collected 133 books, which were donated to new elementary teachers, Head Start classrooms, and the local hospital. She and her peers also read aloud in preschool classrooms and created literacy brochures for families of newborns to emphasize the importance of reading from birth. “Accommodations Are NOT Negotiations” During her sophomore year, Taya co-led a project advocating for students with 504 plans and IEPs. After partnering with the school’s special education department to survey affected students, she discovered that only 30% consistently had their accommodations met. Taya and her team presented these findings to faculty and district administrators, providing resources including an Accommodation Management Plan to improve compliance and understanding. Over 500 informational brochures were distributed to educators across the community. “Kits for Kids” As a junior, Taya designed a project to support children hospitalized at Sanford Children’s Hospital. She contacted over 20 local businesses for raffle donations, raising more than $550. Half of the funds were donated directly to the hospital’s Child-Life program, while the other half was used to assemble themed sensory kits for young patients. Taya personally delivered the kits and met with a Child-Life specialist to learn more about supporting children’s emotional well-being during hospitalization. FCCLA Leadership 1st Vice President (Sophomore–Junior Year) As Vice President Taya managed the chapter point system and attendance records, recognized member involvement and achievements, co-chaired fundraisers and chapter events and supported the chapter president in carrying out responsibilities. President (Senior Year) As Chapter President Taya oversaw all chapter activities, fundraisers, and events; led officer and member meetings, she collaborated with advisers to develop the chapter’s annual program of work, managed chapter communications and resolved conflicts, and created monthly agendas and ensured smooth chapter operations. State Leadership Team Candidate As a freshman, Taya ran for the South Dakota FCCLA National Outreach State Leadership Team, a selective group that promotes awareness of national issues through service and advocacy. Although she was not selected, she completed the full candidacy process, including submitting an application, resume, and knowledge assessment, and delivering a presentation on a social issue during a formal interview. HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) – Grades 11–12 Taya’s passion for healthcare was further demonstrated through her involvement in HOSA. Respiratory Therapy State Competition (Junior Year) Taya researched the respiratory therapy profession by interviewing practitioners, shadowing professionals, and studying related medical conditions. She created and presented a professional presentation to a panel of certified respiratory therapists and competed in clinical skill assessments, including newborn evaluations, airway management, and vital signs. She placed Top 5 in the state and qualified for the International Leadership Conference. Chapter Treasurer (Senior Year) In her role as treasurer Taya managed chapter funds and budgets, organized fundraising events, and collaborated with team members to oversee chapter operations. National Honor Society – Grades 11–12 Nominated by her teachers for academic excellence and character, Taya joined the National Honor Society her junior year. To qualify, she maintained a GPA of 3.5 or higher, submitted volunteer records and recommendations, and passed a character evaluation. As a member, she continues to participate in community service and leadership projects throughout the school year. She was also a National Merit Candidate! Taya's Volunteer Experience Shows her Servant's Heart. Taya was a Mentor for Hard-of-Hearing Students (Grades 10–12) where she provided academic and social mentorship twice weekly for two elementary students who are hard of hearing. She also volunteered at Camp UBU (Lake Poinsett) where she served as a Camp Counselor her Sophomore year. At Camp UBU Taya supervised the elementary girls’ cabin, ensured camper safety, organized activities, and interpreted between American Sign Language and English for hard-of-hearing campers. She also had a hand in the District-wide initiative of the Adaptive PE Night. where Taya helped lead adaptive sports activities for students with disabilities. She is currently completing an internship as an Inpatient Hospital Volunteer at healthcare facilities in Brookings and at the Children’s Hospital in Sioux Falls, volunteering at least 10 hours per week. Taya has worked as a Childcare Facility Assistant, where she supported early childhood development through structured play, social learning, and maintaining a safe, clean environment. She has also worked as a Private Tutor, helping students in Advanced Algebra II and Physics. And finally as a Childcare Provider (Grades 6–12) where Taya provided dependable childcare services as a nanny and babysitter for multiple families. Taya provided me with a personal statement to explain her passion for the Health Care Industry: “Because of my own experiences with hearing loss, I’ve spent much of my life in hospitals and with medical specialists. While many healthcare professionals were kind and supportive, a few were not as sensitive to the emotional experiences of children in care. Those moments inspired me to become a healthcare provider who prioritizes not only children’s physical health, but also their emotional comfort. I want to help make hospitals a place where kids feel safe, understood, and cared for.”

Taya Haselhorst is from Brookings, SD, located within Sioux Valley Energy, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

January 11, 2026 - January 17, 2026

School

Armour High School (605-724-2153)

GPA

4

Activities

Alex Werkmeister Armour High School 1308 Main Ave Armour, SD 57313 (605) 469-5684 alexjwerk@gmail.com EDUCATION Armour High School, Armour, SD - High SchoolDegree AUGUST 2022 - PRESENT Straight A Honor Roll All Year (Freshman and Junior) Straight A Honor Roll 3 Quarter (Sophomore), A Honor Roll 1 Quarter (Sophomore) Class Rank #1 (4.0 GPA) SKILLS Punctual Problem Solving Communication Leadership Teamwork Adaptability EXPERIENCE Werk Weld, Armour, SD - Employee JUNE 2024 - AUGUST 2024 (Summer) Started in Paint Prep Ran the Plasma Cutter as well Mike Carmody, Armour, SD - Hired Hand JUNE 2022 - PRESENT Completed maintenance duties for house and landscaping AWARDS/HONORS Lettered in Track (2 Years) Lettered in One-Act (3 Years) Craftsmanship Award for Shop (1 year) Academic Excellence Award for English (1 year) Sultan of Shapes Award for Math (1 year) Award for History (1 year) National Honor Society (2 years) Effort Awards (3 Years) SCHOOL ACTIVITIES High School Basketball (3 Years, Starter 1 Year) High School Football (2 Years) High School Track (3 Years) One-Act Play (3 Years) Spring Play (1 Year) Concert & Marching Band (3 Years) Choir (2 Years) SkillsUSA (3 Years, Secretary 1 Year) Freshman Class Treasurer Sophomore Class President Junior Class Treasurer Senior Class Treasurer Involved in Freshman Impact Skit COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES VFW Baseball League for Corsica (2 Years) Catholic CCD Student (3 Years) Volunteered in Snack Pack Program (2 Years) Altar Server at Church & Funerals (3 Years) Volunteered at Church Fall Supper (3 Years) REFERENCES Available upon request

Alex Werkmeister is from Armour, SD, located within Douglas Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

January 4, 2026 - January 10, 2026

School

Irene-Wakonda Jr/Sr High School (605-263-3311)

GPA

3.67

Activities

6-year Student Council Member, Student Council President 2x years, 6-year FCCLA Member, 5-year FCCLA Leadership Team, 2-year Regional FCCLA Leadership Team, 2-year State FCCLA Leadership Board, 4-year One Act, 4-year Choir, 4-year Band, 2-year All State Choir Delegate, plus more

Lydian Mews is from Wakonda, SD, located within Clay-Union Electric Corporation, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

December 14, 2025 - December 20, 2025

School

Wagner High School (6053843677)

GPA

4

Activities

Basketball - Varsity since 7th grade, captain, team leader, going to Nebraska on Basketball scholarship, SDHSAA State competitor and All-State teams Volleyball Track - 5 time State Champion in high jump, looking to make it 6 Fellowship of Christian Athletes School Mentoring Program with younger students Travel basketball during summer - All Iowa Attack Youth Group Mitchell Republic Basketball Player of Year in 2023 and 2025 South Dakota Gatorade Player of the Year

Ashlyn Koupal is from Wagner, SD, located within Charles Mix Electric Association, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

December 7, 2025 - December 13, 2025

School

Montrose High School (6053635025)

GPA

4.14

Activities

4 years in the following: FFA, volleyball, basketball, track, choir, band, student council, one act play, performing arts, Accomplishments: Sanford Promise Scholar, All State Choir, Honor Choir, Homecoming Royalty, Summer Food Bag Program Director, FFA President, National Honor Society President, Vice President Student Council, Dual Credit Student, Girls on the Run Coach, Vacation Bible School Volunteer, Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor Addison is a well-rounded individual who puts her heart and soul into everything she does. She is an outstanding role-model for younger students. Her passion for learning is admirable.

Addison Gordon is from Montrose, SD, located within Southeastern Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.