Born and raised in South Dakota, Amanda Harris had the privilege of being educated by exceptional teachers. Inspired by their passion, Harris knew she would like to follow in their footsteps. While attending South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, Harris mentored children through the Big Brother Big Sister program for five years. She also served as a nutrition specialist and counselor at the Boys and Girls Club of Brookings. Harris obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in early childhood education from SDSU and received her elementary teaching certificate through the dual enrollment program at Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota. After graduating, Harris taught in the Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools. An opportunity to utilize her technology talents caused her to leave this position, and for three years, Harris traveled the Midwest as a SMART Certified Education Consultant, helping school districts integrate educational technology. Now, Harris has returned to her first love, classroom teaching, for the Harrisburg School District. For the past six years, Harris, a life-long learner, has dedicated herself to the care and education of the whole child as a fourth-grade teacher at Endeavor Elementary. She plays an active role in her district by serving on several curriculum committees, presenting at leadership conferences, and volunteering at various school events. She has started numerous after-school clubs including STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), stop-motion film, and a theater company. She is the recipient of the 2018 South Dakota Educational Association (of the National Education Association) Innovation Grant and was named the 2020 South Dakota Teacher of the Year.