ABERDEEN, S.D. — The outstanding educators who teach in Northern State University's Rising Scholars program are helping high school students experience college-level learning before they graduate, and one of those instructors recently received one of the state's highest honors for history education.

Ryan Decker, a history teacher at Tea Area High School and Rising Scholars instructor, was named the 2026 Board of Education Standards William Beadle History Teacher of the Year, recognizing his commitment to engaging students and fostering critical thinking in the classroom.

Decker also recently participated in the Sharing the Spirit of America event in the state Senate Chambers at the South Dakota Capitol, where elected officials, tribal members and educators gathered to read the Declaration of Independence. As the state's History Teacher of the Year, Decker opened the reading by delivering the Declaration's first paragraph.

Decker has taught as a part of Northern's Rising Scholars program since fall 2024. The courses he teachers, HIST 151: U.S. History I and HIST 152: U.S. History II, allow high school students to earn both high school and college credit while studying the development of the United States from its colonial origins through the present day.

According to the South Dakota State Historical Society, the award selection committee praised Decker for "his remarkable ability to create a unique and engaging class where his teaching style helps all students learn and think critically." The committee also recognized his initiative in launching a South Dakota history course at Tea Area High School, giving students the opportunity to explore the state's rich history in greater depth.

Dr. Brad Tennant, Northern State University's Rising Scholars history mentor, said Decker's recognition reflects the passion and expertise he brings to his students every day.

"Ryan Decker has been the recipient of several teaching awards, with the 2026 Board of Education Standards William Beadle History Teacher of the Year being the most recent," Tennant said. "Ryan's love for learning is what makes him a great instructor. His ability to share his knowledge with students in a meaningful way makes him an important part of the NSU Rising Scholars program."

Rising Scholars courses are taught by qualified high school instructors from across South Dakota who partner with Northern faculty to ensure students receive the same rigorous academic experience and learning outcomes expected in university classrooms. The program enables students to earn college credit while completing their high school graduation requirements, helping them save time and money as they prepare for college.

Decker's recognition underscores the dedication of Rising Scholars instructors across the state who inspire students, challenge them academically and help them succeed in college-level coursework while still in high school. Through their expertise and collaboration with Northern faculty, these educators are expanding access to higher education and preparing the next generation of college students for future success.