Since 1998, the Mitchell Rotary Club has presented the Rotary Carl Sprunger Outstanding Educator Award. Recipients are selected based on nominations of graduating seniors applying for the Mitchell Community Scholarship. This year 105 students nominated 64 different current or retired Mitchell School District employees. The 2026 Carl Sprunger Award recipient is Mitchell High School Spanish teacher Teri Morgan.
“So I’ve gotten to do what I’ve loved to do for about 30 years now,” said Morgan. “And that technology, everything has changed education a lot, but the one thing that hasn’t changed is my love for students, and also just the fun that we have every day.”
The DeSmet native developed a love for teaching as a child and ultimately became Spanish teacher studying in Mexico, Cuba and Spain. She ultimately earned her doctorate and traveled overseas with her students.
“I think when I look back at that little girl that always wanted to be a teacher, I hope that I also am a safe spot for students to come to, because sometimes the storm of life gets to be a little much, and when they come to my classroom I hope they always feel safe,” Morgan shared.
She told Rotarians and guests that teaching is one of the most rewarding things in the world. “I appreciate, again, you giving this award and recognizing us because teachers are super, superheroes,” said Morgan.
Morgan and her husband Wes live in Mitchell.