PRAIRIE DU SAC — State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly today announced Tonya Lassanske as the third of five 2026-27 Teachers of the Year. The announcement was made as part of a schoolwide surprise celebration at Sauk Prairie High School. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, in partnership with Herb Kohl Philanthropies, selects five Teachers of the Year annually to represent elementary schools, middle schools, high schools and special services.    

"Sauk Prairie High School is so lucky to have Ms. Lassanske," Dr. Underly said. "Even after 29 years as a counselor here, she has never stopped learning, growing, volunteering, and showing up with enthusiasm and compassion every day."   

A dedicated advocate for the whole child, Lassanske has worked at Sauk Prairie High School for nearly three decades as counselor, registrar, and student services lead. She has played a critical role in bridging the gap between mental health and academic achievement by implementing alternative graduation pathways and universal mental health screening. Lassanske also helped expand Work-Based Learning and Youth Apprenticeship Programs, giving students the opportunity to gain real-world experience while earning high school credit.   

Photos from the celebration will be available on Dr. Underly’s official Facebook page.   

As part of the recognition, Lassanske will receive a $3,000 award from Herb Kohl Philanthropies. Additional information about the Teacher of the Year program can be found on the the DPI's website. 

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Contact: Media.Inquiries@dpi.wi.gov