Babb, Bialas honored as South Dakota’s best and brightest

The academic achievements of the best and brightest students from the Class of 2023 were recognized recently at the 33rd annual Academic Excellence Recognition luncheon.

Gov. Kristi Noem and the Associated School Boards of South Dakota (ASBSD) honored students who were identified as the top 1% of their senior class, from the state’s Public, Private and Tribal/BIE schools on Monday, April 24.

Students designated as their high school’s honorees received a certificate, South Dakota pin and the opportunity to meet and have their photo taken with Noem, who also encouraged the students to take challenges head on.

“Look at challenges as opportunities. An opportunity to find out who you were meant to be,” Noem told the seniors. “When you hit a challenge, you become a problem solver.”

Students chosen from Tea Area High School were Nathan Babb and Ella Bialas.

ASBSD President Lisa Snedeker noted the day was a celebration of the students and their achievements.

“Before you head out on your next adventure, we celebrate your hard work. Today we celebrate your achievements,” Snedeker said to the students.

“Today, we celebrate you, the best and brightest of the Class of 2023,” added Noem.