Rickie McCaulsky, Automotive and Diesel Mechanics Instructor at the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Academy, was announced earlier this evening as the 2026 Dr. John W. Harris Teacher of the Year. Mr. McCaulsky is in his 14th year with the Sioux Falls School District, where he teaches students in grades 9-12 and prepares them for careers in the automotive and diesel industries.
The award, co-sponsored by the Sioux Falls School District and Vern Eide Motorcars, was
announced Monday night at the Sanford Barn. Vern Eide, a supporter since 1989, presented Mr. McCaulsky with a $4,000 check. In addition to the annual award, the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation awarded each of the other four 2026 Teacher of the Year finalists $1,000 for the second year in a row.
In his nomination, Mr. McCaulsky was celebrated for creating a classroom where students don’t just about engines – they learn how to think. Through hands on projects like rebuilding engines and diagnosing performance issues, he challenges students to assess their own work, solve real-world problems, and build the confidence needed in today’s automotive industry. He keeps his program aligned with industry standards and has built strong partnerships with local businesses, ensuring students train on modern equipment and graduate with clear pathways to careers and continued education.
A 24-year U.S. Army veteran, Mr. McCaulsky previously served as an Instructor Coordinator of Maintenance Training, preparing service members to diagnose and repair complex equipment. He brings that same sense of discipline, service, and pride into his classroom each day. Former students of Mr. McCaulsky are now working in dealerships, repair shops, trucking companies, and agricultural equipment businesses across the region. His impact is profound.
The other 2026 Teacher of the Year finalists were: Mary Alexander, Lincoln High School – Special Education Teacher; Megan Erickson, Eugene Field A+ Elementary – Art Teacher; Shayla Kruse, George McGovern Middle School – 7th Grade Science Teacher; Adrian Ledesma, Sonia Sotomayor Elementary – 1st Grade Teacher.
There were 105 nominees for the Teacher of the Year 2026, the 38th year of the program. A full list of nominees can be found here. https://www.sf.k12.sd.us/page/teacher-of-the-year-program