Graduation - Class of 2026 |
On Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., the Beresford School District recognized 31 graduating seniors.
Principal Dr. Thomas Merriman presided over the ceremony. The Beresford High School choir performed Still Holding My Hand arranged by Mark Brymer. The Beresford High School band performed Resilience by JaRod Hall, in addition to the traditional processional and recessional selections.
During the ceremony, Hunter Penn (Senior Class President), Carley Crist (Student Body Vice President), and Ella Merriman (Salutatorian & Student Body President) delivered messages of hope and resiliency to all in attendance.
Five Beresford High School seniors earned a South Dakota Board of Regents’ Scholar Diploma.
One senior graduated with Highest Honors (4.00 & Above GPA)
Six seniors graduated with High Honors (3.50-3.99 GPA)
17 seniors graduated with Honors (3.00-3.49 GPA)
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Scholarship Award Winners |
National Honor Society: Amber Dann, Morgan DeRaad, Kendra Ellis, Harley Koth, Ella Merriman, and Gavin Stewart
Regents’ Scholar Diplomas: Amber Dann, Morgan DeRaad, Harley Koth, Ella Merriman, and Gavin Stewart
ASBSD Academic Excellence Award: Ella Merriman
Build Dakota: Connor Neumayr -Attending Mitchell Technical College for welding (sponsored by Sioux Steam of Beresford, SD)
Beresford High School Artist of the Year: Amber Dann
Showdown USD/SDSU Scholarships: Morgan DeRaad and Jalyn Weiland (USD); Brody Andrews and Amber Dann (SDSU)
Roger Price Scholarships: Amber Dann and Ella Merriman
Alan Ende Memorial Scholarship: Kendra Ellis, Morgan DeRaad, and Harley Koth
PATHFINDER Scholarship: Harley Koth & Ella Merriman
Bob (Henrich) Dolan Memorial Scholarship: Harley Koth
Beresford Booster Club Scholarships: Harley Koth and Ella Merriman
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Shanna Rae Christensen Memorial Scholarship |
The David and Susan Christensen family, in memory of their daughter Shanna Rae, set up a special scholarship fund called the Shanna Rae Christensen Memorial Scholarship.
The fund agreement was set up with the South Dakota Community Foundation as a sub-fund of the Watchdog Foundation and an affiliated fund of the Beresford Area Foundation. The scholarship is for Beresford High School seniors whose intended plans for post-high study are in the area of special education, rehabilitation, or nursing. The senior must have two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to character and activity involvement. The senior must have a 3.0 GPA or higher, demonstrate good moral character, and be involved in the community, church and/or school activities. Work and/or volunteer experience with special needs children is preferred but not required.
The Watchdog Foundation Board is pleased to announce that Morgan DeRaad, Harley Koth, Ella Merriman, and Tavyn Tiedeman earned a Shanna Rae Christensen Memorial Scholarship.
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The Watchdog Foundation supports the Beresford School District by connecting alumni, providing scholarships, and awarding grants. The Watchdog Foundation accepts memorials and monetary gifts. Gifts and memorials help immortalize the legacy of loved ones and friends. Donations make lasting impacts that help the Beresford community. After your donation is deposited, you will receive a statement from the South Dakota Community Foundation for tax purposes.
Former superintendent of schools, Mr. Brian Field, notes that he donates to the Watchdog Foundation because it directly impacts the people and places he cares about. Field notes, “By supporting education at a local level, I’m investing in the future of our community, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to the growth and well-being of the Beresford community.”
Current Superintendent, Dustin Degen, contributes to the Watchdog Foundation because he believes in the power of knowledge to change lives. Degen states, “Education is the key to unlocking potential, and by supporting this cause, I’m helping to create opportunities for the next generation to thrive and make a difference in the world.”
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Watchdog Foundation - Innovative Education Grants |
The vision of the Watchdog Foundation is “Building the future of Beresford, together.” Our mission is to assist and advance our community’s pursuit of excellence, create lifelong connections, and build strong and mutually beneficial ties between the Beresford School District, the community, and its diverse alumni. This year, the Watchdog Foundation awarded $8,100 worth of “Innovate Education Grants.” Grants were awarded to the following:
Elizabeth White -Mrs. White received $1,000 towards the purchase of Lego Education kits. The kits will enhance the middle school science curriculum by giving learners the chance to create, build, and collaborate while practicing the skills of science.
Jared Olson & Matt Storo - Dawgbone Entertainment received $750 to support student volunteers who produce events connecting alumni, community members, and parents to Beresford School District events.
Darla Hamm, Catie Ganschow, & Bryanna Goar - The multi-grade teacher team received $3,150 to provide summer reading skill development for qualifying students. Team members will utilize vetted curriculum resources to provide skills-based tutoring for each learner.
Noelle Muller - Mrs. Muller submitted a grant application on behalf of the middle school team to provide Summer Dawg services to qualifying students. The team received $2,500 from the Watchdog Foundation.
Ashley Prieto - English Language Learner Coordinator and Teacher, Mrs. Prieto submitted a list of graphic novels to help our learners acquire English language skills in an immersive manner. Mrs. Prieto will look to purchase $700 worth of graphic novels for our learners.
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Beresford School District - South Campus Building Project |
Construction is underway at the South Campus. When school starts, the new activity entrance, the multi-purpose room remodel, and the kitchen remodel should be ready for students, staff, and community members. In mid-November, the auxiliary gymnasium space is scheduled for completion. The lobby addition, secure academic entrance, and office remodel are slated for completion by mid-December. The South Campus addition will include the following project components: a secure academic entrance, an activity and event lobby, a new concessions area, new lobby restrooms, a kitchen remodel (including a walk-in cooler and freezer, dry storage), an auxiliary gymnasium (with two high school cross courts), and office space remodels. To see the initial news release, click here.
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2026 Watchdog Hall of Fame |
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The ninth Watchdog Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. (Bridges of Beresford). At 6:00 p.m., inductees, friends, family, and community members will partake in a catered banquet.
On behalf of the Beresford School District, Watchdog Foundation, Beresford Area Arts, and Beresford Athletic Booster Club, we are excited to welcome the following individuals into the Watchdog Hall of Fame: Steven Miller (Academics), Gene Gross (Fine Arts), Angela Knobloch (Athletics), the 2002 State Champion Volleyball Team, (Athletics), Dr. June Larson (Distinguished Service), and Roger Krause (Distinguished Service).
The 7:00 p.m. ceremony is open to the public. If you would like to join us for the banquet, please contact Dustin Degen by email (Dustin.Degen@k12.sd.us) or mail (301 West Maple Street, Beresford, SD 57004) for ticket prices and menu details.
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We need your help to continue this tradition!
If you know of a Watchdog of Excellence, consider nominating them for our Watchdog Hall of Fame. To submit an online nomination, click here!
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Caleb Weiland was named by the University of South Dakota as a member of the Class of 2025, “30 Under 30.” Caleb’s recognition fell under the Civic Trailblazer’s category -leadership in civic life, alumni who are shaping communities through impactful service and steadfast advocacy. |
Max Kinney and Isabelle Beeson earned a trip to the State Oral Interp and Debate competition. Max Kinney qualified in Humorous Interp. Izzy Beeson qualified in poetry and storytelling. |
At State FFA, Beresford’s Ag Issues team placed second. In Ag Issues, a team of students discusses the pros and cons of a major agricultural issue facing their area. At the November school board meeting, our Ag Issues team presented on the challenges posed by artificial intelligence in agriculture. Our Ag Issues team consists of Neveah Carlson, Allie Van Kekerix, Peyton Vanden Bosch, Bellamy Westra, Isabella Stewart, Maddie Gillespie, and Addison Hauck.
Raiden Hanner placed sixth at state in Extemporaneous Public Speaking. Raiden delivered a 4-6 minute (unrehearsed) speech after 30 minutes of preparation.
Joining our Ag Issues team and Raiden Hanner at State were qualifiers: Kailee Gosse, Lillie Boden, Avrie Cotton, Jade Twedt, Seth Kjose, Emma Andrews, and Carley Crist.
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Ella Merriman was named an NHS Scholarship semifinalist. Chosen from nearly 16,000 applicants, the National Honor Society (NHS) announced that Ella Merriman, a high school senior at Beresford High School and an NHS member, has been selected as an NHS Scholarship semifinalist. The scholarships recognize students who exemplify the four pillars of NHS membership: scholarship, service, leadership, and character. |
Ella Merriman ended her Watchdog Basketball Career by breaking the following records:
Most Points in a season 2026- 603
3rd most points in season 2024- 448
7th most points in season 2025- 406
Most points in career- 1976
5th career assists- 234
2nd career steals- 343
1st career 3 pointers made- 153
Record for Most points in a single game- 41
2nd Team All State Class A
4 years made big east conference teams= 1st team BEC- 3 years, 3rd team freshman year
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Dr. Thomas Merriman earned the Values Driven Work Ethic award from the Southeast Area Principals (SEAP) group. |
Bellamy Westra (Silver) and Allie VanKekerix (Bronze) earned medals at STATE HOSA for the Health Care Issues Exam. |
Bellamy Westra (Silver) and Allie VanKekerix (Bronze) earned medals at STATE HOSA for the Health Care Issues Exam. Our advisor is Mrs. Shellie Pratt. Next year, our own Emma Andrews will serve as the State HOSA President.
South Dakota State HOSA Top 10 Recognition
4th Amber Dann - Veterinary Science
5th Harley Koth - World Health & Disparities
6th - Reese Olson - Job Seeking Skills
7th - Brock Koth - Healthcare Administration
8th - Eli Schaap - Healthcare Administration
9th - Emma Andrews - Extemporaneous Writing
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Beresford’s FFA Chapter had another impressive showing at State FFA:
Jade Twedt earned recognition as our district Star Greenhand.
Taten Twedt was a finalist for Star Farmer.
Carley Crist was a finalist for Star Ag Placement, and Carley won Star Ag Placement.
Our Food Science team placed seventh. Team members include Julia Kinney (7th), Noah Halvorson (12th), Anna Sieperda (21st), and Aryanna Gannon.
The Livestock Evaluation Team won the state contest and earned a place at Nationals in the fall of 2026. Team members include Carley Crist (4th), Kailee Gosse (5th), Jade Twedt (13th), and Kianna Hazel.
Laney Andrews won the Diversified Ag Proficiency.
Jade Twedt received second (2nd) in Beef Production Proficiency.
Parker Hofer, Carley Crist, and Taten Twedt earned their State FFA degrees.
The Beresford FFA Chapter received third place in the overall National Chapter award at the State contest.
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Tavyn Tiedeman signed a letter of intent to play softball at Mount Marty University. |
The Big East Conference All-Conference selections for volleyball and football were Tavyn Tiedeman, Kate Degen, Kennedy Merrigan, Malachi James, Ashton Oberle, Ian Henderson, Hayden Homandberg, and Cameron Mullinix. |
Dexton Miller recorded his 100th win in wrestling. |
Ella Merriman became the All-Time leading scorer in the Beresford Watchdog Girls Basketball program. She finished her career with 1,976 points. |
Malachi James signed his letter of intent to play football for the Southwest Minnesota State Mustangs. Malachi will major in Exercise Science. |
Kanin Klentz (Class of 2027) added his name to RAMS history by earning his 100th career wrestling victory. |
Hunter Penn signed a letter of intent to continue his running career at The University of Sioux Falls. |
State qualifying Beresford Alcester-Hudson Ram wrestlers were: Lillie Boden - 100lbs, Harper Olson - 125lbs, Reese Olson - 135lbs, Liam Moumy - 106lbs, Owen Serck - 120lbs, Sebastian Castillo - 126lbs, Bennett Farley - 132lbs, Dexton Miller - 144lbs, Kanin Klentz - 150lbs, and Caden Schurch - 157lbs. |
State placing wrestlers were Liam Moumy (106) -5th Place, Owen Serck (120) -5th Place, Dexton Miller (144) -6th Place, and Reese Olson (135) -5th Place. |
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Izzy Beeson, Brielle Bidne, and Max Kinney were selected to the 2026 Quad State Honor Band. |
On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, our One Act crew completed to earn a trip to the State Competition. The group performed Booby Trap by Ed Monk. Earning outstanding acting awards on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, were Oliver Merriman, Hailey Stephens, and Sophia Coe. The details of the play are as follows: “In the near future, an American soldier sits in a combat zone, trapped by a land mine. As he waits to see what will happen to him, scenes from his past, present, and future unfold around him.” Carson Johnsen served as our One Act Director.
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On Friday February 13, 2026, Beresford Art headed to the University of South Dakota for ART WARS.
Art Wars is a live creative competition. A surprise prompt is given, then artists have 90 minutes to complete a finished piece with an artist statement. It takes a special kind of artist to compete. Only artists who are quick to develop original ideas and execute those ideas to high quality are competent to compete among 200+ competitors. School size is not differentiated, so B, A, & AA compete at regions. At the four regional competitions, only the top three advance to state. Concept, originality, materials, techniques and quality are judged.
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Emma Andrews, a BHS junior, received the State Runner Up Title in the 2026 American Legion Oratorical Contest held on February 22 in Chamberlain, SD. Emma was awarded a $1,000 Scholarship as state runner-up and a $500 scholarship as the District 7 Winner. District seven includes: Lake, Lincoln, McCook, Minnehaha, Moody, and Union Counties. |
Tavyn Tiedeman was named the outstanding senior vocalist for 2026. |
Hunter Penn earned the 2026 National Choral School Award. |
Ella Merriman was named the 2025-2026 John Phillip Sousa Award recipient for Beresford High School. |
Brody Andrews and Amber Dann were named the 2025-2026 Beresford High School Artists of the Year. |
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During concert week, the Beresford School District’s music department worked to support the local community by hosting a food and hygiene drive. |
Beresford Elementary School held its annual Fourth Grade Store event. The store raised $3,654 for local charities. To see the Dakota News Now feature, click here. |
We proudly recognized our Beresford School Board members Nathan Jensen, Chris Savey, Dan Erickson, Sara DeLay, and Deborah Bergland for their dedication, leadership, and continued support of our students, staff, and community during the February board meeting. Their commitment plays an important role in the success and future of Beresford School District. |
On May 2, 2026, the Beresford Softball team helped host a youth baseball and softball tournament. Seventeen teams were in attendance, and players prepared fields, served as game officials, worked the concession stand, and manned entrances to take tickets. In addition to the players' help, parents volunteer their time and effort to make the event happen. |
On May 6, 2026, Beresford High School held its third annual Watchdog Cares event. The day’s focus was on giving back to the community. Groups completed projects at the public library, the school, and the recycling center; raked leaves; landscaped common areas; planted gardens; removed debris; cleaned the pool and the park; and prepped areas for an upcoming concrete pour. |
On May 20, 2026, the Beresford School District celebrated the retirements of Jerry Carda, Lois Savey, and Ann Tornberg for their service to the District.
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The Beresford School District held its annual Staff Recognition ceremony for the 2025-2026 school year on Friday, May 22, 2026. The event honored the Watchdog staff members for their years of experience and significant contributions to the district's students and schools. Staff celebrated the following milestones:
25 Years of Service: Jared Olson received the Marble Apple Award for a quarter-century of dedicated service.
20 Years of Service: Vicky Cahoon was presented with the Jade Green Marble Apple Award in recognition of her twenty years with the district.
10 Years of Service: Dan Bergland was honored with a Pin Award for a decade of commitment to the school.
5 Year Service Pin: Jean Akland, Catie Ganschow, Darla Hamm, Shannon Ivarsen, Nikki Johnson, Kristin Schmeling, Alyssa Scott, Ben Short, and Ann Tornberg
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Compiled and created by Macy Quartier
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