ABERDEEN, S.D. – Aberdeen Central High School’s ATEC Academy has been named the winner of the 2025 Community Impact Award.
The award, given each year by the Aberdeen Area Chamber of Commerce, was announced Friday at the Chamber’s annual ABBY Awards Banquet.
The Community Impact Award recognizes a business that has made a significant and positive difference in the community through their dedication, contributions, service and initiatives. Their impact serves as a testament to the power of community involvement and leadership, making them true pillars of our society.
ATEC Academy, located on the campus of Aberdeen Central, opened in fall 2015 as a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance college and career opportunities for students through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Offering courses across 16 career clusters, ATEC equips students with essential technical, academic and employability skills to prepare them for lifelong learning, informed citizenship and workforce readiness.
ATEC’s award nomination cited its enrollment growth since it first opened, from approximately 200 to nearly 1,800 course enrollments annually—a reflection of the strong student interest and industry demand. It also detailed how ATEC prioritizes community involvement through collaboration with the city of Aberdeen, post-secondary institutions, and business and industry partners. That includes:
· ATEC’s Internship Program, which has provided hands-on learning experiences and real-world work experience to thousands of CHS students since it launched in 2012.
· CHS Eagle Zone, a student-run news program that has grown into a widely recognized source of local news and earned national award nominations.
· ATEC’s Little Eagle Preschool, which serves as an early childhood education center and a training ground for aspiring educators.
· Community collaborations such as launching the EMR/EMT program with Aberdeen Fire and Rescue, constructing cabins for Wylie Park and hosting Chamber events such as Manufacturing Day and Ag Day.
Aberdeen Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Becky Guffin expressed the school district’s heartfelt gratitude to the community for their unwavering support.
“This recognition reflects the incredible partnerships and collaboration we’ve built with local businesses, organizations and individuals who share our commitment to empowering students and strengthening our region,” Guffin said. “Together, we are creating meaningful opportunities for learning, growth and success. Thank you for believing in our mission and for being an integral part of the positive difference we strive to make every day.”
To learn more, find ATEC news here, or visit the ATEC Academy webpage here.
About the Aberdeen Public School District
The Aberdeen Public School District provides a comprehensive educational program to approximately 4,200 students in grades K-12, with a mission of empowering all students to succeed in a changing world. Our students receive the knowledge and skills necessary to reach their potential in a global community through high expectations of academic achievement; diverse educational opportunities; and community involvement in a safe, supportive environment. Learn more at aberdeen.k12.sd.us.