(Des Moines)--The Iowa Department of Education has announced nine teachers from across the state have been selected as the 2027 Iowa Regional Teachers of the Year. Each teacher, representing one of Iowa’s nine education regions, was chosen for their outstanding achievements in PK-12 instruction and positive impact on student outcomes and success.

The Prairie Lakes Regional Teacher of the Year is Abby Goodlaxson, a physical education and health teacher at Okoboji Community School District. Goodlaxson has spent the past 27 years empowering students through fitness and wellness activities. She has dedicated her career to fostering high-energy learning environments centered on self-discovery, Her goal is to provide a space where students feel supported in stepping outside of their comfort zones and that they leave her class with the resiliency to try new activities. Goodlaxson has been recognized at the state, regional and national levels, including by the former Iowa Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (IAPHERD) and as the SHAPE America Central District Teacher of the Year. She was one of six finalists for the SHAPE National Teacher of the Year in 2017.