DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD 2024
JAMES BRIDGE
Hanson School District

The 2024 Distinguished Service Award recipient is James Bridge. Mr. Bridge is retiring in 2024 after serving 44 years in education. Mr. Bridge began his career in 1980 in Springfield, South Dakota. In 1985, Jim made Hanson School District his home. Mr. Bridge has spent the past 39 years serving the students, families, and communities in the Hanson School District. He has served Hanson as a teacher, principal, athletic director, legendary coach, and superintendent for nearly four decades. His colleagues have recognized Mr. Bridge as a change agent, values-driven leader, High School Principal of the Year, and South Dakota Coach of the Year multiple times. His community describes him as a conscientious professional committed to providing quality educational opportunities for all young people. Mr. Bridge and his wife, Julie, have dedicated their professional life to the public-school students in the Hanson School District. The South Dakota School Superintendent Association proudly recognizes Mr. Bridge as our 2024 Distinguished Service Award recipient.