Elk Point-Jefferson Schools was awarded the Freedom Award, on August 19, 2026, by officials with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) organization. From left: ESGR South Dakota State Chair Ralph Borkowski, Jeremy Otkin - EPJ 3rd grade teacher, Laura Throener- EPJ’s Elementary Principal, Skyler Eriksen- EPJ’s High School Principal, and State Awards Coordinator Karon Gubbrudfrom ESGR. Submitted photo

Representatives from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve organization visited the Elk Point-Jefferson School District’s staff inservice meeting Wednesday, Aug. 19, to present a statewide recognition honor.

ESGR, an office within the Department of Defense, promotes supportive work environments for Reserve Component service members through outreach, education and employer assistance. Establ…