Dan Gallagher consistently demonstrates excellence as a teacher and leader at Roncalli Middle/Senior High School in Aberdeen, South Dakota, his own alma mater. Instilling the same values in others that he nurtured as a student, Gallagher’s versatility, enthusiasm and servant leadership have made him a solid presence on campus. Before teaching science, he taught math, social studies and ELA, serving his students and school community wherever he was needed most. Gallagher’s generous spirit shines through in his relationships with students, fellow teachers, families and the broader community.
Gallagher maintains high expectations for himself and his students to reach their potential, whether inspiring curiosity through project-based learning, encouraging selflessness through community service projects in Aberdeen, or teaching a service-oriented mindset by asking his basketball players to clean the gym after each game, regardless of the outcome. Some of his science activities include building catapults, designing a model of the digestive system, making ice cream to learn about thermal energy transfer, and creating a rollercoaster to learn about physics.
When Gallagher began teaching sixth grade ELA, he organized meetings with the seventh grade ELA teachers to discuss how to best prepare his students for their next stage of learning. As the school’s head basketball coach and assistant football coach, Gallagher’s standards of excellence transfer to his players. He implemented a study table in the mornings before school for students needing academic assistance, and devotes time during the school year to writing students handwritten notes about specific ways they can continue to grow. His engagement and leadership in the classroom have led to impressive student achievement gains, building confidence and an appreciation for lifelong learning.
Joining educators at other elementary and high schools, Gallagher helped plan Catholic Schools Week, an annual event filled with exciting activities for the community. He is also regularly selected to use his voice to elevate education issues, presenting to staff about what it means to be a Catholic educator and speaking at the South Dakota Football Coaches Association.
In 2018, Gallagher received dual bachelor’s degrees in elementary education and history from Northern State University.
Press Release: Aberdeen Educator Dan Gallagher Becomes Nation's Next Milken Educator and Receives $25,000 Surprise!
