The South Dakota Education Association has elected Sandy Arseneault of Custer as its new president for a three-year term.

The middle school teacher will take office in July, replacing Donna DeKraai, who was term-limited.

Arseneault defeated Bonnie Mehlbrech of Sioux Falls in an election that was held during April.

"I am honored to have been elected by my fellow members as the new president of the South Dakota Education Association," Arseneault said. "It will be a privilege for me to lead an organization that advocates for the best part of the American Dream: a quality public education for all children."

While the job comes with many new responsibilities and challenges, Arseneault is looking forward to the opportunity to represent and work for the profession she loves. "Teaching is not just a profession for me; it is a passion to make a difference in a child's life."

SDEA, the state teachers' union, represents more than 7,000 elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers.