Special Education Director

Mr. Gunner Haug Special Education Director

Mr. Gunner Haug

Hello everyone! My name is Gunner Haug and I am starting my 1st year at Lake Preston School as the Special Education Director. Prior to Lake Preston, I taught 5 years at Estelline as the High-Needs Special Education Teacher. I was an assistant coach for the football team for two years. I have coached 5 years of Special Olympic teams in bocce ball, bowling, basketball, and track through NESC.

I live in Castlewood, SD with my wife Courtney. She has accepted the Special Education Director position in Arlington, SD. We have a son, Griffin (1) and a daughter, Ava (3). I graduated from Castlewood High School in 2015. After high school, I attended Northern State University. I double majored in Elementary Education and Special Education with a coaching endorsement. I am currently attending the Northern State University Master’s program for Teaching and Learning. I will complete this program in May of 2026.

I enjoy watching and playing sports. My family tries to go to at least one Twins game a summer. I am a big Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Throughout the Summer, I play golf and softball. My family enjoys going to waterparks, to movies, out to eat, golfing, and to zoos!

Students are and have always been my number one priority at school. We will provide our students with the most appropriate and beneficial education possible to ensure they gain the skills necessary for when they graduate! I am excited to meet and work with the Lake Preston students, parents, and staff members!

Phone: 605-847-4455

Email: Gunner.haug@k12.sd.us

Degrees and Certifications:

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education
Northern State University (2019)

Master’s in Teaching and Learning
Northern State University (2026)

Public Notice - Retention of Special Education Records

In accordance with the South Dakota Bureau of Administration Records Management, the retention period is five (5) years for Special Education Records after the student’s date of graduation or receiving a certificate of completion from the Lake Preston School District. After five years, the records are no longer useful to the district, but they may be useful to the parent/guardian or former student in applying for Social Security benefits, rehabilitation services, college entrance, etc. 

Prior to the destruction of records, you have the right to review the records and obtain copies of any information. The parent/guardian or eligible (adult) student may request a copy of the records in writing or in person by contacting the school district during regular posted business hours. 

Please be informed that the Lake Preston School District will destroy all Special Education Records of students who have graduated, received a certificate of completion, or were dismissed/withdrawn from Lake Preston School District for five (5) years or more from the current academic year.

Requests for copies must be received prior to the last day of the current school year.