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As of July 1, Henry School has a new leader.
Landon Hammer, who for the last three years has served as principal, took on the superintendent role, succeeding Dr. Todd Obele. Hammer will hold the dual roles for at least the 2026-27 school year.
Hammer is a native of Wilmot and holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from South Dakota State University. He previously taught physical education and social studies in Clark and Howard. He will be pursuing specialized education to obtain his superintendent endorsement. At 31, Hammer is one of the youngest superintendents in South Dakota.
The son of long-time teacher and coach David Hammer, Landon said he enjoyed participating in high school athletics and wanted to remain involved.
“I liked being involved, making decisions and helping as many students as possible,” Hammer said of his decision to pursue school administration.
Hammer plays dodgeball with students. Courtesy photo.
In addition to his role as school superintendent, Hammer will also have the role of “game manager” in Henry. Under a new co-op agreement taking effect in the 2026-2027 school year, the Florence-Henry co-op has one athletic director, Travis Schmidt of Florence. While Schmidt will oversee most aspects of Falcon athletics, Hammer will supervise games and practices in Henry.
Hammer said some of his priorities include growing the school, retaining teachers and staff, building the partnership between the community and the school, and “keeping that small town, small school atmosphere.”
He said he would also like to work with the Town of Henry to update and renovate the park, playground, and fields south of the school building. These facilities are co-owned by the town and school district.
In his three years at Henry, Hammer has been a driving force in promoting the school and spearheading the creation of the Henry Parent Teacher Organization. The PTO’s Fall Festival in October 2025 drew an estimated 300 people. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, September 26.
“The Henry PTO is excited to welcome Mr. Hammer as our new superintendent. His dedication to our students, staff, and community has already made a lasting impact, and we are confident his leadership will continue to strengthen our district. As he begins this new chapter, we look forward to the vision, commitment, and passion he will bring to Henry School,” said Brandi Kittelson of the Henry School PTO.
Hammer and his wife, Taylor (Kiehl), have one daughter, Hadley, with another child due in October.
Supt. Landon Hammer is duct taped to the wall by Henry students with perfect attendance in 2025. Photo courtesy of the Henry School District.
