2019 Indiana Teacher of the Year Finalists

Karen Augustine, Cedarville Elementary School

Karen Augustine earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University Fort Wayne along with an Associate’s Degree in early childhood education. Karen grew up attending schools in East Allen County Schools, where she also has been teaching nearly 29 years. Her experience as an educator includes teaching kindergarten-fourth grade and a second and third grade split class. During the spring of 2018, Karen was honored with being named the Cedarville Elementary Teacher of the Year. When she’s not teaching or preparing lessons, Karen can be found spending time with her daughter, Megan, and son, James.

Janel Baker, Western High School

Janel Baker teaches grades six through 12 vocal music at Western Middle-High School in Russiaville. She began teaching at Western in 2008. Prior to teaching for Western School Corporation, Janel taught for 16 years at Rossville Jr.-Sr. High School in Rossville. Now in her 25th year of music education, Janel’s responsibilities at Western include directing eight choirs. While at Western she has also taught advanced music theory, advanced music history, directed the Western Vocal Jazz ensemble, and taught both piano and voice privately. Through her teaching experiences, Janel has seen her vocal programs excel and experience tremendous growth and recognition. Her choirs annually participate in ISSMA contests receiving Gold division ratings and receive “with distinction” recognition. Mrs. Baker has guided many student teachers and has seen many former students choose music education as their career path.Janel and her husband Mark reside in Kokomo with their three boys, Seth (age 13), Isaiah (age 11), and Levi (age 7).

Laura Baldwin, Danville Community High School

As the French teacher at Danville Community High School (DCHS) for the past five years, Laura Baldwin is feeling at home again in Indiana. 12 years ago, Laura graduated from DCHS with a passion for French instilled by her instructor, Ginny Black, or “Madame” as most know her. After earning her degree in French education at Taylor University, she continued directly into graduate school at Bowling Green State University. This program allowed her to spend her first year in a French university and then return to Ohio for the second year to complete her coursework. The time she spent abroad only grew her passion for the language and culture and ignited a fire in her to share this beautiful language. After graduating, Laura accepted a position in a military style school in Anderson, where she learned some very valuable skills including how to render a salute and what “strict” actually means. Then, as Madame Black planned to retire, Laura returned to Danville to carry the torch. Laura says it is a joy and a privilege to work with “la crème de la crème” both in the classroom and in French Club.

Kaci Becker, Eagle Elementary School

Kaci Becker attended Indiana University and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Elementary Special Education in Mild Interventions. She began teaching in the Brownsburg Community School Corporation in 2005 and continues her work as a special education teacher at Eagle Elementary today. Kaci has been a member of her school Leadership Team and a PLC leader for multiple years, as well as a member of the Indiana State Teachers Association. She strives to provide appropriate learning environments for her special education students and sets high expectations for her students through their individualized education plans. Kaci goes to great efforts to help general education teachers and her colleagues learn more about students with special needs and implement new strategies in their classrooms.

Kerri Bedingham, Madison Junior High School

Kerri L. Bedingham always knew she wanted to be teacher. Her great grandfather, Abraham Lincoln Coffin was a Quaker Teacher and Minister. His daughter, Mildred Coffin King taught for 35 years. Kerri remembers her grandmother, who taught her father in a one room schoolhouse, introducing her to the class and being so proud of, “Mrs. King,” though a bit embarrassed. Her mother’s sister and brothers were outstanding teachers and administrators in Indiana whom influenced her life greatly. However, Kerri experienced the loss of a child, depression, and poverty. While her childhood had proven to be blessed... her adult life was laden with struggles. Nevertheless, she promised her children she would change their lives for the better and took the journey that led her back to her dream.These struggles forged her path to touching and molding the lives of students, fellow teachers, community members, and reaching for excellence. After 25 years of teaching, Kerri is still grateful to be a teacher!

Sabrina Benner, Crestdale Elementary SchoolSabrina Benner is a 13 year teaching veteran. She has spent the past 12 years teaching fifth grade, kindergarten, and first grade in Richmond Community Schools. She received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana University East in Richmond, Indiana. Her Master of Arts in Education was earned at Indiana Wesleyan University. She has served as a mentor teacher and a cooperating field placement teacher for several future and present educators. She has also benefited her school community through her work on the 8-Step planning team, school improvement plan team, and as a building representative of the Richmond Education Association. In the classroom, “Mrs. B.” enjoys integrating technology whenever possible in her instruction and traveling through time with her class while reading The Magic Tree House series of books. Mrs. Benner’s students can often be spotted participating in cooperative learning activities inspired by the book series. These activities include building lifeboats to save passengers from the Titanic and creating volcanoes on the playground.

Danielle Black, Penn High School

Danielle Black is the Early College Academy Leader at Penn High School, within the Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation. The Early College Academy was launched in the 2014-2015 school year to help retain at risk students and help them not only graduate high school, but earn college credits free of charge while there. All 82 Early College students from Penn’s first cohort graduated this past May. Mrs. Black, who has worked for P-H-M for five years, also serves as an English and speech teacher and musical director. Her educational work spans half way across the globe to Ethiopia where she co-founded a charity, Awake & Alive, Inc., and also opened a school for impoverished and orphaned children. The school also provides medical care, literacy education, and a chance at a sustainable income for the mothers of the children. Danielle is married to Karl Black, a math teacher at Schmucker Middle School, one of Penn-Harris-Madison’s three middle schools. Together they have four beautiful children, three biological sons, and a daughter they adopted from Ethiopia.

Gina Boyd, Mayflower Mill Elementary School

Gina Boyd teaches a self-contained fourth/fifth high ability class at Mayflower Mill Elementary in Tippecanoe School Corporation. She is a National Board Certified Teacher and a leader in elementary economic education. In her 25 year career, she has taught every grade from first through eighth except for sixth–unless you count her sixth grade math students! Originally from Tennessee, she earned her bachelor’s degree from David Lipscomb University and her gifted and talented license from Purdue. She received the national 2016 John Morton Excellence in Teaching of Economics Award and was named a 2011 Golden Apple Teacher by Greater Lafayette Commerce. With her family, Gina has worked on 11 summer mission projects to Japan, Thailand, Fiji, Malaysia, and Brazil. Follow her on Twitter @4th5thGT and check out her blog at www.gina-boyd.blogspot.com.

Christine Bullock, Chesterton Middle School

Christine Bullock is a teacher at Chesterton Middle School. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education, Political Science and History from Ball State University. Christine has a Master’s Degree in Education from Valparaiso University. She has been teaching for 23 years. The last 18 have been for the Duneland Corporation at Chesterton Middle School. She taught previously at a Catholic school in Batesville, an alternative school in Michigan City, and at Penn High School. Christine is married to a Duneland middle school teacher named Dave Bullock. She has two children. Her daughter will be a senior and her son will be a freshman in Chesterton.Their newest family member is a yellow-Lab named Maisy.

Joseph Bysiek, Douglas MacArthur Elementary School

Joseph Bysiek is a fifth grade math and reading teacher at MacArthur Elementary School in Crown Point. His main focus is research, wherein he provides other teachers throughout Northwest Indiana with professional development. As a result, he has helped others to meet the individual needs of their students and bring back an often missed joy ofmathematical learning. Joseph’s presence can also be felt within the school when he is coaching MacArthur’s Indiana State Top 3 Math Bowl Team or sponsoring Boys Run 2 to help develop well-rounded children. Joseph currently lives in Winfield, Indiana. When he is not teaching, coaching, or watching the Chicago Cubs, he can be found golfing, running, and traveling.

Amanda Carlson, Crown Point High School

The three words that best describe Amanda Carlson as an educator are: devoted, caring, and entertaining. She is a secondary mathematics teacher at Crown Point High School and has taught the wide ranging subjects of Algebra I, Geometry, Pre-AP Geometry, Algebra II, and Dual Credit Pre-Calculus. Amanda has not only shared her passion for teaching during the past 15 school years, but she has also trickled that passion into the past eight summers. She has just completed her 11th year of perfect attendance. Amanda is typically one of the last teachers to leave her classroom each day and the first to help any student in need. She is known as the fun, tough, and caring teacher through her students’ eyes.

Rachel Clark, Peru Jr. High School

Rachel Clark is a 2009 graduate of Ball State University with a Bachelor ofScience degree in Elementary Education with a Middle School Mathendorsement. She completed her student teaching at OJ Neighbours Elementary School in Wabash where she taught kindergarten. After graduation she accepted her first teaching position at Cornerstone Behavioral Health in Marion,Indiana where she taught students K-12 with emotional and behavior issues. Mrs. Clark took a position with Peru Community Schools in April 2011 as an instructional aide in the KEYS alternative school classroom. In August 2012, she became the junior high teacher for KEYS Academy where she taught English and math for grades five through eight. She taught 5th grade at Blair Pointe Elementary for one year and returned to KEYS Academy in August 2014 and has remained in that position. Mrs. Clark married in 2009 and has two children, an eight-year-old boy and three-year-old girl.

Angela Clendening, Webb Elementary SchoolA listening ear and a helping hand have always defined Angie Clendening. Raised in Wadsworth, Ohio, she entered Taylor University in 1984 with dreams of joining the Peace Corps. Four years later, she found herself with a degree in social work and a position as a Home/School Liaison with at-risk students in three elementary schools in Shelbyville. There she fell in love, both with her teacher-husband and the concept of elementary school counseling. Angie went on to earn a Master's degree in School Counseling from Butler University. She has worked as an elementary school counselor in three Indiana school districts, taking a 13-year hiatus at home with her own four boys. For the past nine years, the Clendenings have lived in Franklin, where Angie has served as school counselor at Union and Webb elementary schools. Angie is looking forward to her seventh year as Webb's counselor, where her program was recently awarded Gold Star status from the American Student Achievement Institute. In additional to her active role in the Franklin community, Angie enjoys biking, hiking, lending her mediocre music skills, and traveling the world to visit her sons.

Charmaine Corrie, New Albany High School

Charmaine M. Corrie is a 32-year veteran of education. She is employed as a Family and Consumer Science teacher at New Albany High School in New Albany. She has been employed with New Albany Floyd County Schools for 20 years. Charmaine is from West Virginia where she graduated from West Liberty University. She married her high school sweetheart, Bill Corrie, and they moved to Ohio. She was hired for her first teaching position at Shenandoah High School in Noble County. Greensburg became their next home where she was hired to teach at JacCenDel High School in Decatur County. The family moved to Maryland and Charmaine was hired to teach at Joppatowne High School, Harford County. After a brief stint in Maryland, the family relocated to Indiana and resides in Floyds Knobs. Charmaine and Bill have two children, Lindsey and Alex. They are experiencing all of the joys of grandparenting three wonderful boys. They have relished the past 22 years building their lives in Southern Indiana.

Tim Cox, Decatur Central High School

Tim Cox graduated from Ball State with a degree in Music Education and later earned a Master’s degree in Instrumental Conducting. This is his 20th year at Decatur Central High School as Director of Bands. In his time there, his groups have traveled and competed in major national events including the Indianapolis 500 Festival parade, Fiesta Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day parade, WGI World Championships, and Bands of America. The band department has also received many awards, including the ISSMA All-Music Award, ISSMA Marching Band State Finalists, four-time Indiana Percussion Association State Champions, WGI Percussion and Winds Regional Champions, BOA Regional Finalists, and WGI National Finalists. In 2018, the percussion section won the Concert Class A World Championship. Mr. Cox would like to thank his parents, wife Carrie, and their kids Evan and Emily, for their unconditional love and support.

Todd Crosby, Mill Creek West School

John Todd Crosby has been an educator for 30 years. He has served students 10 years as a principal and 20 years as a teacher. Trying to match his mother running an in-home daycare for 45 years, he plans to continue teaching for at least 15 more years in his new position as STEM Teacher for Mill Creek Community School Corporation. Having been a principal and taught different grade levels and subjects, he has had the opportunity to have an impact thousands of students’ lives. For someone from a rural school who was told he probably wouldn’t go to college, he has earned both a bachelor and master’s Degree. In just the last three years, he has earned over 150 “continuing renewal credits.” For someone that had open-heart surgery at Riley Hospital at 7 years old, he lives as an example of what hard work and determination can achieve in life and challenges all his students to do the same! As he tells every student, “Whatever you choose to be in life, strive to be the best at it!”

David Dean, Greenwood Middle School

David Dean has taught sixth grade Business, Information Technology and Entrepreneurship at Greenwood Middle School for the past 14 years. He is proud to live in the community where he teaches and his two daughtersalso attend school. He focuses his classroom curriculum and challenges himself with each classroom unit to reflect these 4C’s within his classroom; collaboration, curiosity, communication, and creativity. The essential questions that guide each classroom activity are not focused simply on how to accomplish a specific goal, but why is it important to learn and how it can be applied in daily life both today, and in the future. David runs anafter school program at Greenwood Middle School called “Minecraft Mondays.” Minecraft Mondays provides students with a safe and collaborative learning environment where students use Minecraft as a learning tool to explore cross curricular topics. Enjoying the journey of lifelong learners, David is always willing to provide professional development time and assistance for his teaching colleagues.

Ben Domonkos, Tarkington Traditional School

Mr. Ben Domonkos teaches fourth Grade at Swanson (formerly Tarkington) Traditional School. During the summer, he works for the Indiana Migrant Education Program where he teaches middle school for Region 1. He stays busy outside of school where he attends or speaks at nearly half a dozen teaching conferences a year, covering topics including technology, curriculum, and lassroom management. Ben models and emphasizes the learning process for his students while offering opportunities to promote a love of learning. He has independently written and procured nearly 10 grants totaling over $30,000 for his classroom that have allowed his practices to come to full fruition. In the Spring of 2019, Ben will complete his Master’s in Educational Leadership at Indiana University South Bend. His wife, Sarah, and their three children, Mary, Gwyneth, and Oscar, provide love and support that keeps Ben fueled throughout the year.

Melissa Eddy, Battle Ground Middle SchoolIt’s said books can take you anywhere. For Melissa Eddy, books have taken her to a successful career in teaching and being named Tippecanoe School Corporation Secondary Teacher of the Year. After graduating from Indiana University with a master’s degree, Eddy worked in libraries at Purdue University and Tippecanoe County before becoming a media specialist at Wainwright Middle School. When schools faced budget cuts in 2010, Eddy became an English teacher. “The first year was difficult, but I feel like I've been able tobring both careers together and make the most of the opportunities in each,” says Eddy. “I still have a lot to learn about teaching. The kids still teach me more than I could ever teach them.” Now in her sixth year at Battle Ground Middle School, Eddy has an undeniable enthusiasm and optimism for teaching. “Each day she comes in with a smile on her face and a plan to engage students,” says Principal Jodi Day. Eddy says building relationships with students is the most important aspect of teaching, followed by encouraging them to find great books.

Amy Flodder-Ertel, Zionsville Middle School

Amy Ertel is a fifth grade Humanities teacher at Zionsville Middle School. She has spent 17 years with a professional mission to empower students to be independent thinkers, writers, readers, historians, and humans. Amy earned her undergraduate degree from Marian University in elementary education and a graduate degree from Butler University in school counseling. Recently, she earned her certification in Pilates and is working to inspire young middle school females by blending her counseling degree with exercise. Amy grew up in the small town of Batesville, Indiana. Thereshe learned about grit, hard work, and generosity from her parents, Bernie and Kathy Flodder. She is also the proud sister of Chris Flodder who is serving our great nation in the National Guard. Amy resides in Carmel with her husband, Aaron, and her two beautiful children, Lydia and Mason. They are her educational compass and professional motivation. Amy feels fortunate to have the opportunity to represent Zionsville Community Schools, her beloved students, her amazing family, and all that is good in education.

Cody Freels, East Noble Middle School

After graduating from Manchester University, Cody Freels began his teaching career at East Noble Middle School. Cody has always possessed a passion for engaging students in hands-on learning. This ambition has led to classroom projects including edible models of Earth’s layers and fossil history, meteorologist role-playing, growing crops in the classroom, and even raising chickens. The most meaningful aspect of Cody’s career is the moment a student who has struggled with a concept finally lights up with realization. Though choosing a favorite unit would be difficult to do, Cody would have to say genetics, including heredity and the ethical debate of cloning pros and cons, interests him and his students most of all. After teaching five years of seventh and eighth grade, he is preparing for a transition to a new area that he has helped build: he will be leading the school’s first Project Lead the Way Course in robotics.

Amanda Fronczak, Jackson Elementary School

Amanda Fronczak is a kindergarten teacher at Jackson Elementary School, where she attended as a child. She resides in Ogden Dunes with her supportive husband. Amanda has taught in the Duneland School Corporation for 12 years in kindergarten through second grade. She received her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Ball State University in 2012 and Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Purdue University North Central in 2006. Amanda will receive her Administration License in August through Ball State University. She currently serves as a Level Coordinator, New Teacher Mentor, a member of the Student Assistance Team and School Safety Team, Robotics Coach, Zumba Club Instructor, and Project Lead the Way Launch Lead Teacher. At the district-level, she currently serves on the Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies Curriculum Committees. Amanda has served as President of the Indiana State Reading Association and has traveled around the state holding professional development sessions for teachers and administrators.

Jason Gambrel, Hayden Elementary School

Jason Gambrel has spent 20 years in education as a physical education teacher, archery coach, and basketball coach. After receiving his bachelor’s degree from Ball State University in 1998, he went on to earn his master’s degree from Olivet University in 2011. He has been teaching at Hayden Elementary since 2001 and has been a coach within the Jennings County School Corporation since 2005. He has been recognized locally, statewide, and nationally. Jason was selected the Jennings County Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year in 2016 and as Jennings County School Corporation’s Teacher of the Year Nominee for 2019. He was the 2016 ISTA Excellence in Education Award winner, and as the Brighton Excellence in Education Award winner. He resides in Jennings County with his wife, Kelli, a Jennings County Elementary School Counselor, and his two children, Brock and Grace, who attend Jennings County Middle School.

Karen Gillie, Career Academy @ Anthis

Karen Gillie is a graphic design instructor in the Information Technology Academy at the Career Academy @ Anthis. During her 25-year tenure, she has taught Graphic Design, Accounting, Computer Repair, Office Support and Entrepreneurship. Gillie has a strong belief in Career Education and the impact it has on students. While at the Career Academy, Gillie has held a variety of leadership positions including department chair, technology coordinator and SkillsUSA coordinator. She received national recognition in 2007 for the Leavey Award for Excellence in recognition of her entrepreneurship curriculum. In 2017, Gillie was named Indiana advisor of the year for SkillsUSA. Gillie began her career as a graphic designer in Fort Wayne, and in the evenings taught software classes for adults. After five years as a graphic designer, she transitioned to a full-time instructor and obtained a CTE teaching license. Karen has been married to her husband, Sam, for 22 years. The couple have a 14-year-old daughter named Grace.

Victoria Hannah, Beveridge Elementary School

Victoria Hannah has been an educator for 30 years. Starting out at Mississippi Valley State University, then relocating to Gary, Indiana. Mrs. Hannah has a special tone in her voice that is calming to students. She is always ready to share words of wisdom and encouragement with others. Mrs. Victoria Hannah has been a great influence for her students.

Hillary Harder, Roosevelt STEAM Academy

Hillary Harder is an elementary music teacher in Elkhart, Indiana. Her primary goal is to use music education as a vehicle to build relationships, create a positive culture, and foster confidence and citizenship within musical ensembles. Ms. Harder has experience teaching in a wide variety of musical contexts, including early childhood music classes for preschoolers and parents, choral and general music classes, and orchestral coaching ranging from elementary to high school. From Wichita, Kansas, Ms. Harder moved to Indiana to attend Goshen College, and after spending a year in Los Angeles to complete her master's degree, returned to Elkhart County to teach at Roosevelt. Hillary attended a dual language school growing up where she was part of a Spanish language immersion program. Her Spanish serves her well in teaching at Roosevelt, where she connects with Spanish-speaking students and families. In her free time Hillary enjoys songwriting, playing the violin and mandolin, singing in several choirs, reading voraciously, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

Tricia Harlow, Western Primary School

Tricia Harlow is a physical education teacher for students grades K through 2 at Western Primary School in Howard County. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education from Indiana University, Bloomington. Mrs. Harlow has taught 15 years and is the mother of three daughters. Mrs. Harlow also is an assistant coach for the Western Middle School Girls’ Softball team. She has been recognized for community service in both Tipton and Howard Counties.

Dottie Hellmich, North Decatur Elementary School

Dottie Hellmich has been in education for 24 years. She graduated from IUPUI in 1993 and began her teaching career as a sixth grade teacher at St. Mary’s School in Greensburg, Indiana. After three years there, she moved across town to North Decatur Elementary School where she has taught sixth grade, the gifted and talented program, and fourth grade. Her combined passion for teaching and technology has opened doors to new opportunities. For the last five years, she has served as the technology integration specialist at North Decatur Elementary, where students are 1:1 with iPads in grades K-6. This position allows her to work with both teachers and students throughout the school. She provides professional development opportunities for teachers on many topics and teaches lessons for students on digital citizenship, coding, and topics related totechnology use. Her life outside of work includes her husband, two children, and one grandchild. She enjoys spending time with family, reading, crafting, and quiet time at home.

John Hochstetler, Sand Creek Intermediate School

John Hochstetler has just completed his 21st year in education, the majority of which has been spent as a teacher librarian. He began his career as a second grade teacher in MSD of Pike Township. He then moved home to northwest Indiana and taught fourth grade in Crown Point Community Schools. Upon his return to Indianapolis he pursued a Master of Library Science. (2004) He has worked in his current capacity of teacher librarian at Deer Run Elementary (Pike Township), West Clay Elementary (Carmel Clay Schools) and his current assignment at Sand Creek Intermediate School (Hamilton Southeastern). He enjoys combining his love of literature and technology and helping students develop and interest in both. He lives with his wife and son in Fishers.

Sara Hoover, Beiger Elementary School

Sara Hoover is a second grade teacher for the School City of Mishawaka at Beiger Elementary School. She has taught for 18 years with the School City and is the first and only two time Teacher of the Year honoree for the corporation. Sara and her husband Neil have two children, Gavin (15 yrs) and Sophia(12 yrs). She is a very busy mom keeping up with her children’s travel sports. Sara is also very active in her professional career. She is involved with Mishawaka Educational Association as the treasurer. She serves on many other committees for the corporation as a teacher leader. Sara is passionate about STEM education and has helped promote that in her corporation and the other districts. She has written several large grantsfor School City for various projects. Sara is a passionate and dedicated teacher who strives to inspire others.

Theresa Hussey, Goshen Middle School

Theresa Hussey is a secondary math teacher and an NIET Master teacher who works at Goshen Middle School. Theresa teaches eighth grade and coaches teachers in the New Tech Network. Theresa is a certified New Tech Teacher and Trainer. Theresa and her family have lived in Goshen for almost 30 years. Theresa loves math and hopes to inspire all to love math.

Will Lesko, Brownsburg East Middle School

Will Lesko is a middle school Special Education teacher and department head at Brownsburg East Middle School. Will earned a degree in special education from Indiana State University and has been employed by Brownsburg Community Schools for the past 14 years. Will completed his graduate studies at Ball State University with a degree in the director of special needs program.

Tamara Markey, McKenzie Center for Innovation and Technology

Tamara Markey is an innovative, passionate, and dynamic educator who draws from and applies to her classroom nearly a decade of real-world experience as an engineer with Amoco Oil and BP Pipelines. Mrs. Markey is a Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellow and Project Lead the Way Instructor. She teaches engineering at the McKenzie Center for Innovation and Technology in MSD of Lawrence Township in Indianapolis.

Megan Mathew, Hamilton Heights Middle School

Megan Mathew graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology in 2004 and is in her 15th year teaching physical education and health. She has spent the last five years teaching seventh grade students at Hamilton Heights Middle School. She is a basic archery instructor, certified Apple teacher, and former track coach.

Ann Mennonno, Clarks Creek Elementary

Ann Mennonno is a second grade teacher and the school English Language Learner (ELL) Coordinator at Clarks Creek Elementary in the Plainfield Community School District. She is beginning her 20th year of teaching. Ann is known for bringing classroom curriculum to life! She wants her students to love school and love learning. Through this desire, Ann has transformed her young students into avid readers and writers. Ann also passionately works with the ELL students in her building, ensuring their success at learning a new language.

Stephanie Merkling, Homestead High School

Starting as a college student, Stephanie Merkling decided to take the road seldom traveled by young women drawn to teaching; she chose a degree in science as her major. From an early age, she has had an interest in this field and particularly to the living world. When in nature, she finds it is not only a source of inner strength, but a way she can pursue her passion of education by sharing the joy she finds in understanding the environment with her students. Stephanie, a third generation teacher in her family, heads the environmental science program at Homestead High School, and is a nine year veteran of the profession. Her efforts have allowed the school, surrounding community, and beyond to greatly benefit from her involvement with both the environmental club as well as being an advocate for the district’s Environmental Center.

Sara Midura, Riley Hospital for Children School Program

Sara Midura is the Educational Liaison on the Simon Skjodt Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health Unit at Riley Hospital for Children. Sara is a Butler Bulldog through and through, graduating with her degree in elementary education and certification in mild interventions in 2016, completing her certification in applied educational jn neuroscience in May 2018, and is currently a Master of Effective Teaching and Leadership Graduate Program student. She has worked with national organizations to create a framework for transitioning patients back to school from behavior health hospitalizations. Her mission is to work with school communities around the state in order to provide knowledge and resources that deliver great results for students with behavior health needs, and to help lead Indiana into the national conversation.

Deborah Nearpass, Lost Creek Elementary

Deborah Nearpass has taught in the Vigo County School Corporation for 34 years, with assignments including kindergarten through sixth grade general music, elementary strings, and high school orchestra. While in the corporation, she has been active in textbook adoption and curriculum development, and has presented multiple workshops for fellow music educators. Mrs. Nearpass also supervises pre-service and student teachers from Indiana State University, and frequently serves as a woodwind judge for the Indiana State School Music Association Solo & Ensemble events. Outside of her own music classroom, Mrs. Nearpass has been active as an after-school volunteer, tutoring woodwind students in the secondary schools. Nearpass is a member of Sigma Alpha Iota music fraternity, the National Association for Music Education, and the Indiana Music Education Association.

Christy Neuenschwander, Salamonie School

Christy Neuenschwander began her 30-year career at Huntington County Community Schools after graduating from Huntington College in 1988. She is married to Dave, a physical education teacher and coach at Adams Central; they have two children, Whitney (Nathan) Baker, and Nicholas. Christy enjoys planning, developing, and implementing curriculum thatengages learners. Integration of science, social studies, language, and math are common throughout a day in the life of an elementary student in her classroom. Her experience teaching all levels from first grade though seventh grade language arts provide a rich understanding of the scope and sequence of learning. She thrives to see students develop initiative and meet their potential. To remain resilient as an instructor, Christy enjoys timereading, walking, gardening, and traveling to new places. She is thankful for the local community and church family that supports her efforts as a teacher and lifelong learner.

Gabe Nobbe, Connersville Senior High School

Mr. Gabe Nobbe, a graduate of Connersville High School (CHS), joined the faculty in the summer of 2002 in the agriculture department. Mr. Nobbe received his Associate of Science in Agriculture from Vincennes University in 1999, his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Education from Purdue University in 2002, and his Master of Science in Agriculture Extension Education from Purdue University in 2014. Currently, he is the department chair for the CHS Agriculture Department.

Beth Overfield, Hagerstown Jr-Sr High School

Mrs. Beth Overfield is an art teacher at Hagerstown Junior-Senior High School. She teaches several art classes in a variety of mediums. She has been a teacher in the Nettle Creek School Corporation for eight years. Mrs. Overfield is involved in many activities at Hagerstown Junior-Senior High School, including junior class sponsor, yearbook sponsor, fine arts academic coach, art club sponsor, and fine arts department chair.

Reginald Paige, West Side Leadership Academy The Gary Community School Corporation is proud to award Reginald Paige the Secondary Educator of the Year Award for the district as well as recommend him for the Indiana Educator of the Year Award. Award recipients are nominated by their peers and are teachers who show outstanding academic achievement and service in education in their school, district, and community. Reginald Paige has not been teaching in Gary for a long time, but in the past three years, he has made a strong impact on the staff, students and residents of Gary, IN. A graduate of Grambling State University, he is a licensed science educator, and a licensed minister as well. He leads the positive behavior incentive committee, is a vital member of the 8-STEP school improvement committee, schoolbeautification committee, the head boys’ and girls’ tennis coach, former lead teacher of The Pathways to College Program we once had at our school, and he is the head of the science department.

Shari Phegley, Eastview Elementary School

Miss Phegley graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Early Childhood Education and began her teaching career in Fayette County School Corporation in 1994. Miss Phegley has taught Head Start and Kindergarten. Miss Phegley completed her Master’s in Education with a focus on literacy skills in early learning at Indiana Wesleyan University in 1999. Miss Phegley is an active member on numerous committees, serving in leadership roles on several local service organization boards that address the needs of the local population.

Gretchen Rafferty, Sheridan Elementary and Middle School

Gretchen Rafferty, music educator, grew up in Rensselaer, Indiana. She works with the kindergarten through eighth grade youth of Sheridan Community Schools. Gretchen is a kind and compassionate educator who knows through music, students can learn more about who they are and gain confidence in their abilities. She encourages kids to perform whenever they can, whether it be at the Indiana State Solo and Ensemble Contest, to sing a solo in an upcoming concert, participate in the yearly musical, or step out of their comfort zone in any school activity that seems interesting, but maybe just a bit too scary. Gretchen’s innovative and energetic style keeps students engaged and allows for a high level of achievement. Gretchen Rafferty graduated from Ball State University and has done continuing studies at Butler University, Indiana Wesleyan, and Anderson University. She lives in Sheridan with her husband and daughter, as well as several furry friends.

Gary Robinson, Center Grove Middle School Central

Gary Robinson teachers seventh grade social studies at Center Grove Middle School Central. A graduate of Franklin College a and DePauw University, Gary will begin his 41st year of teaching this school year. On any given school day, you’ll find him in his classroom teaching his motto to students: “There is more to the world than Center Grove.” He pushes his students to learn about places far away by creating engaging, motivating, and authentic lessons. Mr. Robinson is a big believer that social studies is the perfect class to do high-level writing. He brings in relevant topics of the past, guest speakers who have traveled afar, and adds meaningful current ideas for the students to explore, discuss, and achieve “real-world” knowledge.

Kimberly Rosenbaum, Twin Lakes High School

Kimberly Rosenbaum is the welding technology teacher at Twin Lakes High School. In May of 2018, Kim received the AWS Indiana Section Midwest Welding Competition “Bob Richwine Award” for her outstanding contributions and dedication to vocational education. In 2017, Kim was named the Indian Trails Career Teacher of the Year. Kim was awarded the Honorary Chapter Degree from the Future Farmers of America (FFA) for her success in teaching through the agriculture power class. Twin Lakes School Corporation recognized Kim with a “Pathfinder Instruction” Award for her dedication to students and the field.

Derek Ruble, Noblesville East Middle School

Derek Ruble is a graduate of Ball State University with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Social Studies Education. Derek has taught eighth grade social studies for the past 12 years. He is an eighth-grade social studies teacher and social studies department chair at Noblesville East Middle School. He embraces innovative “gamified” practices to make his classroom and curriculum more engaging, ultimatelyleading to deeper learning for his students. He teaches a curriculum that is student-driven and focuses on real-world scenarios. He is a leader among his peers and continues to facilitate positive changes to the eighth-gradesocial studies curriculum.

Meredith Schaar, Nora Elementary School

Meredith Schaar is a fifth grade teacher at Nora Elementary School, MSDWashington Township, in Indianapolis. Meredith grew up in Evansville, Indiana then went on to pursue her degree in elementary education at Butler University. After graduating from Butler in 2014, she started her teaching career at Nora Elementary. Meredith brings learning to life for her students by regularly integrating innovative teaching strategies into the classroom. She is passionate on identifying each student’s strengths and his or her needs as individual learners. Meredith uses an“outside-of-the-box” teaching style to engage her students and spark a love for learning.

Kristofer Scholtes, Muncie Central High School

Kristofer Scholtes is a mathematics teacher at Muncie Central High School where he has been teaching for 13 years. He took on the challenge of transitioning from physics teacher to mathematics department chair. He is a great role model for the teachers of Muncie Central and served as a technology coach for other teachers. He has a vision and understanding of the educational process along with the skills needed to lead teachers and students.

Beth Schwitz, John Young Middle School

Beth Schwitz is an eighth grade English/Language Arts teacher for School City of Mishawaka at John Young Middle School in Mishawaka. She is part of the school’s leadership committee, a PLC leader, a team leader, and a member of the school improvement team. She is the moderator of the student television news broadcast (WAKA News), as well as John Young’s National Junior Honor Society. In the classroom, she strives to implement new ideas and each year changes her methods to meet the strengths of her students. After attending a conference in Wisconsin last year, she is implementing personalized learning and plans to train her team members to also include this method during the upcoming school year. Along with personalized learning, she is passionate about creating a state of the art Maker Space at John Young Middle School.

Sarah Shannon, Ben Davis High School

Sarah Shannon attended Anderson University and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Secondary Mathematics Education. She started her teaching career at Anderson High School, where she taught for three years. Then she took a job at Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis, where she’s been teaching math for the past 12 years. She currently teaches Algebra II, Pre Calculus and AVID. She has been happily married for seven years to her husband Dustin, who also teaches math at Ben Davis.

Rachael Shepherd, Knightstown High School

Rachael Shepherd began her teaching career in Gillette, Wyoming, but has spent the last 20 years as a member of the staff of Knightstown High School within the Charles A. Beard Memorial School Corporation. A 25-year veteran educator, Rachael is the language arts department chair, English 9 instructor, yearbook adviser, and mentor for beginning teachers. She has previously served as an NHS sponsor, student council adviser, empty bowls event coordinator, and table leader for a district authentic writing assessment team. Using humor and lively teaching techniques, Rachael creates a dynamic classroom atmosphere to engage even reluctant learners. Although she has had the opportunity to teach other grades, the freshman level is truly her niche. Rachael completed her undergraduate training at Indiana University, Bloomington, in 1990 and earned her master of education degree from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2013.

Michele Shultz, Lebanon Middle School

Michele Shultz is an exuberant eighth grade science teacher and science department head at Lebanon Middle School. She has been actively involved in her school in implementing service learning for the eighth grade and achieving national accreditation. Additionally, she efforts herself in advocating for her student’s through exciting hands-on labs and activities that captivate and inspire lifelong learners. Michele has a wide background of teaching science at a variety of levels that stem from sixth grade science to college chemistry. Her teaching spans nearly three decades of engaging young minds to equip them for great endeavors and a bright future. Michele’s passion for youth has been demonstrated in her willingness to be a mentor to a young girl in her community and a leader in youth organizations such as 4-H and Girl Scouts.

Brian Skillman, Franklin Central High School

A graduate of Indiana University, Brian Skillman teaches AP Language and composition and linguistics at Franklin Central High School in Indianapolis. In his 12 years of teaching, Brian has provided students with engaging activities and lessonswhich have aided their growth as citizens and life-long learners. His attention to detail and individual student needs has also helped to provide students with the skills necessary to achieve success in colleges, universities, military, and the workforce. He is also the accompanist for the Franklin Central drama department as well as the school’s show choirs.

Justin Smith, Pike High School

Justin is a computer science teacher at Pike High School in Indianapolis. He is also an advisor for his school’s Business Professionals of America chapter. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Finance from Ball State University and his Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Indianapolis. Justin worked in hotel and retail management after receiving his bachelor’s degree and made the jump to education after realizing that helping and training people were his favorite parts of management. Justin loves to play video games, cook, watch superhero movies, and walk his dogs Manni and Mellie in his free time. He lives with his husband and dogs in Greenwood.

Lacy Spears, Insight School of Indiana

Lacy Spears is a middle school reading interventionist at Insight School of Indiana. She is a graduate of Indiana University and Western Governors University. Lacy has eight years of teaching experience, and has worked with students across all grade levels. She has a deep passion for service, and works to serve students in the classroom as well as outside of the classroom by running the Hoosier Helpings Food Pantry and Community Outreach Program for her school district.

Alexandria Stewart, The Center for Inquiry School 70

Alexandria Stewart is a middle school language arts, individuals and societies and Project Lead the Way teacher with the Indianapolis Public Schools. She taught fourth grade for one year at the Center for Inquiry School 2. Miss Stewart relocated to the Center for Inquiry School 70 for the 2017-2018 school year to help with the implementation of their International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program. In 2013, she graduated from Marquette University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in History and Elementary/Middle Education. Miss Stewart is a member of the School on Wheels Young Professionals Group, and a summer volunteer at Indy Urban Acres. Miss Stewart is committed to the community and strives to continually grow both personally and professionally.

Cindy Taylor, Clarksville Middle School

Cindy Taylor is an educator of students with special needs who has been serving the students and families of Clarksville Middle School for the past 17 years. Her career in education began in an elementary classroom in 1983, but she decided to transition to her current role when she discovered her love for students with exceptionalities. Her drive in education has always been to provide care, compassion, and instruction to students as she strives to promote all facets of their development – social, emotional, character, and academic.

Jennifer Traub, North Liberty Elementary School

Jennifer Traub is an energetic, creative and enthusiastic teacher who strives to bring learning to life in the classroom. She graduated from Indiana University South Bend with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education in 2006 and has worked in the classroom as a paraprofessional and as a teacher for the last 10 years. Ms. Traub’s love of science and technology has created an environment of curiosity and interest as she implements lessons that foster an interactive hands on, learning environment that engages her students in learning real-world problem solving skills. She strives to instill a drive for excellence as students, athletes, club members, and citizens of the community

Terrance Trowbridge, McCordsville Elementary School

Terry Trowbridge is a 36-year-old art teacher and artist who lives in Noblesville. He graduated from Herron School of Art and Design with a bachelor’s degree in fine art and art education, with a minor in art history. He has been the art teacher at McCordsville Elementary the last 3 years and has three previous years experience at Clarence Farrington Elementary. When he is not spending time with his wife and two daughters, he is drawing his webcomic entitled 180 Days of School. He is an outstanding member of his community and serves regularly at his church, Genesis Noblesville. He is also the director, writer, and composer of the YouTube channel McCordsville Elementary School that hosts the Pirate News. In addition, he has his own channel, Terry Trowbridge, with E-learning videos on how to create art projects. He has over 35,000 views in total, with even more to come!

Vickie Vestey, Suncrest Elementary School

Vickie Vestey obtained a degree in psychology from Purdue University in 1993. She began working for the Community Schools of Frankfort as a substitute teacher in 1995. She later worked as a paraprofessional. She also does after school enrichment and for a few years was the Frankfort Middle School cheerleading coach. Vickie earned her teaching license from Indiana Wesleyan through their Transition to Teaching program. She has just finished her twelfth year as a classroom teacher. She has three grown children and a thirty-five year old parrot named Yoda. Vickie loves traveling and has been all over the world, including London, Spain, Morocco, and Hawaii.

Jaclyn Wehmeier, Christel House Academy South

Jaclyn Wehmeir attended Franklin College and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. Since 2014, Jaclyn has been employed as an elementary teacher at Christel House Academy in Indianapolis. Jaclyn’s passion for urban education led her to accept the job at Christel House Academy, a school that primarily serves low-income students. Jaclyn is a proponent of experience based learning and believes the most authentic learning experiences come from doing.

Kara Wilkinson, Woodrow Wilson Middle School

Kara Wilkinson is a 16-year veteran middle school language arts teacher with the Vigo County School Corporation. Throughout her years of teaching, she has been placed in many leadership positions at the school, district, and state level. Her colleagues describe her as trustworthy, organized, task-oriented, and highly dependable. Kara is considered a teacher leader. She is very passionate about education and her students’ ability to succeed.

Lori Williams, Mary Bryan Elementary School

Mrs. Lori Williams loves her first-grade students as though they are her own children. Mrs. Williams graduated from Martinsville High School, then pursued an elementary education degree, as well as a reading minor, from Purdue University. Later, she obtained a Master’s Degree in Elementary Reading and Literacy. She has taught elementary children in Perry Township for 15 years, instilling her passion for learning, literacy, and service into her students. Mrs. Williams believes all students can learn, and each child should be taught as an individual. Video clips, technology, and conversations make her lessons engaging, challenging, and fun. Her inviting classroom encourages kindness, respect, and allows students a comfortable environment to try, make mistakes, and succeed. Students are told they are special, important, and loved, and each day ends with an "I love you," and a hug.

Sarah Wolff, Carmel High School

Sarah Wolff, a Ball State alumnus, has been an art teacher at Carmel High School since August 2000. Selected as Carmel Clay Schools Teacher of the Year for 2018, Wolff continues to impact the lives of thousands of students while fostering leadership inside and outside the classroom. Each year, she leads more than 750 students through her role as a House of Representative Sponsor, helping raise millions of dollars for charity throughvolunteer events such as Dance Marathon, Cancer Tailgate for Life, community blood drives and other year-round initiatives. She also dedicates her time as a sponsor for the Coquette and Charisma Dance Team,spending countless hours teaching dance technique and inspiring the team to perform their best at various school sporting events.

Megan Wright, Southwood Elementary School

Megan Wright has been teaching special education in the public school system for the past 15 years. She has taught primary, intermediate, and middle school students in inclusive settings. Mrs. Wright loves holding her students to high expectations and watching them meet the goals set before them. She is passionate about special education and advocates fiercely for each of her students. Mrs. Wright teaches primary age students at Southwood Elementary School in Wabash. When Mrs. Wright is not at school, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and being outside. She and her husband, Dan reside in Wabash with their two children, Andrew and Avery.

Rachel Yarger, Huntington North High School

Mrs. Rachel Yarger graduated from Huntington University in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Language Arts and Elementary Education. She then obtained her Secondary English license in the summer of 2010. She earned her Master’s Degree in Learning and Technology from Western Governors University in 2015. Rachel has taught a wide variety of English classes while at Huntington North High School. Rachel serves as department chair for the English department and high ability co-chair. In 2017, she was named a member of the Northeast Literacy Council “30 Under 30” Educator Award.

Kyle Yoder, Danville North Elementary School

Outside the doors entering the gym at North Elementary is the name Mr. Yoder. He believes the best way to help kids learn about exercise and health is to lead by example and get families involved in the fun. Kyle started his job in Danville Community Schools 10 years ago. He has created family exercise challenges, staff fitness challenges, developed and maintained pumpkin races and field day events. He is an advocate for Physical Education, serving on the board of INSHAPE, a committee for the revision of the IDOE Physical Education Standards, and often presents at conferences. He was named the 2014 INSHAPE Elementary Physical Educator of the Year.