IPS Luminary Awards

STUDENTS FIRST – “Student-Centered Excellence”

Always putting students’ needs first, setting high expectations, and supporting their success in and out of the classroom.

Winners

• Kevin McMahan, Principal, Jonathan Jennings School 109
• Samantha Akers, Behavior Support Specialist, Unified Student Supports

Nominees

• Dr. Stephanie Gardiner-Walsh, DHH Teacher, Unified Student Supports
• Hillary Brooks-Gallardo, Language Arts Teacher, H. L. Harshman Middle School
• Lon Amstutz, Counselor, Simon Youth Academy
• Keegan Koehlinger-Wolf, MS Special Education Chair, Broad Ripple Middle School
• Amanda Barwick, Instructional Assistant, Broad Ripple Middle School
• Ronika Turner, Instructional Assistant, Broad Ripple Middle School
• Anthony Bigby, Behavior Adjustment Facilitator, Thomas Carr Howe Middle School
• Suprena Tarver, Social Worker, Positive Supports Academy
• Ariana Troutman, FACE Liaison, Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105
• Nicki McGowan, Interventionist, William Bell School 60
  Benjamin Burchfield, Special Education Transportation Manager, Transportation 
• Angela McKinney, Lead Special Education Generalist, Unified Student Supports
• Shawn Brandy, Administrative Associate, Arsenal Technical High School
• Nichole Thomas, Graduation Coach, Arsenal Technical High School
• Rocio Cisneros, Dean, William Penn Middle School
• Kimberly Hunt, Tina Brock, Angela Spencer and Madison Slivka, 2nd Grade Team, Lew Wallace School 107

INTEGRITY– “Integrity in Action”

Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, service, and clear communication.

Winners

• Antrawn Wilburn, 5th Grade Teacher, Ernie Pyle School 90

Nominees

• SGT Reatha Bigby and SRO David Sain, IPS Police, Shortridge High School
• Stacey Graham, Administrative Associate, Thomas Carr Howe Middle School
• Jordan Pridemore, Sr. Coordinator of Coaching & Instructional Support, Instructional Support Systems
• Carolee Tremain, Special Education Inclusion Teacher, Arsenal Technical High School
• Lindsey McComish, Central Compliance, Academic Division
• Joceline Terrell, Food Service Manager, Food Service Department
• Sam Fisher, Vision Impaired Teacher, Unified Student Supports
• Genyll Hunt, Wellness Specialist, Unified Student Supports

STRATEGIC EXCELLENCE – “Equity Champion”

Breaking down barriers and advancing opportunities for students who have historically faced disadvantages.

Winners

• Stephen Ford, Special Education Preschool Teacher, Ernie Pyle School 90
• Sarah Thrasher, Language Arts Teacher, Impact Academy

Nominees

• Alexis Johnson, Culture Climate Specialist, Arsenal Technical High School

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT – “Innovator in Excellence”

Demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and a drive for growth and learning.

Nominees

• Brenda Day, PYC Itinerant Teacher, Unified Student Supports
• Alex Kuhns, Math Teacher, H. L. Harshman Middle School
• Talisha Pointer, Food Service Satellite Manager, Food Service Department

COMMUNITY – “Community Builder”

Creating welcoming, supportive relationships within IPS and with our broader community.

Winners

• Adrianna Berry, Assistant Principal, Northwest Middle School
• Angela Engelhardt, Social Worker, Carl Wilde School 79
• Martell Person, FACE Liaison, Carl Wilde School 79

Nominees

• Melody Groothuis, Assistant Athletic Director, Shortridge High School
• Jeri Ruetz, FACE Liaison, Eliza Blaker School 55
• Suzanna Colgan, ENL Teacher, Northwest Middle School
• Millie Rathburn, Kenya Talor-Wash, Kenny Thompson and Aaron Bellamy, 6th Grade Team, William Penn Middle School
• Christy Martino and Jessica Heckard, Administration, Frederick Douglass School 19
• Melissa Collins, HR Communications Coordinator, Human Resources
• Laura Hurrle, FACE Liaison, Benjamin Harrison School 2
• Sam Akers, Behavior Support Specialist, Unified Student Supports

STUDENTS FIRST

“Student-Centered Excellence” Always putting students’ needs first, setting high expectations, and supporting their success in and out of the classroom.

Winners

• Rebecca Pfaffenberger, Computer Science Teacher, Rousseau McClellan School 91
• Nathaniel Elliott, Staff Custodian, Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105

Nominees

• Thomas Malone, Music Teacher, Carl Wilde School 79
• Nicole Stephens, Special Education Instructional Assistant, Rousseau McClellan School 91
• Etoy Harville, Head Custodian, George Washington High School
• Meaghan Buckman, Everett Hays, Chad Spugnardi, Raeeka Sadri, Theresa Lewis, Hannah Turner-McDonald, Brandon Higgins, Nia Terry and James Turner, Team Achieve (Freshmen on Track), George Washington High School
• Katie Bradshaw, Literacy Coach, Daniel Webster School 46
• Hilary Duvall, Principal, Charity Dye School 27
• Katie Jarvis, Elementary Reading Coaching Coordinator, Academic Division
• Jaclyn Willis, Primary Life Skills, George W. Julian School 57
• Lisa Grube, ENL Teacher, Meredith Nicholson School 96

INTEGRITY

“Integrity in Action” Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, service, and clear communication.

Winners

• Matthew Radcliffe, Equitable Supports Coordinator, Unified Student Supports
• Josh Gurnick and Megan Davis, Office of Communications and Engagement, Central Services

Nominees

• Ashley Enlow, Director of Business Infrastructure and Governance, Digital Strategy
• Teresa Lee, Equitable Supports Coordinator, Unified Student Supports
• Erica Martin, Elementary Language Arts Coaching Coordinator, Academic Division
• Amie Smith, Special Education Inclusion Teacher, Daniel Webster School 46

STRATEGIC EXCELLENCE

“Equity Champion” Breaking down barriers and advancing opportunities for students who have historically faced disadvantages.

Winners

• Kaliah Elliott, Instructional Academics Coach, Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105
• Brandon Johnson, Teacher, Thomas Gregg Neighborhood School 15

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

“Innovator in Excellence” Demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and a drive for growth and learning. 

Nominees

• Keith Utter, Equitable Supports Coach, Unified Student Supports
• Tiffany Parker, Family and Community Engagement Manager, Office of Communications and Engagement

Nominees

• Jasmin Ekanem, Grade 3 Teacher, Ernie Pyle School 90
• Rachel Beam, Kindergarten Teacher, Rousseau McClellan School 91
• Todd Agee, Elementary Math Coaching Coordinator, Academic Division

COMMUNITY

“Community Builder” Creating welcoming, supportive relationships within IPS and with our broader community.

Winners

• Cinnita Sayles, Science Teacher, Edison School of the Arts
• Carla Williams-Thomas, Administrative Associate, Unified Student Supports
• Terra Pulley, Social Worker, Ralph W Emerson School 58

Nominees

• Tia Mapes, ELA Teacher, Arsenal Technical High School
• Lydia Kelley, Administrative Associate, English as a Second Language

STUDENTS FIRST – “Student-Centered Excellence”

Always putting students’ needs first, setting high expectations, and supporting their success in and out of the classroom.

WINNERS

• Nicole Stephens, Special Education Staff, Rousseau McClellan School 91
• Beth Hennig, Instructional Coach, Mary Nicholson School 70
• Mara Vaughn, Instructional Coach, Rousseau McClellan School 91
• Kelly Hannon, Teacher, Impact Academy

NOMINEES

• Deana Harger-Perry, Principal, William McKinley School 39
• Jamie Anderson, Meaghan Chien, Gloria Pettigrew, and Vanesa Quiroga, Social Work Team, Crispus Attucks High School
• Kenneth Hurt, Social Studies Teacher, Crispus Attucks High School
• Phyllis Roche, Math Teacher, Crispus Attucks High School
• Olivia Fox, Special Education Staff, Shortridge High School
• Taylor Myers, Grade 4 Teacher, Carl Wilde School 79
• Chelsea English, Social Worker, Shortridge High School
• Diethric Langford, Special Education Staff, James Whitcomb Riley School 43
• Emily Nuetzman, Social Worker, Ernie Pyle School 90
• Birzavit Estrada Nunez, Math Teacher, Arsenal Technical High School
• Kelly Overman and Kaitlyn Dennis, Life Skills Staff, Broad Ripple Middle School
• Gina Bessetti-Reyes, Instructional Coach, Thomas Carr Howe Middle School

INTEGRITY – “Integrity in Action”

Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, service, and clear communication.

WINNERS

• Darrell Ledford, Head Custodian, Ernie Pyle School 90
• Brenda Eligio, Administrative Support, Crispus Attucks High School

NOMINEES

• Stephannie Hardaway, Sr. Human Resources Business Partner, Human Resources Division
• Joseph Kartholl, Special Education Inclusion Teacher, Thomas Carr Howe Middle School

STRATEGIC EXCELLENCE – “Equity Champion”

Breaking down barriers and advancing opportunities for students who have historically faced disadvantages.

WINNERS

• Maggie Sall and Brooke Goodall, Special Education Staff, Unified Student Supports

NOMINEES

• Lori Armstrong, College Specialist, Shortridge High School
• Suzanne Hawthorne, Special Education Inclusion Teacher, Crispus Attucks High School
• Maggie Sall and Brooke Goodall, Special Education Staff, Unified Student Supports

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT – “Innovator in Excellence”

Demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and a drive for growth and learning.

WINNERS

• Birzavit Estrada Nunez, Math Teacher, Arsenal Technical High School
• Jennifer Newman, Equitable Supports Coach, Unified Student Supports

NOMINEES

• Jennifer Bielefeld, DP Coordinator, Shortridge High School
• Mary Garner, Teacher, Shortridge High School
• Lashonda Tillis, Special Education Staff, Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105
• Angela McKinney, Lead Generalist, Unified Student Supports
• Brynn Kardash, Executive Director of School Supports, Academic Division
• Adrienne Kuchik, Executive Director of Schools, Academic Division
• Joan Harrell, Instructional Coach, George Washington Carver School 87
• Kristi Sebastian, IB Coordinator, Thomas Carr Howe Middle School

COMMUNITY – “Community Builder”

Creating welcoming, supportive relationships within IPS and with our broader community.

NOMINEES

• Luke Boggess, ENL Teacher, Crispus Attucks High School
• Charlotte Uwimbabazi, ENL Family and Community Engagement Parent Liaison, English as a Second Language
• Anna Mounts, Music Teacher, Theodore Potter School 74
• Melissa Collins, Communications Coordinator, Human Resources Division
• Carlton Elouidor, ENL FACE Liaison, Office of Communication & Engagement

🏆 Janurary 2025 Luminary Award Recipients

1. Students First –  “Student-Centered Excellence”

Always putting students’ needs first, setting high expectations, and supporting their success in and out of the classroom.

• IPS School-Based Vaccine Coordinators, School Vaccine Coordinator, In LEA Schools and Health Services
• Mariah Scarborough, Administrative Associate, Ralph W Emerson School 58

2. Strategic Excellence – “Equity Champion”

Breaking down barriers and advancing opportunities for students who have historically faced disadvantages.

• Amber Paz, Learning Community Director, USS

3. Integrity – “Integrity in Action”

Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, service, and clear communication.

• Stephen Gainey, Administration Team, Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105

4. Community – “Community Builder”

Creating welcoming, supportive relationships within IPS and with our broader community.

• H. W. Longfellow Middle School, H.W. Longfellow Middle School Staff, H. W. Longfellow Middle School
• Phyllis Walker-Riding, Benefits Administrative Associate, Human Resources

Nomintations

1. Students First – “Student-Centered Excellence”

Always putting students’ needs first, setting high expectations, and supporting their success in and out of the classroom.

Nominee	Role	School/Department/Division
Life Skills Teachers and Assistants	Special Education Staff	Lew Wallace School 107
Mariah Scarborough	Administrative Associate	Ralph W Emerson School 58
Cinnita Sayles	Teacher	Edison School of the Arts
Amber Paz	Learning Community Director	Unified Student Supports
Nicole Stephens	Special Education Staff	Rousseau McClellan School 91
Maura Renzi	Teacher	Edison School of the Arts
Amy Berns	Principal	Edison School of the Arts
James Gorski	Teacher	Merle Sidener Academy 59
Briana Franklin	Teacher	Crispus Attucks High School
Nancy Martinez	Administrative Associate	Jonathan Jennings School 109
Brashon Porter	Dean	Broad Ripple Middle School
Ashley Griffin	Special Education Department Chair	Thomas Carr Howe Middle School
Sandra Gutierrez, Yolanda Covarrubius	ENL Team	Christian Park School 82
Margiy Outten	Teacher	Thomas Carr Howe Middle School
Antonio Rodgers	School Police Officer	Thomas Carr Howe Middle School
Mariah Scarborough	Administrative Associate	Ralph W Emerson School 58
Carlie Coblentz	Teacher	Washington Irving Neighborhood School at Washington Irving 14
John Agostino	Teacher	Shortridge High School
Anna Holmes-Bell	Behavior Supports Specialist	Unified Student Supports
Kellie Brookins	Custodian	William Bell School 60
IPS School-Based Vaccine Coordinators	School Vaccine Coordinator	In LEA Schools and Health Services
Jenny Bielefeld	IB DP Coordinator	Shortridge High School
Sarah Johnson	Teacher	Impact Academy
Special Education Team	Special Education Staff	William Penn Middle School

2. Strategic Excellence – “Equity Champion”

Breaking down barriers and advancing opportunities for students who have historically faced disadvantages.

Nominee	Role	School/Department/Division
Elias Herrera	Teacher	Shortridge High School
Brett Townsend	Teacher	H. L. Harshman Middle School
Amber Paz	Learning Community Director	Unified Student Supports
Beverly White	Teacher	Impact Academy

3. Continuous Improvement – “Innovator in Excellence”

Demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and a drive for growth and learning.

Nominee	Role	School/Department/Division
Jeffrey Roper	Teacher	Crispus Attucks High School
Robert Cusic	Teacher	H. L. Harshman Middle School
Raina Buckalew	Teacher	Shortridge High School
Dennis Thomas	Administrator on Special Assignment	William Bell School 60
Katrina Patterson	On My Way Pre-K Coordinator	Academics
Hillary Brooks-Gallardo	Teacher	H. L. Harshman Middle School
Stephanie Coleman, Todd Agee, Justice Ludlow	Elementary Math Coaching Coordinators	Curriculum & Instruction
Andrea Snouffer	Executive Director of Professional Learning	Professional Learning
Daniel Aguilar	Human Resources Business Partner	Human Resources Division
Dr. Jason Bletzinger	Principal	Thomas Carr Howe Middle School

4. Integrity – “Integrity in Action”

Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, service, and clear communication.

Nominee	Role	School/Department/Division
Mackenzie Beard	Behavior Support Specialist	Unified Student Supports
Keith Sims	Social Worker	George Washington Carver School 87
Joy Lucas-Brown	Specialist	Unified Student Supports
Elise Sanders	Special Education Staff	Northwest Middle School
James Turner	Behavioral Support	George Washington High School
Maggie Curry	Special Education Staff	James A. Garfield School 31
Myisha Williams	Payroll Manager	Payroll Division
Elizabeth Rutan	Instructional Coach	Charity Dye School 27
Jennifer Neel	Administrative Specialist of Employment & Operations	Human Resources Division
April Shin	Assistant Principal	George Washington Carver School 87
Erika Ruiz	Teacher	Impact Academy
Melissa Gogel	Teacher	Impact Academy
Phyllis Walker-Riding	Benefits Administrative Associate	Human Resources Division
Darien Maguire	Teacher	Rousseau McClellan School 91
Stephen Gainey	Administration Team	Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105
Mary Siefert	Director of School Programs	School Supports
Jessica Duerksen	Nurse	Theodore Potter School 74
Chris Speckman	Writing Center Coordinator	Post Secondary Readiness

5. Community – “Community Builder”

Creating welcoming, supportive relationships within IPS and with our broader community.

Nominee	Role	School/Department/Division
Phyllis Walker-Riding	Benefits Administrative Associate	Human Resources Division
Jennifer Devine	Teacher	Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105
Pearle Washington	Social Worker	Frederick Douglass School 19
Kevin Brown	Teacher	Anna Brochhausen School 88
Brittney Winter	Teacher	Christian Park School 82
Shelby Higginson	Equitable Support Coach	Unified Student Supports
Monica Delapaz	Community Coordinator	James Whitcomb Riley School 43
Christine Rembert	Principal	James Russell Lowell School 51
Adriana Tebbe	Title IX Manager	Office of General Counsel
H. W. Longfellow Middle School	H.W. Longfellow Middle School Staff	H. W. Longfellow Middle School
Ricki Jo Scott	Middle School Special Education Coordinator	Unified Student Supports
Daniel Kellow	Teacher	Impact Academy

🏆 December 2025 Luminary Award Recipients

1. Students First –  “Student-Centered Excellence”

Always putting students’ needs first, setting high expectations, and supporting their success in and out of the classroom.

• Mandy Quiroz, Teacher, Rousseau McClellan School 91
• Jovan McCray, Administrator, Shortridge High School
• Markco Maddox, Behavior Adjustment Facilitator, Arsenal Technical High School
• Charmonique Stallworth, Specialist, Unified Student Supports
• Cathleen King, Teacher, Ernie Pyle School 90

2. Continuous Improvement – “Innovator in Excellence”

Demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and a drive for growth and learning.

• Cara Hachmeister, Graduation Services Coordinator, Postsecondary Readiness

3. Integrity – “Integrity in Action”

Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, service, and clear communication.

• Germaine Flemming, Head Custodian, John Morton Finney Center for Educational Services
• Elnora Daniel, Administrative Coordinator, Human Resources Division

4. Community – “Community Builder”

Creating welcoming, supportive relationships within IPS and with our broader community.

• Becca Stewart, Teacher, William Bell School 60

Nominations

1. Students First – “Student-Centered Excellence”

Always putting students’ needs first, setting high expectations, and supporting their success in and out of the classroom.

Name/Role	School/Department	Nomination Summary
Cathleen King, Teacher	Ernie Pyle School 90	Cathleen King is a tireless advocate for student enrichment, securing significant grants to provide new opportunities for the students of Ernie Pyle. Her initiative and dedication to expanding students’ horizons are truly commendable.
Charmonique Stallworth, Special Education Specialist	Unified Student Supports	Charmonique Stallworth is a highly responsive and dedicated behavior support specialist who works across multiple schools to support students in need. Her commitment to meeting with staff and families ensures that every student receives the support they require to thrive.
Christiana Lahmon, ENL Teacher	Ernie Pyle School 90	Christiana Lahmon is a passionate advocate for equity and support for dual-language learners. Her willingness to go above and beyond to provide resources and guidance to teachers ensures that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
Jovan McCray, Administrator	Shortridge High School	Jovan McCray is a foundational leader at Shortridge, having grown the football program and now serving as a dedicated Athletic Director. His influence and commitment to student-athletes have helped build a strong and lasting foundation for the school’s success.
Kasha Hayden, Special Education Specialist	Unified Student Supports	Kasha Hayden has hit the ground running as a behavior support specialist, immediately making a positive impact on students with high needs. Her proactive approach and dedication to student success are a welcome addition to the school community.
Kellye-Harrison-Ayala, College Specialist	Crispus Attucks High School	Kellye Harrison-Ayala is dedicated to helping students navigate their future plans, providing essential guidance and support for their post-secondary success. Her focus on ensuring students make the right choices for their futures is invaluable.
Mandy Quiroz, Teacher	Rousseau McClellan School 91	Mandy Quiroz is a dedicated Montessori educator who has made a profound impact on her students and their families over many years. Her commitment to the Montessori philosophy and her unwavering support for her students’ growth make her a true luminary.
Markco Maddox, Behavior Adjustment Facilitator	Arsenal Technical High School	Markco Maddox is deeply committed to the ‘Students First’ core value, providing unwavering support for students’ academic and personal success. His ability to center students in every action makes him a vital part of his school’s excellence.
Meaghan Chien, Social Worker	Crispus Attucks High School	Meaghan Chien is a versatile and dedicated social worker who serves as a cheerleader, mentor, and advocate for all students. Her ability to balance empathy with clear boundaries ensures that every student feels supported and guided.
Penelope Hash, Teacher	Arsenal Technical High School	Penelope Hash is an unwavering advocate for personalized learning, ensuring that every student receives the individualized support they need to grow. Her commitment to meeting students’ unique academic and social needs is truly inspiring.
Zella Bade, Behavior Adjustment Facilitator	Ernie Pyle School 90	Zella Bade consistently goes beyond her formal duties to support students in any way needed, from covering classrooms to leading essential programs. Her versatility and dedication make her an indispensable member of the school team.

2. Strategic Excellence – “Equity Champion”

Breaking down barriers and advancing opportunities for students who have historically faced disadvantages.

Name/Role	School/Department	Nomination Summary
Emily Surma, Special Education Staff	Rousseau McClellan School 91	Emily Surma is an extraordinary special education teacher whose dedication has significantly improved the lives of her students on the autism spectrum. Her persistence in breaking down barriers to learning and providing a supportive environment is truly life-changing for her students.
Hannah Harrison, Learning Community Director	Unified Student Supports	Hannah Harrison is a transformative leader dedicated to breaking down barriers and advancing opportunities for students. Her commitment to creating inclusive and supportive learning communities is driving positive change across the district.
Reginald Shelt, Principal	Arsenal Technical High School	Principal Reginald Shelt is a proactive leader whose intentional actions prioritize the long-term success of both staff and students. His commitment to high standards and follow-through makes him a dependable and impactful leader in his school community.
Tawn Spicklemire, Teacher	George Washington Carver School 87	Tawn Spicklemire is a tireless advocate for ENL students and families, ensuring that every learner has the support and resources they need to thrive. Her career-long commitment to equity makes her a true champion for inclusive excellence.
The Future Center Staff ATHS (Ms. Barrett, Mr. McAleese, Ms. Sullivan), PSR Counselor and College Specialists	Arsenal Technical High School	This team at the Future Center is dedicated to equity and inclusive leadership, ensuring all students feel valued and supported. Their innovative programs and community outreach provide students with the exposure and opportunities they need to succeed after high school.
Vanesa Quiroga, Social Worker	Crispus Attucks High School	Vanesa Quiroga goes above and beyond for her students, often performing home visits and providing essential resources like food. Her selfless dedication and willingness to help anyone in need make her a true luminary in her community.

3. Continuous Improvement – “Innovator in Excellence”

Demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and a drive for growth and learning.

Name/Role	School/Department	Nomination Summary
Alpha Garrett, Director of Communication	Communications Department	Alpha Garrett is a dedicated leader committed to continuous professional growth, both for herself and her entire team. Her focus on development and collaboration ensures that her team is always equipped with the latest best practices to serve the district.
Cara Hachmeister, Graduation Services Coordinator	Post Secondary Readiness Dept	Cara Hachmeister is a phenomenal asset to the Postsecondary Readiness department, providing critical mentorship that has helped graduation rates reach new heights. Her guidance and support for graduation coaches have a direct and lasting impact on student success.
Craig Smith, Central Office Staff	Systems Department	Craig Smith is the ‘glue’ of his department, providing steady leadership and support during times of transition. His flexibility and commitment to creating a positive learning environment make him a model of continuous improvement.
Dr. Austin Dodd, Director of IPS Academies & Pathways	Post Secondary Readiness Dept	Austin Dodd is a key driver of innovation and growth on the Postsecondary Readiness team, skillfully connecting dots across departments to support students’ future success. His ability to navigate changing state requirements with data-driven strategies makes him a vital team builder.
Dr. Stacy Bottley, Executive Director of Schools	Office of Chief of Staff	Dr. Stacy Bottley is a leader defined by grace and persistence, continually pushing for improvement despite any obstacles. Her flexible and collaborative leadership style is an inspiration to her colleagues and a benefit to the entire district.
Josh Varno, Senior District Athletics Manager	Athletics Department	Josh Varno is a tireless innovator in student athletics, working to ensure every student has the opportunity to participate and succeed. His quick responsiveness and dedication to expanding athletic opportunities make him a vital asset to the district.
Juli Cooper, Inquiry Coordinator	Academic Division	Juli Cooper is a long-standing champion of excellence and innovation, both in the classroom and in her current leadership role. Her consistent dedication to student growth and professional development has left a lasting impact on parents and colleagues alike.
Lauren Franklin, Principal	Crispus Attucks High School	Lauren Franklin is a ‘principal great’ who has set a high bar for excellence through her hard work and innovative systems. Her willingness to mentor other leaders and share her successful strategies has created positive ripple effects across the entire district.
Sadi Avants, Taylor Takeda, Courtney Graham, First Grade Teacher Team	Joseph J. Bingham School 84	This first-grade team is recognized for their collaborative spirit and commitment to innovative teaching. Their flexibility and creativity in the classroom have fostered a dynamic learning environment where students can thrive.
Samantha Farrington, Instructional Coach	Clarence Farrington School 61	Samantha Farrington has significantly improved math achievement through her intentional and innovative instructional strategies. Her leadership in strengthening math instruction is making a meaningful difference for students across the school.
Shauna Oakwood, Media Specialist	Crispus Attucks High School	Shauna Oakwood has transformed the Media Center into a vibrant hub where students are excited to read and learn. Her efficient management and focus on student interests have led to a significant increase in media center engagement.

4. Integrity – “Integrity in Action”

Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, service, and clear communication.

Name/Role	School/Department	Nomination Summary
April Shin, Assistant Principal	George Washington Carver School 87	April Shin is a highly professional and efficient leader known for her clear communication and unwavering support for staff and students. Her commitment to finding answers and providing high-quality service makes her a dependable asset to her school.
David Barlow, Counselor	Crispus Attucks High School	David Barlow is an impactful counselor who teaches his students the value of professionalism, integrity, and grit. His caring but firm approach ensures that his students are well-prepared for the challenges of the future.
Elnora Daniel, Administrative Coordinator	Human Resources Division	Elnora Daniel is a supportive and encouraging mentor whose impact on the Human Resources staff has been both meaningful and lasting. Her tenure is marked by her dedication to the growth and well-being of those she works with.
Germaine Flemming, Head Custodian	Central Services	Germaine Flemming takes great pride in maintaining a safe and well-kept workspace for all JMF employees and visitors. His responsiveness and commitment to safety ensure that the work environment is always at its best.
Kathy Lause, Principal	Rousseau McClellan School 91	Kathy Lause is an amazing leader who balances high expectations with deep compassion and empathy. Her dedication to upholding the Montessori philosophy while supporting both staff and students makes her a cornerstone of her school community.
Luisa Martinez, Administrative Associate	Daniel Webster School 46	Luisa Martinez uses her bilingual skills and big heart to create a welcoming environment for the Hispanic community. Her willingness to go out of her way to help children and families makes her a cherished member of the school staff.
Patrick Allen and the Custodial Team, Custodial Staff	Eleanor Skillen School 34	Patrick Allen and his team are recognized for their exceptional helpfulness and positive attitude in maintaining a clean and safe school environment. Their willingness to assist with school programs and their consistent hard work are deeply appreciated by the entire school community.
Rick Lyday, Staff Custodian	George Washington Carver School 87	Rick Lyday embodies integrity through his tireless service to the Carver community, ensuring a clean and welcoming environment for all. His willingness to go above and beyond, especially in supporting Montessori work, demonstrates his deep commitment to student success.

5. Community – “Community Builder”

Creating welcoming, supportive relationships within IPS and with our broader community.

Name/Role	School/Department	Nomination Summary
Becca Stewart, Teacher	William Bell School 60	Becca Stewart is a community mastermind who organized a significant food and book drive to support over 120 families. Her exceptional organizational skills and dedication to student well-being have provided critical resources to those in need.
Ms. Chaunda Fabio, Special Education Staff	Arsenal Technical High School	Known affectionately as ‘Miss Fab,’ Chaunda Fabio is a dedicated connector who builds strong relationships with staff and students alike. Her commitment to supporting everyone in the school building makes her a vital part of the community’s fabric.
Postsecondary Readiness Division, Central Office Staff	Post Secondary Readiness Dept	This division is recognized as a premier community builder, fostering supportive relationships within the district and with external partners to benefit students. Their collaborative efforts create a welcoming network of support that enhances opportunities for all learners.

🏆 November 2025 Luminary Award Recipients

1. Students First –  “Student-Centered Excellence”

Always putting students’ needs first, setting high expectations, and supporting their success in and out of the classroom.

• Chelsea English, Social Worker, Shortridge High School, an IB World School
• Markie Niehaus, Classroom Assistant, Eleanor Skillen School 34, a Montessori School
• Terence Amos, Behavior Support, Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105, an Exploratory School
• Special Education Team, Special Education Staff, Broad Ripple Middle School, an IB World School

2. Continuous Improvement – “Innovator in Excellence”

Demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and a drive for growth and learning.

• Ariana Richardson, James Whitcomb Riley School 43, a Visual and Performing Arts School

3. Integrity – “Integrity in Action”

Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, service, and clear communication.

• Richard Ritter, Director of Innovation Schools, Portfolio Management

4. Community – “Community Builder”

Creating welcoming, supportive relationships within IPS and with our broader community.

• School Leadership Team, Administrative Team, James Russell Lowell School 51, a Montessori School

Nominations

1. Students First – “Student-Centered Excellence” Always putting students’ needs first, setting high expectations, and supporting their success in and out of the classroom.

Nominee	Role	School/Department
Chelsea English	Social Worker	Shortridge High School, an IB World School
Special Education Team	Special Education Staff	Broad Ripple Middle School, an IB World School
Markie Niehaus	Classroom Assistant	Eleanor Skillen School 34, a Montessori School
Terence Amos	Behavior Support	Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105, an Exploratory School
Shari’ Thomas	Teacher	H. L. Harshman Middle School, a High Ability and Dual Language School
Craig Huljak	Athletic Director	Shortridge High School, an IB World School
Olivia Fox	Special Education Staff	Shortridge High School, an IB World School
Paige Hickey	Teacher	Edison School of the Arts
Michelle Armstrong	Special Education Staff	Lew Wallace School 107, an Exploratory School
Jessi Carnes	Teacher	Ernie Pyle School 90, a Paideia School
Lisheidy Esquivel	Classroom Assistant	Thomas Carr Howe Middle School, an IB World School
Roslyn Holland	FACE Liaison	Ernie Pyle School 90, a Paideia School
Courtney Springfield	Instructional Coach	Carl Wilde School 79, Center For Inquiry, an IB World School
Krista Blubaum	Teacher	Edison School of the Arts
William Gray	Special Education Staff	Edison School of the Arts
Evan Kelly	Special Education Staff	Cold Spring School
Amy Berns	Principal	Edison School of the Arts
Christopher Weidenbach	Teacher	Edison School of the Arts
Ashley Ford	Assistant Principal	Edison School of the Arts
Mia Stallman	Teacher	Edison School of the Arts
Sarah Gora	Teacher	George Washington Carver School 87, a Montessori School

2. Continuous Improvement – “Innovator in Excellence” Demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and a drive for growth and learning.

Nominee	Role	School/Department
Ariana Richardson	Teacher	James Whitcomb Riley School 43, a Visual and Performing Arts School
Anna Childers	Teacher	George Washington Carver School 87, a Montessori School
Paige Hickey	Teacher	Edison School of the Arts

3. Integrity – “Integrity in Action” Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, service, and clear communication.

Nominee	Role	School/Department
Richard Ritter	Director of Innovation Schools	Portfolio Management
Charles Walker	Teacher	Arlington Middle School, a STEM School
Nicole Cooper	Teacher	H. L. Harshman Middle School, a High Ability and Dual Language School
Maura Renzi	Teacher	Edison School of the Arts

4. Community – “Community Builder” Creating welcoming, supportive relationships within IPS and with our broader community.

Nominee	Role	School/Department
School Leadership Team	Administration Team	James Russell Lowell School 51, a Montessori School
Cami Hallgarth	Equitable Supports Coach	Unified Student Supports