A little over a year ago, Dr. Pettigrew joined our executive leadership team as Washington Township’s first Chief Academic and DEI Officer. In recognizing the significance of this newly reframed position, Dr. Woodson was determined to provide Dr. Pettigrew with the tools and resources necessary to drive equitable achievement in our schools.

One such tool was the opportunity to participate in an innovation leadership cohort program through Six Sigma Indy. This program, designed specifically to foster innovation in bridging historical opportunity gaps, would also equip Dr. Pettigrew with expertise in continuous improvement through Six Sigma Green Belt training and certification.

What Dr. Woodson may not have fully anticipated was the extraordinary commitment and the extensive work required to earn this certification. It is well known that the intensity of the Six Sigma training and certification process is comparable to that of a master’s or doctoral-level program. Despite this, Dr. Pettigrew took on the challenge with unwavering determination. Balancing her new executive leadership role with the demands of this program, she not only met the expectations but far exceeded them. She understood the profound impact that this certification would have on her ability to lead and drive change here at Washington Township.

Today, we are proud to celebrate Dr. Pettigrew’s remarkable achievement in earning her Six Sigma Green Belt certification from Indiana University Columbus. This globally recognized credential is awarded to leaders who demonstrate exceptional skills in process optimization and project management. Dr. Pettigrew was selected for a highly competitive Six Sigma program, which involved nine months of rigorous training and hands-on project application.

This certification significantly enhances her ability to make data-driven decisions and implement systematic improvements across our schools, advancing both our educational outcomes and operational efficiency. By completing this challenging program, Dr. Pettigrew has further strengthened her leadership skills and her commitment to fostering continuous improvement within our district.

On January 30th, Dr. Pettigrew graduated alongside 11 other accomplished women from Indianapolis, marking the culmination of her dedication to advancing her analytical and problem-solving skills. Her success is a testament to her commitment to excellence in educational leadership and her ongoing growth as an influential leader within Washington Township.

Quote from Ms. Joy Mason – President of SixSigmaIndy – “Dr. Pettigrew is now a Six Sigma Green Belt! The SixSigmaIndy team is incredibly proud of Dr. Pettigrew’s new certification. Six Sigma is a globally recognized executive-level skill that will enhance Dr. Pettigrew’s ability to maximize her impact on education, and we were honored to support her career journey.”

Dr. Woodson and the entire leadership team are incredibly proud of Dr. Pettigrew’s achievement. We celebrate her dedication, hard work, and the positive impact she will continue to have on our schools.

At the January 8, 2025 Regular Meeting of the Board of Education the following individuals were recognized for helping to make Washington Township a Superior School District.

Congratulations to the following Northview Middle School Students who participated in the Luke’s Leaders 8th grade program, Youth and Government which is delivered by the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis each fall.  Vaniya Clark, Preston Peterson, Brea Gipson-Ford, Gloria Bahati and Joshua Thompson who is not a NV student but we wanted to recognize as part of the team.  This year Luke’s Leaders had 12 students who participated.  Over 10 weeks, the students learned about local government and how legislation gets proposed, created, and passed into law.   These students identified issues that they care deeply about and then wrote legislation.  All of this under the expert leadership of Anders Kleiman of the YMCA. We would also like to thank and recognize some other key supporters and volunteers Laney Marshall, Gary Chambers, Nelsen Lenze and Thomas Lange who played key roles in making this all happen.  We are looking forward to the Leadership Summit on January 18 where they will bring all five of their active Luke’s Leaders groups together. Again, congratulations to all!

Congratulations to Ms. Jocelyn Sisson, NC faculty, who was recognized by the Awards Committee at the Indiana Association for the Gifted as the 2024 Friend of the Gifted Award winner. Ms. Sisson was nominated for this award by a colleague. The Indiana Association for the Gifted takes great pride in honoring those who have significantly, contributed to the field of gifted education. Individuals recognized for this award show exemplary contributions to the support and or nurturing of Indiana’s gifted students.  In addition to her teaching duties, Ms. Sisson has been instrumental in developing the Panther Exploration Project as a graduation pathway at North Central High School. She is one of three lead team members overseeing the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support at NCHS and Culturally Responsive Teaching for the English and Special Education departments, and she developed and administered the New Teacher Academy for new staff to North Central for over a decade. Jocelyn has served as a consultant for College Board as they develop reading and writing sections for the SAT exam and has many years of experience as an AP exam reader. As the North Central International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program Director, Jocelyn has helped all students reach for more challenging academic goals. There is no doubt in my mind that Ms. Sisson likely reads thousands of essays each school year, and we can only imagine the sum of those essays after a 25+ year career in the teaching of English. Congratulations again to our 2024 Friend of the Gifted, Ms. Jocelyn Sisson.

Congratulations to Alex Lantz, a NC teacher, for being honored by a first-generation college student from DePauw University.  Former WT student of yours, Juana Burgara-Partida, has been selected by DePauw University as its Realizing the Dream recipient. You were named as the educator who was most influential in their decision to attend college. Please accept the congratulations of all those associated with this program. It is a distinction in which you can take justifiable pride, knowing you made a difference in a student’s life.  Since 1989 Independent Colleges of Indiana has sponsored Realizing the Dream, a program funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. The program is designed to recognize the achievements of first-generation college students. A first-generation college student is one whose parents did not have the opportunity to pursue and complete formal education beyond high school. We hope, as a result of this recognition, your student will serve as an inspiration and role model for other potential first-generation college students.  In addition to your student’s gratitude, you will receive a grant check for $1,000 at the banquet on March 1, 2025 to use towards professional development. Congratulations again Alex, we love seeing how our educators have and will continue making an impact on our students!

Congratulations to Mr. Steve Auslander, Allisonville Elementary Teacher, for being recognized as the Ambassador of the Kahoot! Cup. What began in 2017 as a small classroom experiment has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon: the Kahoot! Cup. This year’s event, held on November 21-22, brought together 4,400 students from 53 countries, united by their curiosity, creativity, and a shared mission to build bridges through learning. Spearheaded by Kahoot! Ambassador Steve Auslander, the Kahoot! Cup is a shining example of how educational tools can foster global empathy and understanding. In its eighth year of gameplay, the Kahoot! Cup remains a celebrated event. Each year, students and teachers come together for a live, virtual, pop culture quiz tournament! Students from around the world represent their countries with flags, trophies, posters, and banners, engaging in a 30-question kahoot recapping trends, stories, and news from the year prior. Waving across the live Zoom video screen, students across all ages, grades, and ability levels corral for a collaborative, competitive, and all-around awesome live event. In the years since the inaugural event, Steve has themed the Kahoot! Cup with a mantra of “more alike than we are different” driving group success while offering trivia that transcends language and culture, including topics like global events, pop culture, and shared traditions. Congratulations again Mr. Auslander and we are honored to have you as part of the WT staff.

We would like to thank and congratulate Moody’s Butcher Shop and their collaboration with WT’s PACES program/partnership.  NC has three young men as part of their Transition program that work at Moody’s two days a week. Both these days are the days when Moody’s get their shipments in for the store. The student’s jobs are to help restock the refrigerated cases, clean the glass fronts, clean the countertops, clean the front windows, vacuum, organize the refrigerated cases (making sure things are where they’re supposed to go and making sure the closest dates are towards the front), and help label things. Once the students are done for the day, the staff make a snack for them to bring back as a thank you. The young men enjoy working over there as they have learned very important restaurant skills, customer service, stocking skills, and cleaning skills. These young men have also gained more confidence in their skills while working there. The young men have a great relationship with the manager and workers who are extremely patient with them. Mr. Plumber, NC staff member, has worked very closely with Stormy Kramer, Moody’s Manager, to communicate the needs of the business and the students. Together this has fostered a great and meaningful experience. We are very thankful to have Moody’s as a community partner for our transition program.  We would also like to acknowledge Moody’s CEO – Bowman Elder and Lance Shade.  Thank you again for all your support of Washington Township Schools!

At the January Board of Education meeting, Westlane Middle School was spotlighted in the Spotlight on Education. Please review the slides below to see the information and recognitions that were shared.

At the December meeting of the WT Board of Education, Eastwood Middle School was recognized in the Spotlight on Education. Please review the slides below to see the information and recognitions that were shared.

At the November 13, 2024 Regular Meeting of the Board of Education the following individuals were recognized for helping to make Washington Township a Superior School District.

Congratulations to Mr. Andrew Rice, Automotive Service Technology instructor at JEL.  He is one of 25 winners of the 2024 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence! To honor Mr. Rice for this achievement, Harbor Freight had a surprise award ceremony at J. Everett Light Career Center on Tuesday, October 16th. The prize is the flagship program of Harbor Freight Tools for Schools. In its eighth year, the prize is designed to shine a light on excellent skilled trades teachers and programs – and bring attention and respect to this vital field. The prize comes with a cash award of $50,000. JEL Automotive Services program will receive 70%, and Andrew will receive 30%. Congratulations Mr. Rice, we are thrilled to share in this amazing achievement with you!

Congratulations to Mr. Bill Turner, Board President, as he was named the recipient of the 2024 Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award by the Council of Urban Boards of Education.  He was recognized at the CUBE Conference back in October. It was an honor to nominate him for this award for an exceptional 14 years of board service. The Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award annually recognizes one individual nationally who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the educational needs of urban school children through their service as a local school board member. The award is named for Benjamin Elijah Mays, who joined the Atlanta Board of Education in 1969 and served as its president from 1970-1981. During his tenure on the board, Mays worked tirelessly to provide equal educational opportunities for children. He is also remembered for his outstanding leadership and service as a scholar, teacher, minister, mentor, author, and civil rights activist. Congratulations again President Turner, we are extremely grateful for all your dedication and hard work throughout your years serving on the WT School Board!

At the November meeting of the Board of Education, the Spotlight on Education was on North Central High School.

Review the slides below to see the information and recognitions shared by North Central High School.

Congratulations Mr. Turner!

Earlier this week, Washington Township School Board President and education champion, Mr. Bill Turner received the 2024 Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award from the Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE)!

Please join us in congratulating Mr. Turner on this well-deserved recognition.

See the full press release below and watch the congratulations video here:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
November 7, 2024

Media Contact: 
Jason Amos 

jamos@nsba.org  
703-838-6719 

Indianapolis School Board Member Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Council of Urban Boards of Education Honors Washington Township’s William Turner

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The National School Boards Association’s Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE) presented the 2024 Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award to William Turner, School Board President of the Metropolitan School District of Washington Township in Indiana. This prestigious award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the educational needs of urban school children through their service as a local school board member. Turner received the award during the 2024 CUBE Annual Conference in Las Vegas on Oct. 29, before an audience of nearly 1,000 urban school board members and education leaders.

“On behalf of the Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE), I am honored to congratulate Bill Turner on receiving the 2024 Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Gill Garrett, CUBE Chair and school board member of the Pontiac School District in Michigan. “Mr. Turner’s unwavering dedication to educational equity and his transformative work — from his early days in the Washington Township School system to his current role as Associate Vice President for Jobs for the Future — exemplify the spirit of this prestigious award.”

In his 14-year service to the Metro School District of Washington Township, William (Bill) Turner helped implement a successful supplier diversity initiative that resulted in over $110 million directed to firms owned by women, minorities, veterans, and the physically challenged. Throughout the process, Mr. Turner’s steadfast support and consensus-building made the program highly successful. Along with his support of diverse businesses, he helped lead work to direct students to in-demand career opportunities by exposing them to advanced manufacturing and construction fields.

The award is named for Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays, who joined the Atlanta Board of Education in 1969 and served as its president from 1970-1981. During his tenure on the board, Mays worked tirelessly to provide equal educational opportunities for children. He is also remembered for his outstanding leadership and service as a scholar, teacher, minister, mentor, author, and civil rights activist. 

“It was an honor to nominate our remarkable leader, Mr. Bill Turner, president of the Washington Township School Board, for the prestigious Dr. Benjamin E. Mays Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Dr. Nikki Woodson, Superintendent of Washington Township Schools in Indianapolis. “Under his extraordinary 14 years of board service to our school district leadership and his belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive regardless of their background, our district has flourished, ensuring that every child has access to quality education. With his commitment to both excellence and inclusion, Mr. Turner sets the tone of excellence in urban education for our schools, is the epitome of an engaged public school board member, and embodies the vision from Dr. Mays through his governance work on the school board in Washington Township.”

“Bill Turner’s career exemplifies the power of visionary leadership in urban education,” said Verjeana McCotter-Jacobs, Executive Director and CEO of the National School Boards Association. “His unwavering commitment to equity, inclusion, and student success has had a transformative impact on the Washington Township community and beyond. The Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting tribute to his decades of service, and we are proud to honor his extraordinary contributions to public education. Mr. Turner’s work continues to inspire school board members across the nation to lead with integrity, passion, and a steadfast focus on creating opportunities for all students.”

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Founded in 1940, the National School Boards Association’s (NSBA) purpose is to ensure each student everywhere has access to excellent and equitable public education governed by high-performing school board leaders and supported by the community. With members spread across the United States, the Virgin Islands, and Canada, NSBA is the only national organization representing school boards. Along with its member state associations and member public school districts representing locally elected school board officials serving millions of public school students, NSBA believes that public education is a civil right necessary to the dignity and freedom of the American people and that each child, regardless of their ability, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, identity, or citizenship, deserves equitable access to an education that maximizes their individual potential. Learn more at www.nsba.org.

At the October 16, 2024 Regular Meeting of the Board of Education the following individuals were recognized for helping to make Washington Township a Superior School District.

Congratulations to North Central Senior Student Leaders & Scholars who attended the Emerging Leaders Institute sponsored by the American Association of Blacks in Higher Education on October 4-5.  The Emerging Leaders Institute introduces necessary leadership skills, career opportunities in higher education, and provides vital information on education requirement, financial resources, and available support systems.  It is a two-day program that provides Indiana students with an interactive opportunity to explore career options and counseling, effectively network, and develop leadership skills through the lens of college presidents and other higher education professionals, other youth program directors, and community leaders. The overall objective is to increase the number of Black educators, which could reduce inequity, increase recruitment and retention of students and educators, and improve our HBCUs and higher education system.  Congratulations to the following students who participated this year:

• Soloman Massela
• Jaylin Hill
• Curtis Jacks
• John Jones
• Izayah Gray
• Olivia Smith

Congratulations to Anna Grueninger, a Senior at North Central, who was named IndyStar’s Student of the Week for Sept. 23-27.  Anna won over 60% of the 430 total votes cast during that week. Anna was among seven other talented students from across Central Indiana school leaders nominated this week. Anna is an Editor for the school newspaper. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and has been a camp counselor at Camp Tecumseh. Anna has been a youth counselor and a member of the Student Council. She has a g.p.a. of 4.99. Congratulations again Anna, we are extremely proud of your accomplishments.

Also, congratulations to Cailyn Robertson, a Senior at North Central, who was also selected as IndyStar’s Student of the Week for September 30-October 4.  She won 89% of the votes.  Cailyn is editor-in-chief of NC publications, a member of the women’s soccer team, a camp counselor at Camp Tecumseh, a member of Spanish Honor Society and has a 5.08 grade point average-all while working a job, too.  That makes two NC students in a row who have won the Student of the Week.  Congratulations again to you both!

Congratulations to the following students who have been recognized as National Merit Scholarship Finalists and National Recognition Program Award Students. The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual academic competition among high school students for recognition and college undergraduate scholarships that began in 1955. The program is conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®), a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance. United States high school students enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which serves as an initial screen of over 1.3 million entrants each year, and by meeting published program entry and participation requirements.

National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalists:

Elliott DeRyke

Aidan Dougherty

Sophia Farnum

Sierra Krichiver

Tobin Montgomery

Stanley Port

National Merit Scholarship Commended Students:

Max Baltz

Niall Gillen

Grayson Humphreys

Jake Lee

Ava Parker

Pablo Redman

National Recognition Program Award Students:

Olivia Alvarado

Imani Darden

Nia Douglas

Adelyn Flessner

Angel Franco-Vargas

Emily Genrich

Alexander Goulet

Kyra Grant

Curtis Jacks

Madison Jackson

Marco Ladron de Guevara

Illeana Moore

Beloved Morakinyo

Myla Roberts

Kaliyah Springfield

Salamata Thompson

Kaylani Tomlin

Lilah Wilson

Christina Woodson

Congratulations to Jack Girton, a North Central student for being recognized by Future Presidents of America. Future Presidents of America is a week-long youth leadership camp created to engage the next generation of community leaders.  It develops confidence, civic literacy, and good citizenship to reveal the exceptional character that makes for great presidents and great leaders.  This is the 10th cohort in its program’s history.  Congratulations again to Jack for his remarkable leadership and representing Washington Township School District.

Congratulations to Mr. Bryan Ramirez, Northview MS Principal for being honored as a recipient of the 2024 Mayor’s Latino Heritage Award, selected for the field of Education in Indianapolis. Bryan is recognized for his extraordinary contributions to education in Indianapolis.  Through his tireless dedication, innovative approach, and unwavering commitment, Bryan has significantly shaped the educational landscape of our community.  Bryan’s impact is evident in his pioneering efforts to enhance educational access and quality.  His work has empowered countless students, supported educators, and engaged families, all while fostering an environment where learning thrives.  Congratulations again, we are thrilled to share in this recognition with you!

Congratulations to Mrs. Jennifer Dodson, Coordinator of School Counseling, who has been selected by the Indiana School Counselor Association as the Administrator of the Year! Mrs. Dodson has shown exemplary support of school counseling services aligning with the American School Counselor Association National Model, outstanding promotion of school counseling services, implementation of new/additional school counseling services and improvement of existing school counseling services.  Jen, we are honored to share in this award with you and congratulations again!!!

Congratulations to Clearwater Elementary School for being recognized by the Indiana Department of Education for meeting the state’s 95% literacy goal.  With us this evening to share in this recognition is Mrs. Krista Douglass, Principal of Clearwater Elementary School and her team.  Governor Eric J. Holcomb and Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner recognized educators from 283 schools where at least 95% of students demonstrated reading proficiency in 2024 at a ceremony at the Indiana Statehouse in September. During the state’s first literacy celebration last February, 241 schools were recognized for reaching the statewide literacy goal, as demonstrated during the 2023 administration of the IREAD assessment. The September 25, 2024 celebration marked an increase of more than 40 additional schools that are now meeting this important goal. Congratulations again to Clearwater Elementary and staff for striving to improve literacy in our community!

Congratulations to Washington Township Adult Education for being awarded the Indiana Department of Workforce Development Awards ‘Programs of Excellence’ Designation.  With us this evening is Mr. Todd DeLey, Director of Adult Education.  Last month the Indiana Department of Workforce Development notified 21 adult education programs across the state of their designation as a Program of Excellence. DWD started this designation in 2022-23 to recognize adult education programs that meet multiple state and federal metrics around student academic achievement, enrollment, partnering with employers, offering high-demand wage training, and high school equivalencies earned. Washington Township Adult Education has earned this designation for the second year in a row. Marion County and the surrounding counties experience the positive impact of adult education success through increased economic activity and workforce participation of students who are upskilled through career training and foundational education credentialing. Congratulations again to Adult Education and this HUGE accomplishment. Your hard work and dedication has truly not gone unnoticed.

At the October meeting of the Board of Education, Northview Middle School was the Spotlight on Education. See the following slides that were shared at the meeting, highlighting this school.

At the September 11, 2024 Regular Meeting of the Board of Education the following individuals were  recognized for helping to make Washington Township a Superior School District.

Congratulations to Alison (Ali) Fleischer from Nora Elementary School who was honored for the English Learner Educator Excellence Award at the 2024 Educational Excellence Gala on September 6. The English Learner Educator Excellence Award is an award that recognizes an individual educator with 3+ years of experience who serves students within their school’s English Learning Program. This individual leads, teaches, and builds community among all educators to ensure students are supported across settings. This individual takes the initiative to engage in professional activities outside of the classroom, welcomes feedback, and uses data and evidence-based practices to drive their instruction. Ms. Fleischer, congratulations again on this amazing recognition and we are extremely excited to share in this celebration with you!

Congratulations to several educators and administrators who were recognized at the Black Excellence in Education Awards. The African American Excellence in Education Awards honor outstanding public and private school professionals and thank them for their dedication and commitment to academic excellence for all students. The African American Excellence in Education Awards pays tribute to those educators who go the extra mile each day to serve their students and their communities and inspire others to do the same. Over 200 Educators attended the awards on August 29.

Dr. Woodson was honored with a Lifetime Achievement in Education recognition and we would like to congratulate the following WT educators who were recognized:

Educator Nominees

Mariah Brobbey, WL

Jasmine Singfield, SM

Shelbi Owens, GB

Rachel Bolles, FH

Gregory Edwards, TN

Lisa Harton, SM

Gioia Partee, NO

Administrator Nominees

Shanna Hampton, WL

Kellee Merritt, SM

Desmond Jones, JEL

 

Award Winner

Vikki Massie, JEL

Congratulations to Westlane Middle School for being awarded the Bronze Star School Counseling Award. With us this evening we have those amazing Westlane Counselors Jaymes Hughes, Mrs. Kristen Bostic, and Ms. Jen Patsel and Principal Mr. Pitcock to share in this recognition.  Westlane Middle School participated in the IDOE’s Carrying the Torch to Student Success comprehensive school counseling program and earned this achievement as a result. On behalf of the Indiana Department of Education and the Indiana School Counselor Association, congratulations on earning the Indiana Bronze Star School Counseling Award. The Comprehensive School Counseling portfolio Westlane developed reflects the commitment you and your school have to provide an effective school counseling program, offering direct and indirect services to students, planning your program intentionally, and striving to improve student outcomes. Your school exhibits a high level of school counseling professionalism by addressing the The Indiana School Counseling Competencies for Students and the American School Counseling Association’s Mindsets and Behaviors for student success.  The Bronze Star designation indicates that you have taken the steps toward creating a foundational piece for your comprehensive counseling program. Congratulations again, we are honored to share in this outstanding achievement!

Congratulations and a HUGE THANK YOU to Rose Bobal, Mrs. Robin Conti, Ms. Crystal Wright and Mr. Matt Skaggs for all your planning and support to make the 2024 Elevate Summer Conference a major success! For the second year in a row, Washington Township Schools hosted a large-scale professional development conference for teachers and staff the last week of July. And for the second year in a row, the vast majority of the planning, logistics, and implementation rested on the shoulders of four people. Tonight, we would like to recognize Rose Bobal, Robin Conti, Matthew Skaggs and Crystal Wright for the visioning, problem solving, time and effort they poured into creating a first-rate professional conference that over 350 Washington Township educators attended. The conference included three nationally recognized keynote speakers, over one-hundred professional development sessions, our new teacher academy, catered meals, fifteen sponsorships and over fourteen thousand dollars in donations. Thank you and congratulations to this exceptional team of educators.

Congratulations to Dr. Taylor, Associate Superintendent, for being named a finalist for the National Association of School Superintendents – Aspiring Superintendent of the Year Award – he will be honored this week at their conference.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (August 30, 2024) – Washington Township (WT) Superintendent was honored August 29, 2024 at the prestigious 8th Annual Black Excellence in Education Awards by InnoPower Minority Business Week. 

Dr. Woodson was honored to be the recipient of the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award in Education. Marlon Llewellyn, Education Awards Committee Member, states “Dr. Woodson’s selection for this honor is a testament to her outstanding contributions to education in Indianapolis, especially the beloved far eastside. Dr. Woodson’s work elevates the standard of excellence in our field and serves as a powerful inspiration to our entire community. The impact of her achievements resonates far beyond the classroom, embodying the essence of Black excellence and influencing future generations.”

WT School Board President Bill Turner

and InnoPower CEO Emil Ekiyor

The Black Excellence in Education awards honor outstanding public and private school professionals and thank them for their dedication and commitment to academic excellence for all students. The celebration pays tribute to those educators who go the extra mile each day to serve their students and their communities and inspire others to do the same. Over 200 Educators and community supporters attended the awards program.

At the July 24, 2024 Regular Meeting of the Board of Education the following individuals were recognized for helping to make Washington Township a Superior School District.

Congratulations to Brian Funk, Principal Director at JEL. During the 2024 Indiana Association of Career Technical Directors Conference June 9-11, 2024, Mr. Funk was nominated for and won the Outstanding Administrator Award. This award is for principals, assistant directors, or other non-faculty, administrative education positions.  Nominees are selected based upon their personal efforts to improve their area district.  Recipients are exemplary CTE administrators who are highly respected by their peers for their knowledge, leadership, and commitment to career and technical education. Congratulations again Mr. Funk, we are extremely proud of your accomplishments!

Congratulations to Kellee Merritt, Principal at Spring Mill Elementary. On behalf of the InnoPower Conference committee and all their sponsors and partners, we are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Merritt on her outstanding achievement in being awarded the Black Excellence in Education Award. Her dedication and commitment to Washington Township students and the field of education are truly commendable. Since its establishment in 2016, the Black Excellence in Education Award has served as a beacon of recognition for over 450 Black educators from central Indiana. We are deeply honored to include Ms. Merritt’s name in this esteemed roster, which is a testament to her exceptional expertise and dedication. The award is part of InnoPower Minority Business Week (IMBW), presented by JPMorgan Chase. InnoPower believes speaking on the Black experience with a different tone and optics is more important than ever. The IMBW creates a platform to celebrate Black Excellence with the Indiana Black Rising Stars Central Indiana, Black Excellence in Education, and Innovators on the Rise Awards. These awards showcase Black Excellence from individual triumph, overcoming all obstacles, and the long history of innovation. This year’s winners will be celebrated on Thursday, August 29, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Ivy Tech Community College Culinary and Conference Center.  Congratulations again Ms. Merritt, we are beyond excited to celebrate you!

Congratulations to Floyd Peterson for being chosen as the Regional Exceptional Service Award recipient for Region 7 through the Indiana School Resource Association (INSROA) executive board. INSROA seeks to acknowledge the accomplishments of a school resource officer who exemplifies the qualities of an SRO. This award is to recognize an individual who has gone above and beyond the normal duties of an SRO to enhance their school and community through the SRO philosophy of counselor, teacher and law enforcement officer. Lt. Peterson was recognized during an INSROA award luncheon on June 26 and we could not be more thrilled to join in this amazing recognition. Congratulations again!

Professional Partners – Greenbriar, Nora and Fox Hill Project Recognition

Construction Managers – Shiel Sexton Company, Harmon Construction Inc.

Architect – CSO Architects

MSDWT Construction Consultant – Jeff Schroeder – Vision Construction Group

 

On behalf of the entire district, we would like to take this opportunity to extend our appreciation for your exceptional contributions to the construction of Greenbriar, Nora and Fox Hill Elementary Schools. Your dedication and expertise in design and construction services have had a profound impact on our facilities, benefiting the students of Washington Township for generations to come.

Your work with the district has been valued. The precision, problem-solving, and unwavering commitment to excellence you have demonstrated have been crucial in the success of these projects. We know that a renovation with occupied spaces brings on many challenges, however, you worked through them with a positive approach to ensure the learning environments were sustained.

Your passion for your work is evident in every endeavor, and it has been a pleasure to collaborate with your talented and dedicated teams.

Your contributions have been pivotal in shaping the future of our district, and for that, we are sincerely grateful.

Thank you once again to the Shiel Sexton/Harmon and CSO teams for your exceptional work and steadfast commitment to excellence.

We would also like to extend our appreciation to our Construction Consultant, Mr. Jeff Schroeder who has been MSDWT’s project liaison throughout these projects.  Additionally, Mr. Schroeder has extended oversight of the overall elementary projects for the last 3 ½ years and has now completed his contractual commitment with MSDWT. Mr. Schroeder has provided consistent professional support to the Capital Projects Team. Mr. Schroeder, thank you for all your expertise. We wish you the best.

Lastly, we are truly grateful for the community’s support in 2016 and 2020 that provided this optimal opportunity for our staff and students.