(Indianapolis, IN) – Hundreds of educators gathered in Indianapolis on Friday, November 21 for the fourth annual Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala.
As part of this black-tie event, nearly $270,000 was awarded to schools and educators across the state in celebration of their work to support student learning.
“From reading, to math, to maximizing the high school experience and beyond, Indiana educators are leading with bold, innovative strategies that drive student learning forward,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “As a state, our synergy and alignment has never been stronger, and what unites us all is a constant focus on doing what is best for students. Tomorrow, we will get back to work; but tonight is our moment to celebrate the movement happening across Indiana and to honor the exceptional educators who have made it all possible.”
The gala brought together nearly 550 educators and guests from across the state. The event recognized the 2025 Indiana Teacher of the Year, Indiana’s 2024 Milken Educator Award recipients, the first-ever Indiana Blue Ribbon Schools, as well as other dedicated educators from across the state.
South Ripley Jr. High 7th grade English/Language Arts and Reading teacher Katie Lanter was among the Milken Educator Award recipients honored at the event.
Batesville High School was recognized for its selection as an Indiana Blue Ribbon School.
BHS was the only high school in the state selected for this honor.
Awards focused on schools that are excelling in key areas such as literacy (science of reading), STEM, rethinking high school, community collaboration, and educator professional development.
Additionally, 13 outstanding educators, including one from Southeastern Indiana, were awarded with $1,500 each for their commitment to areas such as professional growth, use of technology in the classroom, and cultivating community partnerships.
Ashley Anderson with the Lawrenceburg Community School Corporation was presented the Digital Innovator Excellence Award.
This honor recognizes educators who leverage technology to improve student learning.
