Fort Wayne Community Schools (FWCS) recently honored its outstanding educators and staff at the 2024 Teacher and Employee of the Year reception. Held on September 9th at the Wendy Y. Robinson Family & Community Engagement Center, the event celebrated the dedication and achievements of those who have made significant contributions to the district. The recognition ceremony highlighted the exceptional commitment of teachers and staff to their students and the broader school community.
Celebrating Excellence in Education
The reception was a heartfelt celebration of the hard work and dedication of FWCS educators and staff. Ricky Weber, a fourth-grade teacher at Franke Park Elementary School, was named Elementary Teacher of the Year. His innovative teaching methods and ability to engage students in meaningful learning experiences have earned him this prestigious accolade. Weber’s colleagues describe him as a passionate educator who goes above and beyond to support his students’ academic and personal growth.
Karyn Brumbaugh, an interior design teacher at Northrop High School, received the Secondary Teacher of the Year award. Brumbaugh’s commitment to excellence in the classroom and her ability to inspire students to pursue their passions have made her a standout educator. Her recognition as a top 25 finalist for Indiana Teacher of the Year further underscores her impact on the school community.
Honoring Dedicated Staff Members
In addition to recognizing outstanding teachers, the FWCS reception also honored exemplary staff members. Kela Guy, a licensed therapist at Study Elementary School, was named Employee of the Year. Guy’s dedication to supporting students’ mental health and well-being has made a significant difference in the lives of many children. Her colleagues commend her for her compassionate approach and unwavering commitment to her students.
The finalists for Employee of the Year included Amanda Berry, a school improvement liaison at Haley Elementary School; Ashley Beverforden, a case manager at Washington Elementary School; and Tonya Bulau, a special education assistant at Price Elementary School. Each of these individuals has demonstrated exceptional dedication to their roles and has made a positive impact on their respective schools.
The Importance of Recognition
The annual Teacher and Employee of the Year awards serve as a reminder of the vital role that educators and staff play in the success of FWCS. Superintendent Dr. Mark Daniel emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of these individuals. He noted that their hard work and dedication are essential to creating a supportive and enriching learning environment for all students.
The recognition ceremony also provides an opportunity for the broader community to express their gratitude and support for FWCS educators and staff. By highlighting the achievements of these outstanding individuals, the district hopes to inspire others to strive for excellence in their own roles. The event underscores the district’s commitment to fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition for all its employees.
The FWCS Teacher and Employee of the Year reception was a memorable event that celebrated the dedication and achievements of the district’s educators and staff. As the community continues to support and recognize these individuals, FWCS remains committed to providing a high-quality education for all its students.
