By Jud Fisher—
MUNCIE, IN— Ambulance lights are flashing, radio traffic is on the scanner, and victims with minor and critical injuries are lying on the floor–it’s just another Monday morning for students in Chris Horner’s EMT and Fire/Rescue classes at the Muncie Area Career Center.
Horner’s journey into teaching was not exactly traditional. As a fire-science teacher at the Muncie Area Career Center (MACC), Horner brings a wealth of real-world experience from his decade-long tenure at the Muncie Children’s Museum and the Yorktown Fire Department. His innovative approach to education and deep commitment to his students comes from his time giving presentations to pre-k and elementary children and his continued duty in the field as an EMT and firefighter.
“I learned that a teacher’s passion should be shared with and seen by students,” said Horner. “This is essential in bringing material to life and making it relevant to young people.”
Horner’s commitment to his students and preparing them for life beyond the classroom is one of many reasons Ball Brothers Foundation selected Horner as the recipient for the 2024 Excellence in Teaching Award. The annual award recognizes a Delaware County teacher who inspires students and colleagues alike and includes grant funding for the winner’s district ($5000), school ($5000), classroom ($5000), and professional development ($2500).
About Ball Brothers Foundation:
Ball Brothers Foundation is one of the state’s oldest and largest family foundations. In 2023, the foundation paid out $8.8 million in grants to support place-based initiatives related to arts and culture, education, the environment, health, human services, and public affairs. The Muncie-based private foundation gives priority to projects and programs that improve the quality of life in the foundation’s home city, county, and state.
