By Andy Klotz—
MUNCIE, IN– West View Elementary School’s Kelly Agnew has been named an Indiana University Armstrong Teacher Educator Award winner, one of only 12 recipients throughout the state. The 4thgrade teacher will work with IU faculty and undergraduates over the next year to help aspiring educators hone their skills and prepare them for a classroom of their own.
“This is an unexpected honor and I’m excited to be part of this accomplished cohort of teachers,” she said. “It’s also is an amazing opportunity to give back and speak to future educators while developing connections with inspiring educators, innovators and others that share a passion for helping students.”
Each Armstrong Award recipient goes through a thorough vetting process after being nominated by a colleague. West View Principal Eric Ambler, a former Armstrong winner himself, nominated Agnew for the award for her professionalism, positive attitude and polished classroom management skills.
“Kelly is a rock star teacher and has been for several years,” Ambler said. “She is one of West View’s best and brightest, and this sort of recognition is really long overdue.”
Agnew is completing her 19th year of teaching, her eighth with Muncie Community Schools. She was named West View’s “Teacher of the Year” in 2021.
Created in 1997, the Armstrong Teacher Educator Award program provides financial support for top Indiana educators, reimbursing them for travel and lodging expenses when visiting the IU campus in Bloomington, and offering a $750 honorarium for their participation in discussion panels on current education issues.
Agnew was honored during a recent Celebration of Excellence ceremony in Bloomington. She becomes West View’s fourth Armstrong Award winner following Kelsey Pavelka (2020-21), Michelle Bade (2019-20) and Ambler (2014-15).
About Muncie Community Schools
Serving the local community since 1855, Muncie Community Schools (MCS) educates more than 5,000 students at six elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school while also managing several other educational facilities. Through its unique partnership with Ball State University, MCS strives to maximize each student’s potential so he or she can be a positive, productive member of society. Find out more about MCS or Director of Public Education and CEO Lee Ann Kwiatkowski at muncieschools.org.
