Local private school teachers Karie Sutton, Kendra Duke and Micah McCormick are recipients of the 2025 Reams Family Awards for Excellence in Teaching administered by Heritage Fund – The Community Foundation of Bartholomew County.
Established in 2007 by former Bartholomew County residents Fred and Karen Reams, the annual awards recognize outstanding educators teaching in the private schools serving Bartholomew County and come with a cash stipend. Recipients are nominated by their principals with additional recommendations encouraged from fellow teachers, parents and students.
1st-place award recipient Sutton ($6,000), a third-grade and music teacher for the past two years at White Creek Lutheran, was nominated for her enthusiasm,
patience and dedication. She is credited with developing and sustaining
the band and choir programs at the school, making it possible for dozens of
students to create music and using her own musical talents to inspire and
instruct in other subjects, from math to Bible passages.
“Mrs. Sutton makes sure her students understand and succeed. Students,
parents and colleagues respect and appreciate the hard work and time she
invests in each child,” Principal Whitney Vandercar wrote in her nomination.
Lower elementary teacher Duke ($5,000) has been with ABC-Stewart School for
five years and was nominated for being a compassionate and inspiring educator.
Duke was recognized for her commitment to her students and creating an
engaging environment where they each feel valued with lessons full of creativity
and support.
“Kendra’s influence reaches beyond her classroom. She is a team player, a
mentor to her peers, and a trusted partner to our families. The students at our
school truly love Mrs. Duke,” Head of School Stefanie Stafford shared in her
nomination.
Sixth-grade social studies and discipleship teacher McCormick ($4,000) has
been with St. Peter’s Lutheran School for four years and is praised for her
professionalism, positive spirit and servant-hearted leadership as well as
professional growth and desire to support all learners.
“She continually contributes to a positive school environment, promotes
learning at the highest level, and strengthens the partnership between school
and home,” wrote Principal Paul Meredith in his nomination.