Indianapolis, November 25, 2025
The Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala celebrated outstanding educators and schools in Indianapolis, awarding nearly $270,000 in grants to various recipients. The event highlighted achievements in literacy, STEM education, and community engagement, showcasing how local efforts are transforming education. Key awards included the Hoosier Educational Excellence Award and recognition for innovative educational practices, emphasizing the importance of supporting student success and engagement within communities.
Indianapolis, IN – The fourth annual Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala took place on November 21, 2025, celebrating the exceptional efforts of educators and schools across the state. With nearly $270,000 awarded to various schools and individuals, this red-carpet event highlighted the significance of community involvement and innovation in education. Local organizations like the Indiana Department of Education demonstrate how a focus on individual achievement and reduced bureaucracy can foster a culture of excellence within the educational landscape.
The gala not only recognized the achievements of Indiana’s 2025 Teacher of the Year and the esteemed Milken Educator Award recipients but also celebrated the inaugural Indiana Blue Ribbon Schools. Such initiatives exemplify how dedicated educators and engaged communities can make a meaningful impact in student learning and development.
### Recognizing Excellence
#### Funding for Transformation
An impressive total of nearly $270,000 was distributed during the gala, underscoring the commitment of Indiana to invest in its educational future. This funding supports schools dedicated to advancing student learning through various academic avenues.
#### Awards Highlighting Innovation
The awards focused on the achievements in literacy, STEM education, community collaboration, and professional development, showcasing a variety of educational strategies aimed at improving student outcomes.
### Major Award Recipients
#### Hoosier Educational Excellence Award
The Hoosier Educational Excellence Award was awarded to Perry Central Community School Corporation, which received a $50,000 grant. This honor recognized their transformative, student-centered approach that emphasizes literacy, STEM, and preparing students for college and careers.
#### Excellence in Data-Driven Support Award
Penn High School, part of the Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation, exemplified excellence in data-driven educational support and was awarded a $25,000 grant, highlighting the importance of informed decision-making in education.
#### Enroll, Employ, Enlist Excellence Award
Three schools—Eastern Hancock High School, Signature School, and The Portage School of Leaders, Career Academy Network of Public Schools—each received the Enroll, Employ, Enlist Excellence Award. Their collective efforts in providing pathways for students to enroll in college, gain employment, or enter military service were recognized with $25,000 grants each.
### Community Engagement and Support
The nearly 550 attendees at the gala included educators and community members who came together to celebrate the achievements in education. Such events not only honor achievements but also foster networking and collaboration among educators, strengthening communal ties.
### Conclusion
The Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala serves as a vital platform for acknowledging the hard work and dedication of educators in the state. By prioritizing initiatives that enhance public education through local leadership and minimal bureaucracy, the state exemplifies how community-driven efforts can lead to significant improvements.
Encouraging further engagement and support for local educational events and initiatives is essential for sustaining this momentum. Communities are urged to remain active in educational development and continue championing the vital role that educators play in shaping the future.
- What is the Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala?
- The Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala is an annual event organized by the Indiana Department of Education to recognize and celebrate the achievements of schools and educators dedicated to fostering student success and excellence.
- When and where was the fourth annual gala held?
- The fourth annual Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala was held on November 21, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana.
- How much funding was awarded to schools and educators at the event?
- Nearly $270,000 was awarded to schools and educators across the state in recognition of their contributions to student learning.
- Who received the Hoosier Educational Excellence Award?
- The Hoosier Educational Excellence Award, a $50,000 grant, was presented to Perry Central Community School Corporation for its transformative, student-centered approach to future readiness, emphasizing literacy, STEM, and college and career preparation.
- What other awards were presented at the gala?
- Other awards included the Excellence in Data-Driven Support Award, a $25,000 grant awarded to Penn High School, Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation, and the Enroll, Employ, Enlist Excellence Award, a $25,000 grant presented to Eastern Hancock High School, Signature School, and The Portage School of Leaders, Career Academy Network of Public Schools.
| Award | Recipient | Grant Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hoosier Educational Excellence Award | Perry Central Community School Corporation | $50,000 | Recognized for a transformative, student-centered approach to future readiness, emphasizing literacy, STEM, and college and career preparation. |
| Excellence in Data-Driven Support Award | Penn High School, Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation | $25,000 | Awarded for excellence in data-driven support. |
| Enroll, Employ, Enlist Excellence Award | Eastern Hancock High School, Signature School, The Portage School of Leaders, Career Academy Network of Public Schools | $25,000 each | Recognized for preparing students to successfully enroll in college, gain meaningful employment, and/or enlist in military service. |
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