South Ripley Schools Earn Recognition at IDOE Educational Excellence Awards Gala

Nearly $5 Million in Grants Awarded at Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala.

South Ripley Schools received recognition at Friday's Educational Excellence Awards Gala. Photo provided.

INDIANAPOLIS – During the third annual Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala, the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) awarded nearly $5 million to schools and educators across the state.

Locally, South Ripley Elementary School received $80,000 for Excellence in Community Collaboration.

The award recognizes schools that are maximizing support for students through strategic collaboration with local and state partners.

"The Educational Excellence Awards Gala is a celebration of the extraordinary impact our educators have on students and communities across Indiana," said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. "We know that continuous improvement is part of our journey, yet tonight is about pausing to shine a spotlight on the incredible successes happening in our schools. These educators are more than just teachers—they're mentors, leaders and pillars in their communities who have touched countless lives over the years. They deserve to be celebrated like the stars they are, and this event is one way for us to say thank you for the immense difference they make every single day. Their dedication and passion are shaping the future of Indiana, and we are incredibly proud to honor them tonight."

The gala was hosted in Indianapolis on Friday night, bringing nearly 550 educators and guests from across the state.

The event recognized the 2024 Indiana Teacher of the Year, Indiana’s 2023 Milken Educator Award recipients and other dedicated educators from across the state.