COLUMBUS, Ind. – Local private school teachers Brandy Gilliatt and Joleen Krueger are recipients of the 2023 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 honors 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 by fellow teachers, parents, and students.
1st-place award recipient Gilliatt ($5,000), a math teacher for the past 16 years at ABC-Stewart Montessori School, was nominated for being an enthusiastic, kind, and compassionate educator who has had a positive impact on her students, their families, and the school community. “She is an advocate for all children and has proven that she is willing to go the extra mile to make sure all her students feel loved, supported and safe,” Head of ABC School Stefanie Stafford wrote in her nomination.
Kindergarten teacher Krueger, who has been with St. Peter’s Lutheran School for the past 25 years, received $4000. She is praised as a dedicated and enthusiastic educator who strives to create an engaging learning environment for her students. She has also been a leader in the school when implementing new technologies, strategies, and curricula.
Brandy Gilliatt-Courtesy of Heritage Fund
Joleen Krueger-Courtesy of Heritage Fund