The Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation is turning ordinary school days into moments of extraordinary celebration, recognizing its teachers with a unique program called the “Impact Awards,” designed to celebrate educators who demonstrate exceptional student growth and achievement. The program, highlighted in an interview with district leaders, focuses on authentic learning and growth, rather than performance-based accolades.
Courtesy: Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation
Superintendent Dr. Jerry Thacker emphasized the importance of valuing and recognizing educators.
“We want to see authentic learning and authentic growth happening,” he said. “We don’t need a performance for anything.”
He also highlighted the district’s long-term commitment to its staff, sharing that he’d “never laid off a teacher.”
“They have to be feeling like they’re safe and secure in the environment if they’re going to be committed to growing,” said Thacker.
This kind of commitment led to the creation of the “Impact Awards,” which are rooted in the district’s vision of excellence. These goals focus on safety, student college and career readiness, parent involvement, professional development, and valuing all members of the school community. The district’s approach is also heavily influenced by Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, ensuring educators feel safe, valued, and significant, allowing them to reach their full potential.
Dr. Heather Short, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, explained that the awards are based on data-driven growth, not just high-level achievement.
“We wanted to make sure that there was true data supporting student growth behind it,” Short said. “We really want to talk about high-level instructional practices, and then being able to celebrate teachers who are making great strides in student growth and student achievement.” She also spoke to the surprise element of the award. “The surprise part is just so cool. Not only were the teachers being totally caught off guard and shocked and thrilled, but also the way their students reacted. It’s so fabulous.”
Dr. Lavon Dean-Null, Director of Professional Development, highlighted the inclusive nature of the awards, which span kindergarten through 12th grade and encompass various subjects. “It was really important for us that we wanted everyone to be acknowledged,” Dean-Null said. “So for us, it was really important that we wanted everyone to be acknowledged. We were highlighting positive academic growth across the school corporation.”
With 11,000 students, the district has seen significant changes in its demographics over the years and has maintained high graduation rates and academic achievement. Thacker noted the district has seen an increase in poverty, from 10% when he started to 31% currently. The district is also composed of over 70% white students, with approximately 12-13% African American, 12-13% Asian, and 5-6% Hispanic students.
The “Impact Awards” are part of a larger effort to support and retain teachers, particularly in a challenging educational landscape. Thacker emphasized the district’s commitment to providing professional development and fostering a collaborative environment.
