Teacher recognized as P-H-M Secondary Teacher of the Year Monday morning

MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- At Schmucker Middle School Monday morning, Penn-Harris-Madison surprised 8th Grade Math Teacher L.A. High by recognizing him as P-H-M Secondary Teacher of the Year.

"My dad passed away nine years ago today from cancer. So, this is the ninth anniversary, and it's a really, really special one to be recognized in this way. That's something that doesn't happen by chance, I don't think. It's all for the kids. Think of the kids first. Put them first in every decision that you make, and then you're going to figure out that when you start putting others first."

Surprising High Monday morning marked the kickoff of National Teacher Appreciation Week by P-H-M Superintendent Dr. Jerry Thacker.

During the week P-H-M will also surprise and name an Elementary Teacher of the Year and a Classified Employee of the Year.

Officials say the two Teachers of the Year will go onto compete for Indiana’s 2026 Teacher of the Year, which will be announced Fall 2025 by the Indiana Department of Education.

"Oh, it's absolutely amazing. It is. It's an award for L.A., definitely. But as he talked about the relationship that he's built and the family that we have here at Schmucker, it's something that we can all find joy in, because as a team, we work so well together, we're here for what's best for kids, and that's just another proof that that people are recognizing the hard work that teachers are doing in this building every day," said Schmucker Middle School Principal Sarah Smith.