Southeast Fountain recognizes Teachers and Staff of the Year; nominees honored

The Southeast Fountain School Corp. board used part of its April 16 meeting to recognize teachers and staff across the district, announcing nominees and naming winners for the 2026 awards.

Kelly Morgan, principal at Southeast Mountain Elementary School, introduced the inaugural Southeast Mountain/Southeast Elementary Teacher of the Year and Staff Member of the Year awards and called nominees forward. Nominees and their service records were read aloud; the presenter highlighted instructional leadership, collaboration and long service as selection criteria.

The Southeast Elementary staff member of the year was announced as Beth Abne, who was described in the presentation as an instructional aide with 22 years of service working with kindergarten students. The Southeast Elementary teacher of the year award went to Sydney Crowley, introduced as a longtime educator valued for her instruction and commitment to students.

Fountain Central nominees and winners were also recognized. Megan Fischer was announced as Fountain Central staff member of the year; she was introduced as the school nurse who supports students and staff across a wide range of needs. Chris Webb was announced as Fountain Central teacher of the year; the presenter noted his performance teaching advanced mathematics courses and above-average AP outcomes for his students.

Nominees were invited to a brief reception in the elementary cafeteria following the meeting. The recognition segment included applause and brief thank-you comments by attendees; the board then moved on to remaining agenda items.