Growing up, Columbus East special education teacher Peggy Myers knew several individuals with disabilities, which sparked an interest in the field for her.
Myers went on to work at various camps for people with disabilities, special needs and health issues and earned her bachelor of science degree in special education from Ball State University.
Now, years later, she has inspired a former East student to pursue the same major at Ball State — and, to her surprise, nominate Myers for the Edna V. Folger Outstanding Teacher Award.
Myers, named the 2021 recipient, is receiving the award from the Center for Teaching and Leadership at IUPUC, the Community Education Coalition and SIHO. According to a release from IUPUC, this honor is designed to raise awareness about the “immeasurable influence” educators have on students.
Myers has been teaching in special education for almost 30 years. She taught for two years at Columbus North, where she worked with students with multiple disabilities.
Then she transferred to East, where she has worked with students with cognitive disabilities. Myers has been a special education teacher at East for 27 years. She teaches courses in a variety of subjects, including math, science, social studies and practical skills for life. She has also been involved in many extracurricular and community activities that promote inclusion for individuals with disabilities.
“The best part of the job is working with the students and seeing them achieve their own personal goals …,” Myers said. “And working with the families. I have amazing families to work with.”
For the complete story, see Thursday’s Republic.
