Mike Wolanin | The Republic Collage of Reams Award winners Micah McCormick, Kendra Duke and Karie Sutton
Three local private school teachers were honored with an annual award meant to recognize some of the area’s most outstanding teachers.
Karie Sutton, a third-grade and music teacher at White Creek Lutheran School, Kendra Duke, a lower elementary teacher at ABC Stewart School and Micah McCormick, a sixth-grade social studies and discipleship teacher at St. Peter’s Lutheran School, are the 2025 recipients of the Reams Family Awards for Excellence in Teaching, Heritage Fund announced.
Established in 2007 by former Bartholomew County residents Fred and Karen Reams, the annual awards 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 from fellow teachers, parents and students.
Sutton was the first-place award recipient and will get a $6,000 stipend. Nominated for her enthusiasm, patience and dedication, Sutton was credited by Principal Whitney Vandercar for developing and sustaining the band and choir programs at the school, making it possible for dozens of students to create music.
Sutton also used her own musical talents to inspire and instruct in other subjects— from math to Bible passages, according to Heritage Fund.
Duke has been at ABC Stewart for five years and will receive a $5,000 stipend.
Head of School Stefanie Stafford described Duke as a compassionate and inspiring educator, touting her commitment to her students and creating an engaging environment where they each feel valued.
St. Peter’s Principal Paul Meredith praised McCormick for her professionalism, positive spirit and servant-hearted leadership. He also noted her professional growth and desire to support all learners.
McCormick, who has taught at the school for four years, will receive a $4,000 stipend as part of the recognition.
