Photo provided Columbus North High School English teacher Kelley Culp was awarded the first-ever Learning DesignED Conference Candice Dodson Award
Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. hosted its first-ever statewide education conference where one of the district’s teachers received a new state-sponsored award.
BCSC hosted Learning DesignED: Adventure Awaits, at Columbus North High School last week, where more than 400 educators came to hear a keynote address from Katie Novak about instructional design and blended learning and attend their choice of more than 60 breakout sessions.
During the sessions, teachers explored innovative instructional practices, STEM integration, educational technology, artificial intelligence, future-ready skill development and more.
The day was fueled by an Indiana Department of Education grant and inspired by the Pixar Film “Up.” Attendees were encouraged “to take their professional growth to new heights.”
Throughout the day, attendees visited an interactive vendor and craft fair, explored a real hot air balloon display and connected with curriculum providers, community organizations and industry partners.
In the afternoon, Columbus North High School English teacher Kelley Culp was awarded the first-ever Learning DesignED Conference Candice Dodson Award. The award is given to an exceptional educator for their creativity and impact on student learning.
“Kelley exemplifies what it means to lead with both heart and innovation. Her work goes far beyond integrating technology—it’s about empowering others, removing barriers, and making learning more accessible and meaningful for everyone, said BCSC Director of Technology Innovation Nick Williams. “She’s not just a tech leader at Columbus North—she’s the standard we all strive toward.”
The day’s organization was spearheaded by Williams and BCSC’s Assistant Director of Educational Technology Brenny Kummer.
“Learning DesignED was such a joyful and energizing day—an opportunity to celebrate our incredible educators and give them a fun, collaborative space to learn together,” Kummer said in a release. “It meant so much to see so many teachers take time out of their summer to attend. The event showcased the innovation happening right here in BCSC, with our own educators leading sessions and sharing strategies, tools, and ideas to challenge and inspire students across the district. It was also a chance for us, as educators, to take our own learning to new heights—stepping outside our comfort zones, exploring new technologies, and pushing ourselves to grow for the benefit of our students.”
