INDIANAPOLIS — Four Indianapolis Public Schools teachers were recently named the first recipients of the Hubbard Life-Changing Teacher Award, and each received a $25,000 prize, announced United Way of Central Indiana.
Recipients include: Tina Ahlgren, a math teacher at Shortridge Magnet High School for Law and Public Policy; Cynthia Hartshorn, a choir and drama director at Arsenal Technical High School; Rhonda Pierre, a math teacher at Harshman Magnet Middle School; and, Deb Wolinsky, a math and resource teacher at Broad Ripple Magnet High School. Each was surprised with a check, a video tribute about their impact on students, and a red glass-etched apple commemorating the event.
“The stories of how devoted these four Life-Changing Teachers are to not only helping students achieve in the classroom, but also to their entire well-being, are beyond remarkable,” said Al Hubbard, who serves as Chairman of E&A Companies, an Indianapolis-based business. “Our entire community owes them immense gratitude for their sacrifices and their impact on shaping young people.”
Ann D. Murtlow, United Way’s president and CEO said, “United Way’s focus on education as the foundation for a better life has taught us that teachers are the single most important factor in a student’s success. So this opportunity to recognize four extraordinary educators and to inspire others to their high level of service is profoundly meaningful.”
The teachers were honored at a ceremony hosted by United Way and longtime education champions Al and Kathy Hubbard representing The Hubbard Family Foundation. The new program was launched in November at a news conference where the Hubbards announced they would invest up to $400,000 to honor exceptional teachers each year for three years.
