EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Four local educators were recently recognized for their exceptional contributions to education during the University of Evansville’s 34th annual Outstanding Educator ceremony. The ceremony, held to honor distinguished classroom teachers and building principals from Vanderburgh County, celebrated the recipients’ dedication to student success, innovation, and leadership in education.
This year’s honorees include Norah Ferguson, Stephanie Richie, Krista Fleming, and Brittney Brown, each recognized for their outstanding achievements in their respective fields. The award winners were chosen from a pool of educators with a minimum of three years of experience, and each received a surprise announcement within their schools to mark the occasion.
Norah Ferguson: Outstanding Elementary Teacher of the Year
Norah Ferguson, a third-grade teacher at St. Joseph Catholic School, was named the Outstanding Elementary Teacher of the Year. With three years of teaching experience, Ferguson has built a reputation for creating an engaging and student-centered learning environment. She teaches a range of subjects, including Math, Science, Social Studies, English Language Arts, and Religion, all while fostering a love of learning through innovative, hands-on approaches.
Beyond the classroom, Ferguson is deeply involved in her school community. She founded and leads the Sunshine Committee, which plays a key role in cultivating a positive school culture. Ferguson also volunteers as a judge for speech meets, assists with the STEM Club, and provides additional academic support through tutoring. Her commitment to student success is matched by her dedication to her own professional development, including attending “Get Your Teach On” conferences and completing the Science of Reading program. Ferguson is also pursuing a master’s degree in Administration and Educational Leadership at the University of Southern Indiana.
Stephanie Richie: Outstanding Middle School Teacher of the Year
Stephanie Richie, an eighth-grade English/Language Arts teacher at Thompkins Middle School, was named the Outstanding Middle School Teacher of the Year. Richie, who has spent her entire 23-year teaching career at Thompkins, is known for her unwavering dedication to academic excellence and her ability to foster an inclusive and supportive classroom environment. Richie has made a significant impact both inside and outside the classroom, serving on the school’s Leadership Team and Social/Remembrance Committee while also coaching various extracurricular activities, including as Assistant Varsity Girls’ Basketball coach at Central High School.
Richie’s teaching philosophy emphasizes high expectations, relationship-building, and creating a structured yet supportive environment where students can thrive. Her commitment to professional growth is evident in her extensive work in inclusive education and differentiation strategies. Richie has also mentored future educators, serving as a student-teacher host, and is recognized for her contributions to making Thompkins a dynamic learning environment.
Krista Fleming: Outstanding High School Teacher of the Year
Krista Fleming, an Honors Biology teacher at North High School, was honored as the Outstanding High School Teacher of the Year. With 30 years of teaching experience, including 23 years at North, Fleming is widely respected for her innovative teaching methods and dedication to creating an engaging and inclusive classroom. Her inquiry-based approach to teaching encourages students to explore concepts through hands-on activities and real-world applications, making complex biology topics accessible and interesting.
Outside the classroom, Fleming is a community leader. She founded the North High School Step/Dance Team in 2001, which remains the longest-running step team in the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation. In addition to her classroom work, Fleming has led professional development workshops that align middle and high school biology programs, helping to enhance the educational experience across grade levels. She is also involved in community service through her work with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., supporting child hunger relief and youth development initiatives.
Brittney Brown: Outstanding Principal of the Year
Brittney Brown, principal at Evans School, was named the Outstanding Principal of the Year. Brown, who has 20 years of experience in education, including 10 years as a teacher and 7 years as a principal, is recognized for her exceptional leadership and commitment to fostering both academic excellence and a positive school culture. During her tenure as principal at Oak Hill Elementary, Brown led the school to earn the National Blue Ribbon School designation, a prestigious honor that reflects her commitment to educational excellence.
Now in her first year as principal at Evans School, Brown continues to implement systems that support student achievement and staff development. She is known for her focus on equity and community engagement, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have the opportunity to succeed. Brown has participated in numerous professional development programs, including Mass Insight Special Education and National Blue Ribbon leadership training, equipping her with the tools to drive meaningful change in schools.
Each of these educators has made a lasting impact on their schools and communities, and their recognition highlights the importance of outstanding teaching and leadership in shaping the future of education in Vanderburgh County.
As the 2025 Outstanding Educator award recipients, Norah Ferguson, Stephanie Richie, Krista Fleming, and Brittney Brown stand as examples of excellence and dedication in the field of education. Their contributions serve as a reminder of the critical role educators play in shaping the lives of students and fostering a culture of learning and growth.
