Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education Teresa Lubbers today recognized 26 Indiana counties, including Spencer County, for working to increase the percentage of Hoosiers with education beyond high school. The counties are members of Indiana’s College Success Coalition, a statewide network focused on improving college access and success. 

“We are so proud of the many local leaders—from K-12, higher education, business, government and community organizations—who have come together to increase education opportunity and student success in Indiana,” said Lubbers. “Creating a culture of college access and success can only happen when the vision is shared by the entire community.”

Brittany Forler of Chrisney Elementary has been named a Peabody Energy Leader in Education for the 2012-13 school year, and awarded $1,000 for her compassion and commitment to students.

As a special education teacher, Forler believes that all students should be included in the classroom. She encourages her students to take every opportunity to learn, grow and reach personal goals. She was recently named lead teacher for her school, and in this role she guides and assists her colleagues when the principal is unavailable. Forler also promotes science, technology and math through programs including, Lego Robotics, VEX Robotics and Minds in Motion.