Crown Point Teacher Named Teacher of the Year

(photo courtesy John Luke/The Times of Northwest Indiana

The Indiana Department of Education has named Jerome Flewelling the 2018 Teacher of the Year. Flewelling, who teaches AP Physics, mechanics and chemistry at Crown Point High School, will represent Indiana in the National Teacher of the Year competition.

Flewelling has been teaching for more than 20 years, beginning his career at Frankton Junior/Senior High School. Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Jennifer McCormick says Flewelling has diligently prepared students for life beyond high school.

"In today’s educational landscape where we are raising up students to meet the demands of a future steeped in science, technology, engineering, and math, how fitting we recognize a STEM instructor as Indiana’s 2018 Teacher of the Year," said McCormick. “I am honored to present this award to him. I know he will continue to represent his profession, and our fellow teachers, well."

Flewelling was surprised with the award Thursday at the school’s cafeteria. Our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana report he was greeted by family, friends, colleagues and students, whom he thanked upon receiving the award.

"It’s because of you that I’m here," said Flewelling. "You motivate me to be creative and courageous every day in the classroom, and your passion is contagious."

The finalists for the Indiana Teacher of the Year award are chosen from a pool of applicants by a screening and selection committee made up of former recipients, IDOE staff, educational organization leaders, business and community leaders, and representatives from higher education.