Two teachers and a student at Indian Valley Local Schools have been selected as January Partners in Education winners, a program run by the Ohio Lottery Commission. Eighth grader Haylie Menefee was recognized as an Ohio Lottery Partners in Education Academic All-Star. Indian Valley High School teacher Blair Emler and Port Washington Elementary School teacher Kristin Burrier were both selected as Ohio Lottery Partners in Education Teachers of the Month.

Menefee attends Indian Valley Middle School. She is described by those around her as an “outstanding lady with extraordinary devotion to her studies and personal growth.” Menefee is enrolled in several of the higher-level courses offered at the school including, Honors Geometry, AP French, and Advanced English Language Arts. Outside of academics, she demonstrates impressive leadership skills and enjoys being able to help others. “Our learning community is a better place with Haylie in it,” said Administrator Brandy Grant.

Emler teaches Integrated History to freshmen entering Indian Valley High School. But, alongside his courses Emler serves as a teacher mentor and facilitator for Resident Educators and also assists as a teacher leader within the district’s teacher evaluation system. He is described as a teacher who teaches every student as an individual with lessons that are both informative and inspirational using multimedia presentations. Some of his students leave his classroom wanting to teach history just like him. He inspires everyone around him through both the love of the content he teaches and the excitement he brings to the classroom.

Burrier is considered a master of her craft and an all-star to both students and colleagues. Burrier understands and exemplifies both the art and science of teaching. Those around her describe Burrier as someone who helps her students grow no matter the grade level or course. She is said to lead her professional community with the right combination of support and guidance to collect, reflect upon and positively impact student achievement and student growth data for three grade levels. At a time when many have lost focus due to the pandemic, Burrier has managed to teach, lead, and learn though it all. Those around her are grateful for her resilience, persistence, and steadfast leadership. To learn more about the Partners in Education Program or see a full list of winners – click here.