On Thursday, January 8, the HCLA Class of 2026 met for the Education Day at the Noblesville Schools Community Center near Noblesville High School. As an educator who lives and works in Hamilton County, I enjoyed the variety of topics and guest speakers.
To start, the Class of 2026 was asked to share who their favorite teacher was growing up. The responses were heartwarming, emotional, and authentic. After this icebreaker, Brian Tomamichel, superintendent of Mill Creek Community School Corporation, presented on school funding and how public schools are appropriately allowed to spend taxpayer dollars. The information shared was incredibly insightful and relevant, especially as it relates to Senate Enrolled Act 1 or SB 1. This particular piece of legislation has been discussed in prior classes, so it was good to hear how SB 1 particularly impacts school funding moving forward.
Before lunch, the Class of 2026 was able to visit Noblesville High School. This tour was led by Noblesville Schools Superintendent Dr. Daniel Hile and Noblesville High School Principal Dr. Janae Mobley. During our tour, it was clear that NHS is preparing students for the present and future. Classroom visits showcased hands-on and projected-based learning that engaged students to the content and real-world applications.
In the afternoon, the Class of 2026 was able to hear from all Hamilton County superintendents. For those that do not know, the six public school districts in Hamilton County include Carmel Clay Schools, Hamilton Heights School Corporation, Hamilton Southeastern Schools, Noblesville Schools, Sheridan Community Schools, and Westfield Washington Schools. Even though each school district is unique (i.e. size, type of community, etc.), it is clear these educational leaders frequently work together to address common issues and concerns.
One of my biggest takeaways from Education Day was hearing about the philanthropic impact of education via the Education Foundation Panel. Three individuals served on this panel, including Justin Hirnisey, Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation, Ashley Knott, Westfield Education Foundation, and Adriann Young, Noblesville Schools Education Foundation. These philanthropic organizations are united and work together to make Hamilton County the best it can be. Each of these executive directors shared their passion in helping educators. “No matter where you are at in Hamilton County, we’re neighbors,” said Ashley Knott. “We do this as a county. Go big!,” said Justin Hirnisey. “The collaboration is extremely high,” said Adriann Young. “We have the same expectations.”
In summary, many individuals who move to Hamilton County cite the schools as the primary reason. Whether it is a small school, like Sheridan High School that serves 350 students or Carmel High School that serves over 5,200 students, families in Hamilton County have several different public school options, which offer amazing opportunities, in and out of the classroom. While the six public school districts each serve a diverse population with varying wants/needs, it is the community pride, collaborative spirit, and connectivity that allows educators and students to thrive.
Oftentimes, in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we forget how much educators do for our community. Dr. Brad Johnson, a national speaker on education, once said. “Parents, if teaching looks easy to you, try teaching your own child while managing their focus, energy, and emotions all day. Now do it with 30 kids. For 180 days.”
With that said, I ask you to take a moment this week to reach out to an educator (currently teaching or retired) who impacted you and who you have become. Or, reach out to your current child’s teacher and simply just say thank you.