- District Updates
- Staff Spotlight
Carmel High School English teacher, Katie Overbeck, was announced as the 2022 Stephen A. Backer Teacher of the Year for Carmel Clay Schools at the CCS Teacher of the Year Banquet held on May 5th.
Overbeck was recognized by her peers and students for her tireless dedication to the entire school community. As a Carmel High School alumna, Overbeck has always embraced the Greyhound way and remained involved in activities both in and out of the classroom. While celebrating her 20th year at Carmel High School, she is the current International Baccalaureate Program coordinator and volunteers her time to various student and staff committees and afterschool activities.
“Katie Overbeck is remarkable to watch in the classroom,” said Dr. Harmas, Principal at Carmel High School. “The level of engagement and leadership she provides is what makes Carmel High School a special place for our students. Katie embodies our motto, ‘you can only take with you what you leave behind.’ It is a true honor having her as part of our Greyhound family and she is so worthy of this distinction.”
Overbeck attended Purdue University and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in English before receiving her Master’s of Educational Leadership/Administration from the University of West Georgia. She taught English at Forest Park High School in Georgia for two years before joining Carmel Clay Schools, where she is celebrating 20 years of teaching.
Stephen A. Backer Teacher of the Year nominations are made by students, parents, and other staff members starting each January. A selection committee consisting of teachers, administrators, and a Carmel Education Foundation representative then thoroughly reviews the nominees and selects a recipient in April. The CCS Teacher of the Year is endowed by the Stephen A. Backer Teacher of the Year Award through the Carmel Education Foundation. This award was created in memory of Mr. Backer, who was an advocate and supporter of the Carmel Clay Schools. He served on the CCS Board of Trustees from 1994 to 1998 and from 2006 until his passing in March 2009. Mr. Backer held the position of school board president for five of those years. The Stephen A. Backer Teacher of the Year Award was established shortly after his passing.
###