Carmel Clay Schools is proud to announce that Mrs. Megan Cronkhite, a first-grade teacher at West Clay Elementary, has been selected as a Top 25 finalist for the 2026 Indiana Teacher of the Year.

Mrs. Cronkhite, who was named Carmel Clay Schools’ District Teacher of the Year earlier this year, advances to the next stage of the statewide selection process hosted by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE).

"We are incredibly proud of Mrs. Cronkhite and thrilled to see her recognized at the state level," said Superintendent Dr. Tom Oestreich. "She truly represents the best of the best in education. Her dedication to her students, her passion for learning, and the positive energy she brings to West Clay Elementary every day reflect the high standard of excellence we strive for across Carmel Clay Schools."

For over 60 years, the Indiana Teacher of the Year program has celebrated outstanding educators across the state who make a lasting impact on Hoosier students. The mission of the program is to inspire, rejuvenate, and honor the teaching profession by encouraging districts to nominate top local talent for statewide recognition.

The Indiana Teacher of the Year serves as an ambassador for educators statewide, elevating the profession while remaining a full-time teacher in their classroom. The Top 25 finalists will be evaluated by a statewide committee before the Indiana Teacher of the Year is officially announced later this fall. The entire Carmel Clay Schools community extends its warmest congratulations to Mrs. Cronkhite on this well-deserved recognition and wishes her the best of luck in the next round.