Teachers of Tomorrow has named Chelsey Sullivan, a special education teacher at Roachdale Elementary in North Putnam Community Schools, as the 2025 Indiana Teacher of the Year.

Sullivan received $500 for classroom supplies and professional development

Sullivan is now a finalist National Teacher of the Year. The winner is to be decided by a public vote at this link . Voting runs through April 18. 

The winner will announced during Teacher Appreciation Week, May 5-9, and receive $5,000.

Below is Sullivan's feature from the Teacher of Tomorrow finalists page.

Chelsey Sullivan

Q: If selected as the 2025 Teacher of the Year, how would you use the $5,000 award to support your students or further your professional growth?

A: This year, I have gained valuable insights into my students’ different learning styles, which strengthens my love for special education and helps me identify my classroom needs. If awarded the $5,000, I would invest in sensory and educational materials to help support my students’ growth. This would include math and reading manipulatives that support various learning styles, visual scheduling tools to foster independence, and resources for social-emotional learning to support their well-being. I would also love to grow my classroom library with multiple reading levels and engaging books. A well established library is a great to help develop a students love for reading and encouraging students to explore different perspectives. As I continue to grow as a special education teacher, I want to enhance my skills in specialized instructional techniques and behavior management. I believe that effective teaching in special education requires ongoing learning and adaptation, and I am committed to finding innovative ways to support my students.
If awarded this money it would make a great impact on my classroom by providing essential resources tailored to my students’, along with enhancing my growth as an educator. I am excited about the opportunity to enhance the educational outcomes for my students and myself by thoughtfully selecting materials and experiences.

Q: Why is teaching the “Role of a Lifetime” for you? What do you love most about being an educator, and where do you feel you make the greatest impact?

A: Teaching is truly a “Role of a Lifetime” for me. My journey towards education comes from my own experiences as a child, where I encountered many challenges in my learning process. Unlike many of my peers, I found that grasping new skills and concepts were much more difficult for me. There were moments when I felt I was failing, which made me question my abilities. Throughout my childhood, I dreamed of becoming a teacher, yet I allowed my self-doubt to hold me back. The belief that I was not “smart” enough to teach others stopped me from pursuing my dream for years. However, as I matured, I came to realize: I have the capability to achieve anything I dedicate myself to. This insight made me set out to ensure that no child experiences the same feelings of inadequacy that I once did.
What I love most about being an educator is the ability of creating an environment where students can recognize their individual strengths and talents. Every child is unique, and so are their learning styles. I firmly believe that education should be tailored to meet the diverse needs of each student, allowing them to thrive in their own way. As an educator, I feel that I can make the greatest impact by instilling confidence in every child. I want each student to understand that they are just as capable as their peers, regardless of their learning differences. It is crucial for them to acknowledge their own worth and potential. By nurturing their self-esteem and encouraging them to embrace their individuality, I hope to guide them on the path to becoming the remarkable individuals they strive to be. In this role, I aim to create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that recognizes diversity in learning. My goal is not only to teach academics but also to help grow self-assured, resilient learners who are ready to face the challenges of the future. Teaching is indeed a lifelong journey for me, and I am dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of my students.