Cheers and tears filled the room at East Tipp Middle School as the Indiana Department of Education named engineering and technology teacher Sharita Ware as the 2022 Indiana Teacher of the Year.

Ware is in her tenth year of teaching in the TSC and holds a bachelor’s degree and master's degree from Purdue Polytechnic Institute. In addition to teaching engineering and technology classes, Ware hosts afterschool programs such as FIRST Lego League, the Monday Maker Hour and March Maker Magic, which gives students an outlet to be innovative and creative.

“Mrs. Ware intentionally fosters a culture that motivates and encourages students to explore their interests and grow in their abilities through STEM classes and a range of STEM-related afterschool activities,” said Dr. Scott Hanback, superintendent of Tippecanoe School Corporation. “She is an exceptional teacher who has transformed the technology classroom and lab space into an engaging, inspiring work space for students. We’re honored to have her teaching our students, and thrilled to have her be officially named as Indiana’s 2022 Teacher of the Year!” 

Ware is the second TSC teacher named Indiana Teacher of the Year. Kathy Nimmer from Harrison High School, was named the 2015 Teacher of the Year and a finalist for National Teacher of the Year.

"Sharita is one of the most lovely individuals I know with a genuine goodness and a kind spirit. This recognition could not be coming to a better human being,” says Nimmer. "Through the wild journey that the Teacher of the Year experience will be, I am confident that Sharita has the composure and strength to remain the humble, gracious, beautiful person that so many know and love."