Indiana instructor of the Year is Franklin High School’s English instructor

Franklin, Indiana – For the English teacher at Franklin Community High School who was chosen as the 2024 Indiana Teacher of the Year, the 2023–2024 academic year is fortunate number thirteen in their career.

Eric Jenkins was selected on Monday by the Indiana Department of Education to receive this honor.

IDOE states that Jenkins teaches Indiana University’s Advanced College Project Composition Course in addition to teaching tenth-grade honors/general English/language arts. The school is located in Johnson County.

Colleagues and district officials attest to the teacher’s capacity to assist pupils in taking charge of their education in ways that foster qualities that last a lifetime.

“Eric is the epitome of a great teacher. He is passionate about growing students and allowing them to reach their full potential,” said Franklin Community Schools Superintendent Dr. David Clendening. “This passion drives him to find instructional practices that will engage students and make the wonder of learning come alive. The students at Franklin Community High School are blessed to have a rockstar in this profession to help increase their knowledge and understanding.”

Jenkins, who is originally from Indiana, embarked on a global tour to begin his professional career and get degrees from universities. Jenkins returned to the United States to teach in Alabama after having previously taught at the American Christian Academy in Ibadan, Nigeria. After graduating from the State University of New York with a Master of Science in Literacy, he started working as a teacher in Franklin.

The director of Indiana’s Department of Education has conveyed gratitude to the native son for his decision and the state’s good fortune in having Jenkins return to teach youngsters skills that go beyond the classroom.

“Part of what makes teachers so impactful is their ability to help students develop the knowledge and skills they need to find their voice and make positive change in the world around them. This is something Mr. Jenkins takes very seriously,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “Not only does he help students strengthen their essential reading, writing, and speaking skills, but he also prioritizes learning opportunities that help students grow their confidence, work as a team, and form their own opinions…helping them to become the best versions of themselves. Mr. Jenkins is leaving his mark on this world, from Nigeria to Alabama to New York, and we are grateful that he chose to share his passion and talents right here in Indiana.”

Jenkins will represent teachers from all throughout Indiana at national gatherings and act as an ambassador to advance the profession. Jenkins will now compete for the prestigious National Teacher of the Year Award, which will be revealed in April, thanks to this award.