Guest Writer Geoffrey E. Fenelus
A 2012 TNTP study highlighted the severe impact of losing America’s best teachers. Schools often neglect efforts to retain “irreplaceables”—teachers whose success in advancing student learning makes them nearly impossible to replace.
As a former school leader and teacher, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of high-quality educators leaving the profession. In my current role as a benefits advisor, I work with school networks and districts on retaining great staff. In the article “These 4 Strategies Can Help Schools Retain Their Best Teachers,” Von Cleef shares strategies to retain the best educators, including celebrating great teaching—a crucial practice in recognizing teachers’ accomplishments and their impact on students.
As the current committee chair of the InnoPower Black Excellence in Education Awards, we pay tribute to educators who go the extra mile daily, serving their students, families, and communities.
Today, I am excited to highlight JaVaughn Hardaway, an exemplary educator committed to education, family, and personal growth.
Every day, Hardaway embodies dedication, passion, and resilience as a 6th grade E/LA teacher, instructional coach, community leader, and Ph.D. candidate. Her routine showcases Black educator excellence. Rising at 4:30 a.m., she starts her day with morning exercise, setting a positive tone. By 6:00 a.m., she is readying herself and her baby girl for the day, ensuring her daughter is set for daycare.
From 6:55 to 7:20 a.m., Hardaway prepares intellectually for her lessons, ensuring her E/LA content is engaging and impactful. Her school day begins at 8:00 a.m., filled with passionate and creative teaching from 8:50 a.m. to 2:20 p.m., where she fosters a love for reading and writing among her students.
After the final bell, Hardaway manages car rider duty, plans, grades, and meets with parents until 3:45 p.m. By 4:00 p.m., she picks up her daughter, balancing family time and academic pursuits. On Mondays and Wednesdays, she attends doctoral classes, while on other evenings, she dedicates time to reading, coursework, and lesson planning.
Despite her demanding schedule, Hardaway remains committed to her family, students, and community. As a wife-to-be and mother, she is a pillar of strength and love. As an educator and Ph.D. candidate, she is a beacon of inspiration and knowledge.
In August, as her daughter starts preschool, Hardaway will adapt her routine to support this new chapter. Her unwavering passion for E/LA, deep love for her students, and commitment to her community will continue to drive her forward, making a lasting impact on everyone she touches.
Since 2016, the Black Excellence in Education Awards has recognized over 300 remarkable Black educators from central Indiana, including JaVaughn Hardaway. This year, we continue honoring those who shape young minds and empower the next generation.
The event will be held on Thursday, August 29, at 6 p.m. at the Ivy Tech Culinary Conference Center, 2820 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46208. Check-in will begin at 5 p.m., and the award ceremony will start at 6:00 p.m. and conclude at 7:30 p.m.
Attendees will be able to:
- Witness the recognition of outstanding Black educators, from legacy to leadership awards, and learn about the support services in subjects such as math, English, and early childhood education.
- Be inspired by stories of dedication and triumph.
- Enjoy an evening of celebration in our vibrant community.
Guests can register to attend the awards ceremony through Eventbrite.
Geoffrey Fenelus is a visionary educator with a decade of experience across diverse educational landscapes. With a background spanning the South Bronx, Connecticut, Indianapolis, and Brooklyn, NY, he has served as a special education teacher, principal and school founder. Geoff’s impact extends into board service. He is a board member forTeach For America Indianapolis, Purdue Polytechnic High School, 913 Sports, and the Community Alliance for Education (CAFE). A vocal advocate for inclusive policies, he is a member of the Education Leaders of Color (EDLOC) Surge Institute Alum and current Mitch Daniels Leadership Fellow. At NFP, Geoff guides organizations, districts, and charter networks in strategic areas like talent retention and employee benefits. As the founder of Board Education Transformation (BET), he provides strategic, operational, and instructional support to educational nonprofits and schools nationwide. Geoff is also a devoted family man, entrepreneur, and enjoys college basketball, cycling, and watching great films.
Indy Kids Winning Inc exists to empower people to make informed education decisions through local education coverage and education resources. Please consider donating to support our work. Your contribution allows us to continue the fight for excellent education for all children.
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