March 2018 Educator of the Month

Superintendent, Dr. Debbie Howell, is pleased to announce that, Mr. Michael Kristoff, has been named as March’s “Educator of the Month”.  Mr. Kristoff holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology from Purdue University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Studies Education from Indiana University East.  In just his third year of teaching, Mr. Kristoff currently teaches social studies and College and Career Readiness classes at Franklin County Middle School. In addition, Mr. Kristoff plays a key role in the success of the Wildcat Prep Academy.

The Wildcat Prep Academy began in 2014 at the middle school.  Qualifying students in grades 6 and 7 apply to participate in this program during their middle school years.  Students in the Wildcat Prep Academy are prepared to enter high school ready to successfully participate in dual credit courses and earn college credit while in high school.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Kristoff helps with tennis at Franklin County High School and has coached 6th and 7th grade basketball for the last three years.  In his free time, Mr. Kristoff enjoys spending time with his son, watching Purdue basketball games, and outdoor activities.

Mr. Kristoff was nominated for this honor by two current students.  Both students spoke to his sense of humor and upbeat personality. Both wrote about the positive, caring, and safe atmosphere he creates in his classroom.  “The way he teaches is phenomenal. Not only does he teach from his heart, he make it fun.”

When asked what the best part of his job is, Mr. Kristoff replied, “The best part of my job is the awesome people that I get to work with every day. We have awesome teachers that have helped me out the last few years, and I’m especially grateful for Chuck Grimes’s (retired) guidance the previous two years. Getting to know our students and help them reach their potential is also the greatest feeling.”

The purpose of the “Educator of the Month” program is to recognize outstanding Franklin County educators who demonstrate excellence in the classroom, leadership in the school, dedication to the students, and involvement in the community. Parents and students are encouraged to nominate outstanding educators for this monthly recognition.  Nomination forms for “Educator of the Month” can be found on the school corporation website at www.fccsc.k12.in.us.