February 2023 Educator of the Month

Superintendent, Ms. Tammy Chavis, is pleased to announce that Mrs. Shirley Fehl, Reading Interventionist at Laurel Elementary, has been selected as February’s “Educator of the Month.” 

Mrs. Fehl has been educating students at Franklin County Community Schools for 38 years. Prior to teaching, Shirley earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Indiana University. She then completed her Masters Degree from Ball State and a Reading Recovery Training from Purdue University. 

Shirley was nominated for this honor by a parent. When asked why Mrs. Fehl should be considered for this recognition, the parent responded, “Two of my children had Mrs. Fehl for a classroom teacher. I was so impressed with the growth of my children after their year in her classroom. She takes the time to get to know each student completely. Mrs. Fehl knows each student’s strengths and weaknesses in all academic areas. She uses that information to individualize instruction. She knows how to get the best reading, spelling, writing, or math performance out of each of her students. I am amazed at how she tucks away so many details about her students. Mrs. Fehl helps students feel successful by holding them accountable for meeting their true potential. She has the best collection of books in her classroom and finds a way to connect all of her students to their favorite books. Mrs. Fehl stands out from other educators because she has been teaching for a long time and brings wisdom to the classroom that lets her see right into the needs of the students. Things change over the years but good teaching is something that just can’t be replaced. My children were lucky to have her as a teacher!” 

In addition to her educator roles, Shirley is involved in helping the community at Caring Services in Connersville, Indiana. She spends her “free time” with family, including her husband and many children and grandchildren. 

When asked what she loves most about her job, Mrs. Fehl responded, “I enjoy working with everyone at Laurel Elementary, and I mean EVERYONE. They are family to me. They support each other, but they know how to give each other their ‘own space’ when there are issues or problems that require that. I can’t think of anyone who has been kinder or more supportive than my Laurel co workers. Moreover, there is reading and the magic of teaching each child! It would require ‘a book’ if I were to try to explain what an adventure it is to work with young readers. All in all, it has been absolutely magical and the best job I could ever ask for! Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my journey.” 

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. Nomination forms for “Educator of the Month” can be found on the school corporation website at www.fccsc.k12.in.us.