Jason Witzigreuter, associate band director at Homestead High School in Fort Wayne, has been named the 2027 Indiana Teacher of the Year. Fox 59 reported that Governor Mike Braun presented the state-level award to Witzigreuter on Wednesday, recognizing his nearly three decades in education and seven years leading ensembles at Homestead.
According to an Indiana Department of Education release cited by Fox 59, Witzigreuter previously earned school and district teacher of the year honors before advancing to the state level. He will spend the upcoming year advocating for educators across Indiana. His current teaching load includes directing the Freshman Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble 1, and the Spartan Alliance Marching Band while assisting with the Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble.
Fox 59 noted that the release also highlighted Witzigreuter’s work preparing middle school students for high school performances. Under his leadership, Homestead bands have achieved superior ratings at state and national competitions and performed at venues including Lucas Oil Stadium and the Midwest Clinic. Indiana Secretary of Education Katie Jenner stated in the release that Witzigreuter exemplifies the highest calling of a teacher by helping build better human beings alongside imparting musical knowledge.
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