Tammy Drudy named an I-Star Educator

February 9, 2024 at 10:08 a.m.
(photo provided)


Tammy Drudy of Liberty, taught for 22 years before she retired last year. She split her teaching career mainly between Kindergarten and second grade, but has taught all elementary grades (except first). Drudy was recognized as an I-Star educator after being nominated by Crystal Calihan, a senior at Franklin County High School whom Drudy hugely impacted while teaching at Laurel Elementary School.

"Being named an I-STAR educator is truly the most coveted accolade of my teaching career," Drudy exclaimed.

 "To think that—after nearly a decade has passed since we were teaching and learning together at Laurel School—Crystal Calihan would remember me in such a way is beyond humbling. She is an extraordinary scholar!" 

I-STAR stands for "Independent Schools Teacher Advancement and Recognition." It is a program that recognizes and honors outstanding independent school teachers. The program is designed to celebrate and promote excellence in teaching, as well as to provide professional development opportunities for educators. I-STAR educators are nominated by their peers, students, parents, and administrators based on their exceptional teaching skills, innovative approaches, and commitment to their students' success.

Calihan shared, Drudy embodied everything an I-Star educator stands for. And although it was during Calihan's third grade year that Drudy was her teacher, her impact on Calihan has not diminished. 

"I chose Mrs. Drudy because she taught me the importance of being kind to others," Calihan began. "I learned how important it is to show respect to people, even if you don't always agree with them. Her classroom was such a positive environment where I was able to flourish into a more confident version of myself. I carry so much of what Mrs. Drudy taught me into my everyday life. I'm so glad I-STAR gave me an opportunity to highlight how amazing of an educator she is!" 

Drudy will be presented with the official award on March 7 at the banquet to be held at Rushville Consolidated High School. 

"Sending out a heartfelt thank you to her (Calihan) and to the several others who've nominated me in previous years," Drudy said. "I've been blessed in more ways than I can count by this calling." 

Tammy Drudy of Liberty, taught for 22 years before she retired last year. She split her teaching career mainly between Kindergarten and second grade, but has taught all elementary grades (except first). Drudy was recognized as an I-Star educator after being nominated by Crystal Calihan, a senior at Franklin County High School whom Drudy hugely impacted while teaching at Laurel Elementary School.

"Being named an I-STAR educator is truly the most coveted accolade of my teaching career," Drudy exclaimed.

 "To think that—after nearly a decade has passed since we were teaching and learning together at Laurel School—Crystal Calihan would remember me in such a way is beyond humbling. She is an extraordinary scholar!" 

I-STAR stands for "Independent Schools Teacher Advancement and Recognition." It is a program that recognizes and honors outstanding independent school teachers. The program is designed to celebrate and promote excellence in teaching, as well as to provide professional development opportunities for educators. I-STAR educators are nominated by their peers, students, parents, and administrators based on their exceptional teaching skills, innovative approaches, and commitment to their students' success.

Calihan shared, Drudy embodied everything an I-Star educator stands for. And although it was during Calihan's third grade year that Drudy was her teacher, her impact on Calihan has not diminished. 

"I chose Mrs. Drudy because she taught me the importance of being kind to others," Calihan began. "I learned how important it is to show respect to people, even if you don't always agree with them. Her classroom was such a positive environment where I was able to flourish into a more confident version of myself. I carry so much of what Mrs. Drudy taught me into my everyday life. I'm so glad I-STAR gave me an opportunity to highlight how amazing of an educator she is!" 

Drudy will be presented with the official award on March 7 at the banquet to be held at Rushville Consolidated High School. 

"Sending out a heartfelt thank you to her (Calihan) and to the several others who've nominated me in previous years," Drudy said. "I've been blessed in more ways than I can count by this calling." 

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