Johnson County lawmakers: State awards educator scholarship to local students

Posted by: Matt Stachler  | Wednesday, July 16, 2025

STATEHOUSE (July 16, 2025) – Johnson County students preparing to become teachers are among this year's recipients of the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to local lawmakers.

The scholarship program, established in 2016 through legislation passed by the Indiana General Assembly, awards a renewable scholarship of up to $10,000 per year (up to $40,000 total) to high-achieving high school and college students who agree to teach in an eligible Indiana school for five years. A record-breaking 1,091 students applied for the 2025-2026 Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, with nearly 300 scholarships awarded.

"Becoming a teacher is a powerful way to serve others and give back," said State Rep. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland), who serves as vice chair of the House Education Committee. "These students have already shown academic excellence and a passion for helping others, and I'm excited to see the impact they'll have in Indiana classrooms."

This year, these local students were among the scholarship recipients:

  • Charlotte Lage, Center Grove High School;
  • Jared Spohn, Center Grove High School;
  • Jonas Ferrando, Whiteland Community High School;
  • Katelyn Basham, Whiteland Community High School;
  • Melody Freeman, Center Grove High School; and
  • Tanna Tatlock, Southwestern High School.

"Becoming a teacher takes both heart and discipline, and these students have already shown they're up to the task," said State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville). "This scholarship gives them a head start in serving future students."

State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) said those qualifying for the scholarship must graduate in the top 20 percent of their high school class, earn a score in the 20th percentile on the SAT or ACT, or have a cumulative grade point average of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

"Strong, dedicated teachers reinforce the student and family unit and contribute to creating robust communities," Mayfield said. "I'm encouraged to see these students preparing for an impactful career and congratulate them on receiving this scholarship."

"These students are pursuing a great opportunity in Indiana, learning and teaching in our local communities," said State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville). "This scholarship helps encourage talented educators to lead our classrooms."

To learn more and apply for the next round of scholarships opening in the fall, visit LearnMoreIndiana.org/nextteacher. Questions may be directed to NextTeacher@che.in.gov.

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State Rep. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) represents House District 58,
which includes a portion of Johnson County.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 47,
which includes portions of Johnson and Shelby counties.
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State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville) represents House District 57,
which includes portions of Hendricks, Johnson and Morgan counties.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) represents House District 60,
which includes portions of Johnson, Morgan and Monroe counties.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.