STATEHOUSE (Oct. 5, 2026) – Bethany Christian Schools was among 16 schools recently honored as Blue Ribbon Schools at the 2026 Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala in Indianapolis, according to State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury).
King said Bethany Christian Schools was recognized for its overall academic excellence and fostering an environment of learning and growth for all of its students, helping them to reach their full potential.
The Blue Ribbon Schools Program is part of a larger national effort that aims to identify the best school leadership and teaching practices.
"I'm thrilled to see a local school recognized for its outstanding academic achievement," King said. "This award goes to show that all of the hard work from their students, educators and parents is paying off as they create a world-class environment for learning. Congratulations to Bethany Christian Schools and keep up the great work."
Indiana's Blue Ribbon School designation celebrates schools with proven academic performance and transformative ideas that help their students succeed. King said these schools have created environments where young Hoosiers thrive, serving as models for other educators.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools designation was first established in 1982. The IDOE names a new cohort of designees annually.
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State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49,
which includes the eastern portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION 1: State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) (right) joins Tim Lehman (left), head of school at Bethany Christian Schools, on Friday, Oct. 2, 2026, at the 2026 Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala in Indianapolis. Bethany Christian Schools was recognized as a Blue Ribbon School.
PHOTO CAPTION 2: State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) (fourth from right) joins Tim Lehman (fourth from left), head of school at Bethany Christian Schools, on Friday, Oct. 2, 2026, at the 2026 Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala in Indianapolis. Bethany Christian Schools was recognized as a Blue Ribbon School. Others pictured are (from left) Bethany Christian Schools science teacher Calvin Swartzendruber, school counselor Krysten Parson, seventh and eighth grade language arts teacher Jared Leaman, intervention and special services coordinator Sarah Yoder, Bob Yoder, lower school Principal Juanita Hershberger and third grade teacher Aubri Mosness.
