Indy Standard

Ashley Hogan from Emma Donnan Elementary School and Linda Thomson of Shortridge High School have been recognized as the Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) 2025 Teachers of the Year. The announcement was made during ceremonies at their respective schools, with administrators, staff, and students present.

"We are incredibly proud to recognize Ashley Hogan from Emma Donnan Elementary School and Linda Thomson of Shortridge High School as IPS’s Teachers of the Year," said IPS Superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson. "Their dedication to excellence in teaching, exemplary instruction, and remarkable achievements in the classroom truly embody the values and standards we uphold at Indianapolis Public Schools. Ashley and Linda serve as shining examples of the impactful difference educators can make in the lives of their students, and we are honored to celebrate their outstanding contributions to our district."

Hogan is a sixth-grade teacher at Emma Donnan Elementary School, an IPS Innovation school, representing Grades K–6. Thomson teaches IB Spanish Levels 3 and 4 at Shortridge High School, an International Baccalaureate school, representing Grades 7–12. Both were among six finalists named in April.

The selection process involved nominations by each IPS principal for their building's top educator. A committee reviewed nominees' portfolios which included teaching philosophy, professional accomplishments, and instructional practices.

Hogan is a multilingual general education teacher with dual bachelor's degrees in early childhood education and special education from Ball State University. She also holds a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Arizona State University. Her passion for teaching was influenced by her grandmother's long career as an educator and her father's role as a school principal.

Thomson graduated with a bachelor's degree in Spanish education from Ball State University in 2012. Growing up bilingual inspired her love for Spanish language and culture. Before joining Shortridge High School, she owned a dance studio where she gained experience motivating students across various ages.

At Shortridge High School, Thomson has led initiatives such as coaching the majorette dance team and conducting professional development sessions on classroom technology while contributing to the world languages department's growth.