Our Stories

 

Ms. Makayla Imrie, an educator at Christel House at Manual, has been named the 2022 TeachIndy Social Studies Teacher of the Year. Imrie, who is originally from Wisconsin, obtained her teaching credentials through Teaching For America (TFA). “My understanding of school was very academic until I stepped into the classroom and realized that to get to academics, I had to build relationships with students, and then I realized that was the part of the job I loved most,” says Imrie.

 

Imrie’s passion for education led her to Indianapolis where she accepted a teaching position at Thomas Carr Howe High School. “I love what I do because I feel like it has a good impact on kids, and I leave at the end of the day feeling as though what I’m doing is for somebody,” she said. “My goal every single day is to create impact whether it’s academic or social-emotional.” 

 

Imrie is a five-year educator who delivers high-quality academic instruction and is dedicated to building impactful relationships with her students. “Makayla's love and passion for her content and her classroom are evident when you see her in action. She is thoughtful, well planned, and prides herself on creating fun and engaging lessons for her students. Not only is Ms. Imrie a leader in the classroom, but she leads our 12th grade PLC, supports freshman mentoring, and is heavily involved in many other activities within our school,” said Rob King, Christel House at Manual Principal. 

 

Imrie was nominated by school leadership, community partners, and/or peers and completed an award application process. She was selected by team members from the Indianapolis Mayor’s Office of Education Innovation (OEI), Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), the 2022 College Football Playoff Host Committee, Five-Star Technology, and Teach Indy Board Members.

 

Each award recipient received a certificate, social media recognition, professional development resources, and a $2,000 award given by TeachIndy. Congratulations to all of these excellent educators!

To learn more about all of the winners visit https://teachindynow.org/blog/2022educatorawardwinners/

Trying to earn her high school diploma at Christel House DORS has been a difficult path for Pearl Barnett. She’s encountered many life obstacles. “It’s been five long years,” she sighs. Three times she started classes only to have to stop. But this time is different. In June, Pearl’s going to graduate.

Pearl always wanted to finish high school and a friend’s recommendation convinced her the DORS adult high school program was the way to do it. She enrolled but personal setbacks including getting a divorce and her young son being injured in an auto accident made it impossible for her to finish each time. “I’ve definitely had a rocky road,” she says. “But I’m finally getting it done.”

She credits the strong commitment of the DORS teachers and staff for encouraging her to return. “They have my back – I have an amazing support system here.” Her kids were also a motivation. “If I give up, what’s that teaching my children?” she says. “That’s what kept me going!” The pandemic and the option of online courses ultimately helped Pearl complete her class requirements.

She says finishing the program and earning her diploma is empowering. “After being told my whole life I wouldn’t amount to anything, here I am, proving that is not the case,” she says proudly. “I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is struggling. I absolutely would.”

                               

2021 DORS graduate Brittany Phillips has big plans for the future. After graduation, Philips received a job opportunity working with Pepper Construction. “I hope to be moving up climbing the ladder. I want to be a journeyman. I love the trade that I'm in. It's something new, but it takes a lot to get the job done,” say’s Philips. 

Hard Work isn’t a new concept for the future journeyman. Philips is currently working full time, taking classes at Ivy Tech to earn her associate's degree, and enrolled in apprenticeship classes through the Indiana/Kentucky/Ohio Regional Council of Carpenters (IKORCC). “My ultimate goal is to build a career in construction," says Phillips.

 

 

Aside from being home to some of the greatest educators in the state of Indiana, we are also very fortunate to be led by board members who are committed to our school community and support our mission to create empowering opportunities for students. 

In addition to supporting our efforts in the boardroom, Christel House Indianapolis board member Dr. Sheryl Allen is also leading the way in her community. Watch the video below to learn more about the work she does outside of Christel House! #ChProud 
 

 

 

1 Minute Read

 Deciding to return to school after years of being absent from the classroom can be an overwhelming decision to make, especially as an adult with added responsibilities. Juggling parenting, work, and relationships isn't an easy task; when do you find the time to pursue education? 

 

 

Fear not, balancing a family and school can and has been done. Although everyone's situation is different, at Christel House DORS, we have witnessed every type of student walking across our stage on graduation day to receive their high school diploma. 

 

The truth is that the process isn't always smooth, but it's worth it, and their success can be yours as well. Below we've put together some helpful tips to balance your kids with your textbooks and eliminate the stress of trying to do it all.

 

Five Tips for Creating Balance

 

Build a community of supportive friends and family

Create for yourself a strong support system that includes friends, family, and peers that you can turn to for emotional and practical support. Many in this circle may be willing to provide childcare during your designated study time!

 

Prep meals in advance

Cooking and freezing meals during the weekend and unthawing them during the week can free up so much of your time. Crockpot (slow-cooker) meals can also eliminate the time spent in the kitchen. Check out these recipes. 

 

Let your professors know if things get hectic

Share your experience with professors to see what arrangements can be made. Their human, too, and very invested in your success. 

 

Designate a time to do schoolwork

Create an hour each day that is dedicated to learning. Turn your phone to do not disturb, eliminate external distractions, and get to work. 

 

Ask for help

Is their someone in your support system who can help care for the kids while you study? You won't know unless you ask. At DORS, we offer tutoring, transportation assistance, and other resources to communicative students. Be sure to reach out.