Crown Point Community Schools Announces Teachers and Employee of the Year

Secondary Teacher of the Year – Mary Bachnak 

Mary Bachnak is a business teacher at Crown Point High School with more than 20 years of experience in education, bringing a strong background in business, marketing, and career and technical education. She holds a Master of Business Administration from DePaul University and a Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana University. 

Mrs. Bachnak serves as the department chair for the CPHS Business Department and is involved in the Instructional Leadership Team and School Improvement Team. She is also the  longtime advisor for Business Professionals of America (BPA) club, where she has led students to regional, state, and national success while helping them develop real-world skills and confidence that extend far beyond the classroom. 

Principal Russ Marcinek noted that Mrs. Bachnak “embodies everything we hope for in our teachers,” highlighting her enthusiasm and ability to create a positive and engaging learning environment. In her interview, Mary noted that before her feet hit the floor each morning, she says, “It’s time to be amazing.” 

Secondary Teacher of the Year Finalists: 

• Austin Thorne – Colonel Wheeler Middle School 

• Connie Scott – Taft Middle School 

Elementary Teacher of the Year – Josh Hedl 

Josh Hedl is a physical education teacher at Winfield Elementary School with 23 years of  experience in education. He earned his degree in Physical Education from Purdue University and has served students in Crown Point Community School Corporation since 2005. 

Mr. Hedl is actively involved in his school community as the Kids Heart Challenge coordinator  and a Unified Sports co-coach, while also serving as a school safety specialist and participating in ongoing professional development. He is committed to creating engaging, active learning  environments where all students can participate, grow, and develop a lifelong appreciation for  health and wellness. 

Elementary Teacher of the Year Finalists: 

• Patty Begley – Eisenhower Elementary 

• Kathy Zacharias – Lake Street Elementary 

• Kristin MacPherson – MacArthur Elementary 

• Haritine Kostouros-Saenz – Timothy Ball Elementary 

• Leah Naumovic – Solon Robinson Elementary 

• Kylie Extin – Jerry Ross Elementary 

Employee of the Year – Kathy Birk 

Kathy Birk is a math interventionist at Jerry Ross Elementary who exemplifies dedication and a deep commitment to student success. She has been an educator for 57 years, eight of which are with CPCSC. Through her work, she provides targeted support to students while building  meaningful relationships that help them grow both academically and personally. 

A colleague shared, “Kathy Birk never ceases to amaze me. She is deeply self-reflective and  consistently goes above and beyond the expectations of her role. I have witnessed firsthand the  care and dedication she brings to her work, and it is clear that her students love and respect her just as much in return. Kathy’s heart for others makes her truly exceptional. Our world needs more people like Kathy.” 

Employee of the Year Finalists: 

• Marijana Celksoska, CPHS 

• Jodi Kvachkoff, MacArthur Elementary 

• Beth Peters, Bulldog Buddies Preschool 

• Lisa Kosiara, Winfield Elementary