Northpoint Secretary/Treasurer Named 2026 Employee of the Year

Carly Taylor thought she was heading to the Northpoint Elementary School library to help Principal Lorraine White with an issue. Instead, she walked into a room filled with second graders, colleagues, and cameras, all there to surprise her with the news that she had been named Penn-Harris-Madison’s 2026 Employee of the Year.

The celebration, organized by Principal White, included Superintendent Dr. Heather Short, district administrators, and members of the Central Office Business Department. Students added to the excitement by joyfully shouting “SURPRISE!” as Taylor entered the library. Click to watch the video below.

Following the announcement, Taylor, known for her humility, was met with an outpouring of appreciation. Principal White shared the news over the school’s PA system, prompting students and staff throughout the building to stop and congratulate her. The celebration continued with a “brag walk” through the school, with Taylor wearing Northpoint’s “MVP brag tag.” Click to see a full photo gallery in Canto.

Taylor began her career with P-H-M in August 2019 as a teacher’s aide. After a brief time away, she returned to Northpoint in September 2021 and now serves as the school’s Secretary/Treasurer. She says one of the most meaningful parts of her role is the opportunity to support others.

“I am proud to be part of such an incredible team,” Taylor said. “I appreciate being able to witness the heart and commitment our school pours into the care, support, and growth of our students and families.”

Affectionately known as the “heart and brains” of the building, Taylor was nominated by third grade teacher Molly O’Rear.

“She manages countless responsibilities with remarkable efficiency and grace,” O’Rear said. “She is the calm, steady presence our staff relies on and someone who truly goes above and beyond every single day.”

Taylor’s impact extends far beyond traditional office responsibilities. She coordinates substitute coverage, manages purchasing during high-demand times such as testing season, and supports staff in ways that often go unseen. She also plays a key role in organizing and supporting more than a dozen afterschool programs, ensuring schedules, communication, and logistics run smoothly for students and families.

Her work has supported major initiatives at Northpoint, including the school earning its STEM certification. Taylor helped organize scheduling, purchasing, and materials for the STEM lab, while also supporting implementation alongside school leadership. She has also been instrumental in coordinating Northpoint’s growing involvement in LEGO competitions, managing logistics for multiple teams, coaches, and students.

Her professionalism and attention to detail have earned her respect not only at Northpoint, but across the district. Through her work managing school finances and operations, Taylor collaborates closely with the Business Department and has provided valuable feedback to support the implementation of a new financial purchasing program. She is also a trusted resource for colleagues across multiple schools and frequently assists fellow secretaries and treasurers.

“Carly exemplifies what it means to lead from where you are,” said Superintendent Dr. Heather Short. “Her attention to detail, her willingness to support others, and her commitment to excellence make a meaningful difference across our district, helping ensure our schools run smoothly so our teachers can focus on student learning.”

Beyond her operational leadership, Taylor has made a lasting impact on school culture. This year, she introduced a staff “shout out” initiative, encouraging employees to recognize one another through handwritten notes.

Just as important as her behind-the-scenes work is the way she connects with people. Taylor is often the first face families see when they walk through Northpoint’s doors, setting a welcoming tone for the entire building.

“Carly is the first warm smile families see when they walk through our doors and the calm, steady presence our staff depends on every day,” said Principal White. “She anticipates needs before they arise, solves problems with professionalism, and treats every student, parent, and colleague with genuine kindness and respect. Her dedication and integrity make her incredibly deserving of this honor.”

Taylor is also a proud P-H-M parent, with a student at Discovery Middle School.

Each spring, P-H-M honors a Secondary Teacher of the Year, Elementary Teacher of the Year, and an Employee of the Year.

Penn High School Spanish Teacher Kelley Watts was named the district’s 2026 Secondary Teacher of the Year on Thursday April 30, 2026.  

Fourth grade teacher Josie Engdahl was named Elementary Teacher of the Year earlier in the day on Friday, May 1. 

All three honorees will be formally recognized at P-H-M’s annual Employee Recognition & Retiree Dinner on Wednesday, May 20. The Teachers of the Year will go on to compete for Indiana Teacher of the Year, which will be announced in Fall 2026 by the Indiana Department of Education. The P-H-M Education Foundation awards each Teacher of the Year a $1,000 grant and gift card to the Employee of the Year.