Recapping the 2026 IMS Heart of the School Awards

At the end of each school year, we invite school leaders and Central Office team members to nominate colleagues for our annual IMS Heart of the School Awards. The recipients are announced at the conclusion of the school year and formally recognized at our opening professional development event the following year. The highlights shared during the recognition celebration are drawn directly from the nomination forms, allowing us to celebrate these individuals through the words and experiences of the colleagues who know them best.

The St. John Neumann Teacher Impact Award recognizes educators who demonstrate instructional excellence, use innovative best practices to improve student learning, inspire students to become lifelong learners, and positively impact their colleagues and students. The St. Katharine Drexel Award recognizes any IMS employee whose outstanding service, commitment, and dedication go above and beyond the expectations of their role, embodying the heart of IMS through self-sacrifice, kindness, and a positive attitude. The Angel of the Catholic School Award honors volunteers whose dedication and commitment embrace and enhance the vision of Catholic education within an IMS school or across the network. Finally, the Christ the Teacher Award recognizes an IMS School Leader who demonstrates Christ-like leadership through faith-centered leadership, mission-driven stewardship, and the formation of a strong, faith-filled community and culture. Together, these awards celebrate the people who bring the mission of IMS to life through excellence, service, faith, and leadership.

Congratulations to all of our recipients!

 

Carmen Irizarry, St. Veronica
Marina Musgrove-Pyfrom, St. Barnabas
Amy Welsh, DePaul
Yudenia Nunez, St. Helena-Incarnation
Raini Fernandez, St. Thomas Aquinas
Yolanda Haynes, Central Office

Arlen Daniels, St. Raymond
Karen Hamil, St. Frances Cabrini
Officer Arnold Mitchell, St. Barnabas

Colleen McKenzie