FORT WAYNE — Jason Witzigreuter, Associate Director of Bands at Homestead High School in Fort Wayne, has been named the 2027 Indiana Teacher of the Year.
“Our state’s strength has always come from people who are dedicated to their work and their communities,” said Governor Mike Braun. “Mr. Witzigreuter’s recognition as Indiana Teacher of the Year embodies that commitment through his grit, humility, and unwavering dedication to students. His work reminds us that strong communities are built in the classroom.”
Witzigreuter works with students in all grade levels at Homestead High School, as well as provides small-group instruction at the local middle school, helping to prepare students for high school band. Currently, Witzigreuter directs the high school’s Freshman Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble 1, and the Spartan Alliance Marching Band. He also assists with the Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, and sixth through eighth grade middle school bands. His 28-year tenure in K-12 education has gone beyond the classroom, where he served as principal at two different high schools in northwest Indiana before returning to his roots as a teacher.
“Mr. Witzigreuter’s passion and love for his work, his school, and his students is clear to everyone he meets,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “As one of his former teachers described, he exemplifies the highest calling of a teacher: not only does he impart knowledge, he helps build better human beings. Congratulations to Mr. Witzigreuter on being named Indiana’s 2027 Teacher of the Year, and thank you to Homestead High School for sharing such a remarkable educator with the state.”
His jazz bands have received top recognition at multiple jazz festivals, and Witzigreuter’s concert, jazz, and marching bands have scored consistent superior ratings and top honors at state and national competitions. Under Witzigreuter’s leadership, Homestead students have performed at Lucas Oil Stadium with the Spartan Alliance Band, the ISSMA State Jazz Finals, and the internationally renowned Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference.
“Mr. Witzigreuter’s greatest impact is found in the relationships he builds with students. He is a gifted motivator who inspires students to strive for excellence while ensuring they feel valued and supported,” said Adam Swinford, Principal of Homestead High School. “His influence reaches far beyond the classroom, positively shaping the lives of countless students while strengthening our entire school community.”
Witzigreuter earned his Bachelor of Science in Instrumental Music from Ball State University and his Master of Education and principal licensure from Indiana Wesleyan University. Prior to this recognition as 2027 Indiana Teacher of the Year, Witzigreuter was selected as a winner of the 2025 Quinlan and Fabish Michiana Outstanding Music Educator Award, the 2026 Homestead High School Teacher of the Year, and the 2026 Southwest Allen County Schools Teacher of the Year.
As Indiana Teacher of the Year, Witzigreuter will work to help elevate the teaching profession in Indiana and represent Hoosier teachers statewide.
For over 60 years, the Indiana Teacher of the Year program has recognized outstanding teachers across the state who are making a difference for Hoosier students. With the mission of inspiring, rejuvenating, and celebrating the teaching profession, the program encourages schools to nominate their local Teachers of the Year for this statewide honor.
More information about the Indiana Teacher of the Year program is available on the Indiana Department of Education’s website.
