With the 2024-2025 school year kicking off, you may have noticed some new faces around the building. Madison Consolidated High School is welcoming a wave of educators and staff members, each bringing unique backgrounds, skills, and enthusiasm to the school community. From seasoned professionals to fresh graduates, these new team members are set to make a significant impact on both students and the broader school environment. With a commitment to fostering academic excellence and creating a supportive atmosphere, they are eager to contribute to the ongoing success of Madison Consolidated High School.
One of the new educators is Mrs. Kindle, a first-year teacher instructing Family Consumer Science and Culinary. She had been interested in teaching for a few years, and now, as she puts it, “the stars finally aligned” for her to apply and join the MCHS family. When asked what her favorite thing about teaching is, she stated, “The hope that I get to teach young people a much-needed life skill.” Kindle also mentioned that her favorite part of teaching at MCHS so far is when students stop by to say hello, even when it’s not their class time. A lifelong Madison resident, she knew that if she taught, it would be at MCHS.
Next is Mrs. Meadors, who teaches English to 9th through 11th graders and has eight years of teaching experience. She previously taught at Switzerland County High School from 2003 to 2011 but was drawn to MCHS because “there seems to be many opportunities for students and teachers.” She added, “I enjoy working at Madison Consolidated Schools because everyone is on the same team. We have the same goals in mind, and that’s making sure our students are getting the best education possible.” Meadors’ favorite aspect of teaching is seeing students work hard and become successful.
Also joining the team this year is Mrs. Means, who teaches JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) for 9th and 10th graders. Means was particularly interested in teaching at MCHS due to the school’s top-notch JAG program, saying, “When the expansion happened and another program was added, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.” Though she is a first-year teacher, Means originally pursued teaching in college but ended up in a different field after graduation. Reflecting on her return to education, she shared, “Years later in the corporate world, I realized I would be more fulfilled back in the school environment working with young people.”
Mr. Gee, who is teaching Algebra 1, has been in education for six years and comes to MCHS from Gallatin County High School. His favorite part of teaching at MCHS is being able to have lunch with his mother, Mrs. Gee, every day. “I have also truly enjoyed working with the teachers and students so far this year,” he added. Mr. Gee was excited about the opportunity to not only teach students but also to coach at MCHS.
Michelle Wallior is another new face at MCHS, serving as a speech-language pathologist (SLP). Wallior helps individuals who struggle with speech, language, and other communication disorders. This is her 10th year working as an SLP in schools. She explained her role, saying, “As an SLP, our school assignments are not always within our control. This year I am actually assigned to three sites (MCHS, Rykers’ Ridge, and Deputy). I did not ‘choose’ the high school so much as there was a need, and I was happy to fill it. However, I actively choose to work in the schools (rather than a private clinic) because I am passionate about public education. The right of every child in this country to access an education is crucial to our success as a society. Many individuals who need the support of an SLP do not have the funds (or lack the time, transportation, etc.) to seek out those services independently. I find it deeply rewarding to be able to help make my services accessible to all who need them.”
The school also welcomes Mrs. Douglas as the new Attendance Clerk. She comes from a background in daycare and says her favorite part of the job is getting to know everyone. She was drawn to this role because it allows her to continue working with kids while having a schedule that aligns better with her own children’s needs.
Another new addition is Mr. Huff, who teaches Biology 1, Biology 2, and Medical Terminology. A Madison graduate and coach, this is his first year teaching, though he has been coaching tennis for four years. Huff’s favorite part of teaching is connecting with students and sharing his knowledge of biology. He said, “It is exciting when students can connect something to their own lives. Besides teaching, it would be coaching the tennis team.” He was inspired to become a teacher after serving as a Microbiology teaching assistant at Ivy Tech and as an assistant coach at MCHS.
Second to last, we have Mrs. Greene, who teaches Biology 1 and is a first-year teacher. “My mother has been a teacher for the past 33 years. She always told me that I would make a great teacher. I finally listened to my mother—somehow they are always right—and this has been one of the best decisions I have ever made,” Mrs. Greene stated when asked what made her want to teach. Her favorite thing so far is seeing her students every day. She worked in the pharmaceutical industry for six years before deciding it was time for a change.
Lastly, we have Mr. Bledsoe, the substitute for ninth- and 10th-grade English for the foreseeable future. “I came here because there was an English teacher shortage, and I have a degree in English,” he said when asked why he came here. He is also helping with the football team while he is here. This is his 47th year teaching, and his favorite thing about it is all the different and unique students—seeing them grow, develop, and improve their skills, and then seeing them years later being successful. Education has always been important to him, as his mother was a teacher.
MCHS has gained quite a few new employees, each bringing their personality, intelligence, and teamwork to Madison for another great year. Be sure to welcome these amazing teachers and staff to our campus.
*Not interviewed: Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Hereford
