FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONTEZUMA, IN – Indiana Agriculture & Technology School (IATS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Janine Sutton as School Leader of Montezuma Elementary – an Indiana Agriculture & Technology School.
Sutton brings more than 24 years of experience in elementary education, including the past two decades serving students and families at Montezuma Elementary School. A dedicated educator, mentor, and community leader, she has taught kindergarten, first grade, Title I reading, and fifth grade throughout her career while building a reputation for creating engaging, student-centered learning environments and fostering strong relationships with families.
“Janine brings a tremendous depth of educational experience, a strong knowledge base, and deep roots within the Montezuma community. Throughout this process, we’ve consistently heard how excited families and community members are about the possibility of her leading the school,” said Keith Marsh, Executive Director of Indiana Agriculture & Technology School. “We are confident in her ability to continue learning, growing, and providing strong leadership as we build an exceptional educational experience for our students.”
Throughout her career, Sutton has demonstrated a commitment to student success both inside and outside the classroom. In addition to teaching, she has served on school improvement teams, participated in Professional Learning Communities, helped implement Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), mentored students and staff, coached youth athletics, and led numerous family engagement events and programs. She also served as a member of the Parent Teacher Organization, including one year as PTO President.
As a Title I Reading Teacher, Sutton provided intervention services across all grade levels and assisted in the development of the school’s Title I plan for six years. Her collaborative approach has included working closely with families, special education staff, and support personnel to ensure all students receive the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.
“I am incredibly excited to join the Montezuma Elementary – IATS family,” said Sutton. “I believe that a successful school is built on strong relationships among students, parents, staff and the community. I hope to do what is best for students, while making them feel valued and challenged. I am honored to be given this opportunity.”
Sutton earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education from Indiana State University and a Master of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana Wesleyan University. She holds Indiana teaching licenses in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education and maintains certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI).
Sutton joins a growing team of professionals preparing for the school’s August opening. Recently announced staff members include Cierra Earley and Shirley Fellows, who will serve as Office Managers/Administrative Assistants, Karen Barnes, who will serve as Transportation Director, and Kendal Jeffers who will serve as the Food Service Manager. Additional hiring is currently underway for academic teachers and the school is actively seeking school bus drivers to join its transportation team. IATS leaders look forward to introducing additional team members as they are selected and begin preparing to serve Montezuma students and families.
Located at 459 East Strawberry Road in Montezuma, Indiana, Montezuma Elementary – IATS will open in August 2026 and is currently enrolling students in grades Pre-K through 6. The tuition-free public charter school represents an important step in preserving the legacy of Montezuma Elementary School while expanding opportunities for local students and families.
The elementary program will combine strong academic foundations with hands-on, real-world learning experiences, including agriculture-centered instruction, STEM-focused math and science, a strong emphasis on literacy, project-based learning, and student support services. The school will provide transportation, instructional materials at no cost to families, and maintain a targeted 20:1 student-to-teacher ratio to support personalized learning. Community response has already been strong, with enrollment exceeding initial pre-enrollment goals for the 2026-2027 school year.
“From the beginning, our goal has been to honor the history of Montezuma Elementary while creating new opportunities for future generations of students,” said Marsh. “Janine’s leadership, experience, and commitment to this community make her the perfect person to help carry that vision forward.”
For more information about Montezuma Elementary and enrollment opportunities, visit www.IATSME.com.
About Indiana Agriculture & Technology School
The Indiana Agriculture & Technology School is a tuition-free public charter school serving elementary, middle and high school students across Indiana. With campuses and programs in Evansville, Trafalgar, Rensselaer, Greencastle, Fort Wayne, and now Montezuma, IATS provides innovative, career-focused education that blends academics with hands-on learning in agriculture, technology, and environmental sciences. Through personalized learning and real-world experiences, IATS helps students gain real-world skills and prepare for success in college, careers, and beyond.