News Release

Heather Reichenbach

INDIANAPOLIS — Heather Reichenbach, president of the Warsaw Community Schools Board of Trustees, has been named school board member of the year for 2025 by the Indiana School Boards Association.

A former teacher and lifelong advocate for education, she has served on the Warsaw school board since January 2015. Now in her ninth consecutive year as board president, she is commended for fostering a culture of collaboration, respect and open communication, while guiding the district as it adapts to changing demographics and needs. Reichenbach credits former board president Jennifer Tandy, her board colleagues, Warsaw Superintendent David Hoffert and her parents, for shaping her leadership style.

During her tenure, she has championed initiatives such as expanding professional development and tuition support for educators, helping launch and sustain the district’s dual language immersion program, establishing an employee health clinic and efforts to ensure competitive salaries. She is most proud of the district’s broad academic and career opportunities for students, growth in STEM education aligned with local industry, Tiger Ambassador program and partnerships with the community.

Reichenbach said receiving the statewide honor is both humbling and deeply meaningful.

“This award reflects the collective success of our district, the dedication of our staff, the commitment of my board colleagues and the unwavering support of my husband, Brian, and our children, Jonah and Claire,” she said. “I hope my school board service highlights the vital role public schools play in building strong, vibrant communities.”

Her advice to future board members is to “be more curious” — to ask questions with an open mind, always assuming good intentions. Looking ahead, her vision for the Warsaw Community Schools is that every student and staff member feels a sense of belonging at school, where they can grow and thrive in a supportive learning environment.

The Indiana Outstanding Board Service Award is conferred annually by the Indiana School Boards Association to one school board member out of the 1,686 school board members in Indiana who exemplifies effective school board governance. Chosen by fellow school board members, the winner is recognized during the annual fall conference of the Indiana School Boards Association and the Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents.

In addition to the statewide award, several school board members were recognized as Regional Outstanding Board Service Award winners for each of ISBA’s 10 geographical regions.