Quest Federal Credit Union took the time at the end of the school year to recognize the dedication and tireless efforts that teachers expend to mentor the next generation, extending a token of the community’s appreciation.

The eighth annual Logan County Teacher of the Year Awards were presented to seven local educators during a luncheon at Bella Vino Events & Wine Room, catered by Six Hundred Downtown.

“We truly appreciate all that these educators do for their school districts and communities. Many nominations described their daily efforts to bettering students’ lives. Your hard work does not go unnoticed,” Quest Federal Credit Union representatives said.

The 2026 Teacher of the Year Award recipients are: Andy Cotrell - West Liberty-Salem Local Schools; Ben Brockway - Ohio Hi-Point Career Center;
Morgan Ebbeskotte - Bellefontaine City Schools;
 Julie Grider - Indian Lake Local Schools; Jennifer Wylie - Calvary Christian School; Ellie Johnson - Riverside Local Schools; and Kevin Butler - Benjamin Logan Schools.

Mr. Cotrell, who teaches several sections of high school algebra courses at West Liberty-Salem, was nominated by his students, Cooper Titus and Mckayla Reames, for the care, humility and accountability he shows to every student, not just those who sit in his classroom.

Students shared that “Mr. Cotrell goes above and beyond every day. He is dedicated to his students and West Liberty-Salem as a whole and goes out of his way to not only teach math, but also basic life and job skills that show us we can do anything after high school.”

They also praised the way he encourages every student to value their future path, whether that means continuing their education or entering the workforce directly after graduation.


“Mr. Cotrell’s impact reaches far beyond algebra, and this recognition is incredibly well deserved,” school officials said.

Mr. Brockway is a criminal justice instructor at Ohio Hi-Point Career Center.

“It’s a true honor to see that the children care so much about us,” he said. “It’s also an honor to be surrounded by fellow teachers who you can see giving the same amount of effort, time and caring.

“It makes you feel that there’s other teachers out there that you can rely on and talk to and you can boost each other.”

Mrs. Ebbeskotte, kindergarten teacher at Bellefontaine Elementary School, was nominated by numerous parents and selected for her compassion, patience and dedication to helping every child grow. She creates a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and confident each and every day.

“Now in her 10th year of

teaching and seventh year at BCS, Morgan exemplifies the heart of Bellefontaine City Schools. We are incredibly proud to celebrate her and the difference she makes in the lives of her students every day,” school officials said.

The Teacher of the Year Award was part of a month of milestones for Mrs. Grider, who also stepped into her retirement from Indian Lake Schools.

“My journey began here (at Indian Lake) as a kindergarten student, evolved into 34 years as an eighth-grade science teacher and included 14 years as volleyball coach. As I step into retirement, I am closing a chapter filled with joy, purpose, friendship and unforgettable memories,” the ILHS alumni said. 



“I have been blessed to teach more than 3,400 students, coach amazing athletes and work alongside incredible co-workers who became lifelong friends. Middle school students will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will forever cherish the laughter, lessons, challenges, and memories we shared.”

District officials said Mrs. Grider’s receipt of the Quest Federal Credit Union Teacher of the Year Award honors “her many years of guiding students with high expectations and genuine care.”


Mrs. Wylie serves as high school English teacher and guidance counselor at Calvary Christian School.

“Anyone who knows Mrs. Wylie knows how much she pours into Calvary every single day. From the way she leads and encourages others to the way she cares for students, staff and families so deeply, this recognition is so well deserved,” school officials stated.

“We’re incredibly thankful for all the heart, time and love she gives to this school and community.”

An elementary intervention specialist at Riverside, Mrs. Johnson was nominated by a parent of one of her students, who shared how Mrs. Johnson’s years of dedication, belief and hard work have led to an enormous growth in their child's confidence and skill levels.

“We are thrilled, proud and incredibly honored to announce that Riverside’s very own Mrs. Ellie Johnson has been named a Quest Federal Credit Union Logan County Teacher of the Year,” Riverside officials said.


“While her academic data clearly shows the phenomenal progress her students make year after year, Mrs. Johnson brings so much more to Riverside than just impressive academic growth for students. Her infectious positivity, ‘never give up’ attitude and team-first mentality lift up everyone around her — students and staff alike.”

An eighth-grade math teacher and high school boys track and cross country coach, Mr. Butler has dedicated 30 years to education. Student nominations described Butler as kind, caring, respected and deeply committed to helping students succeed.

One nomination shared that “Mr. Butler is a very kind teacher who makes it a goal to make you a better person,” while another noted that he “always cares for his students and helps to make them better.” Students also highlighted his willingness to support those who are struggling and his ability to make school meaningful and enjoyable.

Beyond the classroom, Butler has served as a coach, mentor and leader for Benjamin Logan student-athletes. In his role with the high school boys track and cross country programs, he has helped build a culture of hard work, discipline, teamwork and Raider pride.

“Kevin Butler represents the very best of Benjamin Logan,” said Sally Stolly, Director of

Administrative Services. “For 30 years, he has invested in students not only as learners, but as people. His influence reaches far beyond the classroom through his leadership, coaching, encouragement, and steady commitment to helping students grow.”