The inspirational poster on Anessa Gross’ third grade wall sums up why she was named Greenfield-Central’s Teacher of the Year.
It reads, “Come in, get comfy, and learn something amazing!”
Because warm greetings and trust-based relationships are at the core of Anessa Gross’ teaching style.
So “get comfy” because Gross believes connection creates trust; trust creates growth; and growth creates success.
Anessa Gross’ passion was awarded with the Teacher of the Year award, a trophy given annually to GC’s best of the best.
A teacher for 15 years and lifelong Hancock County resident, Gross says Greenfield-Central schools are near and dear to her heart. She has taught for 15 years– seven years in her current position as a third grade teacher at Harris Elementary School.
Prior to that she spent a lot of time volunteering in GC schools while raising her children, both of whom graduated from here.
Now, her grandchild is a GC second grader and Gross is honored to be recognized by the corporation that she genuinely loves working for.
“Knowing that my efforts are appreciated means the world to me,” Gross said. “Being part of this community is a true privilege, and I am deeply grateful to contribute to the education and growth of our students.”
Gross says her love for learning was inspired by her dad, Herb Jewell. Though not a teacher by trade, he was a true teacher of life and had a knack for asking thoughtful questions and encouraging his family to read, listen and engage with others.
“Whenever I doubted my abilities, he would simply say, ‘Why not?’– a simple phrase that encouraged me to try, to take risks, and to see failure not as the end, but as a chance to learn and grow,” Gross shared. “I wear a necklace that my son gave me, engraved with the phrase ‘why not,’ as a reminder of his wisdom and encouragement. That little phrase has stayed with me even after I lost him four years ago, and I pass it along to my students every day because I believe in the power of curiosity and resilience.”
Gross studied elementary education at Ball State University, and that passion has grown over the years as she continues to bloom in her craft.
A recent English lesson in her third-grade classroom had students wondering how to share what they learned about oceanographer Jacques Cousteau with others. One boy raised his hand and asked if he could simply draw pictures of fish.
“Well, why did Jacques Cousteau explore the sea?” she asked him.
“To share the beauty and the mysteries of the sea with the world,” he replied.
“Exactly!” she said.
She wants students to be comfortable to take risks, and know that it’s ok to make mistakes. That’s how they learn.
The hardest part of her job is also what’s most rewarding and exciting, Gross shared. Each student learns differently, and there are a lot of personalities all in one room. She feels privileged to be in a front-row seat, watching children discover.
“Every day could be that lightbulb moment for a student,” she said. “They will show you how to love people, how to grow. Life is about connection and growth.”
Student Raven Robbins said Mrs. Gross helped her a lot last week, when she was struggling with two-step math problems.
“Now I know how to do it,” she said.
Cam Wallbrown said Mrs. Gross is kind and “just makes everything way easier.”
“She breaks it down for us so it’s easier for us,” he said. “She has a good way of teaching, loving and caring.”
GC Superintendent Dr. Harold Olin said Anessa Gross is one of the most caring adults one will ever meet. She genuinely cares about all of her students; she thoroughly knows and understands the elementary curriculum; and she helps all students build a vision for success while helping them along their journey.
“She is a fantastic listener and makes all her students feel special,” he said.
The Teacher of the Year award was announced just before school kicked off for the new year. Each GC building had a nominee for the award, and Olin said Greenfield-Central is incredibly fortunate to have many outstanding teachers throughout the corporation.
Gross’ red apple trophy for the 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year award is displayed on a filing cabinet in her room. The colorful room is full of inspirational words, including “The future of this world is in this classroom.”
Gross says wanting the best for her students means she can’t do it alone. Student success is strongest when they work together and support each other.
Some of the most meaningful growth happens when teachers and administrators work together, alongside instructional coaches and support staff at Harris Elementary.
“We share a common love for children and a commitment to helping each student reach their full potential,” she said. “All of this, our efforts, our growth, and our teamwork, contributes to strengthening the community around us. When children thrive, they become confident, caring members of our community, and I feel proud to be a part of that positive ripple effect.”
Harris Principal Sarah Greulich has been a friend and mentor to Gross, as she encourages teachers to be innovative, compassionate and deeply committed to student success.
“Her dedication to our growth as educators pushes me to be the best teacher I can be, and I am grateful to be part of a team that fosters such a positive and inspiring environment,” Gross said.
Greulich says she is incredibly proud of Gross and her recognition. She is not only a masterful teacher with engaging lessons, but she also serves as a leader at the school and mentors younger teachers.
Beyond the professional qualities, Gross also has the ability to see the unique potential in every child. She cultivates a warm, family-centered dynamic where each child recognizes the personal value they bring to the classroom.
She instills lasting confidence in her students, Greulich said.
“She fosters a deep sense of belonging to a learning community that feels truly special,” Greulich said. “Her warmth makes students feel safe to take academic risks and grow. Mrs. Gross exemplifies the right balance of heart, high expectations, and professional excellence.”
To Gross, the Teacher of the Year award is a distinction to treasure. When her name was announced as the winner, she was proud that the corporation where she’s poured her passion, heart and knowledge into every day appreciates her efforts.
“Teaching is more than a career to me, it’s a calling,” she said. “And I feel incredibly honored to be able to make a difference in the lives of my students each day.”
By Maribeth Vaughn
GC Superintendent Dr. Harold Olin said Anessa Gross is one of the most caring adults one will ever meet. She genuinely cares about all of her students.