Franklin Township Community School Corporation (FTCSC) is excited to welcome Brian Proctor as the new Principal of New Bethel Elementary and Sarah Puckett as the Assistant Principal of Adams Elementary.

With 25 years in public education, including 17 in educational leadership, Brian brings a wealth of experience and a student-centered approach focused on building meaningful relationships, supporting instructional excellence, and fostering a positive school culture.

Brian spent much of his educational career in the Center Grove Community School Corporation, serving as principal of North Grove Elementary from 2008 to 2018 and Walnut Grove Elementary from 2018 to 2022. At Walnut Grove, Brian led the planning, construction, and opening of the new elementary school in 2019. His responsibilities included staff recruitment, coordinating school-opening logistics, and collaborating with design teams to create innovative learning environments. His experience in developing a new school community will be especially valuable as New Bethel continues to build upon its foundation and establish traditions.

Before his time in Center Grove, Brian served as assistant principal at Forest Dale Elementary in Carmel Clay Schools and taught at both the elementary and middle school levels in Clark-Pleasant Community Schools.

Most recently, Brian served as an Associate Principal and K–12 Practice Area Leader with RATIO Design, partnering with school districts and educational leaders across Indiana and the nation on educational visioning, facility planning, and the design of modern learning environments.

"We are excited to add Brian to an already strong group of principals. His experience and passion for building strong school communities make him exactly the type of leader we were looking for," said FTCSC Superintendent Dr. Chase Huotari. "We are excited to welcome him to the FTCSC Flashes Community and look forward to him Making a Difference alongside the students, staff, and families of New Bethel." 

“After 25 years in education, I've learned that the most important thing we can give a child is the feeling that they belong, that they matter, and that someone believes in them,” Brian shared. “That's what I've missed most about being a principal. I'm excited to be back where my heart has always been, alongside students, teachers, and families. My commitment is simple: to listen, to lead with heart, and to work together to make New Bethel a place where every child is known, every voice is valued, and our entire school community continues learning and growing together.” 

Brian earned his bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University Bloomington, as well as a master's degree in Elementary Education and administrative licensure from Indiana Wesleyan University.

His commitment to educational leadership extends beyond the schools he has served. From 2016 to 2023, Proctor served on the Board of Directors for District 9 of the Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP), including previous service as District 9 President and Treasurer.

With his passion for student success, relationship-building, and Meaningful Collaboration, Proctor brings a leadership approach that aligns with FTCSC's commitment to Making A Difference through Purposeful Learning and Meaningful Collaboration.

With nearly 20 years of experience in education, Puckett brings a strong background in classroom instruction, student support, and educational leadership, along with a passion for helping all students succeed.

Sarah is a familiar face within our FTCSC Flashes Community, most recently serving as the Assistant Director at Wanamaker Early Learning Center. In that role, she supported early childhood education and helped establish strong learning foundations for our youngest Flashes.

Previously, Sarah served as a Special Education Teacher and Department Chair at Kitley Intermediate School from 2018 to 2023. During her time at Kitley, she helped lead the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) and served on the District Special Education Leadership Team, collaborating with educators to strengthen instructional practices and student support.

Her educational career also includes teaching third grade and primary special education in Indianapolis Public Schools and Clark-Pleasant Community Schools. Her commitment to student success and instructional excellence earned her recognition as Teacher of the Year in 2021.

Throughout her career, Sarah has demonstrated a commitment to Purposeful Learning by strengthening literacy instruction, supporting individualized student interventions, and creating inclusive learning environments where all students have opportunities to thrive.

Her experience includes serving on building leadership teams, mentoring future educators, leading professional development, and supporting data-driven instructional practices. She also holds an Indiana Department of Education Reading Specialist certification and Level 1 certification in Orton-Gillingham, further strengthening her expertise in literacy instruction and intervention.

"It is always a joy when we get to hire one of our own for a new leadership position." FTCSC Superintendent Dr. Chase Huotari shared. "Sarah is not only a highly qualified leader, but her family is an embedded part of our community."

Mrs. Puckett earned her Educational Leadership License and Director of Exceptional Needs License from Indiana University. She also holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Indianapolis and is licensed in Elementary Generalist (PreK–6), Mild Interventions (K–12), and Reading (K–6).

Mrs. Puckett shared, “I am incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity to serve as Assistant Principal at Adams Elementary. I look forward to building relationships with students, staff, and families, learning alongside an amazing school community, and working together to bring our district’s mission to life through purposeful learning, meaningful collaboration, and making a difference in the lives of every student. I am honored to continue serving the FTCSC Flashes Community in this new role.”

From supporting our youngest learners at WELC to collaborating with students and teachers at Kitley, Sarah's experience reflects a commitment to Purposeful Learning, Meaningful Collaboration, and Making A Difference for students and families throughout our district.

As she begins this new chapter at Adams Elementary, we are excited about the experience, leadership, and passion for student success she brings to the school community.

Please join us in congratulating Brian Proctor and Sarah Puckett on their new roles and celebrating their journey within our FTCSC Flashes Community!