Wabash Educator Named 2025 AITJ Teacher of the Year

Wabash City Schools is proud to announce that Mr. Bill Chittenden, Japanese teacher at Wabash High School, has been selected as the 2025 Teacher of the Year by the Association of Indiana Teachers of Japanese (AITJ). This statewide honor is awarded annually to an educator who demonstrates exceptional dedication, instructional excellence, and significant contributions to the advancement of Japanese language education in Indiana.

Mr. Chittenden has long exemplified the qualities celebrated by this award. His commitment to student learning, his engaging and effective classroom practices, and his leadership within the world language community have made a meaningful impact on both Wabash High School and the broader landscape of Japanese education in Indiana. AITJ noted that his work reflects the highest standards of the profession and serves as a model for other educators across the state.

This recognition follows another notable milestone in Mr. Chittenden’s career. In 2024, he received the AITJ Rising Star Award, which honors early-career educators who demonstrate outstanding promise and leadership. In November 2025, he also began his term as President of AITJ, further underscoring his respected role within the organization. Receiving consecutive honors—each determined by votes from AITJ members—speaks to the significant influence he has had on colleagues, students, and the statewide Japanese teaching community.

“We are incredibly proud of Mr. Chittenden’s accomplishments,” said Dr. Sivley, superintendent of WCS. “His dedication to students and to the growth of world language education is evident every day in his classroom. This recognition is well deserved and brings distinction not only to his program but to Wabash Middle High School and Wabash City Schools as a whole.”

Please join us in congratulating Mr. Chittenden on this outstanding achievement. We look forward to his continued contributions to our students, our district, and the field of Japanese education in Indiana. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our families, community, and partners as we celebrate this important milestone for Wabash High School’s Japanese program.