The National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) has named Jacinda Mapes, an instructional coach at Southeastern Elementary in Fishers, as a finalist for its 2026 NIET Fellows cohort. The program selects educators from across the country to participate in a one-year program designed to deepen their knowledge of NIET’s improvement systems.
“I’m excited to invite Jacinda Mapes into our second cohort of the NIET Fellows Program,” NIET CEO Dr. Joshua Barnett said. “For 25 years, we have seen the work of effective educators, like those joining us in this fellows program, be the driver of success within schools, districts, and communities. We look forward to learning alongside Jacinda and this cohort by providing opportunities to elevate instructional practices and apply them within and beyond their classrooms.”
Mapes was one of 11 educators selected from a competitive pool of applicants nationwide. She has 33 years of experience in elementary education and has served in various roles, including classroom teacher, mentor, lead teacher, and master teacher. For the past six years, she has worked as an instructional coach.
“I’m thrilled to be accepted into the NIET Fellows Program and look forward to the upcoming year of learning,” Mapes said. “I believe there is no greater impact than that of a teacher. When we empower teachers to lead, they bring practical expertise that inspires others while creating long-lasting impact in our schools.”
Hamilton Southeastern Schools Superintendent Patrick Mapes praised her selection.
“Jacinda’s selection to the 2026 NIET Fellows Program recognizes her strong leadership and dedication,” he said. “Her commitment to improving instruction and supporting colleagues reflects the values we uphold at Hamilton Southeastern Schools. We’re confident this opportunity with NIET will benefit the entire school community.”
Mapes earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Ball State University. She also served on the inaugural Indiana Education Reform Cabinet.
The NIET Fellows Program was created to bring together teacher leaders who have demonstrated exceptional implementation of NIET’s principles. Throughout the year-long fellowship, participants will engage in professional development, including an introductory boot camp and attendance at the 2026 NIET National Conference and the 2026 NIET Summer Institute. Fellows will also shadow NIET Senior Specialists while maintaining their full-time positions and salaries.
Based in Phoenix, Ariz., NIET is a nonprofit organization that has partnered with schools, districts, and universities for 25 years to improve educator effectiveness. Its programs have impacted more than 350,000 educators and 3.5 million students across the U.S.
Click here for more information about the NIET Fellows Program and the 2026 cohort.