Welcome to the IPS Employee Spotlight, where we shine a light on the dedicated individuals who make a significant impact on our district. In this engaging Q&A session, Stephen S. Gainey, Dean of Culture and Climate at Charles Warren Fairbanks School 105.
Stephen has spent more than 28 years in public education, including 23 years with MSD Warren Township as both a teacher and administrator, before joining Indianapolis Public Schools in 2020. Over his career, he has taught grades 1 through 5 and served in multiple leadership roles, including dean, assistant principal, principal, and union president.
Stephen has built a strong foundation in education through years of continued learning. He earned a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cincinnati Christian University in 1993 and a second bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University in 1998. He later completed a master's degree in Educational Administration at Ball State University and an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership at Vanderbilt University, which he expects to complete in 2027.
In January 2026, he was a recipient of the IPS Luminary Award for “Integrity in Action,†an honor that recognizes staff for upholding high standards of professionalism and clear communication
Why is education important to you, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
My connection to education is deeply personal. My siblings and I attended Charles W. Fairbanks School 105. As the fourth of five siblings, I have had the privilege of serving as Dean of Culture & Climate for the past six years. Next to my parents, the teachers at Fairbanks had the greatest influence on me. The teachers and principals I encountered inspired me to pursue a career in education. I wanted to provide the next generation with the same sense of support, encouragement, and possibility.
How do you approach your job daily, and what strategies help you stay motivated and effective?
Every day, I focus on investing in people, building relationships, and inspiring others to realize their potential. Whether supporting students, staff, or families, I believe true leadership starts with listening, being present, and making others feel valued. I aim to create an environment where individuals can succeed, collaborate to solve problems, and feel supported in their development.
One approach that keeps me motivated and effective is to focus on both results and people. Schools thrive when they have strong teams, clear expectations, and a shared purpose. I think it's crucial to help others develop skills, build confidence, and become leaders. When individuals feel empowered and supported, they tend to grow, contribute more, and positively influence those around them.
I stay motivated by recognizing that our work has a lasting impact beyond the moment. Each conversation, decision, and act of support can significantly affect a student, colleague, or family member. This awareness keeps me grounded, focused, and dedicated to leading beyond my official role and to fostering opportunities for others to succeed.
What advice would you give to new educators or staff members joining IPS to help them succeed and feel valued in their roles?
My advice for new educators and staff at Indianapolis Public Schools is to focus on students in all your actions and recognize that building relationships is key to success. Transition your mindset from “me†to “we.†The most effective schools foster teamwork, trust, and a common dedication to student achievement. Invest time in establishing genuine connections with students, families, colleagues, and community members, as these relationships create the basis for learning, a sense of belonging, and lasting success.
I also encourage new staff members to appreciate collaboration and acknowledge that each person offers distinct strengths, talents, and perspectives. Success is a collective effort. The most effective ideas come from listening, learning from each other, and working together to bring a shared vision to life. When individuals feel valued and supported, they are more inclined to develop, contribute, and stay committed to the work.
Most importantly, keep in mind that people might forget specific meetings, projects, or initiatives, but they will always remember how they were treated and how they felt. Ultimately, the most important thing is the relationships you develop with students, families, and colleagues. These connections give purpose to your work and lead to a lasting impact.
What does it mean to you to be a recipient of the Luminary Award?
Receiving the January 2026 IPS Luminary Award for Integrity in Action is especially meaningful to me because it embodies the core values that guide my daily work. While I have been honored before, this award is particularly significant because it emphasizes professionalism, service, integrity, and clear communication—key elements of effective leadership. Without these qualities, establishing trust, building strong relationships, and making a lasting impact become challenging.
This recognition is especially meaningful because it came from colleagues and community members who took the time to acknowledge the impact of my work. It's humbling and affirming to know that others see me as a leader who acts with purpose, upholds high standards, and genuinely supports students and staff.Â
The award reminds me that true leadership is about more than achieving results; it also involves how you treat people, communicate, and help others see their potential. I am honored to be recognized as someone who “makes common sense common practice†and who leads with purpose, possibility, and promise. Receiving this award motivates me to continue serving students, staff, and families with integrity and to demonstrate what is possible across Indianapolis Public Schools.
