Title: Middle School Linguistics Specialist for Curriculum Development
Company: IPS Key Learning Community
Location: Noblesville, Indiana, United States
Beth Ann Lively, Middle School Linguistics Specialist at IPS Key Learning Community, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Educators for dedication, achievements and leadership in Education.
Ms. Lively’s distinguished career in education spans more than three decades, marked by her commitment to innovative teaching and curriculum development. Most recently, she served as a middle school linguistics specialist and curriculum developer at IPS Key Learning Community until her retirement in 2012. Over more than 15 years, Ms. Lively played a pivotal role in shaping the English program after helping to establish the middle school. She joined the initiative at its inception, embracing progressive educational models that contrasted with her earlier experiences in Catholic education.
Ms. Lively’s intuitive approach to teaching paralleled that of university professors, a realization that deepened her connection to the Key Learning Community and contributed to the school’s reputation for pioneering projects and creative writing programs. Many of these initiatives have since become standard practice in mainstream education, particularly the writing model, which demonstrated that anyone can be taught to write or create art.
Before her tenure at IPS Key Learning Community, Ms. Lively was an adjunct professor in the English department at Indiana University in Indianapolis from 1986 to 1993. During this period, she participated in groundbreaking writing instruction that garnered international attention and influenced educational models abroad, including in Thailand. Ms. Lively led efforts to explore diverse writing methodologies and organized student writing contests, overseeing the editing of a journal published to showcase student talent. Her leadership extended beyond the classroom, as she served as president of the associate faculty at Indiana University-Purdue Indianapolis.
Earlier in her career, Ms. Lively spent over a decade in Catholic education, where she refined her instructional skills and laid a strong foundation for her later work in public schools. Her professional background also included experience as a water safety instructor and a house parent for juvenile delinquents. These roles equipped Ms. Lively with unique insights into adolescent development and prepared her for the challenges of middle school education.
Ms. Lively’s academic achievements include a bachelor’s degree in English literature and drama from the University of Evansville and a master’s degree from Indiana University. During college, she spent one season as a competitive swimmer. She also participated in intramural sports throughout her college years, reflecting a lifelong passion for athletics that began when she helped form Noblesville High School’s first girls’ basketball team. These experiences fostered resilience and adaptability, qualities that would define Ms. Lively’s teaching career.
In addition to her education, Ms. Lively’s professional growth has included involvement with the National Education Association, formerly known as the National Teachers Association. Today, she remains active through her membership in Kappa Kappa Kappa Inc.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ms. Lively has made significant contributions as a writer and thought leader. She authored a chapter about Key School in ‘The Lights Are On, Is Anybody Home? Education in America.’ Edited by a college professor, this project earned her recognition alongside her colleagues. Among other involvements, Ms. Lively is involved in civic work as a lifelong musician and artist, volunteering her talents at hospitals, schools and church services, including cantoring at mass.
Ms. Lively manages a farm alongside her sister, continuing traditions instilled by their mother, who encouraged active engagement with life well into advanced age. Driven by an unwavering motivation to make a difference, she intends to maintain her health while continuing her personal pursuits in retirement.
For more information, please visit:
Contact Ms. Lively: