Former Plymouth Schools Superintendent Daniel Tyree was awarded a Sagamore of the Wabash award during a retirement party in his honor on Saturday. Presenting the award on behalf of Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb was the Commissioner of Indiana’s Department of Revenue and former PHS student, Adam Krupp.
The Sagamore of the Wabash award was created by former Governor Ralph Gates in the mid 1940’s. The term “sagamore” was first used by American Indian Tribes to describe a great man that the chief would look for wisdom and advice.
Tyree retired after 41 years in education, 38 at Plymouth. Among other things, he taught speech and debate, directed plays, coached high school competitive speech teams, served as an assistant principal, assistant superintendent, and retired as superintendent.
The retirement party, attended by friends, family, and many former students, was hosted by his wife Charlotte and children Katie, Nancy, and Jon.
Krupp shared his experience as a high school sophomore and being recruited by Tyree to join the Speech and Debate team. He said, “I was even afraid to speak in class to twenty people.” Krupp credited Tyree for coaching him to achieve many state championships before he graduated in 1997 and for his continuing support and advice. He praised Tyree for his leadership in the schools and the community which prompted his being awarded the Sagamore.
Krupp said, “Such an honor to welcome my teacher, coach, and 20 plus years to the club. Governor Holcomb made a rock solid selection.” He added, “The best speech coach Indiana has ever seen, and an incredibly innovative superintendent leaves a 40 plus year career of excellence in public education and administration as a Hoosier legend.”
Speaking to the some 150 guests, Tyree said, “ I never expected anything like this.” After the event, Tyree said, “I have had a lot of good things happen to me in my life, but being named a Sagamore by the Governor has to be one of the best since it was presented by a former student.”
By Carol Anders Correspondent
