Meet Coach Carolyn

  1. Updates
Hello everyone, my name is Carolyn Themel and I am the Playworks program coordinator at Sense (Southeast Neighborhood School of Excellence) Charter School in Indiana.  One interesting thing about Sense Charter is that it was a drum manufacturing facility before it was converted into a school.  I have seen an immense change from when I first started; I love seeing the transformation within my school and students.  I look forward to continually introducing new games to my students and watch as they “try it on” and make games of their own.  
 
My favorite recess game so far is Hot Shot Soccer.  My kids really love shooting penalty shots and we have a competition going on to see who can block the most shots on cones.   
 
There were many things that drew me to Playworks: I love coaching kids because it is immensely rewarding to help instill an athletic skill, personal confidence and achievement within another person. I am a big advocate against bullying, and I love that Playworks is committed to building character through recess and inclusion.  

More Updates


June 4, 2025

10 Games to Get Kids Moving ›

Kids need physical activity, and play is one of the most effective and joyful ways to make it happen. Whether it’s during recess, in the classroom, or at home, active…

April 11, 2025

OneAmerica and Playworks: Advocates for Play and Youth Development in Indiana and Wisconsin ›

Over the past several years Playworks has been grateful to partner with OneAmerica Financial to bring impactful and meaningful change to children in Wisconsin and Indiana. Our partnership is rooted…

March 24, 2025

How Play Fuels Academic Success ›

One of the most impactful ways to support student learning starts with play.  At Playworks, we’ve seen firsthand how the benefits of play extend far beyond recess time. When kids…