WKCTC 2021 Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program

West Kentucky Community & Technical College 4th Annual

March 11, 2021

“Learning is not attained by chance; it must be sought for with ardour and diligence.”

Abigail Adams

West Kentucky Community and Technical College

4th Annual Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program

March 11, 2021

Welcome

Message from Dr. Anton R. Reece, President West Kentucky Community and Technical College

Masters of Ceremonies

Kevin O’Neill, Vice President of Workforce Training and Economic Development West Kentucky Community and Technical College and Lee Emmons, Vice President of Institutional Advancement West Kentucky Community & Technical College

Recognition of Sponsors

Lee Emmons,

Musical Selections

“Yellowbelly” Performed by Paducah Tilghman High School students Mason Romanak and Emma Gilbert

Featured Speaker

Kentucky Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman

Presentation of Awards

Dr. Reece, Kevin O’Neill, Lee Emmons, and Cornelia Reece, first lady of West Kentucky Community & Technical College

• • • •

President’s Awards

Dr. Reece

Closing Remarks

Dr. Reece

Distinguished Faculty Award (Pre-kindergarten - 5th grade) Distinguished Faculty Award (6th - 12th grade) Distinguished Administrator Award Cornelia Reece Unsung Hero Staff Award

Special thanks to television producer Dan Sheppard, WKCTC marketing and television department, the Clemens Fine Arts Theatre staff, and the WKCTC Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program planning committee.

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“Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.”

– Nelson Mandela

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West Kentucky Community and Technical College Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program

Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.

- Marian Wright Edelman West Kentucky Community and Technical College’s Fourth Annual Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program honors educators who have gone beyond their daily responsibilities and played a tremendous role in the shaping of education in our region and provides assistance to future educators. Specifically, the awards program seeks to: • Recognize outstanding contributions to pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, elementary, and secondary education as well as the advancement of understanding and support for continued education.

• Honor the vital role all our educators, administrators, and supporters play in education.

“The Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program is a small gesture that provides important recognition to a few of the countless educators who work tirelessly on behalf of all their students in our region,” said WKCTC President Anton Reece. “We know we have great secondary partners throughout our region who do what they do because they love it and not for recognition, but we feel they should be recognized because of the vital role they play.”

In conjunction with the awards program, a scholarship for WKCTC students studying to become educators has been established to encourage and assist our region’s future educators.

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WELCOME

Dr. Anton Reece West Kentucky Community and Technical College President Dr. Anton R. Reece was named the second president of West Kentucky Community and Technical College in August 2016, after serving 30 years in higher education.

Dr. Reece began his education career at Paducah Community College (now WKCTC) in 1990 as a minority affairs coordinator and counselor.

By the time he joined the administrative team at University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 2003, he was WKCTC’s Dean of Student Affairs and enrollment. Dr. Reece brings extensive student success, enrollment, retention and graduation expertise to WKCTC. For the past 13 years, Dr. Reece has successfully served students in various roles at the University of Tennessee, including Coordinator of Academic Support, Director of Student Activities, Executive Director of Student Success and Associate Vice Provost of Academic Affairs.

Dr. Reece is an honor graduate with a bachelor’s degree in broadcasting news and a master’s degree in counseling from Eastern Kentucky University, twenty-four hours above his master’s from Murray State University, and a doctorate in educational psychology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

FEATURED SPEAKER:

Kentucky Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman is an educator, basketball coach, writer, founder of a non-profit and the fiftyeighth lieutenant governor of Kentucky. She is wife to Chris, mom to Evelynne, adopted mom to Emma and a bonus mom to Will and Nate. Her family lives in Frankfort.

Public service is a way of life for Jacqueline and her family. She was raised to offer a hand up to those in need and, as a result, has devoted her personal and professional life to serving her community. She is a tireless advocate for public education and a strong proponent of young women stepping into leadership roles.

As a high school basketball coach, Jacqueline led her teams to five consecutive record-breaking seasons and one appearance in the Sweet 16. She earned regional Coach of the Year honors in 2015. Jacqueline’s leadership doesn’t end in the classroom or on the court. Her experience as an alumna of Emerge Kentucky drove her to found her own nonprofit, Lead Kentucky, in 2013. Most recently, Jacqueline served as an assistant principal at Nelson County High School. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Kentucky.

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West Kentucky Community and Technical College Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program

NOMINATIONS West Kentucky Community and Technical College received more than 100 nominations from students, parents and fellow colleagues recognizing the work and dedication of educators and staff in pre-kindergarten, elementary, and secondary schools throughout the region. Below is a brief statement from nominators or our honoree’s application.

2021 Distinguished Faculty (Pre-kindergarten - 5th grade)

The nominees for the 2021 Distinguished Faculty (Pre-K - 5th grade) Award are: Taylor L. Anderson, Heath Elementary School preschool teacher “The entire staff at Heath Elementary School (HES) has been excellent with my son, but Ms. Taylor has him reading full books already. He comes home happy and excited every day after school and wants to tell us about what he learned. He loves school because of Ms. Taylor! From another educator’s perspective (I teach in another school district), I know it isn’t always easy to challenge the minds of our advanced learners, but she has managed to do it effectively and this parent is so grateful. During virtual learning, she makes all of her own videos and activities and you can tell it’s genuinely what she would be doing in the classroom. It’s high quality and it’s effective. I have heard many complaints about virtual learning this year from all perspectives, but I think Ms. Taylor has mastered it. Ms. Taylor is the best!”

Taylor L. Anderson

Peyton Baker, South Marshall Elementary School third grade teacher

Peyton Baker

“Ms. Baker is a bright light to her students. She really cares about each of them and seems to truly want to see them learn and succeed. She has gone thru so many changes to provide the best education possible for them. Her classroom started in the library. After a few weeks she then was able to move back into her classroom and thru that change not a day was missed filling the kids with math, reading, social studies, and love. She will sing songs to the kids to help them learn multiplication facts or stand on her desk to get their attention. Once we had to go to NTI virtual she is on the computer every day with videos and zoom trying to connect with her kids and make sure they are understanding.

What I notice most is how much she knows about her kids lives outside of school. She really cares about them as a person and even went to each child’s house to bring them a treat for Thanksgiving. She goes beyond her job to help her students and is so loved and appreciated.”

Amanda Bishop, South Marshall Elementary School fourth grade teacher “ENERGY! That’s what Mrs. Amanda is all about! She makes learning so fun for her students! Her in-person teaching was amazing! She taught my daughter and undoubtedly others that math could be fun... Yes, math to a fourth grade girl... fun!

She loves it now and the challenges math can bring to your brain! What an inspiring individual Mrs. Amanda is. She truly changes lives everyday.”

Amanda Bishop

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2021 Distinguished Faculty: Pre-kindergarten - 5th grade (continued)

Christi Cavness, Carr Elementary School MSD teacher and special education teacher “First off, Christi is a second year special education teacher. Anyone who has been in a classroom like that knows it has its challenging days. Christi is an amazing person and teacher. She works hours and hours to provide what her students need to succeed. She puts her students first before anything else. You can tell she deeply cares for them and is willing to sacrifice anything to make them feel safe. She comes into work everyday, ready for whatever comes her way. She is always positive and is willing to take every negative situation and work at it to make it better.”

Christi Cavness

Renda D. Childress, Reidland Elementary School Read to Achieve teacher

Renda Childress

“Renda Childress goes above and beyond daily as our Read to Achieve teacher. She has a heart of gold and would do anything for any of our students. During COVID, she has worked hard reading and working virtually one-on-one with all of the students needing extra help with their reading. This is challenging during a normal school year, but Renda has stepped up, going above and beyond this year so that our students can develop their reading skills. She is an encourager of her teammates and is the first to volunteer when there is a program, activity or special project. When many were working from home, Renda was in her office at school reading virtually every hour with her students. She arrives early and stays late many days. She wants only the best for our students and works hard to give them her best.”

Beverly C. Claybrooks, Fulton County Elementary School second grade teacher “Beverly Claybrooks has been teaching in the classroom for 37 years. After a successful career in Tennessee, Beverly or Mrs. Bevo as her close friends call her, came to Kentucky to teach a few more years at Fulton County Elementary School. A decade later, Mrs. Claybrooks is still in the classroom making learning entertaining, fun, and engaging.

Her room is the room that you go to visit when you want to be inspired, or want to show new teachers how to teach reading, or when you just need to brighten your day. Her students love her and remember her even as juniors and seniors. Her lessons of learning and life stay with the students and make her a beloved teacher to all. She is a reading specialist and an outstanding educator and person.”

Beverly Claybrooks

Kimberly E. Davidson, Morgan Elementary School music teacher “Kim Davidson is our quintessential advocate for everything Morgan Elementary. As our music teacher, Kim brings so much more than just curriculum, she plans outstanding field trips to see musicals and plays for all students each year; she brings guest speakers and musicians to our school to play for our children; she facilitates a yearly musical for our third grade and extends herself on nights and weekends to provide extracurricular trips for our students to see special events throughout the region. Our students exposure and immersion into the arts is so much more meaningful because of her.”

Kimberly Davidson

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2021 Distinguished Faculty: Pre-kindergarten - 5th grade (continued)

Kandi Dawson, Murray Elementary School third grade teacher “Since 1992 (28 years), Kandi Dawson has nurtured, led and prepared third graders for their social and academic move to Murray Middle School’s fourth grade. As the mother of two daughters who are Murray High School graduates and were third grade students in Mrs. Dawson’s class, I remember how vitally important the step from Murray Elementary School to fourth grade at Murray Middle School is for a parent, and even tougher for a student to leap into fourth grade at another school.

Kandi Dawson

Having Kandi Dawson as each of my daughters’ third grade teacher created an easy transition for our girls to begin fourth grade. As parents can attribute – we are scared to let our babies move to the next step, but preparing for their academic instruction is by far the most important factor of this new educational journey.”

Kaylee A. Dickens, Concord Elementary School first grade teacher “Mrs. Dickens is a fabulous first grade teacher. My daughter is doing very well under her guidance. In addition, she’s proven to be just as good virtually. She is highly recommended.”

In her application, Dickens said sometimes in education people believe higher education classes and degrees are the only ways to show you are growing and advancing as an educator. “That has taken a dramatic turn this last year,” she said. “Educators have so many powerful outlets with online earning, Kaylee A. Dickens online conferences, online support groups, and the support and knowledge of their peers. I am so excited to be able to continue growing and learning from others and to still have the desire and drive to think outside of the box in such an unprecedented time in education.”

Jill Aileen Dobson, Concord Elementary School fifth grade teacher “Jill has the biggest heart for teaching and for her students. Teaching was and is definitely her calling. She is always there to help and to see each student succeed, no matter what it takes. She wants to make every child feel special and is such an encourager.

Jill Aileen Dobson

When I am struggling as a mom or as a “home school” teacher these days, she is always there to listen and to help and to ease my frustration. She is always willing to hear the good and the bad and is always working to be better.”

Elizabeth Preston Faughn, Concord Elementary School kindergarten teacher “Elizabeth Faughn is an amazing kindergarten teacher. She has been teaching for 20+ years and brings so much magic to learning each year. Elizabeth has always been committed to making kindergarten an experience for students and parents. She goes above and beyond to create magical experiences to go with the content. At Christmas, she gives each student a bell and always puts the box in the freezer so it can look and feel as if it arrived from the North Pole. The students that are in her class are in for a treat every day when she is teaching.”

Elizabeth Preston Faughn

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2021 Distinguished Faculty: Pre-kindergarten - 5th grade (continued)

Morgan L. Giurintano, Jonathan Elementary School certified preschool teacher Described by her nominator as ‘an amazing teacher,’ Morgan Giurintano describes learning as “an ongoing and lifelong commitment.”

“A teacher has to continually learn new and more efficient ways of teaching, explaining, and sharing content and skills with our students and others so they have a well-rounded education that is meaningful to them,” Giurintano said.

Morgan Giurintano

Aleah R. Gregory, Concord Elementary School library media specialist “Aleah has always been a great reading teacher in fourth grade, but now, she is able to touch the lives of all the students at Concord through our library program. She has breathed new life into our collection, and she has come up with genius ways to motivate our readers. Even during our virtual learning, she has made digital books available to our students at home.

We are so proud of what she has done with the library program and can’t wait to see what she does in the coming years.”

Aleah R. Gregory

April Griggs, Reidland Elementary School third grade teacher “April Griggs is an amazing educator! She is humble and would never want to be recognized but she is so deserving! She goes above and beyond for her students every day. She is a calm presence to her students and brings out the best in them. She is creative and thinks out of the box to serve her students, accommodating their many needs. She is a team player and encourages all those around her. Her humor and enthusiasm for teaching make her well loved by all who are blessed to work with her or be taught by her.”

April Griggs

Michele D. Handegan, Symsonia Elementary School first grade teacher “Ms. Handegan has provided so much positivity and stability during this uncertain school year. My first exchange with her was through a summer phone call she made to parents. It was during this first exchange that I realized Mrs. Handegan’s dedication to her students and families. Her communication skills are remarkable. She relays information daily, shares pictures, and celebrates her students’ successes regularly. She’s found creative ways to intrinsically motivate and reward student achievement in her classroom.

Michele Handegan The best part of it all is hearing my son’s enthusiasm as he shares stories about his school day. Ms. Handegan goes above and beyond to make learning fun for her first graders.

This is especially important as these can be seen as “scary times” through the eyes of a six-year-old. She is a seasoned professional with 20 years experience who has learned to adapt to the changes in the classroom that the pandemic has required; keeping the kids excited and engaged with the new found technology.”

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2021 Distinguished Faculty: Pre-kindergarten - 5th grade (continued)

Lisa-Michelle Marie Jones, Concord Elementary School virtual learning teacher “Lisa Jones is a veteran educator and has been at Concord Elementary over 15 years. This year she rose to the challenge of being in charge of our virtual students. It was quite the task, and she had to learn a ton of new things, but she took it all in stride and is making virtual learning a reality for those who can’t come to school. She never hesitate to help students through any content that they do not understand and she cares deeply for each student and wants to see them successful.”

Lisa-Michelle Marie Jones

Brittany L. Keene, Heath Elementary School kindergarten teacher “Mrs. Keene has been a phenomenal teacher during a time where my child has struggled to understand the back and forth of virtual and in person learning. Mrs. Keene has helped my son transition into kindergarten with wonderful success. She has supported him through his troubles of anxiety due to starting kindergarten and the unknown of each day. Mrs. Keene pushes my son to be the best he can be on his own level. She challenges him to continue to work at his level and grow even more. She is always encouraging to him as he finishes and masters standards and sight words. ” Aleah Lindsey Gregory

Brittany Anne Moxley, Carr Elementary School preschool teacher “Brittany has been our preschool teacher for four years now. She went to high school at a larger school so she had to adapt a lot for our small school district here. I teach at the middle school, but I hear numerous times about all the great things that she does in her classroom.

Most students leave her preschool program knowing how to read! That is a huge accomplishment knowing that students who start with us usually don’t know their letters when they are three. She keeps great data about each student when they start until when they finish. Not only is she a great teacher academically, but the strides that her students make socially is astonishing to me. The parents of her kids rave about her as a teacher and a mentor to them. She doesn’t get the credit that she deserves for all the hard work that she puts into not only her classroom, but also each kid.”

Brittany Anne Moxley

Skylar T. Nunley, Southwest Calloway Elementary School 5th grade social studies teacher “While Mr. Nunley is a young educator (this year marks his third year in education), he has quickly proven himself to be a leader beyond his experience. Before the pandemic, Mr. Nunley was already an exceptional teacher. His passion for social studies easily hooked his students into the lessons. Coupled with his dry wit, his class is easily a student favorite. His leadership in tackling and engaging with the new social studies standards was inspiring. Wanting to be the best he could possibly be, Mr. Nunley worked diligently to learn everything he could to implement the new standards into his lessons.”

Skylar Nunley

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2021 Distinguished Faculty: Pre-kindergarten - 5th grade (continued)

Shae Ramage, Heath Elementary School general education teacher “Ms. Ramage is the best teacher my son has ever had. She has awakened a love for science in him. She guides and educates the whole child; feeding the mind as well as the soul. And I must mention, in the current climate of teaching through COVID changes, Ms. Ramage has shined!

I’m sure I don’t even know what all these teachers are juggling, and Ms. Ramage has provided superior lessons both in-person and virtually. Long after this school year, we will still be grateful for her efforts and inspirations. We love Ms. Ramage!”

Shae Ramage

Brittany Riley, Morgan Elementary School technology resource teacher and student technology coordinator

Brittany Riley

“Brittany is an amazing instructor and leader at Morgan Elementary... Since the onset of the pandemic, Brittany has worked tirelessly and a countless number of hours to create professional development in instructional platforming, Microsoft Teams, One Note, and how to use all the features in each program to best deliver instruction. She is our go-to person for all things technology including repair and trouble shooting. This has been especially big this year with many of our devices at student homes, Brittany spends an inordinate amount of time fixing student devices and making sure each child has equitable access to learning. She does all of this with the best attitude, always has a smile on, and is a favorite among parents and students. If anyone in 2020 is deserving of recognition, Brittany Riley is the one, hands down!”

Jill M. Rogers, Community Christian Academy fifth grade teacher “Mrs. Rogers is a parent’s dream as a teacher. Her favorite place to be is her classroom and her top goal is to make sure every one of her students learn. Not only do they learn, they have fun while doing so. Several times each week she incorporates fun, imaginative ways for the children to learn. She is the first one in the building every morning and often the last to leave. She gives every ounce of herself to her students and her school.

Her class is not easy. Students must work hard but she makes them want to do so. She not only teaches the curriculum but incorporates life lessons.

Jill M. Rogers

Karen Cole Smith, McNabb Elementary School All-virtual second grade teacher

Karen Jane Cole Smith

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“Mrs. Smith has been a master educator at McNabb for several years. This year she has worked as a virtual teacher for second grade and has brought her decades of experience to the students learning from home during this pandemic. She is energetic, enthusiastic, and seeks new ways to engage her students. Mrs. Smith has been an inspiration to new teachers and veterans with her positivity and bubbly personality.”

2021 Distinguished Faculty: Pre-kindergarten - 5th grade (continued)

Lonna R. Starnes, Concord Elementary School first grade teacher “Mrs. Starnes has gone above and beyond to bridge classroom work to virtual work. She created a daily master schedule for the kids that is easy to understand.

Her planning and organization has made it easy to navigate virtual athome instruction. Her enthusiasm and smile are infectious and it’s evident what an impact she has on her students by the smiles on their faces. I cannot say enough about how much we enjoy having her as a teacher and how obvious it is that she is doing Lonna R. Starnes exceptional work.”

“Why did you do all of this for me?” he asked.

“I don’t deserve it. I’ve never done anything for you.”

“You have been my friend,” replied Charlotte.

“That in itself is a tremendous thing.”

E. B. White’s Charlotte’s Web

Lydia Tarnowski, Morgan Elementary School second grade teacher “Lydia Tarnowski is a pedagogical superstar at Morgan Elementary. She has made herself a lifelong student of curriculum and instruction to the point where customizing a student’s education is second nature to her. She had been instrumental with our second grade PLC in adjusting interventions, flexible groups, and sequencing to elicit the best outcomes for our kids.

This year more than ever her talents came shining through when she volunteered to take on the entire population of students in second grade who selected to be virtual learners.

Lydia Tarnowski Lydia quickly set up systems for her students and parents to make access simple, she stays in constant communication with her families, and she outreaches to troubleshoot and fix tech problems. She has more than 40 families to keep up with and she does this tirelessly sometimes well into the evening. Lydia is a true superstar...”

Cristie L. Wooten, Concord Elementary School fifth grade writing teacher “Cristie Wooten is a master educator. She has taught for Concord Elementary almost 20 years. She most recently is teaching fifth grade writing and we are so thankful for her talents.

She has been in charge of our writing program at Concord for many years. Her students have won numerous essay contests through the years due to her guidance in the area of writing. She is a mentor to many and we are so grateful to have her.”

Cristie L. Wooten

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2021 Distinguished Faculty (6th - 12th grade)

The nominees for the 2021 Distinguished Faculty (6th - 12th grade) Award are: Jennifer D. Bowles, Livingston Central High School visual arts teacher “Mrs. Jennifer Bowles is a teacher who gives everything to the students and staff at Livingston Central High School (LCHS). She not only provides the necessary structure to her art classes, but she also supplies a sense of individuality for her students as they create their projects. Mrs. Bowles also has a heart of gold. She is always willing to lend a helping hand; and provides a listening ear and a sweet smile. She seems to leap out of bed in the morning with grace and a can-do attitude that is very contagious!”

Jennifer D. Bowles

Rachael A. Castillo, Paducah Tilghman High School English teacher “Rachael Castillo’s commitment to our students and our school is unparalleled. She is an excellent teacher and demonstrates her versatility by teaching at all levels (AP, honors, and traditional) in our school. No matter the level, Rachael’s teaching methods challenge students and help them unlock their potential; she truly cares about her students and wants to see them succeed both inside and outside of school.”

Rachael Castillo

Kelly R. Chiles, Reidland Middle School sixth grade science teacher “Mrs. Chiles is not only an expert in her content, but she is able to transfer her scientific knowledge to her students through creative and engaging lessons that her students love!

She has a unique way of first winning her students’ hearts by treating each and every one of them as if they are her own child. Every student in her classroom feels loved and valued which makes them eager and excited to learn at high levels. Mrs. Chiles’ love for science and for children magically creates the perfect learning environment for her students.”

Kelly R. Chiles

Mathew Wayne Dillon, Fulton County High School mathematics teacher

Mathew Wayne Dillon

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“Mr. Dillon teaches five preparations including two that are dual credit courses in math. Mr. Dillon worked with the Four Rivers Foundation Teacher Academy to earn his Masters of Arts degree in mathematics so that he could teach dual credit courses for West Kentucky Community and Technical College and Murray State University. He presently teaches two dual credit courses for FCHS. In order to do this, he also has to have three other preps and he does this every year in order for students to earn dual credit. Despite having small children and a wife who also teaches math and dual credit courses at Carlisle County, he comes in early and tutors students and stays after school to tutor students.”

2021 Distinguished Faculty: 6th - 12th grade (continued)

Shanetha Donaldson, Paducah Middle School eighth grade mathematics teacher “To start with, Mrs. Donaldson has a contagious and infectious smile. She goes about her

work cheerfully on a day-to-day basis more so than just about any other employee I’ve worked with. This is an important and critical personality trait as she carries out duties of being a great math teacher, team leader, and member of the site-based council. She manages this all while juggling a family of six children, several of whom she has adopted from the foster care system. In short, Mrs. Donaldson exemplifies and models good character.

Shanetha Donaldson

While Mrs. Donaldson is well liked, she is also well respected. She does a wonderful job making all students, despite background or skill, feel like an important and pivotal part of the class. She has the same passion for a traditional level class as she does with those that are advanced. Because of a very structured classroom environment, she has very few classroom management issues... Knowing Mrs. Donaldson from both the perspective of a school administrator as well as a parent who had two children go through her class, she is an excellent teacher, employee, and an even better person.”

Vanda Brittain Elliott, Graves County High School mathematics teacher “Ms. Elliott has been a gift to Graves County Schools. While most retirees do not think

Vanda Brittain Elliott

about coming back to the classroom, Ms. Elliott not only agreed to come back but continues to hone her craft. She works with every child to make sure they not only succeed in mathematics and their mathematical understanding but she helps students become better young adults. She has changed student outcomes and never allows anything to stand in her way of helping her students. She is always willing to take on challenges. During COVID-19 she has ensured her students understand how to utilize technology to access her class and her lessons. She goes above and beyond to make sure her kids have what they need when they are not in her classroom physically. She always has a smile on her face and is always willing to help.”

West Kentucky Community and Technical College is a thriving, comprehensive community and technical college where more than 8,000 students annually change their futures with short-term training, programs geared to today’s workplace opportunities, or courses that will count toward a bachelor’s degree when they transfer.

The College offers more than 200 associate degree, diploma, and certificate options in more than 30 academic and technical programs. Students come first at WKCTC with flexible scheduling choices, convenient locations, and dedicated instructors committed to student success.

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2021 Distinguished Faculty: 6th - 12th grade (continued)

McKayla Everly, Paducah Middle School technology teacher, grades 6-8 “If you are looking for someone who goes above and beyond for every single student, parent, and staff member of Paducah Middle School, look no further. She is the glue that is holding a very challenging time of virtual instruction together for so many students, staff and parents. In addition to teaching a full load of classes, Mrs. Everly works behind the scenes using every spare moment to troubleshoot tech issues for our students, staff and parents. She spends countless hours beyond the regular school day to produce training videos, inventory devices, communicate with students and parents, and collaborate with our district technology team.”

McKayla Everly

Daniel Lee Farmer, Fulton Independent Schools mathematics teacher

Daniel Lee Farmer

“Mr. Farmer joined our district as an instructional assistant, and then transitioned to the role of teacher. He began teaching math at the elementary level where his joy for math created an excitement for his students. Next, he transitioned into the role of middle school math teacher. He comes in daily with a smile on his face and shows the students how much he loves them. He runs his classroom like a well-oiled machine with consistent procedures in place all while letting the students feel valued... Not only is he a great teacher and coach, he encourages his students to participate in outside activities that make a difference in the world. Every summer, he takes a group of teenagers to a foreign country to participate in a mission trip to help underpriviledged children. Everyone loves Coach Farmer, and he is also a wonderful co-worker.”

Stephanie Barker Ford, Reidland Middle School eighth grade language arts teacher “Mrs. Ford has a true servant’s heart. I have never met another individual who has the passion she does for her job as a teacher. She is always willing to give any child her hand and her heart. She is truly our students’ biggest cheerleader. She wants so desperately for every student to succeed not only academically but as a person as well. She smiles when talking about all of her students, not just the easy ones, but the tough ones as well.

What Mrs. Ford brings not only to her students but also to her peers is truly inspiring.

She is always building others up and striving for excellence. One of the kindest, caring, and empathetic souls I have ever met.”

Stephanie Barker Ford

Danette Humphrey, Paducah Middle School instructional coach/GTC teacher

Danette Humphrey

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“Danette Humphrey currently serves Paducah Middle students, parents and staff in dual roles. She is a member of the instructional team and serves as GTC teacher for identified students in grades 6-8. As a member of the instructional team, she plans and presents various differentiated professional development to our staff as we negotiate instruction using a virtual format. Her knowledge of instruction is vast. Using relevant, real-world examples for each concept, she has diversified our teachers’ toolkits, adding strategies and techniques that are research based and data driven... I am so excited to finally get to work with her and am blown away by the plethora of her abilities.”

2021 Distinguished Faculty: 6th - 12th grade (continued)

Greta Ramage, Livingston Central High School business and marketing teacher “Mrs. Ramage is an extremely conscientious person, personally and professionally. Her sensitivity, encouragement and compassion are especially effective with students who have struggled prior to high school. She is highly intelligent, industrious and innovative.

She energizes her students to accomplish more than they ever imagined they could!

Mrs. Ramage has taken countless number of students on National Business Leaders of America Conferences. She works diligently to coordinate with state advisors and parents to ensure their child’s trip is one that will provide a lifetime of memories. We are truly Greta Ramage blessed to have her as one of our teacher leaders that we have here in the building. Mrs. Ramage has always been committed to excellence at Livingston Central High School. She realizes that a commitment to excellence involves a dedication to her students and her family, and strives to do so daily.”

Kathy Aileen Thweatt, Fulton Independent High School science teacher “I’ve worked alongside Mrs. Thweatt for six years now and am still amazed at how she continues to provide innovative and engaging lessons, even through a pandemic. She has the entire high school science curriculum on her shoulders, yet she seems to teach it all with grace and ease. But I know she works hard to make it seem easy. She is the teacher all students see as their second mom; she cares deeply about her students and has gone to great lengths to make sure they know they are cared about not just inside the classroom.

She is always there for both students and colleagues, offering advice, guidance, or a shoulder to cry on when things get tough. Mrs. Kathy Thweatt is an amazing educator and an amazing person and Fulton Independent is so very lucky to have her.”

Kathy Thweatt

Glenda Ann Wyatt, Reidland Middle School keyboarding, finance, careers and public speaking teacher “My friend and colleague, Glenda Wyatt, deserves this award for the 30+ years she has taught all areas of business skills to her students at the middle and high school levels.

Glenda teaches and expects excellence from her students while modeling this trait for them at all times. From the skills she teaches to the life lessons in each class, Glenda expects her students’ best work and demonstrates professionalism at all times. Many guest speakers from all walks of busness life have accepted her invitation to speak to her students. Glenda’s kind and caring nature and cheerful disposition make her a model teacher for all. She has told me many times that ‘when she grows up, she wants to be like me.’ The truth is, I wish I were more like her. ”

Glenda Ann Wyatt

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2021 Distinguished Administrator Award The nominees for the 2021 Distinguished Administrator Award are: Aaron Gregory Edwards, Concord Elementary School principal “Mr. Edwards has worked tirelessly during 2020 to ensure that our staff, students, and families are cared for during these unprecedented times. He has put in countless hours making plans to keep our students and staff safe when in the building while also balancing the education and mental well being of everyone.

He consistently goes above and beyond to meet all needs as they arise, and in a year that has required more flexibility than ever before he has been the definition of that. Our building is very blessed to have him as our leader and the lengths that he is willing to go to in order to be there for each and every person in and out of our building.”

Aaron Gregory Edwards

Sondra Gibbs, Fulton County Elementary School principal “Mrs. Gibbs is a great elementary principal. She works nonstop to provide the very best learning environment for all students at Fulton County Elementary School. Mrs. Gibbs has a heart for every one of her “littles.”

Sondra Gibbs

Mrs. Gibbs also works hard to recruit the very best teachers for her students and this has helped to improve our elementary school. Mrs. Gibbs is a loving, caring and dedicated principal and is so deserving of this award. She goes above and beyond for her students, teachers and our community.”

Jennifer Rushing Harris, South Marshall Elementary School principal “Mrs. Harris has had a challenging year as all in education have. However, she has rolled with the punches with a smile on her face and positive attitude. We would see her almost daily at the school pick-up lines at the end of the day. She would be seen herding out little ones safely to their cars.

I know the staff and students just love her energy and leadership. It’s evident to the community how proud she is of her school, she takes time to connect with parents and always make them feel welcomed and informed. In addition to the numerous Jennifer Rushing Harris administrative tasks she has daily, she has also been busy handing out boxes of food or planning drive-thru parades and Christmas light festivals for students and families. 2020 has had many unexpected bumps, but Mrs. Harris has made them so much easier for families at SMES because of her attitude, love and care! She definitely deserves recognition for her hard work!”

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2021 Distinguished Administrator Award (continued)

Robert C. Horne, Murray Middle School principal “Mr. Horne is a phenomenal principal. He trusts and supports his staff. Throughout the uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, he has maintained efficient communication and tranquility. I appreciate that Mr. Horne is very data-driven and he wants to do the best he can for the students. When I go to Mr. Horne with a problem, he finds a solution.

When he is unable to solve the problem himself, he finds the person who can find the solution.

Since Mr. Horne’s tenure at Murray Middle School began, we have made great strides in integration of technology and student exposure to STEAM. Our students are doing amazing things that are applicable to the real world and their real lives. Much of this Robert C. Horne was made possible with the support and precise attention of Mr. Horne. If you’re looking for a wonderful principal, you would be hard-pressed to find a better principal than Bob Horne.”

Julie Workman Jackson, Fulton County Schools director of operations “Julie goes above and beyond on every project she does. She is fierce and fearless when it comes to taking care of Fulton County students... She has what I call, ‘the WOW Factor!’ ”

Julie Workman Jackson

Describing herself as a life-long learner, Jackson said FCHS “students know to expect to see me in the hallways checking on their assignments, helping them organize their binders, and working with them after school. In my new role at our district, I often feel further away from the students, but this time with our students helps rejuvenate me for the next day.”

Matthew Scott Madding, Graves County High School superintendent In his application, Matthew Madding said, “Being a lifelong learner is incredibly important for all people, and as a leader in education I believe I have to be a model in this area of my life.

Upon completion of my undergraduate degree, I immediately began working towards earning two master’s degrees and my Superintendent Certification. In completing this process, I chose to attend a different school for each of my graduate degrees and certifications. My reasoning for this was to expose myself to different program instructional models and to expand my professional network across the state of Matthew Scott Madding Kentucky. These programs offered the opportunity for me to shadow educators and leaders from districts other than my home district. Seeing how other schools, districts, and leaders conduct their business is a great learning tool.”

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2021 Distinguished Administrator (continued)

Amy Leigh Ramage, Livingston County Schools chief executive officer and director of pupil personnel

Amy Leigh Ramage

“Amy Ramage is phenomenal at what she does for our Livingston County Schools. She is the director of pupil personnel and works long hard hours to get students in school.

For her, going to court is the very last resort. She works with the families to identify barriers that are preventing their attendance and then she looks for ways to help remove those barriers. She spends countless hours teaching them about how much instruction is lost when they miss school... She is brilliant in her role though she would never take credit for anything. Her dedication to our schools and county has only made us better over the years. Her dedication is inspiring!”

Jennifer Lynn Scism, Lone Oak Elementary School principal “Ms. Scism is an amazing person who constantly puts others first. She works tirelessly to make sure that everyone feels loved, appreciated, and remains positive throughout the whole day. As our principal, she ensures that everyone is heard and works to make sure that everyone feels like part of our school family. The parents rave about her bubbly personality and how super friendly she is with all of our students.

This woman is driven to make sure that our students learn in the best way possible, especially in trying times with COVID-19. I see her often hugging on kids, complimenting each one on a job well done, and naming them by name. She is an administrator who Jennifer Lynn Scism loves BIG and by big I mean she loves everyone. Her kindness to her staff is shown by special texts, little treats, and normal conversations where she is truly listening to your concerns... She goes above and beyond each and every day to make sure that teachers have the resources they need as well as the materials children need in order to be successful. Any school would be considered lucky to have a Ms. Scism on board BUT at Lone Oak Elementary we are truly BLESSED with such an amazing leader!”

Denise Ann Whitaker, Murray Elementary School principal “A National Blue Ribbon is securely wrapped around Murray Elementary School. This 2019 blue ribbon didn’t come by accident. It was awarded to the Murray Elementary School recognizing the day-to-day excellence of students, staff members, and parents who assist their leader, Denise Whitaker, Murray Elementary School principal.

Denise Ann Whitaker

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Murray Elementary School Assistant Principal Sarah Saylor says she has never worked with a more impressive school leader than MES Principal Denise Whitaker. Mrs. Whitaker captains the black and gold ship, while juggling a fine act of going above and beyond, along with a strong work ethic and drive to make MES the best for staff and students.”

2021 Cornelia Reece Unsung Hero Staff Award

2021 Cornelia Reece Unsung Hero Staff Award The Cornelia Reece Unsung Hero Staff Award is named after WKCTC first lady Cornelia Reece. Mrs. Reece has more than 27 years of experience working with students and families in grades K-12 in Knoxville, Tenn., McCracken County, the City of Paducah and in post-secondary fields. Mrs. Reece has made contributions that address building a positive relationship among family, school, and community in both Kentucky and Tennessee. Among many noted activities, Mrs. Reece has • Organized and implemented a Community-Based Site Steering Committee and a Neighborhood Partners Coalition • Increased the number of attendees to the Project GRAD Knoxville Annual Parent Conference from 47 to over 700 in attendance • Successfully developed a partnership with University of Tennessee, Knoxville to implement an early college/readiness program for students and parents, 5th and 8th grades • Co-authored a manuscript titled “Lessons Learned from a Neighborhood Based Collaboration to Increase Parent Engagement” that was published in The School Community Educational Journal • Conducted training for parents, school administrators and staff on building effective family engagement Mrs. Reece and her husband, WKCTC President Anton Reece, have been married for 30 years and have two daughters.

The nominees for the 2021 Cornelia Reece Unsung Hero Staff Award are: Jim Baurer, Murray Independent School District Director of Maintenance “Jim Baurer is called Coach Baurer by many. Coach and the Murray Independent School District (MISD) director of maintenance and facilities doesn’t even come close to the multiple hats he has worn during his long-time career with the Murray Independent School District. The former manager of the Murray State University’s Curris Center/Wellness Center, Baurer has loyal roots to the blue and gold Racers, as well as the black and gold Tigers.

Coach Baurer has served as an assistant and head coach of the Murray High School boys’ soccer team, while also building the middle school boys’ basketball team as their coach. After retiring from a 30-plus-year career with Murray State University, and coaching at the MISD, Baurer joined the MISD as a full-time employee in 2012. He has overseen numerous facility projects, including the newly renovated addition of Murray High School... Jim Baurer is a man of his word. When you call, he and his facilities staff answer. He leaves a positive impact on the many lives he has encountered as a middle school basketball coach, high school soccer coach, athletic director, and now as the MISD’s director of facilities.”

Jim Baurer

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2021 Cornelia Reece Unsung Hero Staff Award (continued)

Debbie Breedlove, Graves County Middle School attendance and support secretary “Debbie Breedlove is the epitome of consistency. She’s shown up to work every year for the 14 years of the middle school’s existence. I joke around with her and say ‘she’s like the furniture; she came with the building.’ ” On a serious note, Mrs. Debbie is kind to all she works with. She serves as our attendance secretary and our front desk secretary. Even as we’ve had to make staffing cuts, Mrs. Debbie has always been willing to step up and fill the voids that we have had. She’s always the first one to work and takes great pride beating me to the office every day. She organizes staff lunches, hands out “magic peppermints” to sick students, and is always available to answer any questions that employees, students or parents may have... Honestly, I truly love Mrs. Debbie, and I know she’s the glue that holds our school together. I think as a classified secretary, her tremendous value has been greatly overlooked.”

Debbie Breedlove

Rhonda K. Childress, Ballard County Schools Stop and Go Daycare director “Ms. Rhonda’s title as daycare provider doesn’t do her justice. She has provided so much more to our district for our children and families. She truly is an expert in her domain.

Being a former high school teacher myself, I am awestruck by the behavior and interaction of those very active three- and four-year-old’s in the daycare center.

Rhonda K. Childress

On a consistent basis, one can walk by and see a happy group of children playing, sharing, and learning from each other in an orderly fashion. Ms. Rhonda’s expertise is exhibited through her nurturing smile, calming voice, and patient demeanor. She is actively engaged with the children. Each and every day she models and instills appropriate behavior strategies through child’s play, sharing, and attentiveness.”

Leslee R. Cope, recently retired McCracken County Schools Kids First Family Resource coordinator “Leslee Cope has always worked tirelessly to support our families, but this year has brought challenges we have never seen before. Leslee has worked above and beyond her job description to take care of all of the families in the Heath area.

We have seen a much greater need due to the pandemic and she has not hesitated to find a solution as each problem has arisen. She has made connections with local businesses that we haven’t partnered with before to further help our students. Additionally, when we have had a surplus of donations (i.e. food or clothing) she has taken what we did not need and made sure it got in the hands of those who do need it by making deliveries to Paducah Cooperative Ministry (PCM) and others so that no one goes without... She has been vital in supporting our students during these unprecedented times and always thinks of taking care of others first and never wants any acknowledgement of her hard work.”

Leslee R. Cope

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2021 Cornelia Reece Unsung Hero Staff Award (continued)

Hilary D. Cunningham, Murray Independent School District Head Start procurement & accounts payable processing specialist “Hilary Cunningham is responsible for the procurement of educational materials, office supplies, outdoor play equipment, technology, furniture, food, vehicle maintenance – and most importantly during the pandemic – all health, sanitation, and personal protective equipment supplies. Hilary creates the purchase order for every request from Head Start and Early Head Start staff across eight counties and in partnership with ten school districts. She oversees the ordering of all materials and supplies and then reconciles the deliveries with invoices that are prepared for payment. She also completes purchasing authorizations for the professional development training for over 220 staff members annually.

When all the world has been on the hunt for hand and surface sanitizers, masks, and Hilary D. Cunningham contactless thermometers, Hilary rose to the challenge to procure an adequate supply of all these items so that we could safely re-open 64 classrooms across the Purchase region... Over the last year, Hilary has worked diligently to streamline the purchasing process for goods and services across our multicounty program. She is a true hero to our program!”

Stephanie Henson, Livingston County Schools Family Resource Center coordinator & director of community education “Mrs. Henson works tirelessly to meet the needs of our students and their families. She has brought many wonderful services and activities to our schools such as dental care for students through Big Smiles, shoes for students through Happy Feet, and the Parent Cafe’ program to help strengthen families within the district, just to name a few. She understands the importance of starting at the beginning, so she has helped to meet needs for children birth to three in order to better prepare them for starting school.

Stephanie Henson

Mrs. Henson has a gift for bringing people together for a purpose and Livingston County has benefited greatly from that gift. Her mission is to always help others, and she succeeds at that mission every day. She is a very humble person who would say she is just doing her job, but she always goes above and beyond her job description.”

Charles W. Ligon, Paducah Tilghman High School head custodial supervisor “Without a doubt, Charles Ligon, aka C.W., is deserving of the Unsung Hero award.

He has worked his way up the ladder in the twenty-plus years he has been on staff at Paducah Tilghman High School and now oversees an eight-member custodial crew. He always works with a smile and is appreciated and respected for the many relationships he has forged with students as well as members of the faculty and staff.

C.W. is never one to complain and will even sacrifice what he wants to do for the needs of others. Notably, he has given up taking vacation days so that other members of his staff can take vacation. The integrity he displays is matched by no other.”

Charles W. Ligon

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2021 Cornelia Reece Unsung Hero Staff Award (continued)

Marianna L. Romero, director of the Reidland Elementary Family Resource Center “I have known Ms. Marianna Romero for 15 years and she is the longest serving Family Resource Center director in western Kentucky. Ms. Romero started out and served 22 years as the Family Resource Center director at Farley Schools in McCracken County.

When Farley closed five years ago, she became the Family Resource Center director at Reidland Elementary School. She is in her 27th year of service as a family resource director. As a retired Superintendent of Schools, I have been around many Family Resource Centers and many different directors. I have never seen anyone like Ms. Marianna Romero who has committed her life to helping kids, families, schools, and her community. She literally works 365 days a year and is available at almost any time during the day and night.

Marianna L. Romero

While COVID-19 caused many Resource Centers to reduce what they were doing or offering to families and students, Ms. Romero found ways and almost doubled her assistance with families. She is the most innovative person I have ever seen.”

Maegan Marie Scott, Fulton County Schools accounts payable clerk “Maegan runs the central office like a well-oiled machine. She is usually the first to come to mind when I need to know something. If she doesn’t know it, she finds out or directs me to someone that can help. Her customer service skills are top notch. She is always kind even when she is overwhelmed with work. She has many job duties, but she always stops what she is doing to help out. Maegan is smart and talented and such an asset to have running the office!”

Maegan Marie Scott

Devonda Treece, Paducah Public Schools & McCracken County Public Schools accompanist and collaborating artist “Devonda Treece has been a collaborating artist / accompanist for Paducah Tilghman High School Choral Department for 21 years and eight years for McCracken Co. High School choirs. These programs attribute much of their success to the countless hours that she has dedicated to the enhancement of the music and the education of these students.

She has assisted and played a major role in many concerts, musicals, festivals, tours, competitions, and the preparation of students for all state auditions, GSA auditions, college auditions and many other endeavors. Beyond all of those things she has sincerely cared for every child that has come through the choir room doors of both programs.”

Devonda Treece

Penny S. Wilson, Community Christian Academy secretary and receptionist

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Penny S. Wilson

“Mrs. Penny is the breath of Community Christian Academy (CCA). As a parent, I have taken a pleasure in observing her as a role model to not only my children, but to all students at CCA. Mrs. Penny is a servant leader every single day. She takes a personal interest in every student’s life - no achievement goes unnoticed; likewise, no students’ needs go unnoticed. There are truly exceptional educators and administration at CCA; however, the very core of the entire institution is one person, that person is Penny Wilson.”

West Kentucky Communty and Techncial College

And the Winners Are ...

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2021 Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program

And the Winners Are 2021 Distinguished Faculty Award (Pre-K-5th grade): Winner – Beverly Claybrooks

(Fulton County Elementary School 2nd Grade Teacher)

Finalist – Brittany Danielle Riley

(Morgan Elementary School

Technology Resource Teacher and

Student Technology Coordinator) Finalist – Renda D. Childress

(Reidland Elementary School

Read to Achieve Teacher)

2021 Distinguished Faculty Award (6th-12th grade): Winner – Danette Humphrey

(Paducah Middle School

Instructional Coach/GTC Teacher)

Finalist – Stephanie Barker Ford

(Reidland Middle School

8th Grade Language Arts Teacher)

Finalist – Greta Ramage

(Livingston Central High School

Business and Marketing Teacher)

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2021 Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program

And the Winners Are 2021 Distinguished Administrator Award: Winner – Sondra Gibbs

(Fulton County Elementary School Principal)

Finalist – Julie Workman Jackson

(Fulton County Schools

Director of Operations)

Finalist – Denise Ann Whitaker

(Murray Elementary School

Principal)

2021 Cornelia Reece Unsung Hero Staff Award: Winner – Marianna L. Romero

(Reidland Elementary School

Family Resource Center Director)

Finalist – Jim Baurer

(Murray Independent Schools

Director of Maintenance)

Finalist – Charles W. Ligon

(Paducah Tilghman High School

Head Custodial Supervisor)

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West Kentucky Community and Technical College 2021 Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program

President’s Awards

The President’s Awards honor those individuals who have served in multiple roles in K-12 education, helping students find success along their educational journey.

This year’s President’s Awards recipients are: Mike Miller, principal at the Mayfield-Graves County Area Technology Center, was named principal during the 2013-2014 school year. Miller had started at the center as a carpentry teacher when the carpentry program was started in 2006. He and his brothers owned Triple M. Construction.

As the principal of the area tech center, Miller has expanded his focus to other fields, heading the school that also offers classes in welding, electrical, and machine tool technology as well as health science and office technology. Miller also pastors the Pryorsburg Community Fellowship Church.

Mike Miller Michael Wood, the agriculture education teacher at McCracken County High School, was instrumental in creating the “Fall on the Farm” program. The event was designed to bring business, industry, and postsecondary education partners together while letting eighth graders enjoy a fun experience.

As this event grew, Mr. Wood and his team moved the event to Carson Park in conjunction with the annual Steam Engine Show. Students have time to feed and pet the farm animals at the event, hearing some interesting information on each animal while attending other informational sessions on business and postsecondary education.

Michael Wood 28

There is not another event that brings together secondary, postsecondary, business and industry and students like this one. The Ag students are responsible for securing those to present sessions, creating the schedule, leading the student groups, following up with presenters, taking care of the animals, creating games for students to play during lunch, and coordinating bus schedules.

West Kentucky Community and Technical College 2021 Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program

President’s Awards

Steven Elder, trust relationship manager at U.S. Bank and WAVE River Counties Ag Consultant, has made a great impact on the Four River Counties in just two years. He continuously meets with all four county Judge-Executives and their staff, along with area Chamber of Commerce members, economic boards, port authorities, businesses, and council members. He listens and learns from the people who are directly related to the day-to-day activities of business and industry and the future planners to find out what he could do to promote the mission of WAVE Ag for the Western Kentucky counties.

Education and training are part of building any new and great initiative and the WAVE Ag Consultant praises area K-12 school systems, along with the Steven Elder two postsecondary institutions in Western Kentucky, WKCTC and MSU. Each of these educational entities works together with the WAVE River Counties Ag Initiatives to invest time, talents, and resources to help our region grow. Steven makes regular trips to Frankfort to share the needs of the Four River Counties and the intention of breaking down the county lines to work in a cooperative and complementary focus for the people of far western Kentucky.

Retired life-long educator Olivia Burr served as the Paducah Public Schools’ first Family Resource Center coordinator in the 1990s under the Kentucky Education Reform Act. She brought her social work expertise to engaging families and parents involved in supporting their children in school.

Burr retired from Paducah Public Schools in 2015 after spending more than 25 years providing support for Cooper, Morgan, McNabb and Clark elementary schools. Prior to her work in education, Burr worked with the Paducah Housing Authority for six years and Hospice for five years. Burr also worked with CHOICES, previously called Paducah Alternative School, and was a Murray State University Board Trustee for 10 years. She also served on the board of Four Rivers Behavioral Health for seven years.

In 2017, she was one of 20 citizens from across the state nominated for the 2017 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Leadership Awards.

Olivia Burr 29

West Kentucky Community and Technical College

2021 4th Annual Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program Support from our generous partners provides funding for a Future Educators Scholarship, preparing WKCTC students for careers in PreK-12 education.

“I am very appreciative and humbled to be a recipient of your scholarship.

This scholarship will lighten my financial burden, allowing me to focus on the most important aspect of education – learning!

My family and I are eternally grateful. Thank you!” - WKCTC Student All individuals and business are invited to contribute to the scholarship fund and help support this region’s future educators! Gifts can be made in honor of Regional Educators Award recipients or others to provide a meaningful tribute to the honoree. Making a gift is easy! Checks made out to Paducah Junior College (PJC) can be mailed to P.O. Box 7380, Paducah, KY 42002, with Regional Educators Scholarship indicated; gifts can be made online by going to westkentucky.kctcs.edu, clicking on Giving, then Give Online Now, and entering Regional Educators Scholarship when prompted for the scholarship name; or by calling 270-534-3094 with credit card information. PJC is the charitable foundation that supports WKCTC, and gifts are tax deductible according to IRS standards.

WKCTC’s Office of Advancement Making an impact on the life of a student has never been easier, just by making a contribution to support education at WKCTC! A nationally award-winning institution, WKCTC has a strong commitment to excellence in education. In partnership with Paducah Junior College, Inc. (PJC), the charitable foundation for West Kentucky Community and Technical College, gifts from individuals, corporations, foundations and other organizations help us fulfill this commitment, paving the way to better lives and stronger communities. Our students benefit from the generosity of donors who believe that an investment in education is an investment in the future of our region. Many opportunities for giving are available – all make a lasting difference!

For more information, contact Lee Emmons at 270-534-3084 or lee.emmons@kctcs.edu.

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West Kentucky Community and Technical College 2021 4th Annual Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program

Special Thanks

West Kentucky Community and Technical College would like to thank our 2021 Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program partners:

GOLD PARTNER

Paducah Junior College, Inc. SILVER PARTNER

BRONZE PARTNERS

Mr. Ken Wheeler

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West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC), a proud member of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS), has been recognized as an Aspen Prize Top 10 Community College five times by the Aspen Institute and has twice been named a Finalist With Distinction for providing students with strong job training and continuing higher education opportunity, for achieving high completion and transfer rates, and for providing strong employment results for its graduates.

For more information visit, westkentucky.kctcs.edu

4810 Alben Barkley Drive, Paducah, Ky. 42001 270-554-9200

WKCTC is an equal educational and employment opportunity institution.

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