Kentucky’s educators and staff are among the best in the country
Anyone who has spent time in a Kentucky classroom knows how dedicated our teachers are and how committed they are to the success of their students.
Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell on All In for Ag Education Week
The hallmarks of All In for Ag Education Week are clear: broadening access to agriculture education, supporting educators, and connecting agriculture to real-life skills.
Sorting through assessment and accountability legislation
For years, the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) and many of the Commonwealth’s school districts have been crafting new, innovative ways to approach assessment and accountability and incorporate more vibrant learning experiences for students as we prepare them for life after graduation.
Educator Spotlight: Susan Coffey
Susan Coffey, who was named a 2026 Kentucky Teacher Achievement Award winner, has dedicated the past 31 years to making her students feel loved and valued.
How Rural Poverty Changes Education and How We Can Help
While our public schools cannot eliminate every obstacle rural poverty creates, targeted strategies and strong community partnerships can help bridge critical gaps for students and families.
Feeling thankful for Kentucky’s educators and support staff as we ring in the new year
Perhaps the most joyful part of the role of education commissioner is the ability to show thanks to so many people who are involved in educating and supporting our children across the Commonwealth.
Signs of progress and optimism for the road ahead
Each year, the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) releases assessment and accountability results for students, schools and districts across the Commonwealth. They serve as a reminder of where we are with our collective efforts to improve the education Kentucky’s children receive in the classroom.
Educator Spotlight: Michele Bradley
For more than two decades, Michele Bradley has been a familiar and inspiring educator within Bath County Schools. Now in her 26th year of teaching – with 24 of those years spent in the Bath County school district – Bradley has worked to become known in her school community as a dedicated educator, mentor and role model for her students and fellow colleagues.
How should I teach about Thanksgiving?
How should I teach about Thanksgiving? This is a big (and frequent) question from educators to the National Museum of the American Indian and its national education initiative, Native Knowledge 360° (NK360°).
Celebrating our educators and supporting our students
As a former teacher, I believe there is no higher calling within a profession than to be a teacher. One of the joys I have each year as commissioner of education is to celebrate our best during the Kentucky Teacher of the Year ceremony.