Through research, data, and real-world examples, the series examines how attendance has changed since the pandemic, the factors driving chronic absenteeism and the statewide efforts, partnerships and policy changes helping schools reconnect students and improve attendance outcomes.
The new school year always brings excitement for the opportunities our students will have as they continue to grow within our communities.
Poole said she develops hands‑on activities that help students understand the realities and the science behind agriculture.
Carlisle County High School Agriculture Teacher Mercedes Branham has been honored with a regional Golden Owl Award for her contributions to agricultural education. She has been teaching for a decade.
Chris Thompson, a Pendleton County native and agriculture teacher at Pendleton County High School, experienced a full-circle moment as he received the regional Golden Owl Award for his work as an agriculture educator from organizers of the same program he started in.
After 16 years of teaching agriculture in the community where she was raised, Noel Pack is being recognized as a regional Golden Owl Award winner.
Kimberly Stevenson, a social studies teacher at Todd County Middle School, was one of the recipients of the 2026 Teacher Achievement Award.
South Laurel High School (Laurel County) teacher Jason McWhorter is being recognized as a regional Golden Owl Award winner for his two-decade-long commitment to agriculture education.
Apollo High School (Daviess County) agriculture teacher Aaron Tucker has dedicated 31 years to his career in education, a dedication that has earned him recognition as a regional Golden Owl Award winner.
For 26 years, Western Hills High School (Franklin County) agriculture teacher JR Zinner has built a classroom that promotes curiosity and innovative learning, earning recognition as a regional Golden Owl Award winner.