Educator Spotlight: Golden Owl Regional Winner Catherine Poole
Poole said she develops hands‑on activities that help students understand the realities and the science behind agriculture.
Educator Spotlight: Golden Owl Regional Winner Mercedes Branham
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.
Educator Spotlight: Golden Owl Regional Winner Chris Thompson
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.
Educator Spotlight: Golden Owl Regional Winner Noel Pack
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.
Educator Spotlight: Kimberly Stevenson
Kimberly Stevenson, a social studies teacher at Todd County Middle School, was one of the recipients of the 2026 Teacher Achievement Award.
Educator Spotlight: Golden Owl Regional Winner Jason McWhorter
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.
Educator Spotlight: Golden Owl Regional Winner Aaron Tucker
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.
Educator Spotlight: Golden Owl Regional Winner JR Zinner
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.
Next steps with reimagined assessment and accountability
Kentucky’s assessment program and accountability system are about to go through some important changes as a result of House Bill 257, legislation that encourages districts to work more closely with their communities to establish priorities for their schools and help ensure all students have access to vibrant learning experiences.
Educator Spotlight: Golden Owl Regional Winner Benjamin Prevette
In his 11th year at Hopkins County Central, Benjamin Prevette is being honored for his work in agricultural education.