Graphic reading KDE News.

By Shelby Stills
shelby.stills@education.ky.gov

High school and college students from across Kentucky who are looking to pursue careers in education participated in the 2021 Educators Rising National Conference, which was held virtually June 24-27.

Throughout those four days, 21 high school students and two collegiate students from Kentucky competed in a variety of events that allowed them to demonstrate their skills in Lesson Planning, Public Speaking, Children’s Literature and other competition events.

The following students were recognized for their achievements during the conference:

  • Ethical Dilemma: Carrigan Watson, Kaiser Stunson, Justin Mosquera, Le Quentin Flippin, Western Kentucky University’s (WKU’s) Young Male Leadership Academy (Warren County), second place;
  • Educators Rising Moment: Sarah Jose, Ballard High School (Jefferson County), semifinalist;
  • Exploring Support Service Careers: Benjamin Mackay, Ballard High School (Jefferson County), semifinalist;
  • Children’s Literature K-3: Alyssa Bunch, Reagan Schatz, Campbellsville University, third place;
  • Creative Lecture: Karson Green, WKU’s Young Male Leadership Academy (Warren County), first place;
  • Lesson Planning and Delivery-Humanities: Mary Wilkerson, Washington County High School, semifinalist;
  • Lesson Planning and Delivery-Arts: Samantha O’Daniel, Washington County High School, semifinalist; and
  • Public Speaking: Robert Unseld, Young Male Leadership Academy (Warren County), third place.

Educators Rising Kentucky, formerly known as Future Educators of America, is the career and technical student organization for middle and high school students interested in the field of education-related careers. As the state affiliate, Educators Rising Kentucky partners with Phi Delta Kappa to create a national network helping students build resources and create connections that can significantly impact educational opportunities through co-curricular and extracurricular activities. ​

Through local chapter or individual membership, Educators Rising Kentucky students have opportunities to participate in projects that assist and recognize educator practices through local, state and national conferences, as well as performance-based competitions.