(FRANKFORT, KY) – Justin Padgett, former instructional coach at Lincoln County Middle School, was named the new director of student life at Kentucky School for the Deaf (KSD) on July 11.
After-school hours for residential students at KSD help strengthen social skills and connections, as well as build life skills like budgeting, cooking, organizational skills and advocacy, said Jon Jett, acting director of the Division of State Schools for the Kentucky Department of Education.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Padgett to our school community and into this important role,” he said.
“For 200 years, KSD has been a model for how to address the educational needs for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students in the Commonwealth,” Jett said. “The director of student life plays a huge role in the school’s overall success so we can be true to our mission of equipping all students with the linguistic, academic, social, and transition skills they will need to reach their full potential.”
Padgett said he is excited for his new role.
“My hope is to support the academic program and enrich the lives of our students who stay on campus through an offering of activities that peak student interest and enthusiasm,” he said. “I would like to see all of our students grow and develop into productive citizens and be ready for the opportunities that life brings them beyond the classroom and school.”
Padgett said he would like to build upon the Student Life program already in place at KSD, which provides students with additional access to education in order to assist them in preparing for independent living beyond high school as they enter college or the workforce.
“I plan to collaborate with community partners to provide these enrichment activities both onsite and offsite, as our budget allows,” he said.
Padgett said he would also like to provide students with more opportunities and activities to help build their skill set.
Padgett received his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Midway College in 2009. He earned a master’s in teaching as leader from the University of the Cumberlands in 2015 and a master’s in education administration from Campbellsville University in 2020.
Padgett started his career as a 21st Century Community Learning Center coordinator running before- and after-school programs. He has experience teaching various grade levels and content areas.
Padgett’s start date for the position is July 17.
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