Why I got into education
As the new commissioner of education, I look forward to working with stakeholders across Kentucky to make sure we provide the most vibrant experiences we can for our children.
Children are the most important part of our jobs as educators
Standing in a classroom at the Kentucky School for the Blind back in March, I listened to students explain a project they were working on while their teacher looked on, filling in some of the details as the students went over each aspect of their work.
Appreciating teachers is a full-year commitment
The first full week of May means Teacher Appreciation Week; a week dedicated to honoring our educators and the major role they play in the lives of our children. National Teacher Day on May 7 is an opportunity for us to lift teachers up and commend them for the hard work and sacrifices they make to ensure the next generation is well-educated.
Celebrating our future educators with Educators Rising
One of the toughest challenges we face in the education world is finding young people who have the drive, determination and enthusiasm to enter the teaching field. Every school leader knows just how difficult it can be to find high-quality educators to fill the various roles we have.
STLP competition to bring students together to find modern technology solutions
One of the most exciting events the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) puts on every year is the Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP) State Championship, where thousands of students from across the Commonwealth will convene in Lexington to compete against each other in an effort to use modern technology to solve issues in today’s society.
KDE’s role in the General Assembly’s 2024 regular session
For those of us who work in state government, you will hear us talk about the first few months of a new year being a busy time due to the General Assembly being in session. This year is what is known as a long session, where the legislators will create the next two-year budget.
Teacher shortages are still a critical issue in Kentucky’s public schools
I know we all tend to tune out challenging news, especially when it does not improve much from year to year, but we need continue to focus on the importance of recruiting – and retaining – high-quality educators.
Kentuckians must work together to help chronically absent students
While I know Kentucky has many great and innovative educators across the state, I also know that students cannot learn if they are not in school. And unfortunately, too many of our students miss school on a regular basis.
Giving thanks for my time in Kentucky
As you may be aware, I have provided notice to the Kentucky Board of Education that I will be stepping down at the end of September to become the associate vice president of teaching and learning at Western Michigan University. This transition generates several different emotions for me, but I am choosing to focus on perhaps the strongest one – gratitude.
Adults need deeper learning experiences too
In July, I had the privilege of being one of the opening speakers for the Tales of Transformation: Sharing Stories of Deeper Learning conference. The event featured presentations from three districts from each of the eight regional educational cooperatives sharing their experiences with deeper learning that can be replicated across the Commonwealth.