News Summary
The Kentucky Department of Education has designated 11 schools as Spotlight Schools for their remarkable academic achievements. These schools, recognized for innovative practices and a commitment to student success, will share successful strategies with others aiming to improve education in Kentucky. The initiative aligns with KDE’s mission to enhance educational outcomes for all students. Principal Angie Alexander from one of the schools expressed gratitude for the honor, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and ongoing learning within the educational community.
Frankfort, Kentucky — The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) has officially recognized 11 schools across the state as Spotlight Schools for their exceptional academic achievements. This designation honors schools that exemplify outstanding performance, innovative practices, and a steadfast commitment to fostering student success.
The 2025 cohort of Spotlight Schools includes:
- Beechwood High School (Beechwood Independent)
- Cold Hill Elementary School (Laurel County)
- Dawson Springs Jr./Sr. High School (Dawson Springs Independent)
- duPont Manual High School (Jefferson County)
- Farmington Elementary School (Graves County)
- Farristown Middle School (Madison County)
- Graham Brown School (Jefferson County)
- McKee Elementary (Jackson County)
- Pikeville High School (Pikeville Independent)
- South Warren Middle School (Warren County)
- B. Muncy Elementary School (Leslie County)
These institutions have demonstrated excellent leadership qualities, effective teaching strategies, and a relentless commitment to continuous improvement in education. With this designation, the Spotlight Schools are expected to share their successful practices, positioning themselves as role models for other educational institutions aiming to enhance student achievement throughout Kentucky.
KDE Commissioner Robbie Fletcher emphasized the significance of acknowledging these outstanding schools, indicating that such recognition is vital to highlight the incredible work taking place in classrooms across the state. Each of the 2025 Spotlight Schools has compiled a story card that chronicles its unique journey. These story cards detail insights into actionable strategies, innovative initiatives, and valuable lessons learned throughout the academic year.
The information presented in these story cards will act as practical resources for educators and school leaders who wish to improve their practices. Schools throughout Kentucky are encouraged to visit the designated Spotlight Schools webpage to explore these story cards, which contain a wealth of ideas aimed at closing achievement gaps and fostering academic success.
In response to the recognition, Angie Alexander, principal of Farristown Middle School, expressed gratitude for this honor. She reflected on the significance of this recognition, highlighting the opportunity for collaboration among educators and the ongoing pursuit of learning within their school community. The KDE, under Commissioner Fletcher’s leadership, looks forward to partnering with Spotlight Schools to further enhance educational outcomes statewide.
This initiative aligns with the KDE’s broader mission to improve education across Kentucky, fostering an environment where all students have the opportunity to excel academically. The Spotlight Schools program not only uplifts these recognized institutions but also serves as a constructive model for other schools striving for excellence.
For more information on the Spotlight Schools and to access the story cards, educational leaders and interested parties can visit the official Kentucky Department of Education website at www.education.ky.gov.
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Additional Resources
- Tri-State Homepage: KDE Recognizes Dawson Springs School
- Wikipedia
- On3: Jasper Johnson Prepares for Kentucky Spotlight
- Google Search: Kentucky education Spotlight Schools
- Kentucky.com: Spotlight on Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education Achievement Kentucky
- PMG Kentucky: Hillview Academy Featured in Spotlight
- Google News: Kentucky Spotlight Schools

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