"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
Shelby County Public Schools
It has been another fantastic week at Shelby County Public Schools! Our students at East Middle School hosted an impressive exhibition of learning, and it was a joy to see their hard work on display. I've also had the pleasure of visiting various schools and connecting with our principals, witnessing many wonderful things happening in classrooms across the district.
I joined the morning meeting at Painted Stone on Friday, and the students had a blast. What a fantastic way to start the day! Yesterday, I had the opportunity to visit a classroom at Southside, where guests get to spin a prize wheel for the class. I gave it a spin and landed on a candy prize for the students—such a fun moment!
As adults, we often get caught up in the long to-do lists that come with a busy school year. But let's not forget to infuse joy and what Mike Rutherford calls "delight" into our classrooms. When we are enjoying teaching, our students are enjoying learning.
I wish everyone a wonderful week ahead!
This year, one of our key focuses at the district level has been revisiting strong teaching practices. At the top of that list is what Mike Rutherford refers to as "Clear Learning Goals" (or Learning Objectives). While it may seem straightforward, writing an effective Learning Goal is often more challenging than it appears. A strong Learning Goal clearly outlines what students need to learn in a way that can be measured. It answers the question: "What do my students need to grasp in this lesson to be ready for the next?"
This scaffolding is essential for driving students toward proficiency. Every teaching strategy must be grounded in a clear learning goal to be truly impactful. For example, at the district level, when two certified teachers are in the room, we expect them to engage in co-teaching. However, co-teaching can only be effective if both teachers are working toward a shared, clearly defined learning objective.
For more insights, I encourage you to listen to Dr. Mike Rutherford discuss Clear Learning Goals. Clear Learning Goal
Monday, September 16th was the inaugural celebration of the GED. When the Kentucky legislature passed a law allowing students to attain their GED at the age of 17, Shelby County Public Schools helped lead the way for our students who needed this opportunity in life. Mayor Troy Ethington joined Brittany Money-Garcia and Principal Ben Roberts at Shelby Academy, with a declaration that September 16th is GED Day in Shelbyville, KY.
Since the law was passed, Shelby County has helped eight students pursue their dreams regardless of life circumstances. Today, we celebrated the successes of those students and the success of the students yet to come through Shelby Academy. We also celebrated the success of the leadership who helped make this happen for our community.
Inspired activities and community engagement enhance our learning and leadership across the district.
Pickleball at PSE. Community pickleball experts taught PSE students the sport.
Grandparents and grandfriends join their students for lunch.
Gavin Trandell, welding student at The Shelby County Area Technology Center, got to spend part of his day getting hands on experience at Process Machinery!
Students at MCMS celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month this past week!