Garrard County Schools

A little about this lighthouse…

Kim goes above and beyond her job! She is awesome with the staff and kids. The students show so much progress because she pushes them every day; many have jumped so many grade levels with her. She is always putting data in any time she has a chance, whether at school or home. She has been such a great mentor and friend to me! She will help out anywhere needed and loves to have small groups to help, even in the classrooms. She will be missed when she does retire.  Even this doesn’t stop her from doing her job! We are so thankful for Kim! 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Denise Calvert.

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Janet is a wonderful Lighthouse. She is not only my instructional assistant but a great resource for our students. She always has an open door policy not only for our students but for other students out in the school. She will make sure the students are fed, clothed, whatever they need, etc. She will go out her way to make sure their needs are met. She is always willing to lend a listening ear and a caring heart. Janet is that "mom" that many students may not be able to experience. I am so blessed to have her as an asset in our classroom at GCHS. I want her to remember that she is greatly loved and appreciated by me, by the students she has cared for, and by her colleagues. We love Mrs. Janet!!!!!

This lighthouse was highlighted by Amy Floyd.

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Our principal, Kia Lamb, is definitely a lighthouse to our school. I have been so impressed and inspired by her initiative to do any and every job in our building. Subs are scarce, but instead of complaining, Kia jumps in and picks up the slack, no matter what that may be. I have witnessed her covering rooms, aiding students with exceptional needs, teaching a math lesson, taking out the trash, sweeping, and doing it all with a SMILE. When I commented on her commitment as an administrator, she said, "I would never ask someone else to do a job that I wouldn't personally do myself". That really resonated with me, and I feel so blessed to be a part of her team. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Danielle Taulbee.

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Mr. Vance takes great pride in pouring into students the love of music. The impact he has is seen in how many students return in the summer to help him with the next group. He takes great pride in pushing students to represent GCHS and helps them develop a strong work ethic, teamwork, and ownership. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Michael Anderson.

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Pam and Tonia have given so much to GCS. I can remember learning from these ladies when I was in preschool, and now that I am back at the school that I love, I continue to learn from them. They bring joy and laughter to the children and me all throughout the day. They have always guided me to do what is right for the children. When I was nervous about starting a new job last year, they made sure I was comfortable and well taken care of. They are my work moms, and I don’t know what I would do without them. They truly make the world a better and more enjoyable place. These lighthouses don’t always get the credit they deserve, but I will always continue to look for their light even in the darkest of days.

This lighthouse was highlighted by Adreanna Barnes.

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Juan is highly educated and experienced with individuals with disabilities and recently chose to switch from a private career to a new public education career as a Special Education Teacher at Garrard Middle School. Mr. Plasencia knows education is of great importance for children with learning disabilities because it gives students the opportunity to get quality education in line with their unique needs. Juan helps enable every student to gain a high level of independence and reach their full potential. Mr. Plasencia is always motivating his students and appreciates and celebrates every achievement of his students. Juan always looks at the problems from a student's perspective to remain calm and optimistic. His passion and dedication to the betterment of the students serve as a huge confidence builder for his students, families, and coworkers. Juan is a beacon in our educational community because he strives to channel and lead others in diversity, equity, and inclusion.

This lighthouse was highlighted by Wendy Congleton.

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If you have seen Kelsey teach, this nomination speaks for itself. Kelsey puts on an absolute show every single day. Teaching is her LIFE! She puts her heart and soul into delivering the content to the students in a way they enjoy and have fun learning. She dances, sings, whatever it takes! As most of you know, Kelsey is a very petite gal...She makes up for this 10-fold. She stands on tables and chairs; whatever she needs to in order to be the center of attention. Her students know what she expects, and they comply. She is a JEWEL to our district!!! 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Sarah Ison.

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I work with Chassity in preschool, and she always amazes me. She is able to get the kids to respond to her and is always teaching them how to do things. She always remembers everything and is able to hold us together. She is currently in school working on her degree in education and is going to make a fantastic lead teacher. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Millie Ledford.

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Amanda Summers shines the brightest light where ever she goes! Whether passing her in the hallway or chatting at soccer games, Amanda has this amazing ability to make you feel loved and special.  Seeing her interact with her students is so motivational for me because you can feel how much she loves them and how much they love her.  Amanda is a magical person, and I am better for knowing her!

This lighthouse was highlighted by Heather Middleton.

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Sarah has always been a beacon of light to me. She makes me a better teacher and person. She’s honest when the truth is hard. She is supportive! She always inspires me because she has such a good rapport with the kids and they respect her. I strive every day to be more like her. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Sarah Ison.

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Tonya is always going above and beyond to keep our building clean and looking good! She has such a big heart, and you can tell she loves what she does. It is a privilege to work with such an amazing person. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Bethany Norris.

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Rita is one of the most dedicated teachers ever. She goes above and beyond for her students and families. She is able to teach and give each and every student exactly what they need.
She has been an extraordinary mentor to all of us.  We hope that we can use what she has taught us and shine our light like she has and will continue to do.  Thank you for all you do and for being an amazing educator. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Janie Denton, Lisa Leavell, Claudia Lucas, and Cassidy Lane.

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Several students at GCHS have been super excited about the additional attention they have been given through our GT program. I have spoken with Mrs. Weaver as well, and I can tell her enthusiasm has been passed on to the students. It's been great to hear students talk about exciting things happening to help our students grow. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Kristin Long.

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This Lighthouse has a Brightness that lights up the whole school, but especially mine here at GMS. As a new full-time teacher here at GMS in the Special Education department, there are many duties and responsibilities handed down to us. Mrs. Riley does not only handle all of her duties but will take on the assignment of assisting and helping all those who seek her help. She not only does this but does it in a Bright Cheerful manner. She has assisted me personally in looking over and guiding me through the way Garrard County handles students' IEPs. She has helped me many times during and out of school hours. She is a TRUE blessing, a great friend, and a great mentor. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Matt Irgang.

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Mrs. Stull is a true lighthouse. She has a passion for learning and for helping others be confident in their skills to teach as well. As our math leader, she is always sharing ideas and resources to help classroom teachers be successful in implementing math content. She has worked very hard to remove negativity from the world of mathematics. It's very apparent that she cares for students and colleagues. May we all shine bright like Mrs. Stull!

This lighthouse was highlighted by Amanda Summers.

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Mrs. Hoskins is a shining light that touches students from all levels. She sets high expectations, builds strong relationships, and has a strong love for literature. She works diligently to ensure that every student no matter the level works hard. She uses humor and touches of sarcasm in such a way that students work tirelessly for her.  

This lighthouse was highlighted by Michael Anderson.

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Carolyn is the brightest lighthouse not only to us but to so many other staff and children. She has a talent for seeing needs and being supportive in so many ways! She truly has the kindest heart and always goes above and beyond! She is appreciated and loved by all of CDR!

This lighthouse was highlighted by Pam Cornelius, Tonia Campbell, Adreanna Barns, Marilyn Fleckinstein, and Lindsay Johns.

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Mr. Hoskins goes above and beyond to ensure all GC athletes are advocated for.  He works hard to promote GC in a positive light and is always looking out for our students.  He is a safe place for student-athletes to come and work through the growing pains of success at the high school level.  

This lighthouse was highlighted by Michael Anderson.

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Karen Travis is a true lighthouse at our school and has been for years. While she has always worked very hard for our students, these last two years have been an even greater inspiration to all of us. Her continuous dedication to her students, and colleagues, and the work it takes to support us, continues even through the tough personal challenges she has faced from her wheelchair.  In her spare time from being an awesome third-grade teacher,  she is also taking classes and coaching archery. You can always count on Mrs. Travis to encourage, help, or make you laugh no matter what her circumstance. A true lighthouse! 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Angie Stull.

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Mrs. Lee is a teacher that can make you smile no matter what type of day you are having. She knows almost every kid by heart and gives her students 110%. Many students who see her in the hallway can not help but smile and hug her. She brings so much fun to the subject of math and truly wants to see every student succeed. She also brings smiles and positive energy to all the adults in the building and truly loves LES. There definitely needs to be more teachers like Mrs. Lee!

This lighthouse was highlighted by Kala Cain, 2nd Grade Teacher.

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Tracie supports her staff, loves our kids, and does so much for all LES stakeholders. She is pretty much everything you would want in administration. She is intelligent and kind and makes us feel respected and appreciated.  

This lighthouse was highlighted by Kim Hacker.

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If you look up the word tireless you would find a picture of Jaylene next to it. She is non-stop busy all day long. And with a smile on her face! She is always willing to help anyone out or to give some advice. She loves her kids and is always thinking of a new way to help them. She is just amazing and I know she is a lighthouse for so many.

This lighthouse was highlighted by Millie Ledford.

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Christin is a long-term sub for Kindergarten this year.  Her background is not in education. It is in Law, but watching her in action you would never know this. She has worked in the school for a couple of years now, and when she came in to do a long-term sub she was so positive that everyone around her felt the positivity emitting from her. She always has a smile on her face and a hug in her arms for the kids. She always goes over and above what is expected of her. She purchased books for all the kids and every Friday she has “Lucky Duck Friday” She draws a name and that student receives a new book. Our school system is blessed to have a person like Christin to step up and teach our children. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by JoAnne Sparks  Kindergarten assistant.

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To me, Mrs. Noe is the epitome of what a lighthouse should be.  She has worked so hard for the students of Garrard County for many years and still continues to show up for them and serve them every single day.  She has one of the most positive attitudes and is always smiling and making the best out of any situation. She is the first person to step up to help out when there is a need. She was kind & supportive to me and was a mentor when I student taught with her at PLE and continues to be so today! She is the first person I know I can go to with a math question or for a lesson idea when students are struggling.  The education world needs more like Mrs. Noe, and we are so blessed to have her! 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Lindsay Burton.

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As a teacher new to the district, things can seem scary. I didn't know anyone coming in but Nancy quickly took me under her wing to make sure I'm doing okay and always does her best to help me when I have questions. Sometimes as a newer teacher, I get too afraid to ask questions because I don't want others to think less of me. Nancy has never made me feel this way and makes sure I am comfortable asking her anything I need help with. We may not talk every day and our subject areas may be different, but if I ever need help Nancy is the one I know I can count on!

This lighthouse was highlighted by Lekisha Hembree.

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Kristy Marcum is truly an angel on earth. She serves our school as the K-2 Special Education Teacher, with her Paraeducator Ms. Cathy Aper. Mrs. Marcum helps students that are not yet receiving services have necessary interventions in place to help them succeed. She does this by providing teachers (and myself) with some awesome visual aids for students who could use them. She answers all of our questions with patience and a willing spirit to find out if she doesn't know the answer. Her students adore her. She is an AMAZING asset to this building and I don't know what we would do without her. Her students have some very high needs, and she meets them as well as she possibly can. I often find her car in the parking lot long after 5 pm. Mrs. Marcum has served this building for almost 20 years and has done a remarkable job. I am proud to call her a colleague and friend.

This lighthouse was highlighted by Chelsea Tipton.

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Chasity is certainly in the right profession - Nursing. She is a natural caregiver who takes care of everyone but especially has a heart for children.
Her door is always open, whether they are hurting physically or emotionally, the students know she is there for them because they can feel her love and concern. Chasity takes the time to listen and treats them with respect. She lifts them up and makes sure they are feeling better and are cared for before sending them back to class or home. She is the epitome of the saying "Be Kind".
In a time when we all could use more Lighthouses, Chasity's sweet, caring nature definitely spreads light wherever she goes. 

This lighthouse was highlighted by Teresa Clough.

A little about this lighthouse…

So many students who have had Ms. Fielder for Freshman Science class keep stopping by to talk with her before and after school as well as between classes during their sophomore, junior and senior years. 
Students know those teachers who care about them as learners and as people.  Angie Fielder has had and still has that ability to listen to our students and they know she cares for them now and long after they have left her class. 
I see her as a lighthouse to so many of our students.   

This lighthouse was highlighted by Johnny Yates.