Over 250 students and educators from the 22 school district membership in the Kentucky Valley Educational Cooperative (KVEC) celebrated innovation the classroom with 25 display tables in the Frankfort Capitol on March 6. Additionally, five individuals were honored in a Capitol Rotunda ceremony and students from three school districts presented before a senate committee.
The event showcased the amazing work going on in eastern Kentucky K-12 classrooms to state legislators, constitutional officers, and the general public.
Former Governor Paul Patton presented the following awards in the Capitol Ceremony: The Galileo Award for inspirational and innovative teaching to Pam Burton of Johnson County and Orville Bennett of Lee County; the Proud Mountaineer Award is given to a mountaineer who is very proud of his heritage, has been a leader in the state and region, and is as strong supporter of public education went to Luther Deaton, formerly of Breathitt County, but now resides in Lexington and L.D. Gorman of Hazard; and the Patton Education Advocacy Award to Bob Hutchison of Paintsville.
The Henry Clay Awards were given to state legislators serving the districts as well to Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles, Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes, and Attorney General Andy Beshear, who were in attendance for their willingness to serve.
The Senate Agriculture Committee heard from Knott County students concerning their aquaculture project involving raising Koi fish: Paintsville Independent students on raising brown trout, and Lee County students on raising chickens. The presentations were broadcast by KET.
Coverage of the successful event which includes photos and videos is on the www.theholler.org