LaRue County Schools: Moving Forward With Purpose
LaRue County Schools continued to chart a strong course in the 2024–2025 school year, with a year marked by academic innovation, community collaboration, and a deepened focus on student voice and well-being.
Across classrooms, community sites, and newly renovated spaces, the district made measurable strides in preparing students for a rapidly evolving world. This is largely thanks to community-wide commitment and support of the LaRue County Profile of a Learner initiative.
Students across the district have taken their learning to new depths through inquiry-driven, meaningful experiences that challenge traditional thinking. LaRue County educators are guiding students to become thinkers and problem-solvers—skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.
This focus is helping shift mindsets, moving from compliance to curiosity as the primary driver of learning.
Perhaps one of the most memorable moments of the year was a student group presentation that left a panel of educators and community leaders in tears. Their powerful reflections on identity, growth, and aspirations showed just how impactful the district’s learner profile work has become.
This moment reflected a district-wide effort to put student voices at the heart of the educational experience.
LaRue County Schools also took major steps forward in connecting students with the wider world. Through partnerships like the one with ALTEC, students in Theresa Price’s class had the chance to explore modern manufacturing and career pathways firsthand.
“Students were able to collaborate together as a team to bring their cookie design to life,” Price said. “Their communication skills were crucial to create the most cookies possible in a two-minute production time frame. Students were able to see first-hand how they could become an expert at one specific task to contribute to the overall success of a team and design phase.”
These experiences help students connect what they learn in class to what’s possible in their futures.
Recognizing that great teaching stems from a supported and inspired staff, LaRue County Schools introduced a gratitude-focused program for teachers. Spearheaded by LaRue County Schools Emotional Support Specialist Marsha Duncan, the initiative was to help busy school staff members find gratitude in chaotic holiday seasons.
“Research shows that people who practice gratitude are healthier overall, with stronger immune systems and lower rates of stress-related illnesses,” Duncan said. “Gratitude also can lead to more positive emotions and feelings of happiness.”
This initiative reflects the district’s broader emphasis on educator wellness and the role emotional intelligence plays in effective learning.
Thanks to the support of community groups like the Acts of Kindness (AOK) Foundation and Zion Solutions Group, learning spaces across the district have undergone major upgrades. Classrooms are being transformed into dynamic, student-centered environments that inspire creativity and focus. Savannah Boone, Director of Special Education for LaRue County Schools, shared how important these moments of collaboration and support are.
“We hope that by collaborating with community partners, our students will feel more included within their schools and communities,” Boone explained. “We also hope that people within the community will become more inclusive of and knowledgeable about people with disabilities. It means the world to us when community partners like Zion invest in the experience of our students. What it says to me is that they value the education of ALL students, regardless of ability level.”
These physical changes mirror the district’s internal shift toward innovation and adaptability.
The 2024–2025 school year stands as a testament to LaRue County Schools’ vision for the future: one where students are engaged, educators are supported, and the community is an active partner in growth. With momentum building, the district is well-positioned for even greater strides in the years ahead.