WKU News

CEBS leadership presents Chris Thomas of LaRue County High School with the Distinguished Educator Award for Secondary Education.

WKU has announced the winners of the Distinguished Educator Awards. This is the second presentation of the awards after implementation in 2020 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As graduation season nears and schools across the state prepare to celebrate student success, it’s incredibly important we recognize their teachers as well,” Corinne Murphy, Dean of WKU’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, said. “Our goal is to ensure we’re showcasing our gratitude and really valuing our teachers and the work that impacts their students’ lives.”

Each award celebrates the individual and significant contributions educators make to the teaching profession. From elementary education to teacher mentorship, WKU recognized the following P-12 educators based on their inspiring and specialized solutions in the classroom:

• Elementary (P-5): Lorie Estes, Green County Intermediate
• Middle Grades (6-8): Rodney Smith, Cumberland County Middle
• Secondary (9-12): Chris Thomas, LaRue County High
• Special Education: Emma Taylor, North Jackson Elementary
• Visual Performing Arts: Pam Thurman, Jody Richards Elementary
• Physical Education: Lauren Lamb, North Warren Elementary
• Innovation: Rachel Smith, Hodgenville Elementary
• Diversity: Samantha Pedigo, GEO International High
• Literacy: Terri Cleaver, Parker Bennett Curry Elementary
• Teacher Mentor: Chelsie Walsh, LaRue County Middle

While classic award ceremonies are still discouraged by the Centers for Disease Control to prevent the spread of COVID-19, WKU’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences ensured winning teachers had a memorable recognition after a year of non-traditional instruction and hybrid learning. 

Last week CEBS leadership paid a surprise visit to each winner at their school where they were presented with a $200 cash prize and a commemorative plaque. Additionally, WKU will feature a perpetual plaque in Louie B. Nunn Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame honoring winners for years to come.

Follow WKU CEBS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to remain updated on further award celebrations and announcements as we continue to maintain alternative learning practices and celebrations.

Contact: Lauren Weitlauf, (270) 745-4030