Middle school students from across Western Kentucky gathered at the Carson Center on April 25 for the National Civics Bee Western Kentucky Regional Competition—and we’re proud to share an incredible result!
1st Place: Sharon Shi, Lone Oak Middle School
Sharon rose to the top after three rounds of competition, which included essay submissions, a multi-round civics quiz, and a final interview-style round with judges. Her outstanding performance earned her the top prize and a $500 award!
She will now advance to compete at the state level in the Kentucky Chamber National Civics Bee later this summer.
Join us in celebrating Sharon on this amazing achievement—we are so proud of you!
1st Place: Sharon Shi, Lone Oak Middle School
Sharon rose to the top after three rounds of competition, which included essay submissions, a multi-round civics quiz, and a final interview-style round with judges. Her outstanding performance earned her the top prize and a $500 award!
She will now advance to compete at the state level in the Kentucky Chamber National Civics Bee later this summer.
Join us in celebrating Sharon on this amazing achievement—we are so proud of you!
Congratulations to MCHS junior Luke Whiteside on an outstanding achievement!
Luke has qualified for the Regional Semi-Finals of the Presidential 1776 Award Competition, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education and the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation.
This prestigious competition honors the upcoming 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, and Luke earned one of the highest scores in the state of Kentucky! He is now one of approximately 200 students nationwide—and just four from Kentucky—to advance from the first round.
Luke will represent MCHS as he travels to Grand Rapids on May 2 to compete at the regional level.
We’re proud of your hard work and dedication, Luke—good luck in the next round!
Luke has qualified for the Regional Semi-Finals of the Presidential 1776 Award Competition, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education and the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation.
This prestigious competition honors the upcoming 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, and Luke earned one of the highest scores in the state of Kentucky! He is now one of approximately 200 students nationwide—and just four from Kentucky—to advance from the first round.
Luke will represent MCHS as he travels to Grand Rapids on May 2 to compete at the regional level.
We’re proud of your hard work and dedication, Luke—good luck in the next round!
🎶 Celebrating Excellence in Music Education! 🎶
We are proud to share that three outstanding McCracken County Public Schools employees have been recognized by the First District Kentucky Music Educators Association as award winners for the 2025–2026 school year!
Middle School Music Teacher of the Year
Spencer Sullivan – Band & Choir Director, Reidland Middle School
High School Music Teacher of the Year
Savannah Fallis – Choir Director, McCracken County High School
Outstanding Administrator of the Year
Matthew Houser – Principal, Lone Oak Middle School
These recognitions highlight the incredible talent, dedication, and impact our educators and leaders have on students every day. Congratulations to each of these individuals on this well-deserved honor!
We are proud to share that three outstanding McCracken County Public Schools employees have been recognized by the First District Kentucky Music Educators Association as award winners for the 2025–2026 school year!
Middle School Music Teacher of the Year
Spencer Sullivan – Band & Choir Director, Reidland Middle School
High School Music Teacher of the Year
Savannah Fallis – Choir Director, McCracken County High School
Outstanding Administrator of the Year
Matthew Houser – Principal, Lone Oak Middle School
These recognitions highlight the incredible talent, dedication, and impact our educators and leaders have on students every day. Congratulations to each of these individuals on this well-deserved honor!
🎓 Support the MCHS Class of 2026!
Help us make Senior Dinner and end-of-year celebrations unforgettable for our seniors! There are several easy ways to support:
🛍️ Shop the Pampered Chef fundraiser (open through May 3)
💛 Make a direct donation
🥩 Dine at Texas Roadhouse (Monday, 3–10 PM — mention MCHS Class of 2026!)
Every purchase, donation, and meal helps create a memorable send-off for our seniors.
👉 Get all the details and links here:
www.pamperedchef.com/party/mchsgraduation2026
https://app.99pledges.com/fund/mchsclass2026
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2841532
Thank you for supporting our Class of 2026!
Help us make Senior Dinner and end-of-year celebrations unforgettable for our seniors! There are several easy ways to support:
🛍️ Shop the Pampered Chef fundraiser (open through May 3)
💛 Make a direct donation
🥩 Dine at Texas Roadhouse (Monday, 3–10 PM — mention MCHS Class of 2026!)
Every purchase, donation, and meal helps create a memorable send-off for our seniors.
👉 Get all the details and links here:
www.pamperedchef.com/party/mchsgraduation2026
https://app.99pledges.com/fund/mchsclass2026
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2841532
Thank you for supporting our Class of 2026!
🏆 Keep the Nominations Coming! 🏆
The McCracken County Schools Hall of Fame is now accepting nominations, and we want to continue recognizing outstanding alumni who have excelled in academics and athletics.
Do you know someone who made a lasting impact? A record-setting athlete? An academic standout? Now is the time to nominate them.
✔️ Nominations are open to the public
🗓 Deadline: June 1, 2026
🏆 Inaugural induction: August 2026
Submit a nomination today at https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
Let’s honor the legacy of excellence across our schools.
The McCracken County Schools Hall of Fame is now accepting nominations, and we want to continue recognizing outstanding alumni who have excelled in academics and athletics.
Do you know someone who made a lasting impact? A record-setting athlete? An academic standout? Now is the time to nominate them.
✔️ Nominations are open to the public
🗓 Deadline: June 1, 2026
🏆 Inaugural induction: August 2026
Submit a nomination today at https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
Let’s honor the legacy of excellence across our schools.
Congratulations to Our GSP Scholars!
We are proud to share that 15 juniors from McCracken County High School have been selected for the prestigious Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program (GSP)—a highly competitive honor recognizing some of the top students across the state!
These students will take part in an incredible summer experience focused on leadership, learning, and personal growth alongside peers from across Kentucky.
Join us in celebrating their achievement and wishing them the best this summer!
🔗 Read the full press release and see the complete list of students here: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2840358
We are proud to share that 15 juniors from McCracken County High School have been selected for the prestigious Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program (GSP)—a highly competitive honor recognizing some of the top students across the state!
These students will take part in an incredible summer experience focused on leadership, learning, and personal growth alongside peers from across Kentucky.
Join us in celebrating their achievement and wishing them the best this summer!
🔗 Read the full press release and see the complete list of students here: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2840358
You’re invited!
Join us for Together in Conversation, Together as Friends as we celebrate our English Learners and the diversity that makes our schools strong.
📅 May 7, 2026
🕕 6:00 p.m.
📍 McCracken County Schools Board of Education
Enjoy an evening with students, families, and staff!
RSVP to Romina Maldonado at 270-538-4037 or romina.maldonado@mccracken.kyschools.us
We hope to see you there!
Join us for Together in Conversation, Together as Friends as we celebrate our English Learners and the diversity that makes our schools strong.
📅 May 7, 2026
🕕 6:00 p.m.
📍 McCracken County Schools Board of Education
Enjoy an evening with students, families, and staff!
RSVP to Romina Maldonado at 270-538-4037 or romina.maldonado@mccracken.kyschools.us
We hope to see you there!
Congratulations to McCracken County High School students Emma Nolan, Madison McKinney, Noah Hambrick, and William Seaton on being accepted into the Governor's School for Entrepreneurs (GSE)!
We’re also proud to recognize Marlee Harbison for being named an alternate.
GSE is a highly competitive, three-week summer program that equips students with the skills to develop business ideas, create prototypes, and pitch their own startups. What an incredible opportunity!
🔗 Read the full press release: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2837112
We’re also proud to recognize Marlee Harbison for being named an alternate.
GSE is a highly competitive, three-week summer program that equips students with the skills to develop business ideas, create prototypes, and pitch their own startups. What an incredible opportunity!
🔗 Read the full press release: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2837112
Board of Education Recognitions – April Meeting
We are proud to recognize the outstanding achievements of our McCracken County High School students and teams!
Athena Yang – Freshman recognized for being named the 2026 Math Content Assessment State Champion.
Dawson Hayden – Named Class 3A Boys’ Pole Vault State Champion, clearing an impressive 14-6 at the 2026 Indoor Track & Field State Championship.
MCHS Mustangs Coed Cheer Team – Celebrated for being crowned 2026 State Champions and earning 2nd place at UCA Nationals.
Congratulations to all!
We are proud to recognize the outstanding achievements of our McCracken County High School students and teams!
Athena Yang – Freshman recognized for being named the 2026 Math Content Assessment State Champion.
Dawson Hayden – Named Class 3A Boys’ Pole Vault State Champion, clearing an impressive 14-6 at the 2026 Indoor Track & Field State Championship.
MCHS Mustangs Coed Cheer Team – Celebrated for being crowned 2026 State Champions and earning 2nd place at UCA Nationals.
Congratulations to all!
This summer, give your child a confident start with Waterford Upstart! ☀️📚
This program is designed for preschool and current kindergarten students, helping build strong early learning skills before the next school year.
Thanks to an Education, Innovation & Research (EIR) grant, qualifying Kentucky families can access this program at no cost.
🗓 Summer Program Dates: May 4 – August 30, 2026
⏱ Just 20 minutes a day, 5 days a week
📖 Your child will be assigned to reading or math/science with fun, research-based lessons
Spots are limited—enroll by April 26 to secure your child’s place!
👉 Apply now to see if you qualify
👉 No cost for eligible families
This program is designed for preschool and current kindergarten students, helping build strong early learning skills before the next school year.
Thanks to an Education, Innovation & Research (EIR) grant, qualifying Kentucky families can access this program at no cost.
🗓 Summer Program Dates: May 4 – August 30, 2026
⏱ Just 20 minutes a day, 5 days a week
📖 Your child will be assigned to reading or math/science with fun, research-based lessons
Spots are limited—enroll by April 26 to secure your child’s place!
👉 Apply now to see if you qualify
👉 No cost for eligible families
Happy Administrative Professionals Day!
Today we celebrate the incredible individuals who keep our schools and offices running smoothly each and every day. From greeting visitors with a smile to managing schedules, answering calls, and supporting students, staff, and families—your work never goes unnoticed.
Your organization, dedication, and heart make a difference in every building across our district. Thank you for being the backbone of our schools and for all you do to support student success!
Join us in thanking our amazing administrative professionals today!
Today we celebrate the incredible individuals who keep our schools and offices running smoothly each and every day. From greeting visitors with a smile to managing schedules, answering calls, and supporting students, staff, and families—your work never goes unnoticed.
Your organization, dedication, and heart make a difference in every building across our district. Thank you for being the backbone of our schools and for all you do to support student success!
Join us in thanking our amazing administrative professionals today!
Eight McCracken County High School students have been selected for the 2026 Kentucky Governor’s School for the Arts (GSA)—a prestigious program that brings together some of the top young artists from across the Commonwealth.
Congratulations to Chloe Case, Brennan Freeman, Layla Nichol, Eleanor Polete, Emmett Rathgeber, Kory Sulcer, Sophia Witte, and Polina Zagumennova on being accepted!
We also want to recognize Amberlee Bradford for being named an alternate—an outstanding accomplishment!
GSA is a life-changing experience that allows students to grow their talents, collaborate with peers, and explore future opportunities in the arts. We are incredibly proud of these students and their hard work!
🔗 Read the full press release: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2830865
Congratulations to Chloe Case, Brennan Freeman, Layla Nichol, Eleanor Polete, Emmett Rathgeber, Kory Sulcer, Sophia Witte, and Polina Zagumennova on being accepted!
We also want to recognize Amberlee Bradford for being named an alternate—an outstanding accomplishment!
GSA is a life-changing experience that allows students to grow their talents, collaborate with peers, and explore future opportunities in the arts. We are incredibly proud of these students and their hard work!
🔗 Read the full press release: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2830865
Congratulations to the MCHS students selected for the 2026 Commonwealth Honors Academy at Murray State University!
Ava Adame
Kellum Bremer
Ameilie Manea
Phoenix Norment
Angel Patel
Caroline Roberts
These outstanding juniors were selected from a competitive pool of applicants nationwide to attend this prestigious three-week summer program, where they will take college-level courses, participate in leadership development, and experience campus life.
We are proud of these students for representing McCracken County Schools at such a high level!
🔗 Read more: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2828359
Ava Adame
Kellum Bremer
Ameilie Manea
Phoenix Norment
Angel Patel
Caroline Roberts
These outstanding juniors were selected from a competitive pool of applicants nationwide to attend this prestigious three-week summer program, where they will take college-level courses, participate in leadership development, and experience campus life.
We are proud of these students for representing McCracken County Schools at such a high level!
🔗 Read more: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2828359
🎉 Congratulations, Shaquita Garrett! 🎉
We are proud to celebrate MCHS's Shaquita Garrett for being named the KEA ESP of the Year, announced at the 2026 KEA Delegate Assembly!
This prestigious honor recognizes outstanding Education Support Professionals across Kentucky for their dedication to public education, their schools, and their communities. Selected by the KEA Executive Committee and past recipients, this award highlights the incredible impact ESPs make every single day.
Shaquita, your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to students truly set you apart. Your hard work and heart for service make a lasting difference, and this recognition is so well deserved. Thank you for representing the very best of Education Support Professionals across Kentucky. We are incredibly proud of you!
We are proud to celebrate MCHS's Shaquita Garrett for being named the KEA ESP of the Year, announced at the 2026 KEA Delegate Assembly!
This prestigious honor recognizes outstanding Education Support Professionals across Kentucky for their dedication to public education, their schools, and their communities. Selected by the KEA Executive Committee and past recipients, this award highlights the incredible impact ESPs make every single day.
Shaquita, your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to students truly set you apart. Your hard work and heart for service make a lasting difference, and this recognition is so well deserved. Thank you for representing the very best of Education Support Professionals across Kentucky. We are incredibly proud of you!
We’re proud to see Bre Sykes Podunajec, our Family Resource and Youth Services Center (FRYSC) Director at McCracken County High School, featured on Kentucky Teacher!
In her recent article, Bre shares a powerful reflection on our journey to becoming a Family Friendly Certified school—highlighting how strong partnerships with families make a direct impact on student success. She emphasizes the importance of removing barriers for students, increasing family engagement at the high school level, and creating meaningful connections as we move forward with our academy model.
Her leadership reminds us that being “Family Friendly” isn’t just a title—it’s an ongoing commitment to listening, growing, and working alongside our families and community to support every Mustang.
Thank you, Mrs. Podunajec, for the incredible work you do for our students and families every day!
https://www.kentuckyteacher.org/leadership/guest-columns/2026/04/mccracken-county-high-school-leader-reflects-on-family-friendly-schools-certification/?fbclid=IwY2xjawRNwVJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFrRnJISnBPOGVWanJDMzlUc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpSKPqP9HjksBMsfRwMIbTrRV06TrjG2p7uo_j1PbKSTFixVqYdYD5jnKAJj_aem_Ym1DZSomagY3_-GY7UR3nw
In her recent article, Bre shares a powerful reflection on our journey to becoming a Family Friendly Certified school—highlighting how strong partnerships with families make a direct impact on student success. She emphasizes the importance of removing barriers for students, increasing family engagement at the high school level, and creating meaningful connections as we move forward with our academy model.
Her leadership reminds us that being “Family Friendly” isn’t just a title—it’s an ongoing commitment to listening, growing, and working alongside our families and community to support every Mustang.
Thank you, Mrs. Podunajec, for the incredible work you do for our students and families every day!
https://www.kentuckyteacher.org/leadership/guest-columns/2026/04/mccracken-county-high-school-leader-reflects-on-family-friendly-schools-certification/?fbclid=IwY2xjawRNwVJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFrRnJISnBPOGVWanJDMzlUc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpSKPqP9HjksBMsfRwMIbTrRV06TrjG2p7uo_j1PbKSTFixVqYdYD5jnKAJj_aem_Ym1DZSomagY3_-GY7UR3nw
🏈 TONIGHT 🍔
Support McCracken County Middle School Football by dining out!
Join us for a “Donate While You Dine” fundraiser at Culver’s of Paducah on:
📅 Wednesday, April 15, 2026�⏰ 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Bring your family, enjoy a great meal, and help support our team at the same time! Every bite helps make a difference. 💪🏽🏈
We appreciate your support—see you there!
🌟 April McCracken MVP: Randy Hines 🌟
We’re proud to recognize Randy Hines, Computer Technician at McCracken County High School, as our April 2026 McCracken MVP!
Randy goes above and beyond every single day to keep technology running smoothly for our students and staff. From distributing nearly 2,000 Chromebooks before school starts each year to tackling hundreds of tech requests, his work ensures classrooms stay connected and learning never misses a beat.
Beyond the tech, Randy’s positive attitude, problem-solving mindset, and willingness to help anyone at any time make a lasting impact on the culture at MCHS.
Thank you, Randy, for your dedication and the incredible support you provide MCHS each day!
We’re proud to recognize Randy Hines, Computer Technician at McCracken County High School, as our April 2026 McCracken MVP!
Randy goes above and beyond every single day to keep technology running smoothly for our students and staff. From distributing nearly 2,000 Chromebooks before school starts each year to tackling hundreds of tech requests, his work ensures classrooms stay connected and learning never misses a beat.
Beyond the tech, Randy’s positive attitude, problem-solving mindset, and willingness to help anyone at any time make a lasting impact on the culture at MCHS.
Thank you, Randy, for your dedication and the incredible support you provide MCHS each day!
🌿🌸 It’s Greenhouse Season at MCHS! 🌸🌿
The River Valley AgCredit Greenhouse Plant Sale is back at McCracken County High School! Come support our students and pick up beautiful plants for your home and garden.
🗓 April 15 – May 13
⏰ Mon–Fri: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
⏰ Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The River Valley AgCredit Greenhouse Plant Sale is back at McCracken County High School! Come support our students and pick up beautiful plants for your home and garden.
🗓 April 15 – May 13
⏰ Mon–Fri: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
⏰ Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
McCracken County Public Schools Names Jon Reid Chief Academic Officer
We are proud to announce that Jon Reid has been named Chief Academic Officer, effective July 1, 2026.
With more than 20 years of experience in education and leadership, Mr. Reid has made a lasting impact across our district—most recently serving as Director of High School Instruction. His dedication to student success and support for educators will continue to drive excellence in McCracken County Schools.
🔗 Read the full press release: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2806335
We are proud to announce that Jon Reid has been named Chief Academic Officer, effective July 1, 2026.
With more than 20 years of experience in education and leadership, Mr. Reid has made a lasting impact across our district—most recently serving as Director of High School Instruction. His dedication to student success and support for educators will continue to drive excellence in McCracken County Schools.
🔗 Read the full press release: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/2806335
🍎 Happy National Assistant Principals Week! 🍎
This week, we celebrate the incredible assistant principals who help keep our schools running smoothly each and every day. From supporting students and staff to building positive school cultures, their impact is felt in every hallway and classroom.
Assistant principals are leaders, problem-solvers, encouragers, and champions for student success. They work behind the scenes and on the front lines—always putting students first.
Thank you to our amazing assistant principals for your dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Our schools are better because of you!
This week, we celebrate the incredible assistant principals who help keep our schools running smoothly each and every day. From supporting students and staff to building positive school cultures, their impact is felt in every hallway and classroom.
Assistant principals are leaders, problem-solvers, encouragers, and champions for student success. They work behind the scenes and on the front lines—always putting students first.
Thank you to our amazing assistant principals for your dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Our schools are better because of you!
