The new welding program at McCracken County High School is off to a great start! With 14 welding bays, students are gaining valuable hands-on experience while preparing for high-demand careers.
Last week, welding teacher Mr. Tucker and his classes welcomed Fabian Villota and Buz Smith from General Matter to discuss careers in welding and the qualities the company will seek in future employees.
Mr. Villota shared his journey from military service to his current role with General Matter and emphasized the importance of developing good habits now to achieve future success. Students learned about background checks, security clearances, and the technical and soft skills needed in the workplace.
They also had the opportunity to ask questions about General Matter, other industries coming to Paducah, the economic impact these companies will have on our region, and the growing demand for skilled welders.
Thank you to Mr. Villota, Mr. Smith, and General Matter for connecting classroom learning with real-world career opportunities!
September McCracken MVP: Ryan Johnson
We’re proud to recognize Ryan Johnson, Bus Driver and Driver Trainer for McCracken County Schools, as our September 2026 McCracken MVP!
Ryan shows up every day with patience, kindness, and a genuine heart for the students he serves. He makes every ride feel safe, welcoming, and special, and his positive attitude and caring spirit make a difference for his riders each and every day.
As a driver trainer, Ryan also plays an important role in supporting and preparing fellow drivers, sharing his experience and commitment to keeping our students safe.
The impact Ryan makes goes far beyond the bus. He provides students with a sense of security and confidence while making sure they know they are cared for along the way.
Thank you, Ryan, for your dedication to our students, your fellow drivers, and our district!
We’re proud to recognize Ryan Johnson, Bus Driver and Driver Trainer for McCracken County Schools, as our September 2026 McCracken MVP!
Ryan shows up every day with patience, kindness, and a genuine heart for the students he serves. He makes every ride feel safe, welcoming, and special, and his positive attitude and caring spirit make a difference for his riders each and every day.
As a driver trainer, Ryan also plays an important role in supporting and preparing fellow drivers, sharing his experience and commitment to keeping our students safe.
The impact Ryan makes goes far beyond the bus. He provides students with a sense of security and confidence while making sure they know they are cared for along the way.
Thank you, Ryan, for your dedication to our students, your fellow drivers, and our district!
Happy National IT Professionals Day!
Today, we recognize the incredible team members who keep our technology running, our schools connected and our students and staff supported. From solving everyday tech issues to maintaining the systems that power learning across our district, their work makes a difference every day.
Thank you to our MCPS technology team for all you do behind the scenes—and often at a moment’s notice! We appreciate you!
Today, we recognize the incredible team members who keep our technology running, our schools connected and our students and staff supported. From solving everyday tech issues to maintaining the systems that power learning across our district, their work makes a difference every day.
Thank you to our MCPS technology team for all you do behind the scenes—and often at a moment’s notice! We appreciate you!
MCHS Media Arts students are getting hands-on experience while helping make a difference in our community!
For the fourth year, students worked alongside broadcast professionals to help produce the Telethon of Stars. From operating cameras to filling important production roles, they put the skills they’ve learned in the classroom to work during a real television production.
We are proud of our students and Media Arts teacher Kristy Griffith for being part of this longtime community tradition!
Read more from WPSD Local 6:
https://www.wpsdlocal6.com/news/telethon-of-stars-marks-70-years-supporting-nonprofits-across-the-region/article_cdb9bb55-07c3-4075-9ae2-ffd3141c0e44.html
For the fourth year, students worked alongside broadcast professionals to help produce the Telethon of Stars. From operating cameras to filling important production roles, they put the skills they’ve learned in the classroom to work during a real television production.
We are proud of our students and Media Arts teacher Kristy Griffith for being part of this longtime community tradition!
Read more from WPSD Local 6:
https://www.wpsdlocal6.com/news/telethon-of-stars-marks-70-years-supporting-nonprofits-across-the-region/article_cdb9bb55-07c3-4075-9ae2-ffd3141c0e44.html
McCracken County Mustangs Bowling tryouts are open to boys and girls in grades 7–12.
October 1, 2026
5:30–7:00 p.m.
Cardinal Lanes Strike & Spare
A signed physical is required to participate.
October 1, 2026
5:30–7:00 p.m.
Cardinal Lanes Strike & Spare
A signed physical is required to participate.
We are proud to introduce the final inductee in the inaugural McCracken County High School Hall of Fame and Hall of Heritage class: Kenny Perry, a graduate of Lone Oak High School!
Kenny began his golf career at Lone Oak High School and continued competing at Western Kentucky University before turning professional in 1982.
During his outstanding career, he earned 27 professional victories, including 14 PGA Tour wins and 10 PGA Tour Champions victories. He reached No. 4 in the Official World Golf Ranking and represented Team USA in multiple Ryder Cups, including the victorious 2008 team at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville.
Kenny’s many honors include the prestigious Payne Stewart Award, PGA Tour Champions Rookie of the Year, the Charles Schwab Cup and Champions Tour Player of the Year.
From Lone Oak High School to the highest levels of professional golf, Kenny has represented McCracken County and the Commonwealth of Kentucky with exceptional skill, sportsmanship and distinction.
Join us Sept. 18 as we celebrate Kenny and all members of the inaugural Hall of Fame and Hall of Heritage class!
Induction Ceremony: 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS
Pregame Recognition: 6:45 p.m. before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium
Know someone deserving of this honor? Submit a nomination for the next Hall of Fame or Hall of Heritage class at:
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
Kenny began his golf career at Lone Oak High School and continued competing at Western Kentucky University before turning professional in 1982.
During his outstanding career, he earned 27 professional victories, including 14 PGA Tour wins and 10 PGA Tour Champions victories. He reached No. 4 in the Official World Golf Ranking and represented Team USA in multiple Ryder Cups, including the victorious 2008 team at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville.
Kenny’s many honors include the prestigious Payne Stewart Award, PGA Tour Champions Rookie of the Year, the Charles Schwab Cup and Champions Tour Player of the Year.
From Lone Oak High School to the highest levels of professional golf, Kenny has represented McCracken County and the Commonwealth of Kentucky with exceptional skill, sportsmanship and distinction.
Join us Sept. 18 as we celebrate Kenny and all members of the inaugural Hall of Fame and Hall of Heritage class!
Induction Ceremony: 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS
Pregame Recognition: 6:45 p.m. before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium
Know someone deserving of this honor? Submit a nomination for the next Hall of Fame or Hall of Heritage class at:
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
Join McCracken Coed Cheer for the 2026 Cheerleading Mini-Clinic on Sunday, September 20!
Scan the QR code on the flyer to register.
Scan the QR code on the flyer to register.
High Attendance Day is September 9, 2026 across Kentucky!
Every school day counts! Let’s make attendance a priority and help our students make the most of every opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.
Attendance Matters!
Every school day counts! Let’s make attendance a priority and help our students make the most of every opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.
Attendance Matters!
Reminder: There will be no school on Monday, Sept. 7, in observance of Labor Day.
We hope our students, staff and families enjoy a safe and relaxing holiday weekend!
We hope our students, staff and families enjoy a safe and relaxing holiday weekend!
A new distinction is coming to McCracken County High School!
Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, graduating seniors will have the opportunity to earn the Seal of Arts Excellence in Dance, Music, Theatre or Visual Art.
Students pursuing the seal will complete focused study in their chosen discipline and submit a mastery portfolio for review by arts professionals. Those who earn the distinction will receive recognition on their official transcript and an embossed seal on their diploma.
We are excited to offer another way to recognize the talent, creativity and dedication of our MCHS students!
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/3101416
Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, graduating seniors will have the opportunity to earn the Seal of Arts Excellence in Dance, Music, Theatre or Visual Art.
Students pursuing the seal will complete focused study in their chosen discipline and submit a mastery portfolio for review by arts professionals. Those who earn the distinction will receive recognition on their official transcript and an embossed seal on their diploma.
We are excited to offer another way to recognize the talent, creativity and dedication of our MCHS students!
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/3101416
Congratulations to our MCHS AP Scholars!
A total of 141 McCracken County High School students earned AP Scholar Awards for their outstanding performance on AP Exams during the 2025–2026 school year. MCHS students also earned 14 AP Capstone Diplomas and four AP Seminar and Research Certificates.
We are proud of the hard work and dedication of these students!
Read the full press release and view the complete list of honorees: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/3102749
A total of 141 McCracken County High School students earned AP Scholar Awards for their outstanding performance on AP Exams during the 2025–2026 school year. MCHS students also earned 14 AP Capstone Diplomas and four AP Seminar and Research Certificates.
We are proud of the hard work and dedication of these students!
Read the full press release and view the complete list of honorees: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/3102749
We are proud to introduce the next inductee in the inaugural Hall of Heritage class: Terry Mike Jeffrey, a 1972 graduate of Reidland High School!
For more than 50 years, Terry Mike has represented Western Kentucky on regional, national and international stages as a singer, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and musical director.
His distinguished career includes a 1997 Emmy Award nomination for his songwriting contributions to “Sesame Street,” performances at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium and appearances with symphony orchestras across the country. He was also a frequent performer on TNN’s “Music City Tonight with Crook & Chase” and continues to reach a national audience through SiriusXM’s Elvis Radio.
Throughout his career, Terry Mike has remained deeply connected to Paducah and Western Kentucky, bringing recognition and pride to the community and schools that helped shape him.
Join us Sept. 18 as we celebrate Terry Mike and all members of the inaugural Hall of Fame and Hall of Heritage class!
Induction Ceremony: 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS
Pregame Recognition: 6:45 p.m. before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium
Know someone deserving of this honor? Submit a nomination for the next Hall of Fame or Hall of Heritage class at:
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
For more than 50 years, Terry Mike has represented Western Kentucky on regional, national and international stages as a singer, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and musical director.
His distinguished career includes a 1997 Emmy Award nomination for his songwriting contributions to “Sesame Street,” performances at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium and appearances with symphony orchestras across the country. He was also a frequent performer on TNN’s “Music City Tonight with Crook & Chase” and continues to reach a national audience through SiriusXM’s Elvis Radio.
Throughout his career, Terry Mike has remained deeply connected to Paducah and Western Kentucky, bringing recognition and pride to the community and schools that helped shape him.
Join us Sept. 18 as we celebrate Terry Mike and all members of the inaugural Hall of Fame and Hall of Heritage class!
Induction Ceremony: 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS
Pregame Recognition: 6:45 p.m. before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium
Know someone deserving of this honor? Submit a nomination for the next Hall of Fame or Hall of Heritage class at:
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
Next in our inaugural class, we turn to the Hall of Heritage!
While the McCracken County High School Hall of Fame recognizes excellence connected to MCHS, the Hall of Heritage honors the proud legacies of Heath, Reidland and Lone Oak high schools.
We are proud to introduce our first Hall of Heritage inductee: Steven Curtis Chapman, a graduate of Heath High School!
Since beginning his recording career in 1987, Chapman has become one of the most influential and decorated artists in contemporary Christian music. He has sold more than 11 million albums worldwide, recorded 49 No. 1 radio singles and earned five Grammy Awards, an American Music Award and numerous GMA Dove Awards.
In 2024, Chapman made history as the first contemporary Christian music artist inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Throughout his nearly four-decade career, his music and faith have inspired millions while bringing national recognition and pride to his Western Kentucky roots.
Join us Sept. 18 as we celebrate Steven and all members of the inaugural Hall of Fame and Hall of Heritage class!
Induction Ceremony: 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS
Pregame Recognition: 6:45 p.m. before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium
Know someone deserving of this honor? Submit a nomination for the next Hall of Fame or Hall of Heritage class at:
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
Friday night lights are back at Marquette Stadium!
Join us for the Mustangs’ first home football game of the season as they take on Logan County this Friday at 7 p.m.
Before heading to the game, please review the event guidelines below.
Let’s pack the stands and cheer on the Mustangs!
Join us for the Mustangs’ first home football game of the season as they take on Logan County this Friday at 7 p.m.
Before heading to the game, please review the event guidelines below.
Let’s pack the stands and cheer on the Mustangs!
Join us Sept. 18 as we celebrate the inaugural class of the McCracken County High School Hall of Fame and Hall of Heritage!
The induction ceremony will be held from 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS.
Inductees will also be recognized at 6:45 p.m. during pregame festivities before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium.
We hope you’ll join us as we honor the achievements and lasting legacies of this historic first class!
The induction ceremony will be held from 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS.
Inductees will also be recognized at 6:45 p.m. during pregame festivities before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium.
We hope you’ll join us as we honor the achievements and lasting legacies of this historic first class!
We are proud to introduce the fifth inductee in the inaugural class of the McCracken County High School Hall of Fame: Bailey Vick!
Join us Sept. 18 as we celebrate Bailey and all members of the inaugural Hall of Fame and Hall of Heritage class!
Induction Ceremony: Sept. 18 from 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS
Pregame Recognition: 6:45 p.m. before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium
A 2016 graduate of MCHS, Bailey was a six-year varsity softball player who helped lead McCracken County to two district championships, a 2014 KHSAA State Runner-Up finish and the 2015 KHSAA State Championship.
She was a three-time KHSAA Academic All-State selection, two-time All-District selection, Second-Team All-State honoree and East-West All-Star Game selection. A 4.0 student, AP Scholar and Governor’s Scholar, Bailey showed that academic and athletic excellence could go hand in hand.
At the University of Kentucky, Bailey earned numerous athletic and academic honors, including SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year and Academic All-America recognition. She was later inducted into the University of Kentucky Softball Hall of Fame.
Bailey’s success continues to inspire McCracken County athletes to dream bigger and believe they can compete at the highest level.
Know someone deserving of this honor? Submit a nomination for the next Hall of Fame or Hall of Heritage class at:
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
Join us Sept. 18 as we celebrate Bailey and all members of the inaugural Hall of Fame and Hall of Heritage class!
Induction Ceremony: Sept. 18 from 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS
Pregame Recognition: 6:45 p.m. before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium
A 2016 graduate of MCHS, Bailey was a six-year varsity softball player who helped lead McCracken County to two district championships, a 2014 KHSAA State Runner-Up finish and the 2015 KHSAA State Championship.
She was a three-time KHSAA Academic All-State selection, two-time All-District selection, Second-Team All-State honoree and East-West All-Star Game selection. A 4.0 student, AP Scholar and Governor’s Scholar, Bailey showed that academic and athletic excellence could go hand in hand.
At the University of Kentucky, Bailey earned numerous athletic and academic honors, including SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year and Academic All-America recognition. She was later inducted into the University of Kentucky Softball Hall of Fame.
Bailey’s success continues to inspire McCracken County athletes to dream bigger and believe they can compete at the highest level.
Know someone deserving of this honor? Submit a nomination for the next Hall of Fame or Hall of Heritage class at:
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
We are proud to introduce the fourth inductee in the inaugural class of the McCracken County High School Hall of Fame: Ron Ruggles!
Ron was a beloved and dedicated supporter of McCracken County athletics whose influence extended far beyond the playing field.
For many years, he volunteered as a sports announcer at Heath High School and later McCracken County High School. His voice, enthusiasm and unwavering support made him a familiar and welcomed presence at athletic events.
Known for his warmth, generosity and ability to connect with others, Ron made athletes, coaches and fans feel welcome and valued. He was a cherished member of the McCracken County athletic family.
Induction Ceremony: Sept. 18 from 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS
Pregame Recognition: 6:45 p.m. before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium
Know someone deserving of this honor? Submit a nomination for the next Hall of Fame or Hall of Heritage class at:
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
Ron was a beloved and dedicated supporter of McCracken County athletics whose influence extended far beyond the playing field.
For many years, he volunteered as a sports announcer at Heath High School and later McCracken County High School. His voice, enthusiasm and unwavering support made him a familiar and welcomed presence at athletic events.
Known for his warmth, generosity and ability to connect with others, Ron made athletes, coaches and fans feel welcome and valued. He was a cherished member of the McCracken County athletic family.
Induction Ceremony: Sept. 18 from 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the C-Plant Auditorium at MCHS
Pregame Recognition: 6:45 p.m. before the Mustangs host Union County at Marquette Stadium
Know someone deserving of this honor? Submit a nomination for the next Hall of Fame or Hall of Heritage class at:
https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/page/hall-of-fame
Regular Drivers: $120–$165 per day
Preschool Drivers: $102–$140 per day
A rewarding career is just down the road.
McCracken County Schools is hiring school bus drivers to help safely transport students and make a difference in their lives each day.
Your experience matters—and your pay grows with it:
5 years: $137.54 per day ($21.16/hour)
10 years: $153.80 per day ($23.66/hour)
Regular drivers work a 184-day contract, while preschool drivers work a 136-day contract.
No experience? No problem. We’ll provide the training you need.
Find your purpose behind the wheel. Apply today! https://mccracken.schoolspring.com/
Preschool Drivers: $102–$140 per day
A rewarding career is just down the road.
McCracken County Schools is hiring school bus drivers to help safely transport students and make a difference in their lives each day.
Your experience matters—and your pay grows with it:
5 years: $137.54 per day ($21.16/hour)
10 years: $153.80 per day ($23.66/hour)
Regular drivers work a 184-day contract, while preschool drivers work a 136-day contract.
No experience? No problem. We’ll provide the training you need.
Find your purpose behind the wheel. Apply today! https://mccracken.schoolspring.com/
Paducah Sports Park Fall Programming
Congratulations to McCracken County High School senior Sam Lynn, who has received the Kentucky Arts Council’s 2026–2027 Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Grant!
Sam will study bluegrass music with accomplished musician and educator Scott Napier, compose an original song and perform publicly in Paducah and Owensboro. After graduation, Sam plans to continue his music education at East Tennessee State University.
We are proud to see Sam sharing his talent while helping preserve and advance Kentucky’s rich bluegrass tradition!
Read more: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/3083000
Sam will study bluegrass music with accomplished musician and educator Scott Napier, compose an original song and perform publicly in Paducah and Owensboro. After graduation, Sam plans to continue his music education at East Tennessee State University.
We are proud to see Sam sharing his talent while helping preserve and advance Kentucky’s rich bluegrass tradition!
Read more: https://www.mccracken.kyschools.us/article/3083000
