Lee County Board highlights CTE staff, students as McCreary Central ranks among top 5% for readiness

The Lee County Board of Education used its Feb. 24 meeting to spotlight the district’s Career and Technical Education programs and to honor students who advanced to regional and state competitions.

Superintendent communications opened the recognitions, and Dr. Shepherd, identified in the meeting as the district CTE lead, credited teachers and industry partners for the results. “We’re blessed with one heck of a staff, and it shows out in our numbers too,” Dr. Shepherd said, noting that McCreary Central High School placed in the top 5% of Kentucky schools for postsecondary readiness.

Board members and program leads recognized students across multiple pathways. Coach Dustin Lawrence and the wrestling program were acknowledged after taking 11 girls to regionals and sending seven to state tournaments. Aaron Gilreath was recognized for technical leadership in the TSA program, and Jackson Windburn was highlighted for achievements across phlebotomy, EMT and sports-medicine coursework in the health-science pathway. In addition, staff noted a recent contact from a U.S. Air Force representative seeking student involvement in drone work and internships.

Other pathway leads introduced student honorees in teaching and learning, residential carpentry (including dual-credit and apprenticeship work with IKORCC and a local community college), computer science and agricultural programs. Several students were named for state and national competition participation or for leadership roles within their programs.

The board framed these recognitions as part of the district’s broader goal of improving postsecondary readiness; the superintendent said the district has set a target of reaching the top statewide ranking in that measure.

The recognitions took place under the superintendent’s report; no formal board action was required for the awards.