Rhonda Wicker Named 23-24 Challenger Learning Center Outstanding Educator

Calloway County teacher Rhonda Wicker has been named the 2023-24 Challenger Learning Center Outstanding Educator. Wicker received her award as a part of the President's Awards during the Regional Educators Awards and Scholarship Program held at West Kentucky Technical College on March 28.

Wicker is the district's gifted and talented teacher, and works with students in all three elementary schools, Calloway County Middle School, and Calloway County High School.  Wicker works closely with The Challenger Learning Center in Paducah to provide enrichment opportunities for the district's gifted and talented students.

"We are very proud of Ms. Wicker for winning this award," said Calloway County Superintendent Tres Settle. "She is a phenomenal asset to our district and does an excellent job pushing and accelerating her students. We are thrilled she is receiving this recognition so others in our region can see how impactful she is for our students."

As a leader in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education, Challenger Center and its international network of more than 40 Challenger Learning Centers use space-themed simulated learning environments to engage students in dynamic, hands-on opportunities. The Challenger Learning Center at Paducah is a result of a partnership between Paducah Junior College, Inc. and West Kentucky Community and Technical College. The center opened in 2002 and has flown thousands of "missions" through school visits, summer camps, after school programs, and professional development for teachers. 

Pictured (L to R) are WKCTC President's Awards recipients: Wicker, Shirley Massie, retired Paducah educator, Casey Henderson, Carlisle County Superintendent, Linette Hamilton, retired McCracken County educator, and WKCTC President Anton Reece.