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Calloway County Middle School's Speech Team finished first overall at the Henry County Krider Invitational in Paris on November 2nd.
The team had 5 entries that won tournament champions including Amanda Ezinma in declamation, Andrew Dunnaway in storytelling, Kensley Hutson in Declamation, Hayden Gilbert in impromptu and the duo acting team of Hayden Gilbert and Meghan Scott-Duncan.
Several team members finaled in their events including Leah Hughes who placed second in declamation, third in dramatic interpretation and fifth in prose. Zoree Whitley placed second in dramatic interpretation and Emma Hixson placed fourth in extemporaneous speaking. In humorous interpretation, Madison Purdy placed second and Ethan Pervine placed fifth. Amanda Ezinma placed second in impromptu and third in oratory. Lilah Hill placed third in impromptu and Liberty Fitch placed second in oratory. Meghan Scott-Duncan placed fifth in poetry and the improvisational duo team of Scott-Duncan and Emma Lanier placed second. In prose, Madelyn Tudor placed third and in radio broadcasting, Kalie Hurt placed fourth. Lorynn Russel placed third in storytelling. In improvisational duo, the team of Purdy and Whitly placed fourth, the team of Dunnaway and Hill placed 5th and the team of Hunt and Tudor placed fifth.
The CCMS Speech team is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway and Kaydee Hughes.
Calloway County High School's academic team won their third straight KAAC JV Challenge competition for 9th and 10th graders on Saturday, November 2nd.
This year’s competitors were Calloway County, McCracken County, Murray, St. Mary, and University Heights high schools. The Lakers took first place with 76 points.
The Lakers finished first in Quick Recall, winning all three matches of the day. The Quick Recall team includes Hillary Bohannon, Kaiden Capps, Aiden Hooper, Ella Martin, Maya Munoz, Molly Kate Pierce, Mason Riley, Tyler Saalwaechter, and Tyler Sebby.
In Written Assessment, the Lakers had multiple students earn points toward the overall standings:
Mathematics
4th Maya Munoz
5th Mason Riley
Science
1st Ella Martin (ranked 2nd statewide)
4th Aiden Hooper
Social Studies
1st Molly Kate Pierce
2nd Tyler Saalwaechter
3rd Aiden Hooper (ranked top 10 statewide)
Language Arts
3rd Ella Martin
Arts and Humanities
1st Maya Munoz (ranked #1 statewide)
2nd Ella Martin
Composition
1st Mason Riley
4th Sarah Doyle
The Lakers are coached by Erica Gray, Cassidy McAllister, Jayden Morris, Margaret Richter, Lane Springer, and Dan Thompson.
Pictured front row Molly Kate Pierce and Maya Munoz
Pictured back row Ella Martin, Hillary Bohannon, Aiden Hooper, Mason Riley, and Tyler Saalwaechter.
Not pictured Hollyn Aldridge, Sarah Doyle, Aaliyah Byrley, Kaiden Capps, Hayden Loveless, Tyler Sebby
Calloway County High School's girls' cross country team finished fifth overall at the KHSAA 2A State Cross Country Championships in Lexington on November 2nd. The fifth place finish is the highest ever in school history after finishing sixth in 2023.
Junior Vayla Carlisle led the day with an 8th place finish out of over 200 runners, earning KHSAA All-State honors. Junior Jaiden Koch joins her with All-State honors in 13th place. Rounding out the scoring five were junior Sadie Lilly, sophomore Bella Norsworthy and seventh grader Violet Lencki.
The boys team finished 11th overall, led by senior Ashton Robinson in 32nd of 260 competitors.
Calloway County High School's Speech Team placed fifth at the Henry County Krider Invitational in Paris, TN on November 2nd.
The team advanced 9 of 13 entries to finals. Elizabeth Lanier placed in all three of her events, ranking 3rd in extemporaneous speaking, 3rd in humorous interpretation and 2nd in impromptu. In prose, Quinlyn Moore placed 3rd, Madison Morris placed 4th, Charlotte Haws placed 5th and Sarah Gardner placed 6th. The improvisational duo team of Brilee Garland and Madison Morris placed 3rd. Levi Dunnaway placed 2nd in radio broadcasting.
The team is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Miranda Wilson and Jamie Smith. The team's next competition is on November 16th at Murray State University.
Calloway County High School's Future Farmers of America recently attended the 97th Annual FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana with the 70,000 other FFA members from across the nation.
Senior Elizabeth Lanier represented the state of Kentucky in the Prepared Public Speaking Leadership Development Event and received a Silver Rating. This contest has been occurring for 94 years, and only 1 in 22,000 members even qualify for the Prepared Public Speaking Contest each year.
CCHS graduates Emma Arnett, Luke Hale, Lillie Thorn, and Westin Tolley received their American FFA Degree, the highest degree the organization can bestow upon a member. Less than 2% of members receive this honor.
The Chapter officers: Jacee McKeel, Cooper Housden, Ellie Falwell, Jayden Phillips, Addison Pervine, and Fulton Manning attended sessions, toured Purdue University’s College of Agriculture, heard from Dr. Temple Grandin, and toured the Convention Expo to meet leaders in the agriculture industry.
Calloway County High School's Cheerleading Team were the division winners at the UCA Mid South Regional held at the Landers Center in Southaven, Mississippi on October 26th.
The team competed in the "Medium Varsity Non-Tumbling Game Day" division in the competition. The win qualifies the team for the UCA Nationals in Orlando , FL in February, which is broadcasted nationally on ESPN networks.
The squad's next competition is the KHSAA Regionals in Barren County on November 9th.
Calloway County High School's Laker Band finished sixth overall in the KMEA 4A State Finals in Louisville on October 26th. Laker Band qualified during the semifinals at South Oldham high school to compete in the finals at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, home of the University of Louisville football team.
Calloway County High School's girls' cross country team claimed their fifth consecutive regional championship this weekend at Marshall County High School in Draffenville.
Junior Vayla Carlisle was the overall regional champion and set a new school record in the 5K. Jaidan Koch, Sadie Lilly, and Bella Norsworthy placed in the top ten, earning All-Region honors.
The team qualified for the state championships held in Lexington on November 2nd.
Calloway County Schools has named DeAnn Anderson the November Laker Champion for Kids. Anderson is an English teacher at Calloway County High School.
The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Anderson was nominated by a colleague, CCHS business teacher Ashley Fritsche.
"Her smile, personality and laugh can instantly make any room better," Fritsche wrote. "It would be a hard task to find a stronger advocate for students at CCHS. She cares with her whole heart and provides tough love when needed. Students enter her class and can instantly tell that she has their best interest in mind with all that she does. Not only is she a talented teacher, but she is also someone this community knows with a truly philanthropic heart. She and her family work for months to raise thousands of dollars for St. Jude. Any time there is a need in her classroom, our school or the community in general, she is one of the first to step up and take action. We are lucky to have her at CCHS and proud that she is a Laker for Life."
CCHS principal Steve Smith worked with Anderson as a fellow English teacher in his career.
“What can you say about someone who does so much for so many and asks for so little in return?" asked Smith. "This woman is as talented as anyone I know. She can sew on a button, hammer a nail, ride a horse, plan a potluck, bake cupcakes, and write a letter of recommendation that can make you want to marry yourself because it makes you sound so darn good. And she may do all of that in one day.
"When a student reflects on his educational journey, the teacher who truly means the most is the one who was able to help him reach his full potential by setting high standards, holding him accountable, and showing him that he matters. Year in and year out, she gets the most out of her students and helps them access talents they didn’t even realize. She wears her heart on her sleeve; she works hard, she loves hard, and she is a prime example of what a teacher should be. I am proud to have worked alongside her for many years and call her a friend, and I am a better educator because of it. She makes everyone around her better."
Calloway County High School senior Ezra Foote has been named a Semifinalist for the 2025 Coca-Cola Scholars Program, moving to the next round of the selection process to become a Coca-Cola Scholar and receive a $20,000 college scholarship. Foote is one of 1,336 students chosen nationally out of a pool of over 105,000 applications. He is the son of Paul and Louise Foote.
Semifinalists are now asked to complete Phase 2 applications, which include essays, a recommendation, and a transcript. An independent selection committee will review the applications and recommend 250 Regional Finalists in early January to take part in online interviews. 150 Coke Scholars will be named in late February to receive a $20,000 college scholarship and attend Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta, Georgia, April 3-6, 2025, where they will be the guests of honor at the 37th annual Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet and participate in the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Development Institute facilitated by program alumni.
“We believe that identifying these young leaders throughout the country and encouraging their passion for serving others not only empowers the students, but also lifts up those around them.” said Jane Hale Hopkins, President of the Foundation. “The Coca-Cola system is dedicated to giving back to the communities they serve, and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation is proud to be a part of that commitment.”
Calloway County High School Future Business Leaders of America have earned The President's Volunteer Service Award at the Bronze level for excellence in volunteer service with Junior Achievement of West Kentucky. CCHS FBLA students partnered with Junior Achievement of West Kentucky to teach mini lessons to Calloway elementary students last semester on the topics of Community and Citizenship. FBLA members and members of the Advanced Office Administration class at CCHS prepped and delivered the lessons to 2nd grade students at our three elementary schools.
Calloway County High School Laker Band placed third at KMEA Class 4A State Quarters last weekend in Owensboro and qualified for the state competition on October 26th.
They compete on Saturday at 2:15pm EST in Louisville with a chance to qualify for the state finals at U of L on Saturday night.
Four teachers from Calloway County Schools have received the Kentucky Reading Association's "30 Under 30" award. Pictured, left to right, are award winners Megan Milliken (East), Abby Montgomery (CCHS), Callie Wohlfarth (North), and Eden Boyd (Southwest).
The Kentucky Reading Association (KRA) recognized all award winners at their annual conference in Lexington on October 18th. Calloway County Schools boasts 4 of the 30 teachers recognized with this state-wide award.
KRA is a regional affiliate of the International Literacy Association and works to be a voice for literacy in Kentucky.
KRA chooses their award winners under these criteria:
"Being named among this distinguished group is as a reflection of their relentless dedication, creativity, and passion for literacy. Their innovative teaching methods, unwavering perseverance, and deep commitment to nurturing a love of reading in students have set them apart as leaders in the field. This recognition is not just a testament to their hard work, but also to the profound impact they are making in the lives of countless young learners.
"Their work goes beyond simply teaching children how to read; they are igniting imaginations, encouraging critical thinking, and opening doors to limitless possibilities. The influence they have on students is immeasurable, and their efforts are helping to shape a brighter future for them, one word at a time."
Calloway County High School senior Zakary Stark has been named the October Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Stark has a 4.0 grade point average and is on track to be a valedictorian upon graduation in May. He will graduate from CCHS with 30 college credit hours from Murray State and WKCTC. He has completed multiple business pathways and has earned outstanding student awards in Accounting and Microsoft Office classes.
Outside the classroom, Stark is a standout athlete on the CCHS boys’ soccer team. In his career, he has been awarded as an “All Region” and “All District” team member. He has received the KHSAA All State Academic honor for all four years of high school. Stark also competes on the Laker tennis team.
Stark is also involved with numerous clubs within the school. He is vice-president of the school’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter. He also participates in National Honors Society, Leadership Tomorrow, Lakers for Christ, and Unified Champion Schools.
In the community, Stark is a member of the Glendale Road Church of Christ and is active with its youth group. CCHS principal Steve Smith calls Stark a “great ambassador” for CCHS.
After high school, Stark plans to attend Murray State to study physical therapy. He is the son of Tim and Emily Stark.
Calloway County Schools has named Amanda Ray the October Laker Champion for Kids. Ray is a special education teacher at North Calloway Elementary School.
The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Ray was nominated by North principal Melinda Hendley.
“Ms. Ray is a behind the scenes champion,” said Hendley. “She is a boots on the ground, lover of children, relationship builder, cheerleader for her students and humble. She can always be found with a smile on her face and a kids first mindset. Her attitude and professionalism go above and beyond, and she continually is looking for ways to ensure that she is able to reach all of her students. Finding a way to guide her students to learn is her mission.”
Ms. Ray has also worked closely with the district’s director of special education, Lynsey Smith.
“Mandy goes beyond the curriculum to ensure every student feels seen and heard,” said Smith. “Not only has she mastered the art of teaching, but she has also mastered the art of storytelling and laughter. She advocates tirelessly for her students, whether it’s by pushing them academically or providing a listening ear during tough times. With a knack for turning lessons into engaging stories and jokes, Ms. Mandy creates an environment where students are excited to learn and feel empowered to succeed. She not only helps students but has been a mentor for many teachers throughout her years at North Calloway. Her dedication makes her a true exemplar of what teaching should be and a champion for all kids.”
Kentucky Department of Education released school and district accountability data for the 23-24 school year on October 3rd.
As a district, Calloway County measured as a "Green" district in elementary and middle schools. The district measured as "Yellow" in the high school level.
When Madelyn Tudor decided to join a competitive dance team this spring, she knew it would be a big commitment. Not only did she have to balance practice schedules with schoolwork, but she also faced the financial burden of travel expenses for competitions.
To help offset the cost, Madelyn and her mother, Wendy Longworth, came up with a creative solution: sewing dog bandanas. Inspired by their experience fostering dogs for the Humane Society of Calloway County, they spent the summer ironing, sewing, packaging, and selling their handmade creations at local farmers' markets and craft fairs. They were a regular vendor at the Murray Main Street Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings this summer.
The business, aptly named "Pawsome Fashion," has been a huge success. Not only has it helped fund Madelyn's dance team activities, but it has also given back to the community. For every bandana sold, Madelyn and her mother donate $1 to the Humane Society. So far, they have contributed $610 to the organization this year.
Kathy Hodge, the executive director of the Humane Society, is grateful for Madelyn's support. "We are in awe of her hard work and generosity," Hodge said. “She has donated $610 to support the programs of the Humane Society and brought her family’s current foster puppy, Penny, with her to make her most recent donation. We are blessed to have her as part of our team.”
Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Madelyn is an outstanding student at Calloway County Middle School, earning straight A's. She is also a member of the school's speech team.
Despite her busy schedule, Madelyn has found time to enjoy her dance team experience. She has already competed in several events, including a dance convention in July and an upcoming competition in Memphis. "It feels pretty great," she said. "I've always loved animals and dogs, and it's amazing that I can help other dogs while also taking some pressure off my parents. It's a win win."
Calloway County High School senior Spencer Douglas has been recognized as the September Area Technology Center Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
At ATC, Douglas is a standout student in carpentry and electrical classes. At CCHS, he has taken engineering and agriculture classes, in addition to technical math and English classes.
Douglas was nominated by his carpentry teacher, Brian Provine.
“He is very dependable, hard-working, and self-motivated, and he takes pride in his work,” said Provine. “He is a team player and works great with his peers. His positive personality and attitude will carry him far in his career.”
In addition to his studies at CCHS and ATC, Douglas also works part-time at Sonic in Murray.
After graduating from CCHS in May, Douglas plans to work as an electrician. He is the son of Jake Douglas and Valarie Douglas.
Calloway County High School Future Farmers of America students finished first as a team in the regional Land Judging competition held on September 24th at Murray State. The team advances to the state contest in November.
Students competed in two separate land judging competitions, evaluating for agricultural use or home construction.
Emerson Herndon finished in first place in both contests. Jaylee McLeod finished third and Emma Van Rooy was fourth in agricultural use. Ashton Robinson finished in the top eight in both contests.
Photo L to R: (Robinson, Van Rooy, McLeod, Herndon)
Calloway County High School senior Emma Martin has been named the September Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Martin is on track to be a valedictorian upon graduation with a 4.0 grade point average while taking honors and dual credit classes. As a junior, she was chosen as an alternate for the Governor’s Scholars Program and was in Leadership Tomorrow.
In addition to her academic ability, Martin is also a talented artist. She was the national winner of the American Chemical Society Illustration and Poetry contest. She received the Printmaking Award at the Summer Art Workshop at MSU, and her artwork has been chosen for display for the All-State Purchase Pennyrile Regional Art Exhibition and at the Murray Women’s Club. She has also been awarded district, Quad State, and All State honors in the CCHS choir.
Martin is also a standout athlete for the CCHS track team. She was the triple jump state champion of the 2024 KHSAA State Indoor Meet, the MVP of the 2024 Regional Track Meet, and holds the indoor track school record at CCHS in the hurdles.
In the community, Martin volunteers with the Murray Art Guild and with her church. She is also involved in the ASAP Youth council, a community based, nonprofit group that is dedicated to preventing substance misuse in youth. She has also been employed at Culver’s in Murray with a part time job since 2022.
After high school, Martin plans to attend Murray State to study art with an emphasis in graphic design. She hopes to work professionally with graphic design and artistic branding.
Emma is the daughter of Jarrod and Sarah Martin.
Calloway County High School senior Elizabeth Lanier was recently named a Semifinalist in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. She is the daughter of Alan and Catherine Lanier.
Lanier attends The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Bowling Green on the campus of Western Kentucky University. She is one of fifteen students at The Gatton Academy to receive this national honor.
Lanier continues to be a standout member of the CCHS Academic Team coached by CCHS chemistry teacher Erica Gray.
"Elizabeth embodies all of the characteristics of a National Merit Scholar," said Gray. "As her coach for four years, I’ve had the opportunity to observe her approach to learning and studying. In addition to her natural academic gifts, Elizabeth has a tremendous work ethic. We are very proud of Elizabeth’s achievements and congratulate her on this well-earned accomplishment."
More than 1.3 million juniors entered the 70th annual National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as the initial screening of program entrants. From this list comes the nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, and includes the highest scoring entrants in each state. The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.
“We are incredibly proud of our scholars. Being recognized as National Merit Semi-Finalists is quite an accomplishment,” stated Dr. Lynette Breedlove, Director of The Gatton Academy. “We are grateful for the support they received from their sending school districts in preparing them for the PSAT/NMSQT and appreciate their continued partnerships.”
Of the approximately 16,000 Semifinalists, about 15,000 are expected to advance to the Finalist level. To become a Finalist, a Semifinalist and their school must submit a detailed scholarship application, providing information about the Semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout their high school career, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn ACT® and SAT® scores that confirm the Semifinalist’s earlier performance on the qualifying test.
Finalists will be announced in February, and all National Merit Scholarship winners for 2025 are selected from this group.
CCHS Lady Lakers volleyball defeated Murray on September 12th to claim the Sectional title of the 2A State Volleyball Tournament.
The Lady Lakers advanced to the Elite 8 at Kentucky Wesleyan College in Owensboro, where they were defeated in the state quarterfinals by Christian Academy - Louisville on September 19th.
East Calloway Elementary School guidance counselor Kali Simmons was recognized as the "Outstanding School Counseling Graduate Student" by Campbellsville University at the annual Kentucky School Counselor Association conference held in Lexington on September 11-13.
Simmons received the award "for outstanding service, leadership, and contribution to the school counseling program, and commitment to the profession of school counseling."
Calloway County Farm Bureau presented $50 checks for classroom supplies to Yvonna Hooper (left, Southwest), Robyn Darnell (center, North), and Kara Boykin (right, East) for being selected in a "Favorite Teacher" contest. CCFB asked Facebook followers to tag their favorite elementary teachers and all three teachers received nominations from parents or former students. CCFB Women's Chair Rebecca Geurin visited the teachers this week and presented them with their awards.
Calloway County High School Laker Band opened the 2024 competitive season on September 7th with an impressive showing at the Graves County Invitational. Laker Band was named the Overall Grand Champion. In addition, as a 4A school, Laker Band won first place overall and best guard and percussion. The Laker Band is led by directors Nick Calcamuggio and Kevin Suiter.
Calloway County Schools has named Heather Bell the September Laker Champion for Kids. Bell is an instructional assistant at Calloway County Alternative Instructional Facility. She works with students in the Virtual Learning Academy and the Day Treatment Center.
The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Bell was nominated by her colleague Teala Osborne, a math teacher at CCAIF.
“She does such an incredible job working with nontraditional students,” wrote Osborne. “She goes above and beyond to make sure each student has the classes they need and that they know how and where to get help when needed. Even though her students are virtual, she sees many of them on a regular basis when they come in to work on classes and encourages them to keep going”
“She not only goes above and beyond for the students she is responsible for but never hesitates to help our DTC students as well. I have seen her buy clothes, food, and basic needs for students. Last year, she helped one of our students that was homeless move into Hope Calloway and helped her get on her feet. She spent countless hours on the phone trying to help the student navigate insurance and getting her driver's license.”
“She has also been willing to help her coworkers daily when we have issues with Edmentum or Infinite Campus. She has a wealth of knowledge and doesn't hesitate to help and encourage. I'm so proud to have her as my coworker and friend. She is a glowing example of a Laker Champion for Kids.”
“She has been a valuable employee at the AIF for almost a decade,” added CCAIF principal Travis Anderson. “She has seen several changes over the years and has been instrumental in helping hundreds of students overcome significant barriers and graduate on time. Her creativity, organization, leadership, and teamwork attitude have been a blessing to her colleagues and the students and families she serves. This is a well-deserved honor for a rock star employee!”
Four schools in the Calloway County School District were named "One of America's Healthiest Schools" in 2024 by Alliance for a Healthier Generation. This annual recognition honors schools for implementing best practices to support the health of students, staff, and families. Eight hundred and seventy-nine schools across 30 states were awarded this year. Schools receive recognition in up to nine categories.
East Calloway Elementary, North Calloway Elementary, Southwest Calloway Elementary, and Calloway County High School all received this award for 2024. Each school applied for the award in the spring of last school year.
North Calloway Elementary first grade teacher Noraa Ransey received recognition recently from the Kentucky Department of Education.
Ransey was invited to speak at a KDE event this summer. While at the event, KDE surprised her with an award for being an ambassador for education. They also announced that this Ambassador for Education award will be given annually in Kentucky and will be known as the Noraa Ransey Ambassador for Education Award.
Ransey was also featured in the KDE publication Kentucky Teacher for her work on a committee of National Board Certified Teachers. This committee will be responsible for the third revision of "What Teachers Should Know and Be Able to Do," which will rewrite the standards for National Board Certified Teachers.
Calloway County Schools recently had two students place in the Kentucky State Finals of the National Civics Bee in Louisville, hosted by the Kentucky Chamber Foundation. Both students qualified for the competition as students at Calloway County Middle School in the spring.
Hillary Bohannon, a current ninth grader at Calloway County High School, finished second overall and won $500. Ava Bogard, a current eighth grader at CCMS, finished third overall and won $250. Both students were members of the 2024 CCMS Academic Team that finished second overall in the state finals.
The National Civics Bee Kentucky State Finals judges were Kentucky Secretary of State Michael G. Adams, Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education President Dr. Aaron Thompson, Toyota Motor North America Senior Analyst of External Affairs and Corporate Communications Kim Sweazy, Kentucky Chamber Senior Vice President of Communications and Marketing Jacqueline Pitts, and Fifth Third Bank Regional President Kim Halbauer.
The National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition hosted by the Kentucky Chamber Foundation seeks to inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions.
“The Kentucky Chamber is proud to be taking steps to get more young people engaged in issues that are important to all of us,” said Ashli Watts, President and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber. “It is our goal to encourage the next generation to get involved in their communities and have an appreciation for our roles, rights and responsibilities. We hope this event will continue to aspire civic participation in middle school students across the state.”
Calloway County Schools have received $120,000 as a part of a grant from the Kentucky Department of Education. All three Calloway elementary schools have received $40,000 for the 24-25 fiscal year from the Reading Diagnostic and Intervention Fund Grant. The purpose of the grant is to encourage schools to use high-quality instructional resources for literacy in grades K-3.
Only 96 elementary schools received funds from this highly competitive grant. Calloway boasts the only three schools west of Kentucky Lake to receive the award.
Each Calloway elementary school has used their grant funds to purchase Lexia Core 5 for all students in grades K-2 for the next five school years. Lexia Core 5 is an online, adaptive, and self-paced program for students to learn, practice, and improve their foundational literacy skills. The program will be used as a supplement to regular in-person teacher-led instruction.
Ryan Marchetti was the grant writer for all three schools and believes the program will boost the district’s reading achievement.
“We really value early literacy in our district, and this program will be a great boost for our students and teachers,” said Marchetti. “It is a real challenge to continually provide students with differentiated instruction, and this program makes that possible. I am truly excited to see how this will boost our early literacy achievement.”
Pictured left to right are Southwest principal Mark Mallory, North principal Melinda Hendley, Director of PD/PR Ryan Marchetti, and East principal Monica Williams.
Calloway County Schools has named Tina Ryan the August Laker Champion for Kids. Ryan is a school nurse who splits time between East and Southwest elementary schools.
The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Ryan was nominated by Jodinna Clayton, the nurse at North Calloway Elementary.
“She is always ready to lend a hand to her fellow co-workers,” said Clayton. “No matter how busy she may be and will tell us we can call her anytime. She is always cheering us on and letting us know how appreciative she is for us.”
“She takes time to thoroughly meet the needs of students who have health concerns,” wrote East principal Monica Williams. “She is kind and compassionate whether it’s an itchy mosquito bite, loose tooth, scraped knee, or everyday medication. She jumps in to lend a hand whenever needed and takes her job seriously. She is a true team player with teachers and parents alike. Her presence makes East a better place.”
Southwest principal Mark Mallory also commends Ryan for her efforts at his school.
“She exemplifies the true spirit of this award through her unwavering dedication and service to the students of Calloway County,” said Mallory. “Her ability to handle tough situations with grace and empathy has not gone unnoticed, whether sharing a laugh or offering comfort in challenging times. Students entering the nurse's office know they will be met with fairness, love, and respect, creating a safe haven within our schools. Her professionalism shines brightest when navigating difficult conversations with parents, maintaining her composure and commitment to student well-being even in the face of adversity. Her tireless efforts and genuine care for our students make her a most deserving recipient of this honor.”
Calloway County High School teacher Ashley Fritsche was named the 2024 Educator of the Year by the Murray-Calloway Co. Chamber of Commerce at their annual business celebration on July 12th.
Fritsche is a business teacher at CCHS, and is also a sponsor of the school's award-winning Future Business Leaders of America club. Fritsche also serves CCHS on the school's SBDM council.
Calloway/Murray FRYSC Back to School Block Party
July 30th, 4-7pm at CFSB Center at Murray State
Games for kids, School Supplies Assistance, School Physicals, Health Care Resources, Community Resources, Refreshments
Calloway County Preschool Center
Pickup Registration Packets
July 18 (Thursday) registration packet pick-up 8:00am – 4:30
“Open House” – August 1 (Thursday) 5:00-7:00
East Calloway Elementary School
Registration for All Students K-5 - Returning & New (includes any K not already registered)
July 18 (Thursday) 7-10am and 3:30-6:30pm - complete all paperwork and pay school fees
"Back to School Nights” Meet the Teacher
July 29 (Monday) 4:30-6:30pm– Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade
August 1 (Thursday) 4:30-6:30pm – Kindergarten, First and Second Grade
North Calloway Elementary School
Registration for All Students K-5 - Returning & New (includes and K not already registered)
July 18 (Thursday) 10:00 am–6:00 pm complete all paperwork and pay school fees
July 19 (Friday) 8:00 am–3:30 pm complete all paperwork and pay school fees
"Back to School Nights” Meet the Teacher
July 29 (Monday) Third Grade at 5:00 pm, Fourth Grade at 5:30 pm, and Fifth Grade at 6:15 pm
August 1 (Thursday) Second Grade at 5:00 pm, First Grade at 5:45pm and Kindergarten at 6:30 pm
Southwest Calloway Elementary School
Registration for All Students K-5 - Returning & New (includes any K not already registered)
July 18 (Thursday) 10:00am–6:00 pm complete all paperwork and pay school fees
July 19 (Friday) 8:00 am- 3:00p.m. complete all paperwork and pay school fees
"Back to School Nights” Meet the Teacher
July 29 (Monday) 5:30 pm – First and Second Grade
July 30 (Tuesday) 5:30 pm – Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade
August 1 (Thursday) 5:30 pm– Kindergarten
Summer Office Hours: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm on Tuesday – Thursday (hours may vary during holiday weeks)
Calloway County Middle School
Smooth Sailing Transition Event for incoming 6th graders
August 1 (Thursday) 8:00 am-1:00 pm; please call (270)762-7333 to register in advance
Registration and Orientation; pay school fee & pickup schedules
July 23 (Tuesday) 12:00-7:00 pm
Back to School Night
August 5 (Monday) 4:00 – 6:00 pm
Summer Office Hours: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm on Monday – Friday (hours may vary during holiday weeks)
Regular Office Hours begin on August 1: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Calloway County High School
New Student Registration:
July 9 (Tuesday) New Student Enrollment – Day 1
July 30 (Tuesday) – New Student Enrollment – Day 2
The following are dates for students to pick up their schedules and pay fees:
July 23 (Tuesday) Freshman and Seniors Schedule Pick-up
July 24 (Wednesday) Sophomores and Juniors Schedule Pick-up â–ª July 25 (Thursday) New
Student Schedule Pick-up
August 1 (Thursday) – Back to School Night – 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Calloway County High School has hired Jeri Kramer as its next head softball coach. Kramer replaces Kady Arant after six seasons at the helm.
Kramer has been an assistant coach with Laker softball for the past three seasons. She has also been the head softball coach and assistant coach for the Laker middle school softball teams. Kramer has been a teacher in the district for 28 years.
“I am looking forward to the opportunity to be the next coach for Calloway softball,” said Kramer. “I’m very passionate about softball and being a Laker. I’m excited to continue the tradition of Laker softball.”
Kramer takes over a Laker softball program with both youth and experience. The Lady Lakers finished the 2024 season at 10-16 in the 1st Region semifinals. The team is projected to have only one senior for the 2025 season, but only graduated one senior from the 2024 team. Sophomores Emerson Herndon and Kallie Franklin will return in 2025 after earning all-Region honors as freshmen.
Kramer and her husband, Keith, have two children who graduated from CCHS: Jacob and Paige.
Calloway County High School has hired Savannah Rose as the new cross country coach for the 24-25 season. Rose replaces Jonathan Grooms who stepped away from the program after 9 seasons.
Rose is a graduate of Sewanee: The University of the South where she played college basketball. She is originally from Puryear, TN and played basketball and ran track at Henry County High School. As an adult, she has become an avid distance runner and just completed her eleventh 100 mile race this summer in San Diego, CA.
Rose takes over a program that has seen considerable recent success. The girls’ team finished sixth in the KHSAA state meet in 2023, the highest finish in school history. Vayla Carlisle and Sadie Lilly will return to the team in 2024 after finishing 14th and 21st respectively in the state meet. Numerous CCHS cross country athletes have recently gone on to compete at the collegiate level.
“I am honored to be the new cross country coach,” said Rose. “These student athletes have a joy and enthusiasm for the sport that I love so very much. I cannot wait to see what they are able to accomplish this season.”
Rose is a special education teacher at North Calloway Elementary School. She enters her fourth year at North and her eighth year in teaching.
“I love my work in the classroom and my Laker family,” she said.
Laker Cross Country teams will begin practice after the KHSAA dead period ends on July 9.
Calloway County High School has hired Troy Webb as the school's new athletic director for the 24-25 school year. Webb replaces Mary Price, who left CCHS for an assistant principal position at Calloway County Middle School.
Webb has an extensive history as a teacher and coach in Calloway County. Webb was the head softball coach at CCHS for 10 seasons, including the 2011 team who finished third in the state tournament. Webb was also an assistant on the 2004 softball state championship team. Webb also coached girls' basketball as an assistant at CCHS and the head coach at CCMS. Webb was also the head middle school football coach at CCMS for 10 seasons.
"I want our school and athletics to be the best it can be," said Webb. "I want to build on the tradition of Laker Athletics and uphold the standard left by Mary Price and [previous CCHS athletic director] Greg Butler. I want our kids to have every opportunity to be successful within the region and our state."
Webb retired as a teacher in 2021. He taught for 22 years in Calloway County at CCHS and North Elementary. Since 2021, he has been a substitute teacher and bus driver within the district.
Webb is married to Laura Webb, who also retired as a teacher from Calloway.
Calloway County High School's Future ProblemSolving students recently competed at the International Conference at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN.
Madison Morris placed fifth in the Individual FPS competition. Vayla Carlisle was in the Scenario competition, and Sarah Doyle competed in the Individual contest.
The contest had students from 34 states and 14 countries.
Photo L to R: Sarah Doyle, Madison Morris, Vayla Carlisle
Calloway County Middle School eighth grader Faith McCafferty recently competed at the National Speech and Debate Association National Tournament held in Des Moines, Iowa. Competing against over 160 schools from across the country, Faith emerged as a standout performer, reaching the semi-finals in two challenging events. Faith placed 7th in the nation in storytelling and 11th in the nation in declamation.
Faith's success comes as no surprise as she has a history of victory in speech competition. She has been the storytelling state champion twice in her middle school career and has won numerous awards and trophies including the Blyton Book Award for her dedication and excellence in speech competition.
"I'm incredibly proud of Faith and her achievements at the national level," remarked Jennifer Dunnaway, her coach at CCMS. "She's a dedicated student who consistently strives for excellence, and her success is well-deserved."
Calloway County High School's Trap Shooting team finished third in the state championship competition held on June 8th in Berea, KY. CCHS scored 490/500, finishing just one point behind the state champion Marshall County. There were 22 teams total in the competition.
Calloway County High School junior Emma Martin has been awarded first place in the 2024 National Chemists Celebrate Earth Week Illustrated Poetry Contest, hosted by the American Chemical Society (ACS).
Martin's work will appear in ACS publications, and she will receive $300 for her achievement. This national award is in addition to Martin's regional recognition from April.
This is the second time in three years that a Calloway County High School student has won the national ACS Illustrated Poetry Contest, as Kerrigan McManus won the award in 2022.
Calloway County High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) students recently competed at the 95th Kentucky FFA Convention in Lexington. The CCHS FFA was named a Gold Rate Chapter for their work this year.
Elizabeth Lanier was named the state champion in the Prepared Public Speaking contest.
Jayden Phillips won the state championship in Turf and Lawn Public Speaking, and he also placed third in Ag Mechanics Repair and Maintenance Replacement.
Seven CCHS FFA members received the Kentucky State FFA Degree - the highest degree the state can bestow upon its members. Those students were: Jacob Akin, Claire Blankenship, Noah Fulton, Aiden Grooms, Sayde Lowe, Preslee Phillips, and Patience Puckett.
Many CCHS students also placed in their competitions. Jacee McKeel finished third in Poultry Public Speaking and was also selected to serve as a Kentucky FFA Foundation Ambassador. Quinlyn Moore won $1000 in the State Shark Tank contest. Jaylee McLeod was the state runner-up in FFA Quiz. Ellie Falwell placed third in State Ag Sales Entrepreneurship. Aiden Grooms finished third in both Ag Mechanics Repair and Maintenance Entrepreneurship. Ginni Mikulcik finished third in Nursery Operations. Dakotah Pittman finished third in Fruit Production. In all, students won over $2500 in prize money.
The CCHS FFA chapter has now won 78 State Championships in numerous events over the last 20 years.
Pictures from the CCVLA graduation from May 23, 2024 at the Calloway County Auxiliary Gym can be found at this link.
Calloway County Middle School's yearbook program has achieved the Jostens National Yearbook Program of Excellence 2024 award at the Bronze Level. The National Yearbook Program of Excellence recognizes engaging yearbooks that reflect a broad representation of the student body while helping students to develop 21st century skills such as communication, collaboration, and information and communication technologies (ICT) literacy.
The Calloway County Middle School’s award-winning yearbook program is led by Missy Roach. The yearbook 2023-2024 staff is: Aubrey Coles, Evan Falwell, Lila Fulton, Aspen Ham, Karmin Helton, Taylor Holland, Cameron Horsley, Keetyn Koepp, Taylor Morrow, Caraline Ordunez, Audrey Overbey, Elise Patton, Macey Peck, Haidynn Ray, Peyton Roberts, Maria Sosa, Jadyn Stark, Briley Stone, and Lily White.
Calloway County High School senior Reese Settle has been named the 2024 KHSAA Girls' Track and Field Student-Athlete of the Year.
Settle boasts a 3.95 grade point average and will graduate with honors. She is also active in the school's Future Business Leaders of America and was the president of the Educators Rising club.
Settle is a standout distance runner. She finished 13th in the KHSAA state cross country meet as a junior.
Settle plans to attend the University of Tennessee-Martin in the fall. She will run for the Skyhawks on the cross country and track teams. She plans to major in education to become a secondary social studies teacher.
Reese is the daughter of Tres and Leigh Settle.
Calloway County High School junior Ezra Foote has been selected by West Kentucky Rural Electric Cooperative to represent the region in Washington, D.C. this June as a part of the Youth Tour leadership program.
An all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. is awarded each June to three young people from the West Kentucky RECC service area. The week-long trip gives Kentucky’s next generation of leaders the chance to meet with congressional representatives and participate in civic engagement activities with students from across the country.
Foote will be in Washington, D.C. June 17-22 with Olivia Tharp from Carlisle County and Laken Schroader from Marshall County.
Ezra is the son of Paul and Louise Foote.
Two Calloway County students won the 2024 Kentucky Business Education Association (KBEA) Keyboarding Contest.
CCHS freshman Jillion Stovall (left) finished first in the high school division and was the overall winner with 103 net words per minute. She received $100 in gift cards for her win.
CCMS 8th grader Jadyn Stark (right) finished first in the middle school division with 89 net words per minute. She received a $50 gift card.
Calloway County High School seniors (L to R) Riley Veazey, Sayde Lowe, and Preslee Phillips were all named Murray State University Teen of the Week by The Paducah Sun this school year. Each student was featured in the publication with a feature article about their accomplishments at CCHS.
All three students plan to attend Murray State University in the fall.
Calloway County High School senior Micah Koenecke was named the Student of the Year at the annual banquet for The Associated General Contractors of Western Kentucky (AGC). Koenecke was chosen over 28 other nominees from the seven regional area technology centers.
Koenecke's award includes a $1,000 scholarship to WKCTC in Paducah. He is an automotive technology student at the Area Technology Center.
Koenecke plans to attend WKCTC in the fall to study welding technology and diesel technology. He is the son of BJ and Heather Koenecke.
Calloway County High School students Rylee Stanley, Caleb Darnell, Matthew Jones, and Micah Koenecke have received Student of the Week honors this semester from the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Western Kentucky. The Paducah Sun wrote a feature article about the interests and skill of each student, and the award is announced on WPSD. All four are standout students at the Area Technology Center.
Calloway County Middle School has announced David Carmichael as the school’s new principal for the 24-25 school year. Carmichael will replace Jodi Butler, who is retiring in June.
Carmichael has been the school’s assistant principal for two years. Before joining CCMS, Carmichael was the principal of Todd County Middle School for four years after serving as a music teacher there for ten years.
Carmichael has received a bachelor’s degree from Murray State University and a master’s degree from Austin Peay State University. He achieved his principal certification from Western Kentucky University.
“I am so very humbled and grateful for this opportunity,” said Carmichael. “I have been blessed to work alongside and learn from Mrs. Butler and the some of the best teachers and staff in the state for these last two years, and look forward to continuing to build upon the successes we have shared as we work to prepare our students for their futures. I appreciate Mr. Settle and interview committee's confidence in me, and look forward to the opportunity to help our school continue to excel.”
“Mr. Carmichael has shown in his time in our district that he is a strong leader,” said Superintendent Tres Settle. “I know he will continue to do great things at CCMS, and I am excited about what he will bring to the school.”
Carmichael and his wife Elizabeth have three daughters: Norah, Marian, and Tessa.
He will officially begin as principal on July 1.
Calloway County High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) students took second overall in the State FFA Trap Shoot competition in Glasgow on May 11 against 24 other teams.
Fulton Manning finished as the overall individual champion shooting a perfect 125/125 and winning a shoot off with a competitor from Butler County.
Riley Veazey finished third among female shooters in the state.
This is the first time CCHS FFA has competed in this event. With Manning's overall championship, the CCHS FFA has won a total of 76 state championships in 49 different areas. This is the 20th straight year the CCHS FFA has won at least one state championship.
Calloway County Preschool will receive $290,000 in July from the Kentucky Department of Education as a part of the Preschool Quality Partnership Grant. This highly competitive grant was open statewide, and Calloway County was one of fifteen districts in the state to receive the grant.
The grant will fund a full day classroom as a part of Little Laker Harbour for two fiscal years, including the teacher, assistants, bus drivers, and bus monitors.
The grant was written by Lynsey Smith (left), the district's director of special education, and Leisha Barlow (right, Calloway County Preschool principal.
Calloway County High School’s Science Bowl Team traveled to Washington, D.C. in April to compete in the National Science Bowl. They were able to achieve this honor after winning the US Department of Energy Regional Science Bowl earlier in February. The Lakers represented the state of Kentucky against 66 other teams from around the United States. They competed in multi-day events that included a quick recall style competition and a cyber computer challenge. Pictured (L to R) are coach Erica Gray, Max Chapman, Amber Wu, Connor Pile, Sean Williams, and Aiden Hooper.
Calloway County Middle School’s Science Bowl Team traveled to Washington, D.C. in April to compete in the National Science Bowl. They were able to achieve this honor after winning the US Department of Energy Regional Science Bowl earlier in February. The Lakers represented the state of Kentucky against 46 other teams from around the United States. They competed in multi-day events that included a quick recall style competition and a cyber computer challenge. Pictured (L to R) are coach Scott Pile, Hayden Loveless, Ava Bogard, Emma Martin, Collin Naber, and Theodore Perlow.
Calloway County High School students (L to R) Sarah Doyle, Vayla Carlisle, and Madison Morris have qualified to compete at the International Future Problem Solving Conference in June held at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN. All three students competed at the KAAC Governor's Cup competition as a part of the CCHS Academic Team.
Carlisle qualified by finishing first in the state in her division in the FPS Scenario Performance competition. In the divisional FPS individual competition, Doyle finished third and Morris finished fourth.
Calloway County Schools has named Josh McKeel the May Laker Champion for Kids. McKeel is the district's director of pupil personnel and deputy superintendent.
The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
McKeel was nominated by seventeen different faculty and staff members in the school district.
“He is a true example of a Laker for Life,” said CCMS bookkeeper Renee Lax. “He truly does whatever it takes to make our district a great place. I have seen him directing traffic in the pouring rain, picking up trash outside, and stopping to help others if he sees they need help.”
North principal Melinda Hendley said McKeel is “a true servant and always looking for ways to help those he comes in contact with. It’s not uncommon to see him wearing multiple hats and fulfilling all of those expectations that come with them. He is filled with compassion and kindness and has a passion to help our students become as successful as they can.”
Southwest principal Mark Mallory stated, “He is one of the most professional, helpful, and supportive colleagues I've had the privilege of working with over the years. He always has an open door and goes out of his way to assist staff in any way he can. There is no one more deserving and fitting of this recognition than him.”
Two Calloway County High School students have placed in The American Chemical Society Kentucky Lake Section 2024 Illustrated Poem Contest.
Junior Emma Martin finished first, and junior Kaylee Tharp finished in third.
Pictured (L to R) are CCHS chemistry teacher Erica Gray, Kaylee Tharp, Emma Martin, MSU chemistry professor Bommanna Loganathan
North Calloway Elementary School will receive $210,000 as a part of a Building Energy Upgrade Grant through the TVA EnergyRight School Uplift Program.
$200,000 of the grant will help fund a new HVAC system at the school. $10,000 of the grant will be spent on playground equipment, as voted on by the students.
TVA’s School Uplift program partnered with local power companies across seven states to help 106 public schools tackle energy waste this school year.
School Uplift is a year-long energy management training program that helps public schools make smart energy choices that improve the classroom learning environment and save money through decreased energy use.
“We are grateful for the investment TVA has made in our community," said Calloway County Schools superintendent Tres Settle. “We are always looking for ways to make our school more efficient and more comfortable for our students and staff. We will be investing the grant money in improving the air quality in the school. I want to publicly thank Laken Falwell at North Elementary for all the work she has done to secure this grant for North.”
North Calloway Elementary School joins over 225 schools to have completed School Uplift over the past four years, competing to earn grants for building upgrades and other learning environment improvements. On average, participating schools save nearly 10% on their annual energy bills from behavior changes alone.
Calloway County High School teacher Jacob Falwell was named the Outstanding High School Educator on April 30 at the Harry M. Sparks Distinguished Lecture event held at Murray State University. Falwell, left, is pictured with Dr. David Whaley, dean of MSU's College of Education and Human Services.
Calloway County Preschool teacher Teresa Gore was named the Outstanding Early Childhood Educator on April 30 at the Harry M. Sparks Distinguished Lecture event held at Murray State University. Gore, left, is pictured with Dr. David Whaley, dean of MSU's College of Education and Human Services.
Calloway County High School sophomore Aubrey Naber was selected as an alternate for the Governor's School for the Arts (GSA). Naber's artform application was in Creative Writing. Aubrey is the daughter of Casey and Jessica Naber.
GSA is a three-week intensive arts education program of The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts. GSA is offered at no cost to the student, and is made available through funding from the state, as well as private fundraising. The value of GSA is over $4,000 per student.
GSA auditions & reviews the Commonwealth’s most promising high school sophomores and juniors in nine different arts disciplines: Creative Writing, Dance, Design (formerly known as Architecture + Design), Drama, Film + Photography, Instrumental Music, Musical Theatre, Visual Art and Vocal Music.
Four Calloway County High School juniors were selected to participate in the 2024 Governor's Scholars Program (GSP).
Pictured left to right are accepted applicants Emma Martin (alternate), Prem Patel, Addison Pervine, and Kaylee Tharp.
The Governor’s Scholars Program is a summer residential program for outstanding high school students in Kentucky who are rising seniors. The Program originated in 1983 as a result of Kentucky leaders’ concern that the state’s “best and brightest” were leaving the Commonwealth to pursue educational and career opportunities elsewhere without fully understanding the potential of their talents at home. Students who are selected attend the Program without charge. In the spirit of partnership, the Office of the Governor, the Kentucky State Legislature, and private enterprise come together to provide the financial support for the Program.
In order to participate in the Program, students must be nominated by their high schools and then compete on a state-wide level. Selection for the program is highly competitive, with an application process similar to that of prestigious colleges and universities. In addition to an academic profile that includes difficulty of course load, GPA, and at least one standardized test score, the application requires an outline of all extracurricular activities, a history of volunteer service, and a list of job positions held. A teacher recommendation which includes both a quantitative evaluation and qualitative descriptions of the student’s performance and potential; as well as a Community Recommendation which shows how a student performs in a community setting beyond the high school are also required. The final component of the application is an original writing entry.
Calloway County High School sophomore Exxon Jimenez has been selected to attend the Governor's School for Entrepreneurs (GSE) this summer in Lexington at the University of Kentucky.
The Governor's School for Entrepreneurs (GSE) identifies and enables Kentucky high school students to become the Commonwealth's next generation of entrepreneurs. Through the three-week residential experience, GSE participants from throughout the Commonwealth are introduced to Kentucky's most successful entrepreneurs and fastest growing businesses, equipped with the tools and skills to create and build their own businesses, and matched with complementary skilled peers to develop business plans and product or service prototypes. The annual GSE intensive program culminates in a pitch competition attended by a large audience representing Kentucky's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
GSE’s leadership recognized that teens in Kentucky were not being given dynamic opportunities to learn about entrepreneurship and put their ideas into action. For many communities in Kentucky, efforts focused on human capital -- meaning entrepreneurship education initiatives aimed at changing the mindset and capacity of young people -- may be the best hope of changing outcomes and improving living standards.
North Calloway Elementary has received a $5,000 grant from Tennessee Valley Authority. The grant will be used by the school to purchase STEM resource carts for teachers to use during STEM lessons.
North is one of 343 schools to be awarded a grant from the Tennessee Valley Authority, in partnership with Bicentennial Volunteers, Inc., a TVA retiree organization, to develop science, technology, engineering, and math education programs for students that will inspire interest in STEM-related fields.
Schools who are awarded grants must receive their power from a local power company served by TVA. North Calloway Elementary is served by West Kentucky Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation (WKRECC).
“TVA is committed to supporting schools and educators who are inspiring an interest in STEM education in students across the Valley, as we know our young people will design and build the energy systems of the future,” said Jeannette Mills, TVA executive vice president and chief external relations officer. “Providing resources and access to STEM education is key to inspiring innovation and we’re proud to contribute to the next generation’s visionaries.”
Since 2018, TVA and BVI have awarded nearly $6 million in STEM grants to support local education.
Pictured are Scotty Sholar (TVA), Melinda Hendley (North), Jodie Hansen (WKRECC), Brent Powell (TVA), Laken Falwell (North), Kaysin Higgins (North)
Calloway County High School senior Sidney Lasley has been named the April Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Lasley is on track to be a salutatorian upon graduation with a 4.0 grade point average. She has been twice named a Governor’s scholar and has received a Presidential scholarship from Murray State. She has received the outstanding performance awards in AP US History and in Journalism. She is completing dual credit classes as a senior with Murray State and WKCTC. She has also taken two AP courses and has completed the Accounting and Business Administration pathway.
Outside the classroom, Lasley is a leader among her peers. She is the vice president of her senior class, and previously served as the class treasurer. She is the Student Issues Committee Chair of the CCHS Student Council. She is the vice president of the school’s National Honor Society chapter. She is also active in the school’s Beta club and Rotary Interact club. In addition, she played volleyball for four years.
As a member of the school’s future problem solving (FPS) team, Lasley has shined and was a part of the 2022 Governor’s Cup FPS state championship team. Her FPS teams have also won numerous district and regional championships in her time at CCHS.
In the community, Lasley volunteers with the Murray Rockets Special Olympics, the Journey Church, and numerous other ways through her clubs at CCHS.
After high school, Lasley will attend Murray State to study Marketing and Entrepreneurship to pursue a career in marketing to assist small businesses.
Sidney is the daughter of Jeff and Amanda Lasley.
Calloway County High School students recently earned top awards at the SkillsUSA Kentucky State Leadership Conference in Louisville April 17-20.
CCHS senior Micah Koenecke won first place in the Automotive Service Technology competition. CCHS sophomore Cayden Estes was elected to be a SkillsUSA KY State Officer for the 24-25 school year.
Both students qualified to attend the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta in June.
Three students from Southwest Calloway Elementary School were the winners of the Murray Main Street “Mini Murals Project” contest. Their artwork is now on display in the 500 block of Main Street in Murray after recently being painted by Elias Reynolds Art.
In the fall, students ages 5-18 were encouraged to submit colorful and bright custom artwork aligned to the theme “Kindness Matters.” The artwork was selected by a mural review committee from Murray Main Street.
While all the winners' artwork is displayed in the mural, Murray Main Street also gave awards for first, second, and third place. Fourth grader Rylan Murphy won $500 for his first-place entry. Third grader Taeshun Frame received $250 for second place, and third grader Layla Gray took third place and received $100.
Murray Main Street director Deana Wright said the project was funded by an anonymous donor.
“We are so thankful to our anonymous donor for making this project a possibility,” said Wright. “It’s important for us all to remember that ‘Kindness Matters’ and we were thrilled to have over 75 entries in the competition. Congratulations to the three winners! We love what kindness means to you and are happy to share with everyone who visits downtown!”
The lot where the mural is located is owned by Mark and Karen Welch, who are both active members of the Murray community.
Calloway County Middle School students Hillary Bohannon (left) and Ava Bogard (right) took first place and third place respectively in the National Civics Bee Western Kentucky competition held at The Carson Center in Paducah on April 20.
Bohannon received $750 for first place, and Bogard received $250 for third place. Both students move on to the state competition in Louisville in August.
Calloway County High School's Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter won the Overall Championship at the 72nd Murray State FFA Field Day. This is the second consecutive overall championship for the Lakers, and the 19th in school history.
Over 1,200 students on 73 teams from Kentucky, Illinois, and Tennessee competed on April 17.
In addition to the overall championship, CCHS FFA teams earned numerous honors.
The Floriculture team of Annabell Mohler, Sayde Lowe, Patience Puckett, and Kaylee Tharp earned first place honors. Also winning first place honors were the Nursery team of Jaycee Crouch, Emerson Herndon, Ally Coles, and Kylee Fox.
Aiden Grooms, Jacob Akin, Japheth Miller, and Nick Caldwell earned second place in Soil Judging. The Tobacco team earned second place also with team members Ellie Falwell, Cooper Housden, Ethan Carson, and Tate Weatherly. Luke Johnson finished second in Auctioneering.
Third place Tobacco honors went to Austin Weatherford, Colson Crouch, Tate Ryan, and Kameron Starks. Brilee Garland earned fourth place in Seed Identification.
Sixth place honors went to Abby Hathcock, Marion Perez, Preslee Phillips, and Payton Duncan in Vet Science. Elijah Rudolph earned sixth place in Calf Roping. Kendall Brewer earned seventh place in Goat Tying.
The Ag Mechanics team of Aiden Overbey, Josh Walker, Cameron Smith, and Dane Coday earned tenth place.
Landon Houk, Kayden Key, Payton Conklin, and Trent Jones also earned tenth place in Nursery.
The CCHS FFA are led by sponsors Jacob Falwell, Cassie Miller, and Cassidy McAllister.
Pictured are the students competing in Floriculture.
North Calloway Elementary teacher Jennifer McCafferty has been named a state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). This is the nation's highest honor for K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science teachers.
McCafferty is a fourth-grade science teacher at North. She is one of four total teachers from Kentucky eligible for the award.
The two winners from Kentucky will receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. They also receive a $10,000 award from NSF, a presidential certificate, and join an elite cohort of award-winning teachers who can influence state/jurisdiction and national STEM teaching.
Each year, a national committee of prominent mathematicians, scientists, mathematics and science education researchers, district level personnel and classroom teachers recommends up to 108 teachers to receive PAEMST awards. The award is given to up to two teachers in mathematics and/or science from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. territories, along with schools operated by the Department of Defense Education Activity in the United States and overseas.
State selection committees consisting of prominent advisers in mathematics or science education, district-level personnel and/or classroom teachers reviewed Kentucky applications. These applications were evaluated using the review criteria and scoring information provided by the National Science Foundation.
Calloway County Middle School's concert band earned a unanimous "distinguished" rating at the Kentucky Music Education Association's First District Concert Band Assessment in March. The band is made from seventh and eighth grade students and is directed by Kevin Suiter.
Calloway County High School sent 73 members of their Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter to compete at the state conference April 8-10 in Louisville. CCHS has the largest FBLA chapter in Kentucky, and over 2,200 members and sponsors attended the state conference.
CCHS junior Ezra Foote was elected as the 24-25 Kentucky FBLA State President.
Other individual winners were:
Accounting II |
Nick |
Caldwell |
1st |
Business Communication |
Kaylee |
Tharp |
1st |
Health Care Administration |
Gracie |
Turner |
1st |
Introduction to Financial Math |
Amber |
Wu |
1st |
Talent Show |
Kylee |
Carter |
1st |
Introduction to Public Speaking |
Brilee |
Garland |
2nd |
Job Interview |
Sidney |
Lasley |
2nd |
Local Chapter Newsletter (Regional/State) |
Trey |
Ward |
2nd |
Website Coding & Development (Formerly E-Business) |
Peyton Quinlynn |
Conklin Moore |
2nd |
Business Ethics |
Brooklyn Brooklyn Gary |
Smith Swatzell Rogers |
3rd |
Hospitality and Event Management |
Emma Grace Karsyn |
Fennel Barnes Tucker |
3rd |
Journalism |
Jazmine |
Zetterberg |
3rd |
Word Processing |
Lydia |
Crawford |
3rd |
American Enterprise Project |
Elle Maya |
Rekow Munoz |
4th |
Economics |
Ezra |
Foote |
4th |
Marketing |
Connor Jackson Lilly Grace |
Pile Ames Jansma |
4th |
Public Service Announcement |
Kaylee Ellie Summer |
Morris Falwell Flowers |
4th |
Agribusiness |
Sayde |
Lowe |
5th |
Data Analysis |
Aubrey Addie |
Naber Pervine |
5th |
Entrepreneurship |
Dakotah Sadie |
Pittman Lily |
5th |
Introduction to Business Concepts |
Will |
Lanier |
5th |
Introduction to Business Procedures |
Madison |
Morris |
5th |
Local Chapter Name Tag |
Canaan Joessiah Khloe Lydia |
Bazzell Reyes Koepp Bell |
5th |
Management Information Systems |
Austin Landon Bo |
Weatherford Houk Stom |
5th |
Personal Finance |
Prem |
Patel |
5th |
Securities & Investments |
Cole |
Lockhart |
5th |
Seven students from Calloway County High School have been accepted to the Commonwealth Honors Academy (CHA) at Murray State University.
Students who attend CHA receive a 4-year full tuition scholarship to MSU, in addition to 6 hours of college credits.
The Commonwealth Honors Academy is a three-week academic enrichment experience held every June on MSU's campus. Students live on campus while they take college-level honors classes and participate in fun activities and seminars to grow personally and socially.
Applicants must be high school juniors with a minimum 3.5 grade point average and a 25 composite score on The ACT Test.
Pictured (L to R) are Lydia Crawford, Grace Barnes, Trey Ward, Cuyler McDaniel (waitlist), Addison Pervine (waitlist), Brooklyn Swatzell, and Kaylee Tharp
East Calloway Elementary student Heath Travis has won the 2024 Kentucky Junior Duck Stamp Conservation Message contest. His message was chosen from over 900 entries statewide.
His message will now represent Kentucky and compete with entries from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and several U.S. territories in The Federal Junior Duck Stamp Art and Design Contest on April 19th. These 54 artists and writers are competing for scholarships and to become the next Junior Duck Stamp or Conservation Message winner for the Nation.
Travis's message is: “Conserve today for a better habitat, conserve tomorrow for a better world.” The 10-year-old student was shocked after being called to the principal’s office to receive a call from the panel of judges to congratulate him.
East art teacher Sherry Darnall has helped students participate in the Junior Duck Stamp contest for several years. Many of the students have won prizes for their art and their conservation messages, but this year was extra special with a Best of Show win. When speaking about Travis, Ms. Darnall said she was thrilled and noted he is a student who “really tries hard.”
Students, in grades Kindergarten through 12th, across Kentucky worked hard this year learning about waterfowl, wetlands, and conservation. They then used what they learned to create artwork and write a short conservation message. On March 28th, over 920 entries were scrutinized by panel of five judges.
The art and the messages are judged separately in Kentucky, something that is not done in other states. The Best of Show art was awarded to Paul Van Laningham from Burlington, Kentucky for his colored pencil drawing of a Lesser Scaup.
Thanks to the judges’ selections, over 400 participating students will receive various prizes including ribbons, certificates, cash, and art supplies. Prizes are made possible by sponsors of the contest: Southern Conservation Corporation, Friends of Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery, Friends of Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge, and Friends of Green River National Wildlife Refuge.
Junior Duck Stamps are produced and released by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service each July. They are sold online by the U.S. Postal Service and Amplex Corporation for $5 each. Proceeds from stamp sales are invested in the program to fund scholarships for national contest winners, state programs, and environmental education materials.
Calloway County Middle School students Kyler McKeel and Ava Bogard both received individual honors at the Regional Science, Geography, and History Bee tournaments held April 6 in Memphis, TN.
McKeel was the overall winner of the Geography Bee and finished as the runner-up in the History Bee.
Bogard was the overall winner of the Science Bee Tournament and finished as the runner-up in the Geography Bee.
Both students have now qualified for the national tournaments held in May in Orlando, FL.
Calloway County Middle School's robotics team competed in the STLP State Championship in Rupp Arena in Lexington on March 27th. The team competed in a variety of robotics and technology-based competitions, as well as enjoyed a variety of learning opportunities while at the conference.
The Aerial Drone team finished in the top five, and featured team members Joseph French, Braxton Hearn, Kyler Myers, Brodie Barnett and Jaden Barnes.
In the Robot Royale competition, two teams finished in the top 10. Those teams included members Braxton Cossey, Alex Robertson, Wyatt Gibson, Jesse Watkins, Patience Hunt, Sam Noe, Levi Grooms and Porter Melton.
CCMS was awarded a Level 2 STLP team including members Chase Inglish, Aiden Holder, Hunter Jones and Aiden Goodwin.
Andrew Dunnaway competed in the STLP Tech Bowl, and Connor Garland competed in the On-Demand Coding Challenge.
This event serves as a culminating event for the team for the 23-24 season.
Calloway County High School sophomore Amber Wu has been selected for The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University. Ninety-five students in Kentucky were selected for this prestigious honor, marking The Gatton Academy's 19th incoming class.
Students at The Gatton Academy will complete their junior and senior years of high school living in Florence Schneider Hall at WKU. At the end of their two-year course of study, students will graduate from high school with a minimum of 60 college credit hours.
At Calloway County, Wu is a standout student. She achieved a perfect 36 composite score on The ACT Test and has a 4.0 grade point average. She has been an all-star on the Laker academic team - tying for first in the state Governor’s Cup in math in 2024 and finishing first overall in math as an eighth grader in 2022. She also placed first in writing composition in the 2024 regional competition. She has also received numerous awards in other regional history and math competitions.
Wu is also active with the CCHS Speech Team, Future Business Leaders of America, BETA Club, and tennis team. In addition, her artwork was recently chosen for display at the All-State Purchase/Pennyrile Regional Art Exhibition. She is the daughter of Juyoung Song and Mingyang Wu.
Applicants were evaluated based on ACT/SAT scores, high school grades, awards and accomplishments, extracurricular activities, responses to essay and short answer questions, and recommendation forms. In addition to these criteria, candidates were invited to interview with WKU faculty members, community leaders from across the Commonwealth, and Gatton Academy alumni. Students from 40 counties make up the Class of 2026.
“It is a pleasure to welcome these students to The Gatton Academy,” stated Dr. Julia Roberts, Executive Director of The Gatton Academy and Mahurin Professor of Gifted Education. “The young people in Gatton’s Class of 2026 represent Kentucky in many ways, carrying out the goal of The Gatton Academy to enable Kentucky’s exceptional young scientists and mathematicians to learn in an environment that offers advanced educational opportunities and develop as future leaders for the Commonwealth.”
The mission of The Gatton Academy is to provide a residential program on the campus of Western Kentucky University for bright, highly motivated Kentucky high school students who have demonstrated interests in pursuing advanced careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Students enhance their creativity, curiosity, reasoning ability, and self-discipline through the companionship of peers, university courses, faculty-led research, and study abroad, preparing them for leadership roles in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Moreover, The Gatton Academy assists in preparing Kentucky to compete in a knowledge-based economy by increasing the number of scientists and engineers with ties to the state.
The Gatton Academy provides a rich living and learning environment designed specifically for academically talented adolescent students that features clubs, organizations, and community service. Additionally, students are able to participate in advanced research with WKU faculty members. Research conducted during students’ time at The Gatton Academy has been honored in the nationally competitive Regeneron Science Talent Search, Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, and published in scientific journals. Study abroad opportunities allow students to participate in global learning experiences in locations such as Costa Rica and England.
The Gatton Academy is Kentucky’s first state-supported, two-year residential program for high school students with interests in advanced science and math careers and is one of only 15 such programs in the nation. The Gatton Academy is a recipient of the 2022 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from Insight Into Diversity Magazine and the Innovation Partnership Award from the National Consortium for Secondary STEM Schools.
Calloway County Schools has named Kellye Steele the April Laker Champion for Kids. Steele is a fifth-grade teacher at Southwest Calloway Elementary School.
The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Steele was nominated for the award by Southwest principal Mark Mallory.
"Her dedication to the students of Calloway County is unmatched," said Mallory. “As a fifth-grade teacher here, she has dedicated over 30 years of service to the students of Calloway County. She maintains high expectations for all of her students, pushing them to reach their full potential. Though her teaching style may seem strict at first, her students quickly come to see her genuine care and concern for their growth and development. She goes above and beyond by also running the after-school LASER program at Southwest. She commits her time to providing a safe, enriching environment for students well beyond the regular school day and even through the summer months. In addition, she volunteers her time to help with academic team competitions, further demonstrating her commitment to student enrichment."
Steele also works closely with Calloway County Preschool principal Leisha Barlow in the district’s childcare program.
“Many people are unaware that she not only works tirelessly to meet the needs of the students in her classroom but has worked the last several years as the LASER site director to help ensure that all students enrolled at Southwest have access to after school childcare services,” said Barlow. “She works to provide a fun, educational program that helps many of the working families at Southwest. She also has recently served as the summer LASER director and has forged relationships with students from all over our district. She is always working to ensure that the students in K-5 across our district have fun, high-quality experiences during the summer months.”
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.
Calloway County High School senior Caleb Darnell has been recognized as the Area Technology Center Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
At ATC, Darnell is a standout student in machine tool. He currently participates in a work cooperative with Murray Mold & Die. In February, he was named the AGC of Western Kentucky Student of the Week and was featured in the Paducah Sun. He has also earned a NIMS machining certification and competes for the ATC Skills USA club.
Darnell also has achieved great success at CCHS. He was in the Governor’s Scholars Program in 2023. He has a 3.96 grade point average and received a 28 composite score on The ACT Test. He has been named the outstanding student in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, English 2, Accelerated Pre-Calculus, and Principles of Engineering. As a senior, Darnell has already earned 15 hours of college credit at CCHS in dual credit classes.
Outside the classroom, Darnell is involved in numerous extra-curricular activities. He has worked with the robotics team for six years. He is also in the BETA club, the National Honor Society, Spanish Club, and Student Council. He has won numerous awards in engineering and physics, including building a first-place custom guitar for a competition at Murray State.
In the community, Darnell volunteers at the First Methodist Church in Murray and also through his numerous extra-curricular roles.
After graduation in May, Darnell plans to attend Murray State to major in Engineering Physics with a mechanical track. He also plans to attend graduate school for Mechanical Engineering. For career, he plans to become a mechanical engineer and to research pioneering technologies.
Caleb is the son of George and Lindsay Darnell.
Calloway County High School students (L to R) Kaylee Tharp, Whitney Potter, Emma Martin, and Zuri Conner had artwork accepted into the All-State Purchase/Pennyrile Regional Art Exhibition.
There were a record 500+ entries from 11 schools in the region, with a 30% acceptance rate, so to be chosen for this show was a great honor. Potter took first place in printmaking and earned a place at the state competition in April. Amber Wu (not pictured) took 3rd place in fashion design, and Conner won a $200 scholarship to attend the Summer Art Workshop at Murray State University in June.
Southwest Calloway Elementary School's academic team won its third consecutive Governor's Cup Regional Championship on March 23 at Fancy Farm. Seventeen schools from the region qualified during district competition.
Southwest's Quick Recall Team finished first overall at the competition. The Future Problem Solving Team finished second overall.
Numerous students placed in individual competitions. Hannady Loveless finished first in Science, and Daniel Briedwell finished first in Social Studies. In Language Arts, Madison Purdy finished first and Azlyn Rose finished fifth. In Science, Kinley Brown was second and Grace Munoz was third. In Arts and Humanities, Blakelyn Gilbert and Ethan Pervine tied for second place.
The team was coached by Eden Boyd and Chelsea Gilbert.
East Calloway Elementary School's academic team finished fourth overall in the Governor's Cup Regional competition held on March 23 in Fancy Farm. Nineteen schools from the region qualified for the event during district competition.
The team won numerous individual awards. In Writing, Rylei Watts finished first and Naomi Dean finished second. Gus Russell finished third in English Language Arts, and Ayden Wilson finished sixth in Social Studies.
The quick recall team finished fifth overall in the region. The team consists of Captain Rylei Watts, Gus Russell, Naomi Dean, Dallas Tripp, Jack Smith, Odin Beatty, Brooklynn Powell, and Noelle Raspberry.
The Future Problem Solving team took fourth place. The FPS team was Captain Rylei Watts, Odin Beatty, Gus Russell, and Dallas Tripp.
The team was coached by East teacher Megan Milliken.
Calloway County High School senior Taylor Frantz has been named the March Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Frantz is projected to be a Valedictorian at CCHS when she graduates in May with a 4.0 grade point average. She also achieved a 32 composite score on The ACT Test.
She has received Outstanding Student awards in Honors Social Studies, Earth/Space Science, Spanish I, Honors English II, Honors English III, Honors Chemistry, Honors World History, Advanced Robotics, AP US History, CIV 201, and Physics. As a junior, she was selected for the Governor’s Scholars Program. As a senior, she is enrolled in dual credit Calculus and English classes at Murray State.
Outside the classroom, Frantz was a leading member of the CCHS Robotics Team. She is also in the Laker Band, Student Council, National Honor Society, Prom Committee, and Rotary Interact club.
In the community, Frantz works part time as a server at Pagliai’s in Murray.
Frantz plans to attend the University of Kentucky or Mississippi State University to major in Aerospace Engineering with a minor in computer science or cybersecurity. She wants to also attend graduate school before pursuing a career in defense contracting.
Taylor is the daughter of Eric and Cori Frantz.
Calloway County Middle School's Academic Team finished third overall in the KAAC State Governor's Cup tournament in Louisville on March 8-11. The Lakers third-place finish is out of 335 total teams in Kentucky. The team received their trophy from Governor Andy Beshear. The team also received numerous individual and team honors. The Lakers finished fourth overall in 2023 and were the state runners-up in 2022.
The first team recognition was for the CCMS quick recall team. They began pool play on Sunday against 40 other quick recall teams that qualified for the state tournament. In pool play, the Lakers went undefeated by winning all four games, including defeating the eventual quick recall state champion. The record in pool play qualified the Lakers for the “Smart Sixteen” on Monday. In the first round of the Smart Sixteen, the Lakers defeated Meyzeek Middle by 30 points before falling in the quarterfinals to Johnson County. The Laker Quick Recall Team finished fifth in the state while finishing the season 30—1 with three tournament championships. The quick recall team consists of Ella Martin, Molly Pierce, Hillary Bohannon, Tyler Sebby, Mason Riley, Tyler Saalwaechter, Ava Bogard, Hayden Gilbert, Mason Falwell, Collin Naber, Kyler McKeel, and Theodore Perlow.
The second team recognition was the Laker Future Problem Solving team being named sixth place in the state! The FPS team composed of Aubrey Cain, Hillary Bohanon, Samantha Dickinson, and Hayden Gilbert took sixth place over 40 other teams that qualified for the state tournament. In addition, Hollyn Aldridge finished as state runner-up in the FPS alternates tournament.
The individual recognitions were awarded to students who placed in the top 10 of the state for their individual tested area. The first recognition went to Ava Bogard for placing seventh place in General Knowledge, followed by Ella Martin in tenth place. In Individual Quick Recall, Ava Bogard crossed the stage again in fourth place. In the area of science, three Lakers made the stage with Ava Bogard being the state runner-up, followed by Ella Martin in fifth place, and Collin Naber in seventh place. In Social Studies, Theodore Perlow placed fifth, while Collin Naber placed eighth in Language Arts. In the area of Mathematics, Ava Bogard came in with a fourth-place finish, and Ella Martin was awarded sixth place in Fine Arts. The Lakers were also assisted by fellow teammates Ella Finley, Leah Hughes, and Ally Turner.
Calloway County High School students Jaycee Crouch and Noah Fulton were both awarded $500 from the Kentucky Future Farmers of America Foundation as a part of the Supervised Agriculture Experience grant. Over the past four years, CCHS FFA students have been awarded $11,000 through these state agriculture grants.
Bryson Barger, Euphonium and Trombone
Lydia Crawford, Clarinet
Morgan Armstrong, Flute and Alto Sax
Nathaniel Fowler, Bari Sax
Audrey Tabers, Trumpet (2 solos)
Sam Rudy, Snare
Tyler Lilly, Alto Sax
Wyatt Miller, Alto Sax
Nathaniel Fowler & Zuri Conner, Clarinet Duet
Green Bossa Sax Quartet (Peyton Johnson, Tyler Lilly, Exxon Jimenez, Wyatt Miller)
Copacabana Septet (Peyton Johnson, Tyler Lilly, Bryson Barger, Audrey Tabers, Miles Edwards, Aang Conner, Exxon Jimenez)
Audrey Tabers & Bryson Barger, Brass Duet
Addy Lusk, Bass Clarinet
Julianne Rudy, Oboe
Julianne Rudy & Lillie Russell, WW Duet
Calloway County High School students in the Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) chapter at the Murray-Calloway County Area Technology Center traveled to Louisville on March 14th for the HOSA State Conference. The students had the opportunity to compete in different events against other schools throughout Kentucky.
Cheyenne Hardy received 3rd place for her Health Research Poster and Presentation. Kesslyeigh Brittain and Lydia Bell teamed to finish 4th in Health Career Display and Presentation. Addie Larson, Krista Mohler, and Callie Tipton teamed to finish in 4th place in Public Health.
Pictured below left to right: Cheyenne Hardy, Krista Mohler, Madison Vance, Aiden Marr (MHS), Kesslyeigh Brittain, Callie Tipton, Addie Larson, Jessi James, Maddie Kough (MHS), Lydia Bell, Advisor: Nicole Vaughan
Not pictured: Cheyenne Hardy
Calloway County High School's Future Farmers of America received numerous recognitions at Purchase Region FFA Paperwork Day on March 12th. CCHS FFA led the region in Regional Champions and state bound members.
Senior Sayde Lowe (left) was selected to be one of two nominees for a State FFA Officer position this summer at the Kentucky FFA State Convention in Lexington. Lowe was also selected as a finalist for Regional Star Farmer, the highest honor a region can bestow upon a member.
Junior Jacee McKeel (right) was elected Regional President for 2024-25. She was selected to serve by delegates from the other 11 schools in the region. This is the second straight year the Regional President is from CCHS. McKeel is replacing Lowe who served as president this year. CCHS has now had four students serve as regional president in the last 25 years.
Seven FFA seniors were approved to receive their State FFA Degree, the highest degree the state can bestow upon a member. Those students are: Jacob Akin, Claire Blankenship, Noah Fulton, Aiden Grooms, Sayde Lowe, Preslee Phillips, and Patience Puckett
Aiden Grooms, Ag Mechanics Repair and Maintenance Entrepreneurship
Jayden Phillips, Ag Mechanics Repair and Maintenance, Placement
Jayden Phillips also in Turfgrass Management
Ellie Falwell, Ag Sales Entrepreneurship
Noah Fulton, Beef Production Placement
Westin Tolley, Diversified Horticulture
Elijah Rudolph, Diversified Livestock
Lillie Thorn, Fiber/Oil Crop Production
Dakotah Pittman, Fruit Production
Ginni Mikulcik, Nursery Operations
Jake Davenport, Outdoor Recreation
Cooper Housden, Specialty Crop Production
Dayne Coday, Swine Production
12 proficiency entries were named Regional Runner-up. Those students are:
Claire Blankenship, Ag Mechanics Design and Fabrication
Tyler Ward, Ag Sales Placement
Sayde Lowe, Equine Science Entrepreneurship
Dakotah Pittman, Diversified Crop Entrepreneurship
Dakotah Pittman also in Agriculture Essay
Emma Arnett, Diversified Crop Placement
Logan Ramsey, Forage Production
Lillie Thorn, Grain Production
Westin Tolley, Landscape Management
Jacee McKeel, Poultry Production
Emma Erwin, Small Animal Production and Care
Ellie Falwell, Vegetable Production
Finally, 10 other students completed a proficiency and placed 3rd or 4th in the region, meaning that no student finished below the top third of the Purchase Region. Those students are:
Jacee McKeel, Ag Communications
Patience Puckett, Ag Education
Sayde Lowe, Ag Processing
Trace Johnson, Ag Services
Luke Hale, Diversified Ag Production
Kendall Brewer, Equine Science Entrepreneurship
Caden Brooks, Equine Science Placement
Gavin Luffman, Service Learning
Fulton Manning, Turfgrass Management
Preslee Phillips, Veterinary Science
Calloway County High School senior Sidney Lasley has received the Presidential Fellowship Scholarship at Murray State University. The scholarship covers the cost of tuition, on-campus housing, and a meal plan.
Lasley is projected to be a valedictorian upon graduation in May. At CCHS, Lasley has not only been a standout student, but also has seen success in extra-curriculars. She placed 7th in the world in the International Future Problem Solving competition as a sophomore, along with being on the CCHS FPS team for four years. She also is the vice president of the school’s student council and National Honor Society. She is also in the Future Business Leaders of America and BETA Club.
In the community, Lasley volunteers with the youth programs at Journey Church. She also volunteers for Special Olympics with the Murray Rockets. She also works part-time at Sirloin Stockade.
At Murray State, Lasley plans to major in Marketing and Entrepreneurship with a minor in Psychology. She hopes to pursue a career in marketing after her time at MSU.
She is the daughter of Jeff and Amanda Lasley.
“Thank you to my teachers, coaches, and parents for all the lessons, guidance, and support to help me achieve this honor,” said Lasley.
Calloway County High School's History Team won first place in both U.S. History and World History divisions of the Murray State University History Day competition on March 7th.
CCHS took the top three individual awards in U.S. History. Nathaniel Fowler placed first, Levi Dunnaway placed second, and Ezra Foote placed third.
CCHS took two individual awards in World History. Tommy Gomez placed first, and Grant Todd placed third.
As part of the competition, each team took a 100-question test for either U.S. or World History. The team score was determined by taking the average from 8 team members.
The World History team consisted of Tommy Gomez, Aiden Hooper, Mariana Hughes, Sadie Lilly, Maya Munoz, Aubrey Naber, Grant Todd, and Amber Wu.
Levi Dunnaway, Ezra Foote, Nathaniel Fowler, Taylor Frantz, Aiden Grooms, Addi Pervine, Kaylee Tharp, and Sean Williams competed for the U.S. History team.
Calloway County High School's Speech Team competed at the Kentucky High School Speech League State tournament at Northern Kentucky University on March 8-9. Thirty-nine schools and 396 students participated in the competition.
CCHS junior Elizabeth Lanier placed 4th in the state in impromptu speaking. Gracie Fike was a semi-finalist in both declamation and impromptu speaking. State quarterfinalists included Levi Dunnaway in broadcasting, Kylee Carter in prose, Sarah Gardner in poetry, and the improvisational duo team of Brilee Garland and Madison Morris.
These Lakers also competed: Isabella Brawner, Ella Burkeen, Cindy Damian, Marianna Hughes, Exxon Jimenez, Addy Lusk, Kilona McClure, Quinlyn Moore, Whitney Potter and Hunter Ringstaff.
Calloway County Middle School was named the champions of both the U.S. History and World History divisions of the Western Kentucky History Competition held at Murray State, hosted by the Department of History at MSU.
Along with the team awards, the Lakers also received some special individual recognitions. Molly Pierce was named the individual champion in US History, while Mason Falwell was named runner-up, and Theodore Perlow finished in third place. In the area of World History, Kyler McKeel claimed the runner-up medal, while Brayden York finished in fourth place.
The US History Team consisted of Molly Pierce, Theodore Perlow, Tyler Saalwaechter, Mason Falwell, Ella Martin, Mason Riley, Hillary Bohannon, and Tyler Sebby. The World History Team consisted of Kyler McKeel, Collin Naber, Sam Davenport, Brayden York, Ava Bogard, Emilio Gomez, Aaliyah Byrley, and Hayden Gilbert.
Calloway County Middle School's Academic Team competed in the regional Science, Geography, and History Bee tournaments at Freedom Middle School in Franklin, TN. The Lakers finished an online qualifier earlier this year to earn the invitation to compete against teams from three states. Numerous students earned honors and advanced to the national and international bee competitions.
In the Science Bee portion of the tournament, the Lakers brought home several medals and distinctions. In the 8th grade division, Ella Martin brought home the championship medal. The seventh-grade division saw Theodore Perlow bring home the championship, followed by Collin Naber with the runner-up medal. The Lakers placed two students in the sixth-grade division with Eli Craft claiming second place and Wyatt Lasley finishing in third place. In total, the Science Bee team had 9 students make finals, 7 students qualify for the National Science Bee, and 5 students received invitations to the international tournament! The Science Bee team is composed of Mirielle Gupton, Ella Martin, Tyler Sebby, Collin Naber, Theodore Perlow, Joesph French, Keela Arnett, Elijah Craft, Zach Hudson, and Wyatt Lasley.
In the Geography Bee portion of the tournament, the Lakers brought home several medals and distinctions. In the 8th grade division, Molly Pierce brought home the second-place medal, followed by Tyler Saalwaechter in third place. In the 7th grade division, Collin Naber finished in third place. In total, the Geography Bee team had 5 students make finals, 4 students qualify for the National Geography Bee, and 3 students received invitations to the international tournament! The Geography Bee team is composed of Molly Pierce, Tyler Saalwaechter, Collin Naber, Andy Rogers, and Jayden Burkeen.
In the History Bee portion of the tournament, the Lakers also brought home numerous medals and championship distinction. In the 8th grade division, the Lakers brought home the championship trophy secured by Molly Pierce, followed by Tyler Saalwaechter in third place. In total, the History Bee team had 8 students make finals, 8 students qualify for the National History Bee, and 4 students received invitations to the international tournament! The History Bee team is composed of Molly Pierce, Tyler Saalwaechter, Brayden York, Theodore Perlow, Mason Falwell, Andy Rogers, Jayden Burkeen, Braxton Cossey, and Nathan Langley.
Calloway County High School girls' track team finished third overall at the KHSAA Class 2A State Indoor Track Championships on March 2 in Louisville.
Numerous Lakers placed in the event, including junior Emma Martin who was the state champion in the Triple Jump.
Full results can be found here: khsaa.org/track/2024/indoor/class2adetailed.htm
Calloway County High School's Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) competed at the regional competition at Murray State on March 1st. The Lakers had 75 students qualify to compete at the FBLA state conference in Louisville in April.
CCHS has the largest FBLA chapter in Region 1. The team was awarded as a bronze chapter for the Local Leadership Challenge.
CCHS sophomore Exxon Jimenez was elected as the Region 1 secretary. CCHS FBLA advisor Brenden Thomas was a finalist for Outstanding Advisory.
The complete list of award winners is here:
Accounting II |
Nick |
Caldwell |
1st |
American Enterprise Project |
Elle |
Rekow |
1st |
American Enterprise Project |
Emily |
French |
1st |
American Enterprise Project |
Maya |
Munoz |
1st |
Business Communication |
Kaylee |
Tharp |
1st |
Business Ethics |
Brooklyn |
Smith |
1st |
Business Ethics |
Brooklyn |
Swatzell |
1st |
Business Ethics |
Gary |
Rogers |
1st |
Data Analysis |
Addi |
Pervine |
1st |
Data Analysis |
Aubrey |
Naber |
1st |
Economics |
Ezra |
Foote |
1st |
Hospitality and Event Management |
Emma |
Fennel |
1st |
Hospitality and Event Management |
Grace |
Barnes |
1st |
Hospitality and Event Management |
Karsyn |
Tucker |
1st |
International Business |
Jolijah |
Arrieta |
1st |
International Business |
Matthew |
Briedwell |
1st |
International Business |
Trent |
Jones |
1st |
Introduction to Business Concepts |
Will |
Lanier |
1st |
Introduction to Business Procedures |
Madison |
Morris |
1st |
Introduction to Financial Math |
Amber |
Wu |
1st |
Introduction to Information Technology |
Aiden |
Hooper |
1st |
Introduction to Public Speaking |
Brilee |
Garland |
1st |
Introduction to Social Media Strategy |
Cindy |
Damien |
1st |
Introduction to Social Media Strategy |
Exxon |
Jiminez |
1st |
Introduction to Social Media Strategy |
Nicolas |
Murrell |
1st |
Journalism |
Jazmine |
Zetterberg |
1st |
Marketing |
Connor |
Pile |
1st |
Marketing |
Jackson |
Ames |
1st |
Marketing |
Lilly Grace |
Jansma |
1st |
Networking Infrastructures |
Idaly |
Alvarado |
1st |
Personal Finance |
Prem |
Patel |
1st |
Public Service Announcement |
Kaylee |
Morris |
1st |
Public Service Announcement |
Ellie |
Falwell |
1st |
Public Service Announcement |
Summer |
Flowers |
1st |
Word Processing |
Lydia |
Crawford |
1st |
Agribusiness |
Sayde |
Lowe |
2nd |
Business Law |
Levi |
Dunnaway |
2nd |
Entrepreneurship |
Dakotah |
Pittman |
2nd |
Entrepreneurship |
Sadie |
Lillie |
2nd |
Entrepreneurship |
Vayla |
Carlisle |
2nd |
Health Care Administration |
Gracie |
Turner |
2nd |
Help Desk |
Jillian |
Stovall |
2nd |
Introduction to FBLA |
Emily |
Wade |
2nd |
Job Interview |
Sidney |
Lasley |
2nd |
Local Chapter Name Tag (Regional/State) |
Canaan |
Bazzell |
2nd |
Local Chapter Name Tag (Regional/State) |
Joessiah |
Reyes |
2nd |
Local Chapter Name Tag (Regional/State) |
Khloe |
Koepp |
2nd |
Local Chapter Name Tag (Regional/State) |
Lydia |
Bell |
2nd |
Local Chapter Newsletter (Regional/State) |
Trey |
Ward |
2nd |
Parliamentary Procedure |
Aiden |
Grooms |
2nd |
Parliamentary Procedure |
Cooper |
Housden |
2nd |
Parliamentary Procedure |
Jacee |
McKeel |
2nd |
Parliamentary Procedure |
Sayler |
Lowe |
2nd |
Supply Chain Management |
Cuyler |
McDaniel |
2nd |
Talent Show (Regional/State) |
Kylee |
Carter |
2nd |
Visual Design (Formerly Publication Design) |
Bailee |
Grogan |
2nd |
Visual Design (Formerly Publication Design) |
Lucy |
King |
2nd |
Accounting I |
Morgan |
Armstrong |
3rd |
Advertising |
Reese |
Settle |
3rd |
Community Service Project |
Hallie |
Jones |
3rd |
Community Service Project |
Olivia |
Perkins |
3rd |
Electronic Career Portfolio |
Caleb |
Johnson |
3rd |
Introduction to Event Planning |
London |
Teitloff |
3rd |
Introduction to Event Planning |
Brylee |
Barrow |
3rd |
Introduction to Event Planning |
Madison |
Rushing |
3rd |
Management Information Systems |
Austin |
Weatherford |
3rd |
Management Information Systems |
Landon |
Houk |
3rd |
Management Information Systems |
Bo |
Stom |
3rd |
Securities & Investments |
Cole |
Lockhart |
3rd |
Social Media Strategies |
Emily |
Dunn |
3rd |
Social Media Strategies |
Kessleigh |
Brittain |
3rd |
Social Media Strategies |
Lydia |
Bell |
3rd |
Spreadsheet Applications |
Jose |
Sosa |
3rd |
Website Coding & Development (Formerly E-Business) |
Peyton |
Conklin |
3rd |
Website Coding & Development (Formerly E-Business) |
Quinlynn |
Moore |
3rd |
Calloway County Middle School's MathCOUNTS team competed on March 2nd at the state championship held at the University of Louisville. The tournament consisted of teams and individuals from around the state that scored well enough in chapter competitions to qualify for a chance to compete for the state math title.
Ava Bogard finished in 8th place as an individual, one of the highest scores at the state tournament. This award came with several scholarship distinctions for Ava, including a $6,000 scholarship to the University of Louisville. In addition, Ava qualified for the countdown round consisting of math quick recall questions, where she finished in the elite eight.
The Laker MathCOUNTS team consists of (front L to R) Kyler McKeel, Mason Riley, Ava Bogard, and Zack Haws. The team is coached by (back L to R) Scott Pile and Dan Thompson.
Calloway County Schools has named Edwina Rogers the March Laker Champion for Kids.
The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues. Rogers is an instructional assistant for students with disabilities at Calloway County High School.
Rogers was nominated by her colleague Brenna Parrish, who wrote, “She will do anything to make her students feel loved and at home. She loves teaching her students to cook and keeping them all laughing.”
Director of Special Education Lynsey Smith also believes Rogers is deserving of the award.
“When I think about a selfless person who goes above and beyond daily for our students and staff, she comes to my mind," said Smith. "She works tirelessly to ensure that our students are involved and included through her teaching of life skills and work skills. Even on the hardest days, she has a smile on her face and can find the positive in any situation. She is a champion for all kids!"
CCHS principal Steve Smith also thinks highly of Rogers.
“She is a breath of fresh air to Calloway County High School. She has a tremendous attitude, cares deeply about her students, and always goes the extra mile. Her job requires patience, understanding, and a motherly approach, and she does it all with a smile on her face each and every day. She is a true Laker-4-Life and definitely a champion for kids!”
Pictured are Director of Pupil Personnel Josh McKeel, Rogers, and Assistant Superintendent Brian Wilmurth.
Two Calloway County Middle School students were chosen for the Kentucky All-State Middle School Band. Riley McNeely (left) was selected as 3rd Chair Tenor Sax, and Wesley Suiter (right) was named 1st alternate Alto Sax. The event is hosted by Kentucky Music Educators Association. Over 800 middle school students auditioned to be a part of this prestigious group of musicians. Students from 46 different middle schools will join together on March 1-2 to perform as group for the first time.
Calloway County Middle School Speech Team finished fourth in the Kentucky High School Speech League State Tournament at the University of Kentucky on February 24.
Eighth grader Faith McCafferty was named the State Champion in storytelling for the second year in a row. Six total Lakers were state finalists in their events. McCafferty was also named the Blyton Book Award recipient for the 2023-2024 season for her dedication to promoting speech in her school, community, and state.
State finalists included Hayden Gilbert who placed 2nd in impromptu and Liberty Fitch who placed 6th in oratory. Parker Morris placed 6th in broadcasting and 5th in duo acting with her partner Kannon Bruce.
Several team members advanced to the semi-final round (top 12 in the state). These include Faith McCafferty in dramatic interpretation, Collin Naber in broadcasting, Tyler Saalwaechter in extemporaneous speaking and oratory, McKinley Marshall in extemporaneous speaking and McKenna Hopgood in poetry. The duo acting team of Charlotte Haws and Ava Moore and the improvisational duo team of Meghan Scott-Duncan and Emma Lanier were also semi-finalists. Emma Lanier was also a semi-finalist in humorous interpretation along with Willow Howland in storytelling and Tyler Saalwaechter and Hayden Gilbert in oratory.
Quarter finalists included Collin Naber and Kensley Hutson in broadcasting, Ava Moore and Charlotte Haws in improvisational duo and Leah Hughes in prose.
These team members also contributed to the team’s success: Jordyan Moats, Allyson Turner, Madelyn Tudor, Andrew Dunnaway, Lilah Hill, Patience Hunt, and Zoree Whitley.
The team is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Scott Bonneau and Kaydee Sevilla.
Southwest Calloway Elementary student Ethan Pervine was chosen for the 2024 Kentucky Children's Choir and performed at the Kentucky Music Educators Association conference in Louisville on February 8. The prestigious choir was made up composed of 5th and 6th graders from all over Kentucky and was conducted by Rollo Dilworth from Temple University in Philadelphia.
Calloway County High School senior Erika Ontiveros has been named the February Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Ontiveros is projected to be a Valedictorian at CCHS when she graduates in May with a 4.0 grade point average. She also achieved a 30 composite score on The ACT Test. She has received Outstanding Student awards in Precalculus and Honors Chemistry.
Ontiveros is a member of the CCHS Student Council, where she currently serves as co-vice president. She is also the co-president of the school’s Spanish Club. In addition, she participates in BETA Club, Upward Bound, National Honors Society, and Future Business Leaders of America.
Her community service work includes serving time at A Place to Be Farm Sanctuary, a nonprofit organization that focuses on taking in unwanted, neglected, and abused small farm animals. She also volunteers at other community events through school clubs.
Ontiveros plans to attend Murray State University to major in chemistry and pre-pharmacy, with hopes of continuing her education to become a pharmacist. She is the daughter of Jorge and Margarita Ontiveros.
Calloway County High School Robotics Team competed at the Kentucky State Championship FIRST Tech Challenge held February 16-17 at the University of Kentucky in Lexington. Three teams from CCHS competed with one team (18865) finishing the competition ranked 7th overall.
CCHS junior Dakota Elkins was chosen as a "Dean's List" finalist to represent Kentucky at the World Championships in Houston, TX. This is the third straight year a CCHS student was selected for this honor.
TEAM 22502: Dakota Elkins, Tim Neste, Matt Williams
TEAM 18865: Bryson Barger, Miles Edwards, Jack Williams, Tyler Lilly, Morgan Armstrong
TEAM 14727: Caleb Darnell, Amelia Slaton, Ben Poor, Taylor Frantz, Aary Patel
Calloway County High School Academic Team will advance to the Governor's Cup state tournament after finishing second overall at the Region 1 KAAC Governor’s Cup competition on February 17th.
The Lakers hosted 16 schools including Ballard Memorial, Caldwell County, Carlisle County, Crittenden County, Fulton County, Graves County, Hickman County, Livingston County, Marshall County, McCracken County, Mayfield Independent, Murray, Paducah Tilghman, St. Mary, and Trigg County High Schools. McCracken County took first place with 55 total points, while the Lakers earned 2nd with 46 points. Murray High and Marshall County rounded out the top four with 9 and 6 points respectively.
Arts and Humanities: 2nd place Maya Munoz, 5th place Nathaniel Fowler
Language Arts: 2nd place Aubrey Naber (ranked 10th in the state), 4th place Kaylee Tharp
Math: 1st place Amber Wu (ranked 1st in the state)
Science: 2nd place Connor Pile
Social Studies: 3rd place Ezra Foote, 4th place Nathaniel Fowler
Composition: 1st place Amber Wu, 3rd place Vayla Carlisle
The Lakers are coached by Erica Gray, Lane Springer, Cassidy McAllister, Margaret Richter, Dan Thompson, and Jayden Morris.
Pictured L to R:
Back row: Aubrey Naber, Aiden Hooper, Tommy Gomez, Sean Williams, Ezra Foote, Nathaniel Fowler
Front row: Elizabeth Lanier, Addi Pervine, Kaylee Tharp, Amber Wu, Maya Munoz.
Calloway County High School students A.J. Koerner (left) and Landon Carter (right) were chosen for the 2024 Kentucky Music Educators Association All-State Choir. The choir performed in Louisville during the annual conference February 7-10. Both students are in the CCHS choir under the direction of Mark Dycus.
Students are chosen for participation in the KMEA All-State Choir as a result of rigorous auditions held each fall.
The Kentucky Music Educators Association is an organization of over 1,200 in-service music educators representing music education interests from early childhood through adulthood and some 200 pre-service music educators currently preparing to teach music in Kentucky’s colleges and universities. KMEA seeks to improve the quality of music education in Kentucky and works in cooperation with those educational agencies and organizations that share like interests. KMEA is affiliated with the National Association for Music Education.
Calloway County High School students took second place overall at Math Day 2024 at Murray State University on February 7.
Sophomore Amber Wu placed first overall in the upper level test. In the lower level test, freshman Sean Williams finished second and Aubrey Naber finished fourth.
Juniors Gary Rogers and Jack Williams were awarded scholarships for their scores on the upper-level individual test.
Jude Bazzell, Bo Stom, Gary Rogers, and Riley Hudson made up the CCHS squad finishing second in the team competition.
Calloway County High School wrestler Caleb Cowan has qualified for the 2024 KHSAA State Wrestling Championships in Lexington on February 15-17. Cowan qualified by finishing with a bronze medal in the regional competition held at CCHS on February 10. Cowan, a sophomore, will compete in the 190-pound weight class and has a 19-2 record this season.
Calloway County Middle School Academic Team finished first in the Regional Governor's Cup competition held on February 10 at Graves County Middle School. The win over 14 other regional schools qualifies the team for the state competition in Louisville in March. The Lakers have now won the regional championship 15 out of the last 16 years. CCMS totaled 66 team points, followed by Heath Middle in second with 21.5 points, and Paducah Middle in third with 10 points.
Along with the overall championship, many students were awarded medals in the different areas of competition. In the area of science, the Lakers claimed the top three spots with Ava Bogard claiming the regional championship, followed by Ella Martin in second, and Collin Naber in third place. The Lakers claimed three spots in fine arts with Ella Martin being named regional champion, Hayden Gilbert coming in as regional runner-up, and Ella Finley in fourth place. The Lakers also claimed three spots in mathematics with Ava Bogard claiming regional runner-up, followed by Kyler McKeel in fifth place, and Mason Riley in sixth place. The area of social studies had three students medaling with Molly Pierce and Theodore Perlow both taking regional champion, followed by Tyler Saalwaechter in fourth place. The Lakers had Hillary Bohannon claiming the language arts championship, followed by Collin Naber in the second-place spot, and Tyler Sebby coming in sixth place. In the the written assessment competition, Mason Riley claimed the championship in composition, followed by Leah Hughes in sixth place.
Calloway County Middle School's Science Bowl team won the Regional Science Bowl on February 9 at West Kentucky Community and Technical College in Paducah. The win qualifies the team for the national competition in Washington, D.C. in April. This is the eighth time CCMS will represent Kentucky in the national tournament.
The students participated in a quick recall formatted competition containing advanced questions in the areas of science and mathematics. CCMS competed against 13 other teams from the region in the competition sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Pictured L to R are Coach Scott Pile and team members Collin Naber, Ava Bogard, Ella Martin, Hayden Loveless, and Theodore Perlow.
East Calloway Elementary School's academic team finished as overall runners up in the KAAC Governor's Cup district competition. The team finished second in quick recall and future problem solving and had numerous students place in individual competitions.
FPS: Second overall, Captain Rylei Watts, Gus Russell, Odin Beatty, and Dallas Tripp
Quick Recall: Second overall, Captain Rylei Watts, Gus Russell, Jack Smith, Odin Beatty, Brooklynn Powell, Trevor Manier, Noelle Raspberry, Naomi Dean
Writing: First place Rylei Watts, Third Place, Naomi Dean, Seventh Place Trevor Manier
Science: Fourth place Ayden Wilson
Arts: Fifth place Ava Akers
Social Studies: Fifth place Ayden Wilson, Sixth Odin Beatty
Language Arts: Fourth place Gus Russell
Math: Sixth place Brooklynn Powell, Seventh Jack Smith
The team is coached by East teacher Megan Milliken.
Calloway County Schools have recognized Jeff Lee as the February Laker Champion for Kids. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Lee is a bus driver for morning and afternoon routes for students at East Calloway Elementary, Calloway County Middle School, and Calloway County High School.
Lee was nominated by numerous faculty and staff members within the district.
“He is an awesome bus driver," wrote East teacher Marsha Feldhaus. "He is an asset for all students. He is patient, kind, loving, and understanding of everyone's individual needs. He has worked with me as a teacher with my students and as a parent because my own child rides his bus too. He always puts kids first!”
East Elementary guidance counselor Kali Simmons also nominated Lee.
“He is always willing to do whatever it takes to help his students succeed on the bus ride," said Simmons. "He is understanding of student behaviors. He gives chances when you think that there are no more chances to be given. Even through situations that would test anyone's patience, he remains calm and has a great attitude. Not everyone can be a bus driver, but he makes it look easy.”
Lee also received a nomination from his daughter, Laken Jones, who works as a human resources assistant at the district's central office.
“It takes a special person to be a school bus driver and he is one of those special people," Jones wrote. "He goes above and beyond what is asked of him and doesn't complain once. I once heard that you don't always remember who you had as a teacher, but you will likely always remember your school bus driver. He takes pride in what he does and is one that his students won't forget. Our school district is lucky to have him as a bus driver and I'm even luckier to have him as my dad.”
Calloway County High School Academic Team took first place at the Department of Energy Regional Science Bowl on February 2, held at the UK School of Engineering in Paducah. The Lakers clenched the top spot amongst 18 teams from across the western Kentucky and Southern Illinois area, earning them an all-expense paid trip to compete in the National Science Bowl, held in Washington, D.C. on April 25-29. The NSB will host 120 championship middle school and high school teams in the multi-day tournament, consisting of both team challenges and standard tournament play.
The young Laker team comprised of only 9th and 10th graders defeated several teams before winning a tie breaker to make it to the finals, where they were matched with an undefeated and experienced Owensboro team. The Lakers took an early lead, up 44-14 at the half, and ended the day with a strong finish of 80-36, finishing the day with a championship title.
The Lakers were led by captain Connor Pile, and assisted by Amber Wu, Sean Williams, Aiden Hooper, and Max Chapman. The team is coached by Erica Gray and Dan Thompson.
Pictured L to R: Erica Gray, coach; Buz Smith, DOE; Aiden Hooper, Connor Pile, Amber Wu, Sean Williams, Max Chapman, April Ladd, DOE
Calloway County Middle School MathCOUNTS Team finished second in the region at the Kentucky Lake Chapter regional competition on February 3 at WKCTC in Paducah. The team qualified for the state championship to be held at the University of Louisville later in March. The members of the advancing team are Ava Bogard, Kyler McKeel, Zackary Haws, and Mason Riley.
CCMS student Ava Bogard was the second highest scoring individual in the entire tournament. Bogard also finished second in the quick recall tournament designated for the top 12 scoring students. Zackary Haw and Kyler McKeel also qualified for the quick recall tournament.
The Laker MathCOUNTS team is composed of Ava Bogard, Kyler McKeel, Zackary Haws, Mason Riley, Tyler Sebby, Joseph French, Sam Davenport, Theodore Perlow, Emilio Gomez, Dean Vernon, Andy Rogers, and Elijah Craft.
Southwest Calloway Elementary's Academic Team won the district championship during their competition on February 3. The team took first place in Quick Recall, first place in Future Problem Solving, and had numerous students win individual honors.
The Quick Recall team consisted of team members Grace Munoz, Ethan Pervine, Daniel Briedwell, Madison Purdy, Kinley Brown, Anna Grace Pearson, Blakelyn Gilbert, and JR Wade.
The Future Problem Solving team featured students Gunnar Champion, Emmitt Champion, Ethan Pervine, and Anna Grace Pearson.
Individual content winners were:
Ryder Wallace - 2nd Place Mathematics
Daniel Briedwell - 4th Place Mathematics, Tied for 1st Place Social Studies
Grace Munoz - 1st Place Science
Hannady Loveless - 2nd Place Science, 2nd Place Composition
Kinley Brown - 3rd Place Science
Liam Morris - Tied for 1st Place Social Studies
Madison Purdy - 1st Place Language Arts
Azlyn Rose - 3rd Place Language Arts
Anna Grace Pearson - 5th Place Language Arts
Ethan Pervine - 1st Place Arts and Humanities
Isla Gupton - 2nd Place Arts and Humanities
Blakelyn Gilbert - Tied for 3rd Place Arts and Humanities
Calloway County High School Chess Team took third place at the regional tournament on February 3 at Livingston County High School. The team qualified for the state tournament on March 16 in Shepherdsville.
Individually, Micah Patton earned second place, and Bo Stom placed third. Both were undefeated in their matches.
Pictured (L to R) are team members Bo Stom, Prem Patel, Micah Patton, Nicolas Murrell, and Sam Rudy.
Calloway County Middle School Speech Team claimed their twenty-first consecutive regional championship on February 3 while competing at Graves County High School. The team and twenty-four students qualified individually to compete at the KHSSL State tournament on February 23-24 at the University of Kentucky in Lexington.
Seven Calloway County Middle School students were named tournament champions including Faith McCafferty, who won first in both dramatic interpretation and storytelling. Tournament champions also included Parker Morris in broadcasting, Tyler Saalwaechter in extemporaneous speaking, Andrew Dunnaway in humorous interpretation, Lilah Hill in impromptu, Charlotte Haws in poetry and the duo acting team of Hayden Gilbert and Meghan Scott Duncan.
The team also had nine regional runners-up including Leah Hughes in dramatic interpretation, the duo acting team of Kannon Bruce and Parker Morris, Emma Lanier in humorous interpretation and storytelling, Allyson Turner in impromptu, Hayden Gilbert in original oratory, Meghan Scott-Duncan in poetry and the improvisational duo team of Meghan Scott Duncan and Emma Lanier.
The Calloway County Speech Program is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Scott Bonneau, Miranda Wilson, Kaydee Sevilla and Breanna Maupin.
Calloway County High School Speech Team was named regional runners-up at the Kentucky High School Speech League Regional Tournament on February 3 at Graves County High School. Twenty-two CCHS students qualified to compete at the KHSSL State tournament on March 8-9 at Northern Kentucky University.
Junior Elizabeth Lanier was named tournament champion in three events: humorous interpretation, impromptu, and informative speaking. Sophomores Brilee Garland and Madison Morris placed 1st in duo interpretation and were the regional runners-up in improvisational duo. Madison Morris was also runner-up in humorous interpretation. Junior Sarah Gardner was the regional runner-up in poetry and program oral interpretation.
The Calloway County Speech Program is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Scott Bonneau, Miranda Wilson, Kaydee Sevilla and Breanna Maupin.
Calloway County Preschool has announced their registration information for the 24-25 school year.
You can view registration info at the Calloway County Preschool registration page.
Calloway County High School senior Nick Caldwell has been named the January Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Caldwell is projected to be a Valedictorian at CCHS when he graduates in May. He boasts an impressive 4.0 grade point average and made a 32 composite score on The ACT Test. He is an active member of the CCHS Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapters. He was a cross country runner for all four years at CCHS, and on the Laker Track and Field team for the last two years.
In the community, he regularly volunteers at St. Leo Catholic Church in Murray and in various other ways with the school’s FBLA.
Caldwell is still undecided on his choice of college but plans to major in accounting to become a Certified Public Accountant. He is the son of Sean and Jen Caldwell.
Calloway County High School senior Jaquelyn Perez Gomez has been named the Area Technology Center January Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Perez Gomez has earned a 3.6 grade point average while in high school. At ATC, she is a standout student in the nursing classroom and is in her third year of nursing classes. She is in the school’s work cooperative program and works as a nurse at Spring Creek Nursing Home. She has been a part of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) club for two years.
She is fluent in English and Spanish and uses that ability within the school district as an assistant at East Calloway Elementary and at CCHS while assisting in a Spanish classroom.
In addition to working as a nurse and assistant, Perez Gomez also works part time on weekends at Don Sol in Murray.
After graduation in May, Perez Gomez plans to attend West Kentucky Community and Technical College in Paducah to become a registered nurse.
Jaquelyn is the daughter of Lucia Gomez and Ricardo Trejo.
Calloway County Middle School Speech Team won the championship in the middle school division of the Mark Etherton Invitational Tournament at Murray State on January 27. CCMS finished first out of six schools, ahead of Henry Co., TN in second and Murray Middle in third.
CCMS had six first place finishes in individual events. Faith McCafferty placed 1st in dramatic interpretation and storytelling. Tyler Saalwaechter placed 1st in extemporaneous speaking. Emma Lanier placed 1st in humorous interpretation, and Hayden Gilbert placed 1st in impromptu. Liberty Fitch was the tournament champion in oratory. CCMS students advancing to finals included Parker Morris, Colin Nabor, Kensley Hutson, Allyson Turner, Jordyan Moats, Leah Hughes, Kannon Bruce, Meghan Scott-Duncan, Charlotte Haws, Ava Moore, MJ Heatherly, McKinley Marshall, Andrew Dunnaway, Lilah Hill, and Madelyn Tudor.
The Laker Speech program is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Scott Bonneau, Miranda Wilson, Kaydee Sevilla and Breanna Maupin.
Calloway County High School Speech Team were named the champions of the Mark Etherton Invitational tournament at Murray State on January 27. CCHS placed first of ten high schools. Murray High School placed second, and Graves County High School placed third.
CCHS junior Elizabeth Lanier was named champion of both impromptu and informative speaking. In broadcasting, Levi Dunnaway placed 2nd. In declamation, Isabella Brawner placed 3rd, Gracie Fike placed 4th and Ella Burkeen placed 5th. In duo interpretation, the team of Madison Morris and Amber Wu placed 2nd, Vayla Carlisle and Brilee Garland placed 3rd, and Quinlyn Moore and Whitney Potter placed 4th. Addy Lusk placed 4th in extemporaneous speaking and Isabella Brawner placed 6th. In humorous interpretation, Elizabeth Lanier placed 2nd and Vayla Carlisle placed 3d. Gracie Fike placed 5th in impromptu. In improvisational duo, Vayla Carlisle and Brilee Garland placed 6th. In oratory, Courtney Hargrove placed 6th and Exxon Jimenez placed 7th. Sarah Gardner placed 3rd in poetry, 3rd in program oral interpretation and 5th in prose. In program oral interpretation, Whitney Potter placed 4th and Kilona McClure placed 6th. Kylee Carter placed 2nd in prose and Ella Burkeen placed 6th in storytelling.
The Laker Speech program is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Scott Bonneau, Miranda Wilson, Kaydee Sevilla and Breanna Maupin. The team will compete at the Kentucky High School Speech League Regional Tournament at Graves County High School on February 3rd.
Calloway County High School Academic Team clenched their 14th consecutive KAAC Governor’s Cup District Championship on Tuesday, January 23, 2024. The Lakers scored 63.5 points in individual and team events to earn first place. Murray High School and Graves County High School earned 35.5 and 17 points respectively.
Quick Recall and Future Problem Solving team events each won first place and will advance to Regionals, which will be hosted at Calloway County High School on February 2 and 17, 2024.
Quick Recall: 1st place overall
Round 1: 43-11 win over Graves, set new record for most points scored in District 3 Quick Recall match.
Round 2: 35-34 win over Murray High
Round 4: 36-29 win over Murray High
Congratulations to QR teammates: Nathaniel Fowler, Aubrey Naber, Amber Wu and Connor Pile with assistance from Kaylee Tharp, Addi Pervine, Ezra Foote, Jack Williams, Levi Dunnaway, Maya Munoz, Sean Williams, Aiden Hooper, and Tommy Gomez, who will advance to Regionals.
Future Problem Solving: 1st Place
The FPS team of Sidney Lasley, Brooklyn Swatzell, Aubrey Naber, and Vayla Carlisle wrote the championship booklet on the economic and environmental challenges surrounding urbanization of island.
Individual students advancing to Regionals:
Composition:
4th (tie): Vayla Carlisle and Amber Wu
Math:
1st: Amber Wu
3rd: Sean Williams
4th: Elizabeth Lanier
Science:
3rd: Elizabeth Lanier
4th: Connor Pile
Social Studies:
1st: Ezra Foote
3rd: Tommy Gomez
4th: Nathaniel Fowler
Language Arts:
1st: Aubrey Naber
2nd: Kaylee Tharp
Arts and Humanities:
1st: Maya Munoz
2nd: Connor Pile
3rd: Nathaniel Fowler
The Lakers are coached by Erica Gray, Lane Springer, Cassidy McAllister, Margaret Richter, Dan Thompson, and Jayden Morris.
Calloway County Middle School Academic Team won their 16th consecutive District Governor's Cup tournament on January 13th after a great day of competition among the Lakers, Murray Middle, and South Marshall. The Lakers totaled 87 team points, followed by Murray Middle with 24 team points.
The Calloway County High School Academic Team competed at the WKAA President's Cup tournament on Friday, January 12, 2024 against twelve teams from across the region. The Lakers took 2nd (Calloway A) and 4th (Calloway B) place overall. The tournament combined points from Quick Recall team events and individual content testing to determine the overall winners.
In Quick Recall, Calloway B took 2nd place , an impressive feat for such a young team. Led by Maya Munoz, Sean Williams, Tommy Gomez and Aiden Hooper, with assistance from Max Chapman, Sam Houston, Mariana Hughes, and Riley Hudson, the Lakers defeated Mayfield A, Paducah Tilghman, Marshall County, and Murray A, taking their only losses to McCracken A. Calloway A took 5th place in Quick Recall, defeating Graves County, Paducah Tilghman, Murray B, and Mayfield B, taking losses only to Murray A. Calloway A team was led by Nathaniel Fowler, Aubrey Naber, Amber Wu, Connor Pile and assisted by Addi Pervine, Kaylee Tharp, Ezra Foote, Levi Dunnaway, and Jack Williams.
Individual Lakers also excelled in Content Assessment, earning multiple awards.
Arts and Humanities:
2nd Connor Pile
4th Nathaniel Fowler
5th Maya Munoz
7th Addi Pervine
Language Arts:
3rd Aubrey Naber
4th Kaylee Tharp
Mathematics:
1st Amber Wu
7th Elizabeth Lanier
Science:
2nd Connor Pile
5th Elizabeth Lanier
6th Aiden Hooper
8th Sam Houston
Social Studies:
3rd Nathaniel Fowler
7th Ezra Foote
9th Grant Todd
Back L to R
Row 5: Sean Williams, Sam Houston
Row 4: Riley Hudson, Connor Pile, Tommy Gomez
Row 3: Aiden Hooper, Ezra Foote, Levi Dunnaway, Nathaniel Fowler, Max Chapman, Jack Williams
Row 2: Aubrey Naber, Mariana Hughes, Amber Wu
Row 1: Kaylee Tharp, Maya Munoz, Elizabeth Lanier, Addi Pervine
The Lakers are coached by Erica Gray, Lane Springer, Dan Thompson, Margaret Richter, Jayden Morris and Cassidy McAllister.
Shea Pierce, a 2011 graduate of Calloway County High School, has been selected as the Visual Caption Head for the Seattle Cascades Drum Corps for the 2024 season.
The Seattle Cascades are a traveling all-star drum corps touring the country on a 13,000 mile tour. The Cascades are a non-profit youth organization for musicians up through age 21, typically with high school and college students. The group starts spring training in the northwest in June, tours the country for the summer, and ends with a performance at the Drum Corps International World Championships in Indianapolis in August.
Pierce is a freelance trombonist and a private lesson instructor in northwest Arkansas. He also serves numerous schools as an adjunct music instructor. For the past six years, Pierce has served as the Visual Caption Head and Band Choreographer for the Bentonville High School Marching Band, who finished ninth in the country at Grand National Finals in November, 2023.
As the Visual Caption Head, Pierce will be responsible for the visual instruction of the corps, through coordinating lesson plans for different instructors for the students during spring training. He will also serve as an instructor for students.
At CCHS, Pierce was in the Laker Band under the direction of Gary Mullins and Derek Jones, and was a co-drum major his junior and senior years of high school. He was also in the Murray State Racer Band in college, and graduated from MSU in 2016.
“The longer I've been away from Calloway, the more I’ve realized I had a special group of teachers,” said Pierce. “I was blessed to have a good friend group…and the band helped foster that.”
“I had some incredible teachers who would inspire me even outside of their content area - just to drive to be a better person and to live with higher ideals. Calloway is a cool place. There have been some kids from there that have gone on to do some special things.”
Pierce gives a lot of credit for his success in music to his parents, Roger and Vicki Pierce.
“They were relentlessly supportive for me in high school in wanting to pursue music,” said Pierce.
He is also thankful for his music teachers who helped him as a young adult, specifically Anthony Darnall, who is now the band director at Christian County High School. Pierce was also influenced greatly at Murray State by Professor Ray Conklin, who passed away in 2018.
Pierce lives in Bentonville, AR with his wife, Emily, and their new baby boy, Sonny.
North Calloway Elementary School media specialist Laken Falwell has been named the January Laker Champion for Kids. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Falwell was nominated by numerous colleagues at North Elementary, including first grade teacher Noraa Ransey.
“North is blessed to have her as a part of our family," said Ransey. "She creates a magical library experience where all kids and teachers can find a perfect book for every need. Her North News Crew and library leaders are chosen to give kids a leadership opportunity and keep us informed daily. She honors all kids and families as she strategically plans monthly units and weekly plans that are diverse, inclusive, and engaging with a STEM activity. She shares resources we can use in our own classes. She creates amazing learning experiences for the whole school like Cow Day, Glow Day, Stem Day, Career Day to name a few. She is amazing at bringing in grants and community partners to make all of this possible."
Falwell also works closely with North principal Melinda Hendley.
“She goes above and beyond for all students in our building," said Hendley. "She strives to find ways to bring her library to life and give students amazing experiences that they would not always be able to have. She continually looks for ways to grow her library and many times it has been through grants that she has written and been awarded. She is a fighter for all students, no matter their needs. Her love for the community and Calloway County Schools is seen in her everyday life.”
Calloway County Middle School's Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP) team recently competed in the regional competition and qualified for the KY State STLP Tournament to be held at Rupp Arena in March. Team members consist of (L to R) Chase Inglish, Ayden Holder, Hunter Jones, and Aiden Goodwin (not pictured).
The students presented a project pitch called "Know Your Games" in which they will design a website to help teachers in their school and beyond know which educational games and resources are best to use and when. The website is currently being designed by the students to include a variety of information and tutorials created by the team. The CCMS STLP Team is a component of the CCMS Robotics program and is coached by Mandy Brogan and Jessi Giles.
Calloway County High School seniors Aiden Grooms, Sayde Lowe, Preslee Phillips, and Jacob Akin were all named Murray State University Future Farmers of America All-Region Stars.
Forty-eight students from the Purchase, Pennyrile, and Green River Regions were honored by Murray State at an awards banquet in November. Calloway County High School had the most students (four) honored at the banquet along with Hopkinsville HS.
Calloway County High School students Nathan Deitz, Levi Powell, and Hunter Williams have received Student of the Week honors this semester from the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Western Kentucky. The Paducah Sun wrote a feature article about the interests and skill of each student, and the award is announced on WPSD. All three are standout students at the Area Technology Center.
Deitz (left) is a senior and currently taking electrical and automotive classes. He is the son of Robert Deitz and Pam Deitz.
Powell (center) is a senior and currently taking automotive classes. He is the son of Christopher and Alison Powell.
Williams (right) is a junior and currently taking electrical and carpentry classes. He is the son of Danny and Tonya Williams.
Calloway County High School Speech Team claimed first place out of sixteen teams in the South Oldham High School tournament on December 9 in Crestwood, KY. Two Lakers were named tournament champions in their events: Elizabeth Lanier in humorous interpretation and Sarah Gardner in prose. The team had nineteen entries advance to the final round.
In declamation, Gracie Fike placed 5th and Cindy Damian placed 6th. Courtney Hargrove placed 5th in dramatic interpretation. In duo interpretation, the team of Madison Morris and Amber Wu placed 2nd, Vayla Carlisle and Brilee Garland placed 3rd, and Quinlyn Moore and Whitney Potter placed 4th.
Addy Lusk placed 6th in extemporaneous speaking. In humorous interpretation, Vayla Carlisle placed 4th and Madison Morris placed 5th. In impromptu, Elizabeth Lanier placed 4th and Gracie Fike placed 5th. In improvisational duo, the team of Landon Carter and Levi Dunnaway placed 3rd and the Vayla Carlisle and Brilee Garland placed 5th. In informative, Elizabeth Lanier placed 2nd and Amber Wu placed 6th. In poetry, Sarah Gardner placed 2nd. Kylee Carter placed 2nd in prose.
Five members of the Calloway County Middle School Speech Team also traveled to South Oldham this weekend. The team placed 4th overall in the junior division of the tournament and had four entries advance to finals. Faith McCafferty placed 2nd in storytelling and 4th in dramatic interpretation. In humorous interpretation, Andrew Dunnaway placed 5th and Kannon Bruce placed 6th.
Calloway County High School senior Riley Veazey has been named the December Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Veazey is on pace to be a valedictorian in May and has achieved a 4.0 grade point average and an ACT score of 30. She has achieved the Outstanding Student awards in English I, English II, English III, Spanish II, Honors Chemistry, and Building Construction Tech classes. She also won the Excellence Award in Pre-Calculus. She is currently enrolled in two dual credit classes at Murray State. She is also a member of the National Honor Society.
Outside of the classroom, Veazey has been on the Laker Trap Shooting team for six years and has previously finished second in the state in the female division. She also is a member of Future Farmers of America, Beta Club, and the CCHS student council.
After graduation in May, Veazey plans to attend Murray State to pursue a career in one of the fields of engineering. She is the daughter of C.T. and Jennifer Veazey.
Calloway County Schools have recognized Amanda Morgan as the December Laker Champion for Kids. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Morgan is the administrative assistant at the district’s transportation garage. She has been instrumental in the district’s transition between transportation directors over the last few months.
“Her dedication to provide the best educational experience to our students possible at Calloway County Schools is unparalleled,” said Director of Transportation Matt Turner. “She strives for safety and excellence with scheduling students and buses on a daily basis. She is definitely a valuable member of our staff here. We are blessed to have her.”
Director of Pupil Personnel Josh McKeel has also worked closely with Morgan.
"Mrs. Morgan is an invaluable asset to our district and is always willing to help when a need arises,” said McKeel. “Throughout her career, she has focused on making sure that our students are taken care of and remain our top priority. "
Calloway County Middle School's Academic Team brought home their 16th championship in the past seventeen years at the Sixth Grade Showcase on December 2. The event was sponsored by the Kentucky Association of Academic Competition and was hosted by CCMS.
After a long day of competition, the Lakers posted an amazing team score of 106 points, while Graves County Fancy Farm Elementary finished as runners-up with a total of 33 points.
In the written assessments, the Lakers brought home hardware in every competition and a first-place medal in each area! In Science, the Lakers claimed the top three spots as Elijah Craft finished in first place, followed by Wyatt Lasley in second place, and Keela Arnett in third place. The Lakers also claimed the top three medalists in Fine Arts where Ellie Johnson was named champion, followed by Ella Finley in second place, and Katee McKeel in third place. The area of Mathematics had Elijah Craft claiming the championship with Dean Vernon finishing in second place, and Andy Rogers finishing in fifth place. In Language Arts, the Lakers had Ryan Poole claim the championship with Lilah Hill finishing in second place. The Lakers had three students medal in Social Studies with Jayden Burkeen claiming the championship, followed by Nathan Langley in fourth place, and Andy Rogers in sixth place. The Lakers also had success in composition with Ellie Adams being named champion, followed by Wyatt Lasley in third place, and Patience Hunt in fourth place. In addition, the Quick Recall team won the championship going undefeated throughout the tournament! The Quick Recall team includes Ryan Poole, Lilah Hill, Elijah Craft, Wyatt Lasley, Jayden Burkeen, Andy Rogers, Ella Finley, and Ellie Johnson. Additional competing members for the Lakers include Addison Crawford, Aiden Crawford, Braxton Cossey, Ashlyn Sebby, and Zach Hudson.
A few individuals of the Laker Team brought home some special state recognition from the weekend. Ellie Johnson’s fine arts score was the second highest score in Kentucky while Ella Finley’s fine arts score came in as fifth highest in the state. In addition, Elijah Craft got the fifth highest score in the state in the testing area of science.
Congrats to the CCMS academic team!
Calloway County Middle School band students received numerous individual honors from the Kentucky Music Educators Association First District.
Tyler Sebby-Mallet 1
Wesley Suiter-Alto Sax 2
Riley McNeely-Tenor Sax 3
Emma Slayden-Percussion 3
Ryland Boggess-Percussion 4
Samantha Dickinson-Trumpet 7
Kannon Bruce-Horn 8
Ella Martin-Clarinet 13
Kyla Caylor-Clarinet 1st Alternate
Hayden Loveless - Trombone 2nd Alternate
Calloway County High School's Laker Band received numerous individual honors from the Kentucky Music Educators Association First District.
First District Concert Band:
Idaly Alverado - Clarinet 1
Nathaniel Fowler - Bassoon 1
Bryson Barger - Euphonium 2
Audrey Tabers - Trumpet 3
Johnny Shouse - French Horn 5
Jasmine Hornbuckle - Clarinet 11
Jackson Fox - 1st Alternate Percussion
First District Symphonic Band:
Sam Rudy - Snare 5
Morgan Armstrong - Flute 5
Nathaniel Fowler - 1st Alternate Bassoon
Bryson Barger - 1st Alternate Euphonium
Aang Conner - 2nd Alternate Snare
Calloway County High School senior John Morgan Knight has been named the Area Technology Center November Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Knight has earned a 3.7 grade point average while in high school. At ATC, he is a standout student in both carpentry and welding. ATC carpentry teacher Brian Provine says Knight has a great deal of talent in addition to his superb work ethic. He is a leader in a project to replace the soccer dugouts at CCHS’s Nix Field.
Outside of the classroom, Knight is in the SkillsUSA club and was also on the CCHS Laker golf team.
After graduation in May, Knight plans to attend North American Lineman Training Center in McEwen, TN to be an electrical lineman.
Knight is the son of Shane and Monica Knight.
Eight choir students from Calloway County High School were chosen by independent audition to participate in the 2023 Quad State Honor Choir sponsored by the music department at Murray State University. More than 250 singers from five states rehearsed in Lovett Auditorium on November 5 and 6 culminating in a performance of Mark Hayes' "Gloria." Pictured left to right are (front) Julie Parker, Emma Martin, and Emily Rogers, (back) Eli Williams, A.J. Koerner, and Dr. Bradley Almquist, Director of Choral Activities at MSU. Not pictured are Kylee Carter, Landon Carter, and Samuel Cecil.
Calloway County Middle School Academic Team recently competed in the mid-season tournament hosted by the West Kentucky Academic Association or WKAA. The tournament included 16 middle schools from all around Region One of Kentucky. After a great day of competition, the Lakers walked away with several individual accomplishments and the overall championship title.
Southwest Calloway Elementary School's academic team finished second overall at the Heather Price Invitational Tournament in Paducah on November 18.
The team also finished first overall in Quick Recall with members Madison Purdy, Gunnar Champion, Emmitt Champion, Ethan Pervine, and Jesse Childress.
Another quick recall team finished third overall with members Kinley Brown, Hannady Loveless, Azlyn Rose, Liam Morris, Alexis Kimball, and Blakelyn Gilbert.
Numerous students placed in the individual competitions. In math, Ryder Wallace finished 2nd, Daniel Briedwell finished 5th, and JR Wade finished 9th. In science, Gunnar Champion was 1st, Grace Munoz finished 2nd, and Kinley Brown placed 8th. In social studies, Emmitt Champion placed 3rd and Liam Morris was 10th. In language arts, Madison Purdy was 1st, Azlyn Rose finished 8th, and Anna Grace Pearson placed 9th. In arts and humanities, Isla Gupton placed 3rd, Ethan Pervine finished 4th, and Blakelyn Gilbert finished 7th.
East Calloway Elementary School's academic team finished third overall at the Heather Price Memorial Invitational in Paducah on November 18.
The quick recall team finished fourth overall. Several students also placed in the overall competitions: Gus Russell (ELA), Noelle Raspberry (ELA), Trevor Manier (math), Brooklynn Powell (math), Ayden Wilson (history), Odin Beatty (history), Naomi Dean (history), and Ava Akers (arts).
The team is coached by Megan Milliken.
Calloway County High School senior Jude Bazzell has been named the November Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Bazzell sports a 4.0 grade point average and an ACT score of 27, putting him in line to be a valedictorian in May at graduation. He received CCHS academic awards in Biology in 2021 and in English in 2021 and 2022. He is enrolled in three dual credit courses as a senior.
Bazzell also shines in athletics and clubs outside the classroom. He was a standout soccer player for CCHS for five years, earning numerous district and regional honors, including All Region First Team in 2023. He also has played tennis and ran track for the Lakers. He is an active member of the Future Business Leaders of America, Future Farmers of America, and Unified Champion Schools.
In the community, Bazzell volunteers at West Fork Baptist Church, running the audio and video for services and helping with youth groups. He has been involved with clothing and school supply drives and worked with groups on tornado relief in Mayfield. He also volunteers to coach youth soccer.
After graduating in May, Bazzell is currently undecided, but plans to attend Murray State or enroll in a trade school. He is the son of Micah and Lauren Bazzell.
Calloway County High School graduates Savannah Pittman and Bella Swain recently received the American Future Farmers of America (FFA) Degree during the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis in November. The American FFA Degree is the highest degree an FFA member can earn, with fewer than one percent of members achieving the honor.
Pittman and Swain are both enrolled as students at Murray State. Pittman is studying agriculture, and Swain is studying nursing.
They earned the American FFA Degree through years of FFA involvement, leadership, community service, and hours worked in their Supervised Agriculture Experience. Swain raised cattle and sheep, while Pittman raised fruit and vegetables on their families’ farms.
Both students were CCHS Distinguished Honor Graduates in the class of 2022.
East Calloway Elementary School's Marian Cosgrove has been named the November Laker Champion for Kids. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Cosgrove, or "OC" as her students call her, is the school resource officer at East and also leads the D.A.R.E. program for students in all three Calloway County elementary schools.
“She is the epitome of a Champion for Kids," said East principal Monica Williams. "While safety is the number one priority for her, she also spends her day building relationships with Lakers at all three elementary schools. It is not unusual to see her interacting with students in the hallway, eating lunch with groups in the cafeteria, and volunteering to read to classes."
"When students were asked to describe her, many said she was nice, caring, and brave. If you’re having a bad day, she’ll tell you a joke and blow pink bubbles that she hides in her vest."
Cosgrove was nominated for the award by Southwest teacher Mallory Bybee. Bybee wrote, "When she sees a child having a hard time, she goes out of her way to develop a relationship with that student and truly become a champion for that child."
Director of Pupil Personnel Josh McKeel is also impressed with Cosgrove's dedication to her students.
“She goes above and beyond each day to protect, serve, and love our students," said McKeel. "She is always willing to help regardless of the task and excels at building relationships with our students and staff. Her efforts to bring the D.A.R.E program back to our elementary schools has provide our students with skills to make positive, healthy decisions.”
Kentucky School Report Card data for the 22-23 school year was released on October 31, showing Calloway County as one of the premier school districts in the state.
The Lakers maintained or increased student achievement data in all areas.
You can view complete results online at the Kentucky School Report Card.
Congrats to our students, teachers, staff, and parents on a job well done!
Calloway County High School's girls' cross-country team finished sixth overall in the 2023 KHSAA State Cross Country meet on October 29 in Lexington. The Lady Lakers finished just 3 points shy of placing in the top 5 and was the best finish in modern school history.
Sophomore Valya Carlisle led the way with a 14th place finish out of 226 runners, earning KHSAA All-State honors. Senior Reese Settle was 19th and sophomore Sadie Lilly was 21st to form the highest finishing trio in CCHS history. Carlisle becomes the 3rd Lady Laker to earn KHSAA All-State honors over the last four seasons, joining Settle in 2022 and Ainsley Smith in 2020.
The boys' team finished 14th overall in the state, led by junior Ashton Robinson who finished 71st of 262 competitors.
Calloway County High School senior Karsyn Tucker has been named the October Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
With a 4.0 grade point average, Tucker is a standout student both in and out of the classroom and will graduate in May with 30 hours of college credit. She received the Commonwealth Honors Academy scholarship after attending CHA last summer. She is an intern with Special Olympics Kentucky and a Leadership Tomorrow alum. Additionally, she is a member of the National Honors Society and Unified Champion Schools.
She is the president of the CCHS Future Business Leaders of America chapter, Student Council and the Beta Club. While competing for FBLA, Tucker has won both Regionals and State competition twice and has represented CCHS at nationals for two years running.
After graduating in May, Tucker plans to attend Murray State to major in nonprofit leadership. She is the daughter of Kassia and Brian Tucker.
Calloway County High School senior Preslee Phillips was recently selected as one of only 5 students in the state of Kentucky to participate in the Auburn Veterinarian Student Mentorship Program, sponsored by the Kentucky Junior Cattlemen's Association.
Through this program, Preslee will be paired with a college of veterinary medicine student in a mentoring relationship. In addition, she will meet and work alongside faculty from Auburn's School of Veterinary Medicine as well as veterinarians from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, USDA APHIS Veterinary Services.
Preslee is active in the CCHS Future Farmers of America chapter and plans to study veterinary medicine after high school. Her Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) is also Veterinary Science due to her work with two local veterinary clinics. She also works alongside her grandfather on their family's beef farm.
Preslee is the daughter of Jonathan and Mandy Phillips.
Calloway County High School freshman Divine Ezinma recently received “Grand Recognition” from Western Kentucky University as a part of the Talent Identification Program of Kentucky. “Grand Recognition” is the highest honor given and is for students whose composite ACT score was 29 or higher.
The Talent Identification Program of Kentucky (TIP-KY) offers above-level testing to assess where students are academically in order for educators and families to guide students to relevant resources, appropriate enrichment programming, and other services that will challenge and encourage growth.
“The Center for Gifted Studies has been engaged in a talent search for a long time, and now it is our pleasure to fill the void created by the closure of Duke TIP with TIP-KY,” said Dr. Julia Roberts, Mahurin Professor of Gifted Studies and Executive Director of The Center for Gifted Studies and The Carol Martin Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science.
In addition to being a standout student, Divine also is on the CCHS academic team and robotics team. After high school, his current plans are to attend college and to become a medical doctor.
Calloway County Middle School custodian Russell Turner has been named the October Laker Champion for Kids. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Turner was nominated by numerous faculty and staff members at CCMS.
“I'm not sure I've met someone else who could match his tireless work ethic,” wrote CCMS teacher Sally Barnes. "The time he has committed to this school is immeasurable. He worked when he knew he would not be paid. He worked overtime shifts at the middle school only to continue his day giving more time to the high school. He has never complained, never shied away from a task, and never forgotten to smile to all those he encounters, even in the most daunting situations. CCMS has been blessed beyond measure to have someone who takes such pride in our space.”
Turner also works closely with CCMS assistant principal David Carmichael.
“He is an amazing guy,” says Carmichael. “Often, I’ve seen him come up on a weekend – unpaid – just to work on a few things that he wants to fix or make look better before the new week starts. He takes such pride in his work and is eager to help in any way he can. This summer, some of our current students were guiding the new 6th graders around the school at our Smooth Sailing event. When they got to his door, one said,‘This is Mr. Russell’s office. He’s our head custodian, one of the nicest and coolest guys here.’ This just goes to show the impact he makes in our building. We are so blessed to have him.”
Calloway County High School senior Matthew Jones recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to represent Kentucky at the SkillsUSA Washington Leadership Training in September. Jones traveled with ATC teacher and SkillsUSA sponsor Ron Thompson from the Murray/Calloway Area Technology Center.
The four-day SkillsUSA Washington Leadership Training Institute conference provided students an opportunity to grow in their professionalism, communication and leadership skills, which they apply during their visits to Congress. Delegations talked to elected officials or their staff members about their education paths and CTE training programs, the value of career and technical education and the benefits of their SkillsUSA participation. They explained how today's workplace requires employees with career readiness skills, and that SkillsUSA develops these skills in students of all ages and backgrounds.
The conference focused on advanced communications skills including development of a SkillsUSA Framework story to share during their visits with elected officials. This year's conference included training for students and advisors on personal and workplace skills; a tour of Washington, D.C., monuments and museums; and a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.
SkillsUSA is one of the nation's largest individual membership organizations for career and technical students and its programs are integrated into the CTE curriculum. According to the U.S. Department of Education, the average high school graduation rate for students concentrating in CTE programs is 94% compared to an average national freshman graduation rate of 85%. CTE also helps create a trained pipeline of future workers to support a strong American economy and global competitiveness.
Pictured are Thompson, Jones, and Lily Jones (Henderson County) and Jeff Jones (Henderson County)
Calloway County High School sophomore Amber Wu recently scored a perfect 36 composite score on The ACT Test. The ACT Test is a nationwide college entrance test given to college-bound high school students. One quarter of one percent of test takers achieve this incredible score on The ACT Test.
The test is normally reserved for juniors and seniors, but Wu took the test in hopes of being accepted into The Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University for her junior and senior years of high school.
“I kind of wanted to get it over with the first time, and I knew I wouldn’t be happy with something other than a 36,” said Wu, who used Princeton Review textbooks this summer to help prepare for the exam.
Wu, 15, will have plenty of options for college and career in the future. She says her “dream school” is Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA, but the school is still very expensive. For her career, right now she is interested in aero-physics and hopes to one day work for NASA.
Wu credits her parents for contributing to her academic success, but her natural gifts are equally matched by her work ethic. Wu said during the pandemic, she would study math at home for 3-4 hours each day. Her mother is an English professor at Murray State, and her father has a Doctorate in computer science and is also talented in physics.
“It’s really nice to have both of those influences in my life,” said Wu about her talented parents.
Wu took Honors Algebra 2 at CCHS while she was in middle school and took Pre-Calculus as a freshman. After a placement exam at Murray State, she enrolled in Calculus 2 at MSU for dual credit at CCHS.
“I’m really grateful that [CCHS] let me go so far,” she said.
Wu has been an all-star on academic teams in her time at Calloway. She was a standout on the CCHS team her freshman year and finished first in Kentucky in math her eighth grade year at CCMS.
In addition to the academic team, Wu also participates in the speech team, Future Business Leaders of America, Beta Club, and tennis. She also hopes to start a math club at CCHS.
Wu also has an interest in the arts as a member of the CCHS art club. She plans to apply for the Governor’s School for the Arts for the summer of 2024.
Calloway County High School senior Micah Koenecke was named the Area Technology Center September Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Koenecke is a standout student at CCHS and ATC. His specialty at ATC is automotive tech, but he also has taken carpentry and welding classes. This year as a senior, Koenecke has a work cooperative where he takes classes in the morning and spends his afternoons working at Kentucky Lake Boatworks. He works 20-25 hours each week in addition to his school schedule.
Outside of the classroom, Koenecke is a leader in the Skills USA club at ATC, where as a junior he was the regional champion and finished second in the state in the automotive competition. He was also the top competitor on the CCHS Laker Golf team.
After graduation in May, Koenecke hopes to attend West Kentucky Community and Technical College where he can earn certifications in welding, heavy diesel, and/or automotive tech.
Micah is the son of BJ and Heather Koenecke.
Calloway County High School Future Farmers of America Land Judging team won the regional championship on September 26 during a competition at Murray State University.
The team moves on to compete for a state championship on November 9 in Hardinsburg.
Pictured (L to R) are Cooper Housden, Preslee Phillips, Aiden Grooms, and Nick Caldwell. The team is coached by Dr. Jacob Falwell.
Four Calloway County schools have been recognized as “America’s Healthiest Schools” by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, one of the nation’s preeminent children’s health organizations. East Calloway Elementary, North Calloway Elementary, Southwest Calloway Elementary, and Calloway County High School all received this honor.
For the 2022-23 school year, 781 schools across 36 states earned this designation. Each school was recognized for implementing best practices in one of nine topic areas, based on criteria in Healthier Generation’s Thriving Schools Integrated Assessment. Southwest Calloway Elementary was recognized in four of these topic areas.
Healthier Generation’s signature recognition program honors schools’ extraordinary efforts to advance the cycle of achievement in whole child health equity for students, staff, and families while grappling with pandemic-related learning loss, high rates of vaping and nicotine addiction, a youth mental health crisis, and other challenges. As honorees of the recognition program, schools reinforce their central role as powerful agents of impact and change for their community at-large.
On October 13 and 14, Healthier Generation will gather school representatives in Washington, D.C. for the America’s Healthiest Schools Leaders Summit to honor awardees and this year’s Corporate Hero, Kohl’s, for prioritizing the whole health needs of staff and students. More than 450 teachers, administrators, and thought leaders in health will come together to network, share best practices, and recognize the achievements of these distinguished schools.
“We are proud of our schools for receiving this honor,” said Superintendent Tres Settle. “Our staff works hard to make our schools healthy and safe places for students to thrive, and I am excited to see them recognized for their hard work.”
Calloway County High School senior Aiden Grooms has been named the September Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Murray.
Grooms is a standout student in and out of the classroom. He holds a 4.0 GPA and scored 31 on the ACT. He is also a 2023 Kentucky Governor’s Scholar. Outside the classroom, he is a member of the National Honor Society, Future Farmers of America, and Future Business Leaders of America. He also runs cross country and track and participated in the school’s Special Olympics UCS program. Grooms is also responsible for chartering the Interact Club at CCHS, a student branch of the Rotary Club of Murray.
Outside of school, Grooms is active in his youth group at church and plays guitar in his church band. He is also a part of the local antique tractor club and recently restored an antique tractor for display at the Kentucky State Fair.
After graduating in May, Grooms plans to attend Murray State to major in either agriculture or engineering. In his career, he hopes to design equipment for Case International or John Deere.
Aiden is the son of Jonathan and Daisy Grooms.
Calloway County Middle School’s Future Problem Solving Coach, Whitney Pile, was honored on Friday, September 15th as one of the newest inductees to the KAAC coveted Academic Team Hall of Fame.
The Kentucky Association for Academic Competition awards luncheon was held at the Galt House during the annual state academic team coaches’ conference. Coaches selected for the Hall of Fame must have accomplished noteworthy achievements that further academic competition on a local, regional, and/or statewide level, according to the KAAC criteria used for consideration of this honor.
Whitney has been the FPS coach at Calloway County Middle School for the past 20 years. She is a registered nurse and currently serves as the Health Services Coordinator for the Murray Head Start program. She serves expectant moms and children ages 0 to 5 amongst the counties located in Western Kentucky. During her coaching tenure, her FPS teams have won an amazing 18 District Governor’s Cup championships, 10 Regional Governor’s Cup championships along with 7 Regional Runners-Up. In addition, her FPS Lakers have placed 8 times in the top ten of the state of Kentucky, along with 6 top three finishes and a state championship. Whitney has also guided 8 teams to the International FPS Conference tournament, where her teams represent Kentucky as they play against other teams from the USA and around twenty-two other countries. Recently, one of Whitney’s teams placed ninth overall in the entire world at this competition.
Over the past 20 years, Whitney and her husband, Scott, have helped to make the academic program into a life-changing team for countless of students; moreover, they have strived to not just create a positive team experience for both current students and alumni of the program, but also foster an “academic team family” approach. Whtiney has also had many amazing assistant coaches that have helped to make the Laker program into one of the most successful programs in the state of Kentucky. Her induction into the hall of fame is an award for “everyone” who has touched the Laker academic team program.
Whitney and her husband, Scott, have been married for 19 years and they have two sons--Connor and Bryce. Whitney is an avid baseball, basketball, and tennis spectator, as she cheers her boys on during their athletic events! In addition, her older son, Connor, is on his high school’s academic team where he competes in science, fine arts, and quick recall.
Calloway County High School nurse Erin Garland has been named the September Laker Champion for Kids. Garland also serves as the district's health coordinator. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Garland was nominated by CCHS counselor Kim Rydecki.
“She stepped into a role that was much needed in our district," said Rydecki. "She has assumed many responsibilities as a result of her position with a level of grace that is not surprising if you are familiar with her fantastic personality. She has exceeded and surpassed all expectations of a career that has incredible responsibilities and accountability. She makes a point to help each and every student and staff member that she encounters. She heals more than just physical wounds and pain. She supports, loves, cares, nurtures those with any need whether it is emotional or physical. She is dedicated to serving her students, so that they know a safe place can be found in schools. The level of care provided by her sets a standard that can only be defined as a champion for all.”
Garland works with numerous people throughout our district, including Ryan Marchetti, who serves as the Director of PD/PR.
“She is incredibly dedicated to our students," said Marchetti. "She took a health leadership position in a tough time during the pandemic and worked with her schools and the other nurses incredibly well. She dealt with health issues in her own family over the last couple of years, and it never kept her away for long. She keeps showing up for her school, her colleagues, and her students. She is a vital asset to our district and is deserving of this recognition.”
Calloway County High School Future Farmers of America students recently traveled to Louisville to compete in the Kentucky State Fair. Numerous students placed in various competitions. The group is posing on a 1942 Farmall tractor recently restored by FFA students Aiden Grooms and Noah Fulton.
Results from the competitions:
Nursery - 3rd in state
Jacee McKeel
Ellie Falwell
Dakotah Pittman
Tate Weatherly
Floriculture - 6th in state
Annabelle Mohler
Ally Coles
Jaycee Crouch
Sayde Lowe
Meats Judging - 9th in state
Jacob Akin
Patience Puckett
Elijah Rudolph
Sayde Lowe
Welding
Tyler Ward
Noah Fulton
Claire Blankenship
Josh Walker
Wildlife
Luke Johnson
Fulton Manning
Tyler Ward
Addison Kough
Land Judging with 4H (using FFA members) - 3rd in state
Nick Caldwell 3rd high individual
Jacob Akin
Cooper Housden
Aiden Grooms
Junior Land Judging with 4H (trained by FFA members)
Collin Naber 2nd high individual
Benson Weber
Kyler McKeel
Mason Falwell
Calloway County Schools has recognized Laura Crouse as its August Laker Champion for Kids. Crouse is a district-wide counselor assisting schools and families of students with disabilities. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
This month’s champion was nominated by Director of Special Education Lynsey Smith.
“She goes above and beyond in all areas across our district," said Smith. "Most days, she will be found taking notes during ARCs, guiding and mentoring teachers, and helping students and parents navigate postsecondary decisions. Outside of her daily tasks, she also voluntarily helped at Southwest after the passing of Ms. Murdock. She has counseled students, kept records straight, and conducted many meetings. She is an advocate for our students and an asset to Calloway County Schools.”
CCHS principal Steve Smith has worked with Crouse for two decades in the district.
“A true Laker-4-Life," said Smith. "This person is what we all aspire to be in the field of education, a difference maker who puts kids first. With a positive attitude and a generous spirit, she has spent her entire career looking for ways to help teachers, students, parents, and our school in general. She has served our district as a teacher, a guidance counselor, and an ARC chairperson. As a counselor at CCHS, she filled many roles with the direct professionalism of a school official, while adding the personal touch of a surrogate mother figure to many students who needed it, showing compassion, understanding and even tough love when it was needed."
"Anyone who has ever worked with her will certainly agree that you will not find a better coworker, mentor or friend. We are so blessed to have her as a part of Laker Nation!”
Calloway County Middle School counselor Mindy Rose has been selected for the Kentucky Department of Education School Counselor Advisory Council. This council helps connect Kentucky school counselors with KDE staff to discuss educational priorities that meet the needs of all children.
Calloway County High School teacher Ashley Fritsche (right) received the 2023 Outstanding Business Teacher award from her colleagues at the Kentucky Business Education Association. The award is for a KBEA member who shows sincere concern for the academic well-being of students, fosters a desire for learning in students, shows personal interest in their students, displays an enthusiasm for teaching, and shows professionalism through continued involvement in business education activities.
Calloway County High School teacher Cassidy McAllister was recently named the winner of the "Teacher Turn the Key Award" by the Kentucky Association of Agricultural Educators. The Turn the Key program is for new agricultural educators focusing on professional development to support teacher retention. McAllister will be entering her second year at teaching at CCHS.
Southwest Calloway Elementary School counselor Mandi Murdock was chosen as the 2023 Educator of the Year by the Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce. She touched the lives and hearts of hundreds of students and colleagues over her career before her passing in January, 2023. Her husband, Kyle, accepted the award on her behalf at the annual Chamber awards banquet on July 14 in front of her family, colleagues, and other friends and community members.
Calloway County High School Future Farmers of America received the 2023 Agriculture Award during the Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce annual banquet on July 14. CCHS FFA is sponsored by Jacob Falwell, Cassie Miller, and Cassidy McAllister.
Calloway County Schools are excited to welcome back our students for the 23-24 school year!
Calloway County Preschool
July 18 - 8am-4:30pm - Packet Pickup - Parents of accepted students need to attend.
August 1 - 5pm-7pm - Open House
August 9 - First Day of Little Laker Harbour
August 17 - First Day of Preschool
Calloway County Schools has selected Matt Turner as the district’s new Supervisor of Transportation.
Turner has served as the Central Garage Supervisor for the City of Murray for the last seven years. He has also worked in the position of Chief Engineer for Crounse Corporation River Transportation. He brings several years of leadership and mechanical experience to the district.
“I am honored to be selected for the position, and I am eager to meet and serve with the drivers and other employees in the transportation department," said Turner.
Turner is married to Amy Turner. They are the proud parents of Gracie and Allyson.
Calloway County High School has hired Jonah Brannon as the new Laker varsity baseball head coach. Brannon replaces Travis Turner, who resigned after leading the Lakers for seven seasons.
Brannon has served on the Laker baseball staff for two seasons as a varsity assistant and the head middle school coach. He also played for the Lakers in high school, along with playing college baseball at Murray State for four seasons.
Brannon plans to bring with him a passion for the game of baseball and a whole-person development attitude, focused on developing student-athletes as students, persons, players and eventual professionals, paving the way for life-success beyond graduation and baseball.
“I am very appreciative of the Calloway County Schools administration for this awesome opportunity to become head baseball coach for the Laker baseball program,” said Brannon. “We have a proud past to uphold and an exciting future to mold. I would like to thank all of my former coaches for investing in me as a person first and foremost. They have all contributed in making me the man I am today. Special thanks to Coach Travis Turner for giving me the opportunity to come back home a couple years ago to Calloway County to begin my coaching career. We have a great group of talented players, but more than that, a great group of young men. I am very excited about helping develop them to their max potential on the field and leading them to be great young men off of it.”
Brannon holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in agriculture and is employed as an instructor and a manager of the Arboretum/Pullen Farm at Murray State University. He and his wife Katie have a 4 month old son, Ramsey.
Calloway County Schools are excited to welcome back our students for the 23-24 school year!
Calloway County High School
July 11 - 8am-3pm - New Student Registration
Schedule Pickups in Library - Online registration completed before arrival, pay fees, complete health form, meet with counselors
July 25 - 11am-6pm - Seniors and Freshmen
July 26 - 11am-6pm - Sophomores and Juniors
July 27 - 8-11am and 12-2pm - New Students and anyone unable to attend July 25/26
August 3 - 6-7:30pm - Back to School Night and Freshman Orientation
August 9 - First Day of School
Calloway County Schools are excited to welcome back our students for the 23-24 school year!
North Calloway Elementary School
July 17 - 11am-6:30pm - Registration
July 18 - 7:30am-3:30pm - Registration
July 24-26 - 8:30am-11am - Kindergarten Camp - Registration deadline is July 17
July 31 - Times TBD - Back to School Night for 3rd, 4th, & 5th graders
August 1 - Times TBD - Back to School Night for 1st and 2nd graders
August 3 - Times TBD - Back to School Night for Kindergarten
August 9 - First Day of School
Southwest Calloway Elementary School
July 24 - 7am-2:30pm - Registration
July 25 - 11am-5:30pm - Registration
July 26-27 - 8:30am-11:30am - Kindergarten Camp - Registration deadline is July 21
July 31 - 5pm - Back to School Night for 3rd, 4th, & 5th graders
August 1 - 5pm - Back to School Night for 1st and 2nd graders
August 3 - 5pm - Back to School Night for Kindergarten
August 9 - First Day of School
East Calloway Elementary School
July 18 - 10:30am-6:30pm - Registration
July 31 - 5pm-6:30pm - Back to School Night for 3rd, 4th, & 5th graders
August 1 - 5pm-6:30pm - Back to School Night for 1st and 2nd graders
August 2 - 9am-12pm - Kindergarten Camp - Register by calling 762-7329
August 3 - 5pm-6:30pm - Back to School Night for Kindergarten
August 9 - First Day of School
Calloway County Schools are excited to welcome back our students for the 23-24 school year!
Calloway County Middle School
July 18 - 12pm-7pm - Registration (pay school fees, fill out health form, pick up schedule, get locker)
August 3 - 5pm-7pm - Back to School Night (meet the teachers, find classrooms, try lockers)
August 4 - Smooth Sailing Camp for 6th graders - Register through CCMS FRYSC
August 9 - First Day of School
Calloway County Middle School student Faith McCafferty recently competed in the National Speech and Debate Tournament in Phoenix, AZ. She competed against hundreds of students from across the country, earning quarterfinalist honors placing her in the top 24 in the nation. She is the daughter of Ryan and Jennifer McCafferty.
Calloway County High School Future Farmers of America recently attended the Kentucky State FFA Convention in Lexington. CCHS students joined nearly 2,500 other Kentucky FFA members at the convention competing in various events.
Savannah Pittman, a 2022 CCHS graduate, was awarded the state championship in Diversified Crop Entrepreneurship and finished state runner-up in Fruit Production. CCHS’s Parliamentary Procedure team, consisting of Isaac Martin, Lillie Thorn, Westin Tolley, Ginni Mikulcik, Nick Caldwell, Elizabeth Lanier, and Jacee McKeel finished as the state runner-up. Ginni Mikulcik finished in third place in Nursery Operations, and Cooper Housden took third in Public Speaking. Jacee McKeel won a $1000 cash prize in the Shark Tank event.
Eight recent CCHS graduates received the State FFA Degree, the highest degree a state can bestow upon members. Emma Arnett, Caden Brooks, Luke Hale, Trace Johnson, Isaac Martin, Ginni Mikulcik, Lillie Thorn, and Westin Tolley all received this honor.
This is the nineteenth consecutive year CCHS has produced a state champion at the convention. The school has produced 75 FFA state championships in 48 different areas over that same period.
CCVLA Graduation pictures are available to view and download in this shared Google folder.
Calloway County High School has hired Kirsten Collins to be the new head girls’ basketball coach for the 2023-24 season. Collins has served as an assistant for Lady Laker basketball for five seasons. She replaces David Brown, who resigned after one season.
Collins was previously the head girls’ basketball coach at Hickman County for two seasons before coaching in Calloway County. She played basketball in college at Brescia University in Owensboro and in high school at Mayfield.
Collins is a math teacher at Calloway County Middle School. Collins and her husband, Eli, have two sons, Coe and Nox.
“I have been coaching and working with many of these girls since they were in elementary school,” said Collins. “I am excited for the opportunity to not only continue to watch them grow on the court but lead them in that growth. This is a great group of girls, both on and off the court, with a ton of talent and I am proud to be their head coach. I can't wait to get in the gym with them, start working out, build our foundation, and prepare for the season."
East Calloway Elementary students (L to R) Lilah Hill, Leah Fiske, and MaKaylenn Hargis all recently placed in the Murray Woman's Club Art Contest. Hargis won first place in printmaking and second place in drawing. Hill was second place in drawing, and Fiske was third place in painting.
Calloway County High School Boys' and Girls' track teams both won the team Regional Championships at their meet on May 22 at CCHS. The girls' team was the outright champion winning with a score of 212, beating the second place team with 117. The boys' team shared the championship with Paducah Tilghman.
East Calloway Elementary students recently traveled to Lexington to compete in the Greenpower Electric Go Cart races in Lexington. Fourteen students spent this year learning, building, and assembling the car as a part of a grant through the University of Kentucky. Pictured left to right are Lincoln Green, Odin Beatty, Emery Ryan, Daisy Parrish, Patience Hunt (below), and East teacher and club sponsor Aymee Herndon.
Calloway County Middle School had two students finish in the top two spots in the Kentucky Business Education Keyboarding contest. Jillian Stovall (right) finished first with 89 words per minute and won a $50 Amazon gift card. Jadyn Stark (left) finished second with 86 words per minute earning a $25 Amazon gift card.
Calloway County High School senior Isaac Martin was named The Murray Bank and Murray Ledger & Times Student of the Year. Martin received a $1000 scholarship and CCHS also received $1000 as a part of the award.
Martin graduates in May and plans to attend Murray State University to major in chemical engineering. He is the son of Jarrod and Sarah Martin.
The full story can be found on the Murray Ledger & Times website.
Calloway County Middle School girls' soccer team won the regional championship after defeating Lone Oak 6-0 at Jim Nix Soccer Complex at Calloway County High School on May 3.
The team finished the season 15-0-1, scoring 59 goals and allowing only 2. In addition to winning the regional tournament, the Lady Lakers were also the district tournament and regular season champions. The team had 14 shutouts in their 16 games.
The Lady Lakers are coached by Tim Stark, Kristine Provine, and Bradley Dawson.
Calloway County High School senior Luke Freyburger has been named the Murray-Calloway County Area Technology Center Student of the Year. Freyburger was honored at the annual regional banquet at Marshall County High School on April 27. The event is sponsored by The Associated General Contractors of Western Kentucky, and Freyburger received at $500 prize as a part of the award.
Freyburger is a machine tool student at ATC. After graduation in May, Freyburger plans to attend West Kentucky Community and Technical College in Paducah to become a CNC machinist. He is the son of Joe and Julie Freyburger.
The full awards ceremony and all other winners are visible on the WPSD Local 6 website.
Pictured are Freyburger and ATC machine tool teacher Taylor Caldwell.
C.J. Dial has been named the Laker Champion for Kids for the month of May. Dial works as math teacher at Calloway County High School. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
“He is a self-starter who continually looks for ways to put our students out front and get the most out of their experience at CCHS," said CCHS principal Steve Smith. "And besides being an outstanding math teacher, he is the epitome of a 'school person.' He is a tech liaison for our school; he started the Technical Math class. He takes student-athletes to the elementary schools to read to the students, and he does this on his planning time. He operates the sound system for us at pep rallies and events, and he serves as an SBDM member. Because of his work ethic, many talents, and generous spirit, he is respected by students, staff and administration. We are fortunate to have him at CCHS, and he is a true Laker-4-Life.”
Dial was nominated by East Calloway Elementary teacher Ashley Dial, who is also his wife.
"He is a hardworking and dedicated teacher," said Mrs. Dial. "He has an awesome rapport with not only his students, but students across the high school and district. He is always willing to help students whenever it is needed. He is accommodating and empathetic. If a student needs help at 8:00pm, he doesn't think twice about providing assistance and feedback in order to help students be successful. His students and coworkers love him. He is a definite asset to our school district.
Pictured (L to R) are Superintendent Tres Settle, CJ Dial, and CCHS principal Steve Smith
Calloway County High School students Brooklyn Swatzell (left) and Aubrey Naber (right) have earned bids to the Future Problem Solving International Conference in June at University of Massachusetts - Amherst where they will compete alongside students from 40 other nations. They recently competed at Governor’s Cup State competition in the area of individual Future Problem Solving, predicting challenges and solutions to issues surrounding consumerism in a “throw away society." Naber, a freshman, placed 3rd overall in Middle Grades FPS, while Swatzell, a sophomore, earned 6th place. Senior Drake Calhoon also earned 8th place in the High School division. Future Problem Solving is a part of the CCHS academic team. The Laker FPS team is coached by Erica Gray and Cassidy McAllister.
North Calloway Elementary School teacher Noraa Ransey was named the Outstanding Elementary Educator at the 38th Annual Harry M. Sparks Lecture presented by Murray State's College of Education and Human Services on April 25.
Ransey is in her 18th year in education and is currently a 1st grade teacher at NCES. Ransey was named the 2020 Teacher of the Year by the Kentucky Education Association, and the 2021 Educator of the Year by the Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce. Ransey is a National Board Certified Teacher and has been active in numerous national and state groups and committees, including the National Board DEI standards committee, the Kentucky Commissioner's Advisory Council, Kentucky Reading Association, Kentucky Academy of Technology Education, Kentucky Education Association, and the National Education Association. She has two degrees from Murray State and is a mother of five.
"North Elementary is very proud of our Noraa Ransey for being named the Outstanding Elementary Educator," said North Elementary principal Melinda Hendley. "Ms. Ransey is distinguished in her field and finds ways to share her fire with both students and other educators. Noraa continues to be self-motivated to push herself to grow professionally at the local, state and national levels. Ms. Ransey loves her students, school and community and always strives to be a positive light with those that she meets."
"We are blessed in Calloway County with some of the best stakeholders," said Ransey. "My team works tirelessly to create experience for our students. We have many parents and community members that make all our dreams of being the best teacher we can come true. Whether we need a banker to show up and tell us about a job or a coat for a kid that has a need someone is always a phone call away. I am beyond thankful to be an educator in Calloway County."
Eight Calloway County High School juniors were selected to participate in the 2023 Governor's Scholars Program (GSP).
The Governor’s Scholars Program is a summer residential program for outstanding high school students in Kentucky who are rising seniors. The Program originated in 1983 as a result of Kentucky leaders’ concern that the state’s “best and brightest” were leaving the Commonwealth to pursue educational and career opportunities elsewhere without fully understanding the potential of their talents at home. Students who are selected attend the Program without charge. In the spirit of partnership, the Office of the Governor, the Kentucky State Legislature, and private enterprise come together to provide the financial support for the Program.
In order to participate in the Program, students must be nominated by their high schools and then compete on a state-wide level. Selection for the program is highly competitive, with an application process similar to that of prestigious colleges and universities. In addition to an academic profile that includes difficulty of course load, GPA, and at least one standardized test score, the application requires an outline of all extracurricular activities, a history of volunteer service, and a list of job positions held. A Teacher recommendation which includes both a quantitative evaluation and qualitative descriptions of the student’s performance and potential; as well as a Community Recommendation which shows how a student performs in a community setting beyond the high school are also required. The final component of the application is an original writing entry.
CCHS students selected were (L to R) Amelia Slaton (alternate), Aiden Grooms, Olivia Anderson, Jasmine Hornbuckle, Taylor Frantz, Jacob Akin, Sydney Lasley, and Caleb Darnell.
Calloway County High School junior Kelley Turner has been accepted for Murray State University's Commonwealth Honors Academy. Kelley is the daughter of Ricky and Angie Turner.
The Commonwealth Honors Academy is a three-week academic enrichment experience held every June on Murray State University’s main campus. Students live and learn with their peers and teachers from the area as they take college-level honors courses, take field trips that enrich classroom experiences, attend speakers and listen to professional artists perform and talk about their work, and participate in social and personal growth seminars.
Students that attend CHA receive six hours of tuition-free, transferable university credit. Students also receive an in-state full tuition scholarship with a 3.5 high school GPA and a minimum 25 ACT Composite score. Each student will be assigned to an Interdisciplinary Humanities and Fine Arts (IDHFA) course and to one elective in Business, Science, Education, Health Sciences, Humanities and Fine Arts, Social Science, Communications, or Engineering.
Calloway County High School sophomore Ezra Foote has been selected to attend the Governor's School for Entrepreneurs (GSE) this summer at Northern Kentucky University. Ezra is the son of Paul and Louise Foote.
The Governor's School for Entrepreneurs (GSE) identifies and enables Kentucky high school students to become the Commonwealth's next generation of entrepreneurs. Through the three-week residential experience, GSE participants from throughout the Commonwealth are introduced to Kentucky's most successful entrepreneurs and fastest growing businesses, equipped with the tools and skills to create and build their own businesses, and matched with complementary skilled peers to develop business plans and product or service prototypes. The annual GSE intensive program culminates in a pitch competition attended by a large audience representing Kentucky's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
GSE’s leadership recognized that teens in Kentucky were not being given dynamic opportunities to learn about entrepreneurship and put their ideas into action. For many communities in Kentucky, efforts focused on human capital -- meaning entrepreneurship education initiatives aimed at changing the mindset and capacity of young people -- may be the best hope of changing outcomes and improving living standards.
On April 17-19, 2023, 76 members and advisers from Future Business Leaders of America at CCHS and CCMS traveled to Louisville, KY to attend the 2023 Kentucky FBLA State Leadership Conference. Laker FBLA was recognized for meeting the 2022-2023 State Goals, achieving the Commonwealth Award of Merit, participating in the State Project for 2022-2023, participating in the Local Leadership Challenges, and completing the Reporter’s Quill.
Event |
Name |
Place |
Business Calculations |
Amber Wu |
1st |
Business Ethics |
Brie Lucas |
1st |
Hospitality & Event Management |
Karsyn Tucker |
1st |
Intro. Business Communications |
Kaylee Tharp |
1st |
Intro. Business Concepts |
Ezra Foote |
1st |
Job Interview |
Sidney Lasley |
1st |
Marketing |
Sophie Hendley, Addi Schumacher and Enas AboAlHaija |
1st |
Political Science |
Cesar Villeda |
1st |
Social Media Strategies |
Kenzie Dick, Aidan Poston, and Emma Arnett |
1st |
Client Service |
Sydney Naber |
2nd |
Computer Applications |
Hannah Nix |
2nd |
Economics |
Cate Anderson |
2nd |
Introduction to Parliamentary Procedure |
Elizabeth Lanier |
2nd |
Parliamentary Procedure |
Lillie Thorn, Aiden Grooms, Cooper Housden, and Elizabeth Lanier |
2nd |
Sales Presentation |
Daniel Puckett and Zack Johnson |
2nd |
Spreadsheet Applications |
Andrew Adams |
2nd |
Accounting 1 |
Nick Caldwell |
3rd |
International Business |
Connor Pile, Zach Akin and Jose Tapia Sosa |
3rd |
Introduction to FBLA |
Jasmine Zetterberg |
3rd |
Introduction to Financial Math |
Gary Rogers |
3rd |
Largest Local Chapter Membership |
Calloway High School |
3rd |
Word Processing |
Maronda Sheridan |
3rd |
Impromptu Speaking |
Sarah Gardner |
4th |
Advertising |
Aubrey Naber |
5th |
Data Analysis |
Addi Pervine and Lilly Ohage |
5th |
Calloway County High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter won the overall championship at the 71st annual Murray State University FFA Field Day on April 19. CCHS FFA has finished first or second in this event for 20 straight years. This is their first championship since 2016, and the 18th championship in school history. A total of 59 students competed in both team and individual contests contributing to the team win. With 80 teams representing 69 schools from Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee, CCHS was still able to place in the top 10 at every event at Field Day.
Championship Teams:
- Nursery and Landscaping (43 straight years as top team in Kentucky), team members: Isaac Martin (1st place individual), Kaylee Tharp (3rd place Individual), Jaycee Crouch, and Elizabeth Morrow
- Floriculture, team members: Ginni Mikulcik (1st place individual), Ally Coles, Annabelle Mohler, Mattie Overbey
- Tobacco Judging, team members: Ethan Carson (2nd place individual), Kolt Bazzell, Kierstyn Carraway, Aidan Clinton, Ellie Falwell, Cooper Housden, Wyatt Robbins, Tate Weatherly
Championship Individuals:
- Tractor Driving: Luke Hale
- Tool Identification: Jake Davenport
Runner-up Teams:
- Land Judging, team members: Jacob Akin (2nd place individual), Fulton Manning, Addison Schumacher, and Lillie Thorn
- Welding, team members: Tyler Ward (2nd place individual), Claire Blankenship, Caedmon Hanes, and Josh Walker
Runner-up Individual:
- Auctioneering: Luke Johnson
3rd Place Team:
- Ag Mechanics, team members: Noah Fulton, Bae Lawrence, Jonathan Therrien, and Corbin Watters
3rd Place Individuals:
- Weed Identification: Elizabeth Lanier
- Horsemanship: Addison Pervine
4th Place Individuals:
- Horsemanship: Caden Brooks
- Horsemanship: Paige Pendergrass
- Mig Welding: Logan Ramsey
5th Place teams:
- Poultry Judging, team members: Emma Arnett, Aiden Grooms, Jacee McKeel, and Patience Puckett
- Vet Science, team members: Grace Barnes, Olivia Bone, Kenzie Dukes, Payton Duncan, Emily Garner, Jayna Garner, Abby Hathcock, Jessi James, Quinlyn Moore, Dakotah Pittman, and Trey Ward
7th Place team:
- Livestock Judging, Addison Kough, Sayde Lowe, Sayler Lowe, and Preslee Phillips
Calloway County High School senior Enas Abo Al Haija has been named the April Student of the Month by the Murray Rotary Club.
Abo Al Haija is on track to be a CCHS valedictorian in May and scored 30 on the ACT. She is also Microsoft Office certified, and has passed the Marketing, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Administrative Office End of Program assessments. She was also a member of Leadership Tomorrow in her junior year. She has also won numerous outstanding student awards while at CCHS.
Outside of the classroom, she is an active member of the Future Business Leaders of America, earning first place in the state in Marketing in 2023 and numerous regional competition awards. She also volunteers at FBLA events, including the “Princess and Superhero Breakfast” three times. She is also an active member of BETA Club, National Honor Society, Rotary Interact, and Spanish Club. She also recently won the local Rotary club speech contest in February.
After graduating in May, Abo Al Haija plans to attend Oregon State University to major in chemistry. She also intends to enroll in medical school to become a dermatologist. She is the daughter of Rasha Khalil and Adnan Abo Al Haija.
Pictured (L to R) are CCHS principal Steve Smith, Abo Al Haija, Rotarian Warren Edminster
East Calloway Elementary School students recently received honors for the Kentucky Junior Duck Stamp contest.
Ayden Wilson, 4th grader, won first place for his conservation statement in the KY JR Duck Stamp contest. He received $100.00 as well as other gifts.
Bailee Stone, 3rd grader, and Lilah Hill ,5th grader, received honorable mention for their KY JR Duck Stamp artwork.
Calloway County High School sophomore Elizabeth Lanier has been selected for The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University. Ninety-nine students in Kentucky were selected for this prestigious honor, marking The Gatton Academy's 18th incoming class. Students at The Gatton Academy will complete their junior and senior years of high school living in Florence Schneider Hall at WKU. At the end of their two-year course of study, students will graduate from high school with a minimum of 60 college credit hours.
At Calloway County, Lanier is a successful speech writer earning several regional and state titles since the sixth grade. She also enjoys competing on her school’s Academic Team, FFA and FBLA. She is a founding member of the CCHS Interact Club, and this year she was appointed to the Board of Directors for Playhouse in the Park. Elizabeth is also an active member of her church’s youth group. She is the daughter of Alan and Catherine Lanier.
Applicants were evaluated based on ACT/SAT scores, high school grades, awards and accomplishments, extracurricular activities, responses to essay and short answer questions, and recommendation forms. In addition to these criteria, candidates were invited to interview with WKU faculty members, community leaders from across the Commonwealth, and Gatton Academy alumni. Students from 46 counties make up the Class of 2025.
“Each year we are reminded Kentucky is filled with remarkable students seeking advanced coursework and challenge in their education," said the Director of The Gatton Academy, Dr. Lynette Breedlove. “The Class of 2025 are an inspiring group who have been supported and encouraged by many people in their local schools, districts, and communities.”
The mission of The Gatton Academy is to provide a residential program on the campus of Western Kentucky University for bright, highly motivated Kentucky high school students who have demonstrated interests in pursuing advanced careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Students enhance their creativity, curiosity, reasoning ability, and self-discipline through the companionship of peers, university courses, faculty-led research, and study abroad, preparing them for leadership roles in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Moreover, The Gatton Academy assists in preparing Kentucky to compete in a knowledge-based economy by increasing the number of scientists and engineers with ties to the state.
The Gatton Academy provides a rich living and learning environment designed specifically for academically talented adolescent students that features clubs, organizations, and community service. Additionally, students are able to participate in advanced research with WKU faculty members. Research conducted during students’ time at The Gatton Academy has been honored in the nationally competitive Regeneron Science Talent Search, Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, and published in scientific journals. Study abroad opportunities allow students to participate in global learning experiences in locations such as Costa Rica and England.
The Gatton Academy is Kentucky’s first state-supported, two-year residential program for high school students with interests in advanced science and math careers and is one of only 15 such programs in the nation. The Gatton Academy is a recipient of the 2022 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from Insight Into Diversity Magazine and the Innovation Partnership Award from the National Consortium for Secondary STEM Schools.
North Calloway Elementary, Southwest Calloway Elementary, and Murray-Calloway County Area Technology Center all received $5,000 STEM Classroom Grants from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The program, sponsored by the TVA in partnership with Bicentennial Volunteers Incorporated (BVI, a TVA retiree organization), is designed to fund science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning projects in classrooms and schools in the TVA service area. 238 schools were chosen for grants out of approximately 500 applications.
“The Tennessee Valley Authority understands that excellence in education is the key to our future,” said TVA STEM Education Manager Rachel Crickmar. “We want to work directly with teachers to support initiatives that advance STEM activities in the classroom to develop a talent pipeline for TVA and its customers."
The schools plan to use the grant money in various ways, all to improve STEM education for their students. North Calloway plans to enhance their STEM materials in their media center. Southwest Calloway plans to construct a butterfly garden with various plants. Murray-Calloway ATC will purchase advanced technology for their machine tool program.
Representatives from TVA and the West Kentucky Rural Electrical Cooperative visited the schools on April 12 to tour the schools, discuss the grant programs, and visit with teachers and students.
The Tennessee Valley Authority is a corporate agency of the United States that provides electricity for business customers and local power companies serving nearly 10 million people in parts of seven southeastern states. TVA provides flood control, navigation and land management for the Tennessee River system and assists local power companies and state and local governments with economic development and job creation.
Pictured (L to R) are Brent Powell (TVA), Scotty Sholar (TVA), Jodie Hansen (WKRECC), Dan Hicks (ATC), Taylor Caldwell (ATC), and Wade White (TVA)
North Calloway Elementary, Southwest Calloway Elementary, and Murray-Calloway County Area Technology Center all received $5,000 STEM Classroom Grants from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The program, sponsored by the TVA in partnership with Bicentennial Volunteers Incorporated (BVI, a TVA retiree organization), is designed to fund science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning projects in classrooms and schools in the TVA service area. 238 schools were chosen for grants out of approximately 500 applications.
“The Tennessee Valley Authority understands that excellence in education is the key to our future,” said TVA STEM Education Manager Rachel Crickmar. “We want to work directly with teachers to support initiatives that advance STEM activities in the classroom to develop a talent pipeline for TVA and its customers."
The schools plan to use the grant money in various ways, all to improve STEM education for their students. North Calloway plans to enhance their STEM materials in their media center. Southwest Calloway plans to construct a butterfly garden with various plants. Murray-Calloway ATC will purchase advanced technology for their machine tool program.
Representatives from TVA and the West Kentucky Rural Electrical Cooperative visited the schools on April 12 to tour the schools, discuss the grant programs, and visit with teachers and students.
The Tennessee Valley Authority is a corporate agency of the United States that provides electricity for business customers and local power companies serving nearly 10 million people in parts of seven southeastern states. TVA provides flood control, navigation and land management for the Tennessee River system and assists local power companies and state and local governments with economic development and job creation.
Pictured (L to R back row) are Scotty Sholar (TVA), Mark Mallory (Southwest), Jodie Hansen (WKRECC), Brent Powell (TVA), Wade White (TVA). Pictured in the front row are the Southwest Elementary Student Council.
North Calloway Elementary, Southwest Calloway Elementary, and Murray-Calloway County Area Technology Center all received $5,000 STEM Classroom Grants from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The program, sponsored by the TVA in partnership with Bicentennial Volunteers Incorporated (BVI, a TVA retiree organization), is designed to fund science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning projects in classrooms and schools in the TVA service area. 238 schools were chosen for grants out of approximately 500 applications.
“The Tennessee Valley Authority understands that excellence in education is the key to our future,” said TVA STEM Education Manager Rachel Crickmar. “We want to work directly with teachers to support initiatives that advance STEM activities in the classroom to develop a talent pipeline for TVA and its customers."
The schools plan to use the grant money in various ways, all to improve STEM education for their students. North Calloway plans to enhance their STEM materials in their media center. Southwest Calloway plans to construct a butterfly garden with various plants. Murray-Calloway ATC will purchase advanced technology for their machine tool program.
Representatives from TVA and the West Kentucky Rural Electrical Cooperative visited the schools on April 12 to tour the schools, discuss the grant programs, and visit with teachers and students.
The Tennessee Valley Authority is a corporate agency of the United States that provides electricity for business customers and local power companies serving nearly 10 million people in parts of seven southeastern states. TVA provides flood control, navigation and land management for the Tennessee River system and assists local power companies and state and local governments with economic development and job creation.
Pictured (L to R) are Josh Tubbs (TVA), Brent Powell (TVA), Jodie Hansen (WKRECC), Laken Falwell (North), Scotty Sholar (TVA), and Wade White (TVA)
Scott Pile has been named the Laker Champion for Kids for the month of April. Pile works as science teacher at Calloway County Middle School. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
“He is a phenomenal teacher who gives 110% to his students,” says CCMS principal Jodi Butler. “He makes learning science something students love to do. He keeps students engaged all the time with interesting projects and he presents the material in a way that keeps kids wanting to learn more. You will also find him still on the job many nights and weekends as he leads numerous academic team groups. The successes of the CCMS academic teams are unrivaled largely due to his dedication. We are very thankful to have him here at CCMS.”
Pile was nominated by CCMS guidance counselor Mindy Rose, who wrote:
“He works tirelessly for kids, whether it be to enhance the education of our gifted and talented kids, to help students turn into leaders, or just teaching in a manner that is academic, enthusiastic, and inspiring. He gives to others in a way that inspires so many to do the same.”
Pictured (L to R) are CCMS principal Jodi Butler, Scott Pile, and Superintendent Tres Settle
The Calloway County High School FFA Chapter continued their winning tradition at the Purchase Region FFA Day on Thursday, March 30 at Murray State University. CCHS FFA has a record 35 students qualified for state competition after being named Regional Champion during this school year. Emma Arnett served as the Regional Vice-President, and Sayde Lowe was installed as the Purchase Region President for the 2023-2024 school year. In addition to that, Arnett and fellow senior Westin Tolley were interviewed for finalists in the Regional Star Contests.
CCHS qualified the most students in the region for state competition. The Kentucky State FFA Convention is in June in Rupp Arena in Lexington.
The Parliamentary Procedure Team was also named Regional Champion and the team qualified for the State contest. Team members were: Isaac Martin, Lillie Thorn, Westin Tolley, Nick Caldwell, Ginni Mikulcik, Elizabeth Lanier, Jacee McKeel, Ellie Falwell, and Cooper Housden.
State Convention Qualifiers:
Elizabeth Lanier, Prepared Public Speaking
Ginni Mikulcik, Greenhouse Public Speaking
Cooper Housden, Crop Public Speaking
Aiden Grooms, Ag Mechanics Public Speaking
Jayden Phillips, Turf and Lawn Public Speaking
Kaylee Tharp, Floral Public Speaking
Jacee McKeel, Fruit and Vegetable Public Speaking
Lillie Thorn, Beef Quiz Bowl
The following students also placed at FFA Day:
The Conduct of Meetings Team, members included: Addison Kough, Trey Ward, Dakotah Pittman, Luke Johnson, Sayler Lowe, Wyatt Robbins, and Quinlyn Moore
The Record Keeping Team, members included: Payton Duncan, Elijah Rudolph, Sayler Lowe, and Wyatt Robbins
Jacob Akin, Swine Public Speaking
Emma Arnett, Poultry Public Speaking
Nick Caldwell, AIC
Ally Coles, Goat Public Speaking
Sayde Lowe, Beef Public Speaking
Isaac Martin, Extemporaneous Public Speaking
Annabelle Mohler, Small Animal Public Speaking
Trey Ward, FFA Quiz
Nine students in the Murray-Calloway County Area Technology Center Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) club competed in Louisville on March 23 at the State Leadership Conference. The Public Health team of (L to R) CCHS students Molly Clark, Addie Larson, Delaney McClure, Callie Tipton, and Murray High student Kelly Parr won first in their category, qualifying them to compete in the International Leadership Conference in Dallas, TX this summer. The HOSA club at Murray-Calloway ATC is led by pre-nursing instructor Nicole Vaughan.
Two CCHS Seniors were awarded the Presidential Fellowship at Murray State University. Presidential Fellowships cover the cost of tuition, on-campus housing, and a meal plan. In order for the fellowship to be renewed yearly, recipients must maintain a 3.2 cumulative GPA, full-time status, participate in the Honors College, and participate in research in the appropriate academic discipline.
Cesar Villeda is the president of the senior class as well as an officer in Beta club and the Student Council. He is on track to be a valedictorian, and he is also a member of the academic team, FBLA, tennis team, cross country team, and FFA. He was a 2022 Governor’s Scholar at the Morehead State campus and 2021-22 alumni of Leadership Tomorrow. He plans on majoring in economics and eventually working in local government.
Sydney Naber is involved in tennis, track, soccer, FBLA, BETA, NHS, student government, Leadership Tomorrow, and the Spanish Club. She is currently on the road to becoming a Bio Pre-Med major with aspirations of attending medical school to become a radiologist. Her goal is to work for a local hospital stay in our local region upon graduating from medical school.
Calloway County Middle School MathCOUNTS team competed at the state championship tournament held at the University of Kentucky on March 25, finishing eighth overall. The tournament consisted of teams and individuals from around the state that scored well enough in chapter competitions to qualify for a chance to compete for the state math title. The Lakers qualified for this event by winning the regional championship, which allowed them to represent the Kentucky Lakes Chapter. The members of this team are Sean Williams, Maya Munoz, Emerson Herndon, and Ava Bogard. The Laker MathCOUNTS team is coached by Dan Thompson.
Calloway County Conservation District recently held their awards banquet where numerous Laker students won several awards.
Writing Contest:
Kaylee Tharpe, 2nd at CCHS and 3rd in District
Hillary Bohannon, 1st at CCMS and 1st in District
Elizabeth Lanier, 1st at CCHS and 2nd in District
Art contest:
Emry Munoz, 1st place at Southwest Elementary
Cooper Wheatley, 1st place at North Elementary
Abbigail Christopher, 1st place at East Elementary
Calloway County High School sophomore Hunter Williams was recently named the AGC of Western Kentucky Technical Center Student of the Week. Williams takes carpentry and electrical classes at the Area Technology Center and was recently featured in the Paducah Sun. He is pictured with his carpentry instructor Brian Provine.
You can read the full article in the Paducah Sun right here.
Calloway County High School chess team finished 11th in the state tournament in Shepherdsville on March 25. This is the inaugural season for Laker chess, and they were one of four teams in the region to qualify for state. Pictured (L to R) are Micah Patton, Prem Patel, Nicolas Murrell, and AJ Koerner. The team is coached by Angela Hoback.
Calloway County High School senior Rebecca Grosz has been named the Area Technology Center's March Student of the Month by the Murray Rotary Club.
Grosz takes machine tool classes at the Area Technology Center and is an officer for the Skills USA club.At CCHS, Grosz has a 4.0 grade point average and is on track to be an honor graduate in May. She has been a member of the archery team, academic team, Beta Club, and Leadership Tomorrow.
Outside of school, Grosz is a member of Elm Grove Baptist Church, currently serving as a mission leader of Elm Grove Youth. She is the daughter of Robet and Paula Grosz.
After high school, she plans to attend Murray State University and major in Manufacturing Engineering Technology to become a production engineer.
Calloway County High School Future Farmers of America chapter recently entered the Purchase Region FFA Competition, entering a total of 34 applications - 17 more than any other school in the region. Many students won individual regional honors and qualified for state competition and recognition. Fifteen students were regional champions, along with 12 regional runner-up finishes.
Emma Arnett was selected as a state officer candidate for the Purchase Region. Sayde Lowe was elected Regional President for the 2023-24 school year, and Westin Tolley and Emma Arnett were selected as finalists for Regional Stars.
The full list of CCHS applications are below.
Regional Officer Application |
Sayde |
Lowe |
Elected Regional President |
State Officer Application |
Emma |
Arnett |
Elected |
Star in Agriculture Business |
Westin |
Tolley |
Finalist |
Star in Agriculture Placement |
Emma |
Arnett |
Finalist |
Essay |
Nick |
Caldwell |
Regional Champion |
Vegetable Production |
Ellie |
Falwell |
Regional Champion |
Specialty Crop |
Cooper |
Housden |
Regional Champion |
Ag Services |
Trace |
Johnson |
Regional Champion |
Outdoor Recreation |
Brice |
McClure |
Regional Champion |
Nursery Operations |
Ginni |
Mikulcik |
Regional Champion |
Wildlife Production and Management |
Jayden |
Morris |
Regional Champion |
Ag Mechanics Repair and Maintenance |
JJ |
Phillips |
Regional Champion |
Turf Grass Management |
JJ |
Phillips |
Regional Champion |
Veterinary Science |
Preslee |
Phillips |
Regional Champion |
Diversified Crop Production Entrepreneurship |
Savannah |
Pittman |
Regional Champion |
Fruit Production |
Savannah |
Pittman |
Regional Champion |
Forage Production |
Logan |
Ramsey |
Regional Champion |
Diversified Livestock Production |
Bella |
Swain |
Regional Champion |
Ag Sales Placement |
Tyler |
Ward |
Regional Champion |
Diversified Crop Production Placement |
Emma |
Arnett |
Regional Runner-up |
Poultry Production |
Claire |
Blankenship |
Regional Runner-up |
Equine Placement |
Caden |
Brooks |
Regional Runner-up |
Ag Mechanics Design and Fabrication |
Ella |
Dodd |
Regional Runner-up |
Swine Production Entrepreneurship |
Johnathan |
Kough |
Regional Runner-up |
Ag Processing |
Sayde |
Lowe |
Regional Runner-up |
Beef Production Entrepreneurship |
Sayde |
Lowe |
Regional Runner-up |
Service Learning |
Isaac |
Martin |
Regional Runner-up |
Goat Production |
Patience |
Puckett |
Regional Runner-up |
Fiber/Oil Crop Production |
Lillie |
Thorn |
Regional Runner-up |
Grain Production |
Lillie |
Thorn |
Regional Runner-up |
Diversified Horticulture |
Westin |
Tolley |
Regional Runner-up |
Ag Sales Entrepreneurship |
Ellie |
Falwell |
Superior |
Beef Production Placement |
Noah |
Fulton |
Superior |
Diversified Ag Production |
Luke |
Hale |
Superior |
Landscape Management |
Caedmon |
Hanes |
Superior |
Poultry Production |
Jacee |
McKeel |
Superior |
Diversified Horticulture |
Ginni |
Mikulcik |
Superior |
Small Animal Production and Care |
Ginni |
Mikulcik |
Superior |
Environmental Science |
Jayden |
Morris |
Superior |
Beef Production Placement |
Preslee |
Phillips |
Superior |
Sheep Production |
Bella |
Swain |
Superior |
On March 17th through March 20th the Calloway County Middle School Academic Team traveled to Louisville, Kentucky to compete in the KAAC academic team state tournament against students from all around the state. The season started with 328 other hopeful middle school teams working toward the goal of a state championship. After three days of competition, the Lakers brought home several recognitions and trophies, including being named the fourth-place academic team for the entire state of Kentucky.
The first team recognition was for the CCMS quick recall team. They began pool play on Sunday against 40 other quick recall teams that qualified for the state tournament. In pool play, the Lakers went undefeated by winning all four games, which qualified them for the “Smart Sixteen” on Monday. In the first round of the Smart Sixteen, the Lakers defeated Campbell County. They followed that performance with a defeat of Royal Springs in the Elite Eight and a defeat of South Warren in the Final Four. The Lakers found themselves in a historic position as they competed in front of huge crowds in the final championship game. After a wonderful performance, the Lakers were narrowly defeated by South Laurel by four questions, which gave them state runner up! The Laker QR team finished the season 29—1 with three tournament championships and a state runner-up trophy. The quick recall team consists of Maya Munoz, Sean Williams, Riley Hudson, Aiden Hooper, Mariana Hughes, Lillie Russell, Divine Ezinma, Sarah Doyle, Ella Martin, Molly Pierce, and Ava Bogard.
The second team recognition was the Laker Future Problem Solving team being named third place in the state! The FPS team composed of Mariana Hughes, Addison Finley, Sarah Doyle, Hillary Bohannon, and Elle Rekow took third place over 40 other teams that qualified for the state tournament. This finish now qualifies the Lakers for the International Future Problem Solving championship tournament, which will be held at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.
The individual recognitions were awarded to students who placed in the top 10 of the state for their individual tested area. The first recognition went to Maya Munoz who was named the state champion in general knowledge! She was followed by Ella Martin in fourth place and Aiden Hooper in seventh place. Sean Williams was the sixth-place finisher in the state in the area of individual quick recall. The Lakers had two others reach the semifinal rounds in the area of individual quick recall—Maya Munoz and Ava Bogard. The Lakers also had Maya Munoz claiming third place in Fine Arts, and Aiden Hooper coming in eighth place in the area of science. Other team members contributing to the tournament success were Hayden Gilbert and Collin Naber.
The Laker team was joined on stage by Governor Beshear who presented the trophies to the students in front of thousands of competitors and spectators.
Calloway County High School Laker archery team competed in the Kentucky NASP State Championship in Louisville on March 18. Twenty-four students competed at the event, with the Laker team finishing 26th in the state in bullseye shooting and 15th in the state in 3D shooting out of 149 teams.
Nathan Deitz scored 293/300 in 3D shooting, earning male state runner-up in the event. He also shot 291/300 in bullseye shooting, placing him 15th in the state.
Bella Thomas scored 289/300 in bullseye shooting which placed her 13th in Kentucky among females.
Calloway County High School senior Gracie Friedrich has been named the March Student of the Month by the Murray Rotary Club.
Friedrich is an outstanding student and currently holds at 4.0 grade point average. She has been named a Governor’s Scholar and the outstanding Spanish student. She is a member of Leadership Tomorrow and won first place in a state-wide creative writing contest.
Outside of the classroom, Friedrich is active in numerous clubs and groups. She is active in the student council, Future Farmers of America, Health Occupation Students of America, Beta Club, and Spanish club. She is also a member of Educators Rising and serves as a student representative on the school’s health committee.
Friedrich is also a remarkable volleyball player and completed her senior season in the fall. She was named the CCHS volleyball MVP and named to the all-district team in 2022. She has been named to the KHSAA Academic All-State team four times.
In the community, Friedrich is a member of The Journey Church. She also tutors students in Spanish and math, along with playing for a local club volleyball team.
After graduating in May, Friedrich plans to attend Lindsey Wilson College to pursue a degree in nursing. She is the daughter of Rob and Kristie Friedrich.
Calloway County High School Speech Team traveled to Northern Kentucky University this weekend to compete in the Kentucky High School Speech League State tournament and placed 8th out of 42 high schools. Twelve CCHS students comprised 22 entries and advanced 6 entries to semi-finals and 3 entries to quarter finals. Sophomore Sarah Gardner advanced to the final round in prose and placed 6th in the state.
Semifinalists (top 12 in the state) included Vayla Carlisle and Brilee Garland in duo interpretation, Vayla Carlisle in humorous interpretation, Elizabeth Lanier in informative speaking, Sarah Gardner in poetry and Kylee Carter in prose. Quarter finalists (top 24 in the state) included William Dunnaway in broadcasting, Elizabeth Lanier in impromptu, and Vayla Carlisle and Brilee Garland in improvisational duo.
Additionally, Coach Jennifer Dunnaway was named the Kentucky High School Speech League Coach of the Year. Dunnaway was nominated for the award by coaches in the region. The winner is voted upon by coaches representing the 42 schools that attended the tournament.
These students also represented Calloway and contributed to the team's success: Quinlyn Moore, Gracie Fike, Amber Wu, Landon Carter, Madison Moore, and Whitney Potter. Miranda Wilson and Breeanna Maupin are the assistant coaches for the CCHS Speech Team.
Calloway County Preschool cafeteria manager Christina Marvin was recognized as a School Breakfast Champion in a campaign between No Kid Hungry Kentucky and The Dairy Alliance. The effort celebrates and highlights leaders across the Commonwealth who go above and beyond to make breakfast happen for Kentucky students.
"She prides herself on her job," said Megan Adams, Calloway County Schools food service director. "She puts in extra effort and extra time when not even asked to better enhance her school and department."
"Christina works tirelessly every day to ensure not only that her preschool nutrition department is ran smoothly, but Christina is the first to always ask if help is needed anywhere in the district if schools are working short. Christina goes above and beyond keeping her meals relevant and meals that kids are interested in and enjoy. She is always up to date on SNA news and guidelines. She is always bringing new ideas, new info, and new products to the table to be discussed. She is diligent on every aspect of her job. She is very resourceful and very detail oriented. Christina leaves no rock unturned. Christina is a joy to work with and a joy to her little kiddos in the preschool. She is the most deserving person I know.”
Pictured (L to R) are Food Service assistant Tonya Williams, Calloway County Preschool principal Leisha Barlow, Calloway County Superintendent Tres Settle, Marvin, and Adams
Calloway Co. High School Chess Team recently placed third in the regional tournament in Livingston County. This advances them to the state competition March 25 in Shepherdsville. Micah Patton placed fourth overall. Members include: Micah Patton, Bo Stom, Nicolas Murrell, and Prem Patel.
Murray State University Department of History recently hosted the Western Kentucky History Competition. The competition is open to all area middle school teams, and it consists of two divisions: United States History and World History. Calloway Middle fielded a team in each division of the competition. At the conclusion of the event, Calloway County Middle School was named the 2023 US History Champion and the 2023 World History Runner-Up in the middle grades division.
Along with the team awards, the Lakers also received some special individual recognitions. Mariana Hughes was named the individual champion in US History, while Molly Pierce claimed the third-place award, and Mason Falwell finished in fourth place in that division. The World History competition found Ella Martin being named the individual runner-up while Collin Naber finished in fourth place.
The US History Team consisted of Emerson Herndon, Divine Ezinma, Sean Williams, Mariana Hughes, Mason Falwell, Aiden Hooper, Molly Pierce, and Maya Munoz. The World History Team consisted of Ava Bogard, Ella Martin, Kyler McKeel, Collin Naber, Theodore Perlow, Mason Riley, Tyler Saalwaechter, and Tyler Sebby.
Southwest Calloway Elementary's Academic Team won the Regional Governor's Cup competition on March 4 at Central Elementary in Graves County. Southwest competed against schools and students from around the region who qualified for the competition through their district tournaments.
Numerous students contributed to the victory. The Future Problem Solving team finished first and consisted of Ryan Poole, Aiden Crawford, Ashlyn Sebby, and Dean Vernon. Grace Munoz finished first place in science, and Madison Purdy finished first in Language Arts. Elijah Craft took home second place in science, and Ella Finley was second in arts and humanities. Ryan Poole also earned points for the team by placing fourth in language arts.
Southwest's team is coached by Amy Whisman and Eden Boyd.
Stacy Jones has been named the Laker Champion for Kids for the month of March. Jones works as an instructional assistant and the site technology coordinator at Southwest Calloway Elementary School. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
"She loves working with the students and is often seen talking with them as she makes her rounds in the cafeteria," said Southwest principal Mark Mallory. "She is dedicated to the students and staff here at Southwest."
"When not helping in the library, she is either in the cafeteria as the lunch monitor or helping teachers out with any tech issues as the STC for the building. She also teaches a programming class to our fourth and fifth graders on Fridays. On top of all that, she also works with students throughout the day doing social lessons. She is a dependable, hard worker. Always willing to help, if she doesn't have the right fix, she makes sure she finds someone that can help."
Jones was nominated by Southwest teacher Mallory Bybee.
"She wears many hats in our building," wrote Bybee. "In any given day you can find her checking out books, cleaning lunch tables, fixing technology problems, and more. She has a great rapport with her students and is a wonderful asset to our staff. She is a great choice for the Laker Champion for Kids."
Pictured (L to R) are Mallory, Jones, Superintendent Tres Settle
On Monday, February 27, 91 members of CCHS Laker FBLA attended the Region 1 Leadership Conference at Murray State University. Our students placed in many events (full list below). In addition to individual placements, Laker FBLA was named the second largest chapter in Region 1 with 185 members. Our nominee for Business Person of the Year, Tim Stark from The Murray Bank, won Region 1 Business Person of the Year and will now be up for Kentucky FBLA Business Person of the Year. In addition, we had two students elected to regional officer positions. Cooper Housden will be the Region 1 Parliamentarian and Tret Ward will be the Region 1 Secretary for the 2023-2024 school year.
All winners have qualified for the FBLA State Leadership Conference April 17-19, 2023 in Louisville, KY. Accounting 1 - Nick Caldwell - 1st Advertising - Aubrey Naber - 1st Business Calculations - Amber Wu - 1st Business Ethics - Brie Lucas - 1st Computer Applications - Hannah Nix - 1st Computer Problem Solving - Connor Dickinson - 1st Data Analysis - Lily Ohage and Addi Pervine - 1st Economics - Cate Anderson - 1st Electronic Career Portfolio - Abby Mott - 1st Hospitality and Event Management - Karsyn Tucker - 1st Human Resources Management - Cuyler McDaniel - 1st International Business - Zack Akin, Connor Pile, and Jose Tapia-Sosa - 1st Introduction to Business Communication - Kaylee Tharp - 1st Introduction to Business Concepts - Ezra Foote - 1st Introduction to FBLA - Jasmine Zetterberg - 1st Introduction to Financial Math - Gary Rogers - 1st Introduction to Parliamentary Procedure - Elizabeth Lanier - 1st Job Interview - Sidney Lasley - 1st Journalism - Madison Morris - 1st Local Chapter Name Tag - Emerson Grogan - 1st Political Science - Cesar Villeda - 1st Public Service Announcement - Summer Flowers, Adison Harpole and Kaylee Morris - 1st Publication Design - Caleb Johnson and Gracie Turner - 1st Social Media Strategies - Emma Arnett, Kenzie Dick, and Aidan Poston - 1st Sports and Entertainment Management - Trace Johnson, Savannah Scott and Zak Stark - 1st Word Processing - Maronda Sheridan - 1st Business Law - Levi Dunnaway - 2nd Help Desk - Kilona McClure - 2nd Impromptu Speaking - Sarah Gardner - 2nd Insurance and Risk Management - Landon Carter - 2nd Introduction to Business Presentation - Olivia Perkins and Brooklyn Swatzell - 2nd Marketing - Enas Abo Al Haija, Sophie Hendley and Addi Schumacher - 2nd Parliamentary Procedure - Aiden Grooms, Lillie Thorn, Cooper Housden and Westin Tolley - 2nd Sales Presentation - Daniel Puckett and Zack Johnson - 2nd Spreadsheet Applications - Andrew Adams - 2nd Accounting 2 - Morgan Armstrong - 3rd Business Communications - Emma Bess - 3rd Client Service - Sydney Naber - 3rd Cyber Security - Trey Ward - 3rd E-Business - Olivia Lane and Brooklynn Smith - 3rd Entrepreneurship - Vayla Carlisle, Sadie Lilly, and Dakotah Pittman - 3rd Introduction to Event Planning - Bailee Grogan, Lucy King, Madison Rushing - 3rd Introduction to Public Speaking - Brilee Garland - 3rd Network Infrastructures - Najera Smith - 3rdCalloway County High School junior Bryson Dennis was recently named the AGC of Western Kentucky Technical Center Student of the Week. Dennis's accomplishments were noted in a feature article in the Paducah Sun.
Dennis (right) is pictured above with his electrical instructor Ron Thompson (left) at the Area Technology Center.
On February 25th, twenty students from Calloway County Middle School Academic Team traveled to Freedom Middle School in Franklin, TN to compete in both the Regional Science and History Bee tournaments. They were able to advance to this level based on successful completion of an online qualifier earlier this school year. The Tennessee Winter Regional is sponsored by the International Academic Competitions organization.
In the Science Bee portion of the tournament, the Lakers brought home several medals and distinctions. In the 8th grade division, the Lakers had four team members make the championship round of seven students. Aiden Hooper brought home the runner-up trophy as well as an invitation to the national competition. Also receiving invitations to nationals were Sarah Doyle, Divine Ezinma, and Lillie Russell. The seventh-grade division had Ella Martin claiming the championship with Hayden Loveless coming in with second place. These two ladies also received an invitation to nationals. In the sixth-grade division, the Lakers had a clean sweep with Theodore Perlow being named the champion, Ava Bogard in second and Collin Naber in third place. These three students also received invitations to the national tournament. The Science Bee team is composed of Collin Naber, Theodore Perlow, Ava Bogard, Ella Martin, Hayden Loveless, Mirielle Gupton, William Lanier, Sarah Doyle, Divine Ezinma, Lillie Russell, and Aiden Hooper.
In the History Bee portion of the tournament, the Lakers also brought home numerous medals and championship distinction. In the 8th grade division, the Lakers brought home the runner-up trophy secured by Aiden Hooper. Aiden received an invitation to the national tournament as well as Sean Williams in this division. The seventh-grade division saw Molly Pierce finishing as runner-up and Tyler Saalwaechter claiming third place and invitations to the national tournament. In the sixth-grade division, Mason Falwell, Kyler McKeel, and Theodore Perlow all made the final round and received invitations to the national tournament. The Lakers also had one student compete in the Geography Bee, Kyler McKeel, who brought home the championship trophy in the sixth-grade division! The History Bee team is composed of Theodore Perlow, Mason Falwell, Grayson McManus, Kyler McKeel, Emilio Gomez, Mason Riley, Tyler Saalwaechter, Molly Pierce, Mariana Hughes, Sean Williams and Aiden Hooper.
The Calloway County Middle School Speech Team traveled to Lexington this weekend to compete in the Kentucky High School Speech League Junior division State Tournament and placed 2nd of twenty-two schools! The team advanced 8 entries to finals (top 6 in the state) including Faith McCafferty who was the state champion in storytelling. The team also advanced 16 entries to semi-finals (top 12 in the state). Eighth grader Addy Lusk was chosen as the KHSSL Blyton Book award winner for 2023. This is an award given to one outstanding 8th grader in Kentucky who has excelled at and promoted speech in their school and community.
Finalists at the state tournament included Faith McCafferty who was champion in storytelling and 2nd in prose, Addy Lusk who placed 2nd in extemporaneous speaking and 6th in declamation, Courtney Hargrove who placed 5th in oratory and 6th in dramatic interpretation, Hayden Gilbert who placed 6th in impromptu and the duo acting team of Julianne Rudy and Reagan Rice who placed 6th.
Semi-finalists included Ella Burkeen in declamation, Ofellia Feezor in dramatic interpretation, Courtney Hargrove and Caden Bumpus in duo acting, Amanda Ezinma in impromptu and oratory, Addy Lusk in impromptu, Charlotte Haws in poetry and Kannon Bruce in storytelling.
Non-advancing students who also contributed to the team's success included: Hunter Ringstaff, Parker Morris, Leah Hughes, Tyler Sadler, McKenna Hopgood, Sam Elliott, Aliyah Byrley, Allyson Turner, Meghan Scott-Duncan, and Ava Moore. The team is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Scott Bonneau and Kaydee Sevilla.
The Calloway County High School Science Bowl teams competed on Friday, February 24, 2023 in the 15th annual Department of Energy Regional Science Bowl on the UK-Paducah Campus. The annual event tests students’ knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics, geology, space, energy, and math. The Lakers competed against teams from Western Kentucky and Southern Illinois in the all-day event, where the winner advances to the National Science Bowl in Washington, DC.
Members from Laker Band travelled last week to Murray State to perform in the 75th Annual Quad State Honor Band. Students auditioned into one of 4 ensembles Thursday night, rehearsed all day Friday, and performed a concert Saturday afternoon. We are incredibly proud of our Laker Band musicians!
Laker Band members who qualified for the honor were Hannah Nix, Lee Gore, Abby Kay, Bryson Barger, Ella Tucker, Sam Rudy, Carrie Beane, Lydia Crawford, Kaylee Kernell, Zuri Conner, Ryan Edmonson, Annabelle Mohler, Victor Clayton, and Jackson Roberts.
Calloway County High School choir members Eli Williams, Kylee Carter, and Landon Carter (L to R above) were chosen for participation in the 2023 Kentucky Music Educators Association All-State Choirs which rehearsed and performed as part of the 65th annual KMEA Conference February 8-11 in Louisville. Students are chosen as members of the KMEA All-State Choruses as a result of rigorous auditions held each fall. They sang in the KMEA SATB Chorus, the KJHC SSAA Chorus, and the KMEA TTBB Chorus respectively. All are members of the Concert Choir at CCHS under the direction of Mark Dycus.
The Kentucky Music Educators Association is an organization of over 1,200 in-service music educators representing music education interests from early childhood through adulthood and some 200 pre-service music educators currently preparing to teach music in Kentucky’s colleges and universities. KMEA seeks to improve the quality of music education in Kentucky and works in cooperation with those educational agencies and organizations that share like interests. KMEA is affiliated with the National Association for Music Education.
Five students from the Murray/Calloway County Area Technology Center advanced to the SkillsUSA State Conference in Louisville in April after competing in the Region 1 competition. AGC of West KY in McCracken Co. hosted the SkillsUSA Region 1 competitions at their facility on February 23. Schools competing were Murray/Calloway Co. ATC, Marshall Co. CTC, Mayfield High School, Mayfield/Graves Co. ATC, and Paducah ATC.
Calloway County High School students Anyston Hart, Matthew Jones, and Samantha Ferguson represented their school well. Ferguson received a first place award in Pin Design and a second place award in Talent Single. Matthew Jones placed first in Welding Sculpture.
Calloway County High School Robotics Teamrecently competed in the FIRST Tech Challenge State Championship at the University of Kentucky.
This event was the capstone of three events this season. Students played the game "Power Play" with their custom designed robots against teams from Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Arkansas, and Alabama.
Taylor Frantz, Kiliko Sparrowhawk, Wes Higgins received the "Design Award" for their robot.
Members of the CCHS Robotics Team are Taylor Frantz, Kiliko Sparrowhawk, Wes Higgins, Aary Patel, Jackson Roberts, Izzy Shimm, Lilly Ohage, Miles Edwards, Jack Williams, Caleb Darnell, Kerrigan McManus, Amelia Slaton, and Daven Lewis. CCHS Robotics Team is led by CCHS teacher Jeff Slaton.
Calloway County Middle School MathCOUNTS Team competed on Saturday, February 18th at the Kentucky Lake Chapter regional competition. The tournament was held at WKCTC located in Paducah, Kentucky and was open to schools from across the region. At the conclusion of the tournament, the Laker team gathered both team and individual recognition!
After three rounds of math competition, the Lakers received an overall score worthy of placing them as the championship team in the Kentucky Lake Regional! This qualifies the team for the state championship to be held in Lexington, Kentucky later in March. The members of the advancing team are Sean Williams, Maya Munoz, Emerson Herndon, and Ava Bogard. The Lakers also received some more special recognition as Sean Williams was the second highest scoring individual in the entire tournament. In addition, the tournament concluded with a countdown round, which is a single elimination competition for the top twelve scoring individuals. The Laker Team had four members that qualified for this part of the tournament…Sean Williams, Ava Bogard, Divine Ezinma and Tyler Sebby. The competitions are head-to-head, where students answer math questions in a quick recall format. After the countdown round was finished, Tyler Sebby came in fourth place and Sean Williams claimed the championship!
The Laker MathCOUNTS team is composed of Sean Williams, Maya Munoz, Emerson Herndon, Ava Bogard, Emilio Gomez, Ella Martin, Faith McCafferty, Tyler Sebby, Mason Riley, Riley Hudson, Divine Ezinma, and Will Lanier.
The CCHS Academic Team earned Runners Up at the KAAC Governor’s Cup Regional tournament held at Paducah Tilghman on Saturday, February 18th. The contest featured district winners from 15 schools across western Kentucky, with the Lakers earning 43 total points, behind McCracken County’s 58. Graves County and Paducah Tilghman finished off the top four with 11 and 6 points, respectively.
Arts and Humanities: Ellie Whisman 3rd and Connor Pile 5th
Language Arts: Ellie Whisman 2nd, Aubrey Naber 5th
Math: Amber Wu 1st (Regional Champion)
Science: Isaac Martin 4th, Ethan Cain 5th
Social Studies: Cesar Villeda 3rd, Ezra Foote 5th
Composition: Drake Calhoon 1st (Regional Champion), Vayla Carlisle 2nd
Front row L to R: Taylor Frantz, Kaylee Tharp, Ellie Whisman, Elizabeth Lanier, Addi Pervine
Back row L to R: Aubrey Naber, Ethan Cain, Cesar Villeda, Isaac Martin, Ezra Foote, Amber Wu, Nathaniel Fowler
CCMS Robotics team recently competed in the state First Lego League robotics tournament at Northern Kentucky University. The team earned the right to represent the Western Kentucky region by placing 3rd amongst 26 competing teams in January at the regional competition. They also placed 2nd in the region in their innovation project design. This allowed them the opportunity to compete at the state tournament amongst the top 24 teams in the state (out of approximately 200) in early February.
The team competed in both a robotics portion of the event in which they designed and programmed an autonomous robot to complete various challenges and presented an innovation project to judges, consisting of both a solar powered truck and boat and a wind powered car.
The CCMS Robotics team is coached by Jessi Giles and JT Hearn.
Calloway County High School senior Ginni Mikulcik has been named the Murray Rotary Club's February Student of the Month.
Ginni is a remarkable academic with a 4.0 grade point average and an ACT composite score of 30 and is on track to be a Valedictorian upon graduation in May. She has won numerous academic awards at CCHS in world history, agriculture, Spanish, earth and space science, engineering and design, mathematics, English, and art. She was a Governor’s Scholar in 2022 and is a current member of Leadership Tomorrow.
Ginni also participates in numerous clubs and activities outside of the classroom. In athletics, she has been a part of the CCHS soccer and track and field teams. She is an active member of the CCHS FFA, where she has won numerous awards and has served as committee chairman, sentinel, and treasurer. She has also been a part of the CCHS academic team, BETA club, Spanish club, art club, and the National Art Honors Society. She was also a part of an engineering team who built an electric guitar, winning first place at MSU’s E-Day.
In the community, Ginni is active with her youth group at St. Leo’s Catholic Church. She also has volunteered in numerous ways as a part of the CCHS Beta club.
After graduation in May, Ginni plans to attend Murray State University and major in social work with a minor in horticulture. She is the daughter of David and Stacey Mikulcik.
Calloway County High School students competed in the Skills USA Auto Tech Regional Competition with students from the Paducah Innovation Hub on February 10 at the Murray-Calloway Area Technology Center. CCHS junior Micah Koenecke took first place and CCHS senior Dylan Price took second, qualifying both of them for the Skills USA Kentucky Conference in Louisville in April. CCHS junior Levi Powell also took 5th place in the competition.
Cory Polsgrove, Auto Tech Instructor at PIB, and Mitchell McNutt, Auto Tech Instructor MCCATC, worked together developing the regional competition. They wish to thank all the following businesses and people who help with prizes and judging: Lydia and Jordan at NAPA ATP in Murray for donating prizes for the winners; Jim “Thumper” Gilson from Toyota of Murray for helping setup and judging. Judges: Mike Miller, Office of Career and Technical Education; Ashley Weathers, Buck's Body Shop; Jonathan Dick, 2022 Auto Tech graduate and WKCTCS student; Bryan Beane, BB's Auto Repair; Bob Gunn, WKCTCS Automotive Instructor; and Eric Sills, WKCTCS Diesel Technology Instructor. Our timekeeper James Weathers, Centrifugal Technologies, Inc. and Selena McNutt entering the judges scores.
Three Calloway County Laker faculty members were recently recognized by the Murray State Alumni Association as part of the "Top 22 Under 40" Class of 2023.
Ashley Fritsche is a four time graduate of Murray State with a B.S. in Marketing (‘06), a Teaching Certificate in Business and Marketing (‘08), a MA Teacher Leadership (‘12) and Ed.S. in Education (‘19). For the past 14 years Fritsche has served as one of the Business and Marketing teachers at Calloway County High School. In addition to being in the classroom, she also serves as a Site-Based Decision-Making Council member and secretary, is a prom sponsor, assists with the Interact club and is a sponsor for FBLA. Outside of the classroom, Fritsche seeks to help the Kentucky Department of Education enhance Business Education throughout the state by serving as communications publicist for the Kentucky Business Education Association, which is a group of 200 Business and Marketing teachers and stakeholders from Kentucky, and as a KDE-appointed NTI lead teacher, through which Fritsche helps to train new teachers both in the classroom and in their roles as FBLA advisors. Growing up as a Racer has impacted Fritsche throughout her own educational journey and helped to guide the education she provides for her students.
As a three time graduate of Murray State, Mark Mallory received a bachelors in English/Secondary Education ('08), a master’s in Secondary Education ('13) and another master’s in Education Administration ('15). He is currently the principal of Southwest Calloway Elementary School in Calloway County, Ky., where he has served for five years. Mallory serves as a member of Calloway County’s Playhouse in the Park board of directors and as a member of the education committee, as well as serving as a KASA ambassador for the Murray area. Mallory also stage-managed the production of the Penguin Project Presents: High School Musical. The Penguin Project is a program that pairs students with special needs with a mentor to put on a theatrical production. His wife, Heidi, is also a Murray State graduate and guidance counselor at Murray Middle School. They have two sons, Henry and Maxwell, who also attend Southwest Elementary.
Mary Grace Starks is a two-time graduate of Murray State University, earning a B.S. in Communication Disorders (‘12) and an M.S., in Speech-Language Pathology (‘14). Early in her professional career she found her passion for serving individuals with complex communication needs, while also educating families, teachers, and community stakeholders on how to best support those individual communication needs. Starks currently serves as Publications Chair for the Kentucky Speech-Language Hearing Association (KSHA) and is also a member of the KSHA social media committee. In each of those roles, Starks seeks to create content and notify KSHA members about the significant advocacy efforts to maintain and educate community members on communication development and a variety of communication disorders. Starks also currently serves as the speech-language pathologist for children and their families at the Calloway County Preschool/Head Start in Murray, KY.
Calloway County Middle School Speech team won their 20th consecutive regional championship on Saturday.
Ten CCMS entries won first place in their events including Parker Morris in broadcasting, Addy Lusk in declamation, impromptu and extemporaneous speaking, Courtney Hargrove in dramatic interpretation, Faith McCafferty in prose and storytelling, Charlotte Haws in poetry, the duo acting team of Courtney Hargrove and Caden Bumpus and the improv team of Reagan Rice and Julianne Rudy. Eleven CCMS entries were regional runners-up including Kannon Bruce in broadcasting, Ella Burkeen in declamation, Leah Hughes in dramatic interpretation, Tyler Sadler in extemp, Sam Elliott in humorous interpretation, Courtney Hargrove in oratory, Meghan Scott-Duncan in poetry, Ava Moore in prose, Parker Morris in storytelling, and the duo acting team of Reagan Rice and Julianne Rudy.On Friday, February 10th the Calloway Middle Science Bowl Teams competed against 13 teams from three states at the regional competition sponsored by the United States Department of Energy. The students participated in a quick recall formatted competition containing advanced questions in the areas of science and mathematics. At the conclusion of a long day, the Calloway Laker team claimed the championship trophy!
Southwest Calloway Elementary's academic team won the Governor's Cup district championship on February 11 in a tournament held at East Calloway Elementary. The team now advances to the regional competition. Southwest finished first in future problem solving and second in quick recall, along with having numerous students place in the individual competitions. The team is coached by Eden Boyd and Amy Whisman.
Individual Tests:
Mathematics:
Elijah Craft- 3rd
Dean Vernon- 4th
Daniel Briedwell- 6th
Science:
Grace Munos- 1st
Elijah Craft- 2nd
Gunnar Champion- 4th
Social Studies:
Braxton Cossey- 4th
Language arts:
Madison Purdy- 1st
Ryan Poole-3rd
Arts and Humanities:
Katee McKeel- 1st
Ellie Johnson- 2nd
Ella Finley- 3rd
Composition:
Abigail Gardner- 5th
The Calloway County High School speech team competed in the Kentucky High School Speech League regional tournament Saturday and placed 2nd. The team qualified twelve students and 27 entries for the state tournament. Tournament champions included Elizabeth Lanier in humorous interpretation and informative speaking as well as Sarah Gardner in program oral interpretation. Runners-up included Levi Dunnaway in broadcasting, Quinlyn Moore in declamation and Vayla Carlisle in humorous interpretation.
The team will next compete at the Kentucky High School Speech League State Tournament at Northern Kentucky University on March 9th – 10th. The team is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Miranda Wilson and Breeanna Maupin.
Congrats to our CCHS math team on winning first place at Murray State's Math Day 2023!
In addition to winning the Top School prize, the Green Team of Cesar Villeda, Bo Stom, Connor Pile, & Gary Rogers placed first in the team competition.
Individual honors in the Upper Division went to Freshman Amber Wu (1st), Senior Cesar Villeda (3rd), Senior Ethan Cain (5th). Villeda & Cain also received money and scholarship awards from the MSU Math Department.
Individual honors in the Lower Division went to Sophomore Elizabeth Lanier (1st), Sophomore Gary Rogers (2nd), and Freshman Aubrey Naber (4th).
Michael Haven has been named the February Laker Champion for Kids. Haven works as the network support manager district-wide in the technology department. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Haven was nominated by food service assistant Tonya Williams who wrote:
“He always goes above and beyond for the technology needs of the staff and students. He is always eager to help in a timely manner, is knowledgeable, positive, and uplifting in all situations. Technology is such a vital part of our daily operation in food service serving kids and when something doesn’t work, he is always our first call when we need help. We appreciate everything he does for us.”
Director of Technology Stephen Conner appreciates Haven's work within the schools and his department."
"In returning home to become the new IT Director for Calloway, he has been a valuable asset in the success of my transition," said Conner. "This award not only recognizes his outstanding contributions to the Calloway County Schools IT department, but his unwavering commitment of providing a safe and enriching online experience for all the students. The Champion for Kids award shows his remarkable dedication and passion for his work and recognizes that one’s effort to go above and beyond to help our students achieve their academic goals does not go unnoticed.”
Pictured (L to R) are Conner, Haven, and Superintendent Tres Settle
The Calloway County Middle School Academic Team competed in the regional Governor’s Cup tournament on February 4th at Lone Oak Middle School. After a great competition amongst fifteen schools in the first region, the Lakers were named regional champions for an amazing fourteenth time in the past fifteen years! The Lakers totaled 68.5 team points, followed by Lone Oak Middle in second with 25.16 points, and Heath Middle in third place with 14 points.
During a special presentation between games at the Crosstown Classic, The Murray Bank proudly presented each school superintendent with a donation in the amount of $16,400. These donations were made on behalf of all The Murray Bank Spirit Debit Card holders.
“At The Murray Bank, we are committed to making a meaningful and positive contribution to the individuals, families, businesses and schools within our community,” said Tim Stark, Vice-President of Marketing at The Murray Bank. “Our community loves to show their school spirit and we are happy to give them a way to do it. This year’s donation is the second largest in Spirit Card history!”
With this year’s donation, The Murray Bank Spirit Debit Card donation totals over $248,000, with over $124,000 going to each school since 2009 when the program started.
“On behalf of the stakeholders in the Murray Independent School District, I wish to express my gratitude to The Murray Bank for funds provided to our respective schools through their Spirit Card’s,” said Coy Sammons, Murray Independent School District Superintendent. “Financial assistance from community organizations and businesses, enable this school district to accomplish far more than it otherwise could have.”
“In these increasingly difficult financial times for Kentucky Schools, The Murray Bank Spirit Card donations allow Calloway County Schools to continue offering students both extra-curricular and co-curricular opportunities that would not be possible without this great partnership,” said Tres Settle, Calloway County School District Superintendent. “We are indeed blessed to have the support of The Murray Bank and remain honored by the investment that The Murray Bank customers and leadership continue to make in the children of this great community.”
The Murray Bank offers two Spirit Debit Cards, a Laker card and a Tiger card. Each Spirit Card features the logo of the school of choice on the face of the card. Customers of The Murray Bank can choose which school themed card they would like to carry and with each swipe of their Spirit Debit Card, The Murray Bank will make a donation directly to the school districts.
To get more information on how you can get a Spirit Debit Card and start helping your school, contact one of the Customer Service Representatives at The Murray Bank by calling (270) 753-5625, or by stopping by one of their three offices.
Calloway County High School senior Ulysses Henry has been named the Murray Rotary Club's January ATC Student of the Month.
Henry is an electrical technology student at the Murray-Calloway County Area Technology Center. He was nominated for the award by his electrical instructor, Ron Thompson.
“Ulysses is never in a bad mood. He comes to class every day with a good attitude and works well with other students,” said Thompson. It doesn’t matter who I have him working with, he works well with them. Ulysses has good mechanical skills. He is always learning and picks up things easily.”
Henry is also a part of the Skills USA club at ATC. In his time at ATC, Henry has also acquired carpentry and auto tech skills in other classes. Henry works part-time at a restaurant in Aurora in addition to his studies at CCHS and ATC. He is the grandson of Paul and Rhonda Timmons.
After graduation in May, Henry plans to work full time in electrical technology or construction.
Calloway County High School Academic Team earned its 13th consecutive KAAC Governor's Cup District Championship on Saturday, January 21, 2023. The Lakers took 1st place in Quick Recall, 1st place in Future Problem Solving, and earned 73 total points across eight events. Murray High earned 2nd place with 22 points, edging out Graves County with 20.5 points. Mayfield rounded out the top four with 4.5 points.
In Quick Recall, the Lakers went undefeated, scoring 141 total points in three matches, first defeating Mayfield 48-3, Graves County 41-9 in round 2, and defeating Graves County again 52-15 in round 4 of the double elimination tournament. Seniors Isaac Martin, Ellie Whisman, Ethan Cain, and Cesar Villeda were assisted by Amber Wu, Nathaniel Fowler, Taylor Frantz, Ezra Foote, Kaylee Tharp, Connor Pile, and Addi Pervine and will advance to Regionals.
The Future Problem Solving team of Drake Calhoon, Sidney Lasley, Brooklyn Swatzell, and Vayla Carlisle, wrote the award-winning booklet on Digital Realities and will advance to Regionals.
In individual events, the following Lakers earned points toward the overall team score and advance to regionals.
Arts & Humanities:
2nd: Ellie Whisman and Connor Pile (tie)
5th: Addi Pervine
Language Arts:
1st: Ellie Whisman
2nd: Kaylee Tharp
3rd: Aubrey Naber
Math:
1st : Amber Wu
3rd: Ethan Cain
Science:
1st: Isaac Martin
3rd: Ethan Cain
4th :Elizabeth Lanier
Social Studies:
1st: Cesar Villeda
2nd: Ezra Foote
4th: Nathaniel Fowler
English Composition
2nd: Drake Calhoon
3rd: Sydney Naber
5th: Vayla Carlisle
Pictured:
Front L to R: Taylor Frantz, Drake Calhoon, Addi Pervine, Ellie Whisman, Kaylee Tharp
Middle L to R: Ethan Cain, Sydney Naber, Sidney Lasley, Amber Wu, Vayla Carlisle, Aubrey Naber
Back L to R: Connor Pile, Ezra Foote, Isaac Martin, Cesar Villeda, Nathaniel Fowler
Calloway advances to Regionals, which will be held at Paducah Tilghman on Monday, February 13th and Saturday, February 18th, 2023. The Lakers are coached by Erica Gray, Lane Springer, Margaret Richter, Dan Thompson, Cassidy McAllister, and Jayden Morris.
Purpose Church of Murray visited East Calloway Elementary School on Monday, January 23 to personally deliver a new pair of shoes to every student. Students learned the news during their weekly Monday morning meeting in the gym, and members of the church stayed to make sure shoes were delivered and sized for students.
Thank you to Purpose Church for this awesome donation for our students!
Calloway County High School senior Hannah Nix has been named the Murray Rotary Club's January Student of the Month.
Hannah is an impressive student and holds a 4.0 GPA. She has completed the CCHS Business Administration pathway and is a member of Future Business Leaders of America, National Beta Club, Student Council, Educators Rising, and Leadership Tomorrow. She placed 4th in the state in FBLA in Computer Applications.
Hannah is a standout drum major and soloist in the CCHS Laker Band. She has been first chair in the KMEA All-District Symphonic Band for the last three years. She also has been a KMEA All-State Band member for those three years.
Hannah is the daughter of John Warren and Melanie Nix. In her spare time, she volunteers calling bingo at the Murray Calloway County Senior Citizens Center.
After graduation, Hannah plans to attend Murray State to major in music education to become a music teacher or band director.
Pictured are Rotarian Yvette Pyle, Nix, CCHS principal Steve Smith
Calloway County Middle School Academic Team competed in the District Governors Cup tournament on Saturday, January 14th. After a great day of competition among the Lakers, Murray Middle, North Marshall and South Marshall Middle, the Lakers were named district champions for the fifteenth consecutive year. The Lakers totaled 82 team points, followed by Murray Middle with 23.5 team points.
Calloway County High School Academic Team earned runners up recognition at the 2023 President's Cup tournament held at MSU-Paducah campus on Friday, January 13th, 2023.
Calloway A (Varsity) earned 2nd place in Quick Recall and 2nd place overall, while Calloway B (Junior Varsity) earned 4th place in Quick Recall and 3rd place overall.
Calloway A Quick Recall had a strong day on the buzzers, defeating Mayfield B (39-3), Ballard (33-2), Graves (30-20), Marshall A (37-8), and Murray High (36-5) before taking their only loss of the day to champions McCracken County (17-24). Seniors Isaac Martin, Ethan Cain, Ellie Whisman, and Cesar Villeda were assisted by Taylor Frantz and Ezra Foote.
Calloway B Quick Recall fared very well with two separate wins over Graves (32-13) and (25-20) and a defeat over Crittenden B, taking their only losses to McCracken (16-32) and Murray High (19-23). Nathaniel Fowler, Amber Wu, Aubrey Naber, Kaylee Tharp, Addi Pervine, Tommy Gomez, and Brayan Ventura led the Calloway B squad.
The Laker Academic team had several students earn top 10 recognition in President's Cup written testing:
Math
Amber Wu 3rd (tie)
Drake Calhoon 3rd (tie)
Science
Isaac Martin 2nd
Ethan Cain 3rd (tie)
Connor Pile 3rd (tie)
Elizabeth Lanier 10th
Social Studies
Cesar Villeda 1st
Grant Todd 5th
Ezra Foote 7th (tie)
Levi Dunnaway 7th (tie)
Arts & Humanities
Connor Pile 2nd
Ellie Whisman 4th
Addi Pervine 8th
Nathaniel Fowler 9th
Language Arts
Ellie Whisman 3rd
Kaylee Tharp 5th
Aubrey Naber 7th
Amber Wu 9th
Pictured L to R
Front: Nathaniel Fowler, Ellie Whisman
Middle row: Aubrey Naber, Brayan Ventura, Amber Wu, Kaylee Tharp, Addi Pervine, Taylor Frantz
Back row: Ezra Foote, Ethan Cain, Cesar Villeda, Isaac Martin, Tommy Gomez
The Lakers are coached by Erica Gray, Lane Springer, Margaret Richter, Dan Thompson, Cassidy McAllister, and Jayden Morris.
Calloway County High School Speech Team competed at Paducah Tilghman High School on January 14 and placed second out of four teams. The team had five tournament champions including Elizabeth Lanier in humorous interpretation, impromptu and informative speaking; the improvisational duo team of Landon Carter and Levi Dunnaway and Sarah Gardner in program oral interpretation.
In broadcasting, Levi Dunnaway placed 2nd and Quinlyn Moore placed 4th. Quinlyn also placed 3rd in declamation. In extemporaneous speaking, Amber Wu placed 3rd and Levi Dunnaway placed 4th. In humorous interpretation, Madison Morris placed 4th. In impromptu, Landon Carter placed 3rd and Gracie Fike placed 4th. In prose, Sarah Gardner placed 3rd and Kylee Carter placed 4th. In poetry, Sarah Gardner placed 3rd and Whitney Potter placed 5th. In program oral interpretation, Landon Carter placed 3rd.
The team is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Miranda Wilson and Breeanna Maupin.
Carrie Duffy has been named the January Laker Champion for Kids. Duffy works as an instructional assistant at Calloway County Preschool. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Duffy was nominated by CCPS principal Leisha Barlow, who wrote:
“She is a tireless worker who goes above and beyond for the kids and parents at CCPS. She is always willing to help out and has a quiet, calm spirit about her. Besides her work in the classroom, she has subbed as a bus monitor and custodian for the school. Additionally, she translates for children and parents who speak Spanish which helps bridge the communication gap enabling us to meet the needs of all of our families."
CCPS teacher Gwenda Wilhelm is also impressed with Duffy's abilities at CCPS.
“It did not take long to know that we had found someone with a heart for educating students when she was hired," said Wilhelm. "When she walks into our classroom, each students face lights up knowing that she is going to make sure she acknowledges every single student in the room. She is constantly listening, learning, and observing teachers and students. She steps up to help without being asked and uses the teachable moment to help students learn and grow. She’s encouraging, always has a smile on her face, and a true Laker for Life. When we had an immediate need for a janitor in the building, she took over the job, keeping the building looking immaculate in just half the hours. Ms. Carrie takes pride in her work and will do anything assigned to her with a smile on her face.”
Pictured (L to R) are Director of PD/PR Ryan Marchetti, Superintendent Tres Settle, Duffy, Barlow, Wilhelm
Ramona Freeman has been named a 2021 School Nutrition Champion by The Dairy Alliance. Freeman is a cafeteria manager at Calloway County Middle School and is in her 20th year working in the kitchen at the school.
Freeman received a plaque from The Dairy Alliance, along with a letter apologizing for the delayed notification. In the letter, she is thanked for her "contribution to ensuring school meals are a vital part of every student's education."
Freeman was nominated by former Calloway County Director of Food Service Pat Lane, who wrote, "Ramona works to help our students. She doesn't back away from a challenge. She is always on the front line. Constantly working on meal components, delivery challenges, or employee issues. She is amazing!"
Calloway County Director of Food Service Megan Adams believes Freeman is deserving of the award.
“Ramona is a dedicated and hardworking employee," Adams said. She is always open to new ideas and always responds with a positive 'We will try it!' She never hesitates to go above and beyond on anything. We are so lucky to have her and her dedication to her students, kitchen, and staff of Calloway County Middle School. She has been with the school for 20 years and we hope we have her for many more! She is an asset to Calloway County Schools!”
Pictured (L to R) are food service assistant Tonya Williams, Adams, Freeman, Lane, and Superintendent Tres Settle.
Calloway County Middle School Speech Team placed 1st at the Murray Middle Tournament on January 7. The team had 7 tournament champions including: Courtney Hargrove in dramatic interpretation and oratory, Addy Lusk in extemporaneous speaking and impromptu, Faith McCafferty in prose and storytelling and the improvisational duo team of Charlotte Haws and Ava Moore.
In broadcasting, Hunter Ringstaff placed 5th and Colin Naber placed 4th. In declamation, Ella Burkeen placed 3rd. In dramatic interpretation, Leah Hughes placed 2nd and McKenna Hopgood placed 4th. In duo acting, the team of Courtney Hargrove and Caden Bumpus placed 2nd while the team of Addy Lusk and Hunter Ringstaff placed 4th. The duo acting team of Serenity Byrley and Ofellia Feezor placed 5th. In extemporaneous speaking, Caden Bumpus placed 2nd, Tyler Sadler placed 3rd and McKinley Marshall placed 5th. In impromptu, Amanda Ezinma placed 5th and Hayden Gilbert placed 6th. The improvisational team of Kannon Bruce and Parker Morris placed 6th. Liberty Fitch placed 2nd in oratory and Amanda Ezinma placed 3rd. In poetry, Zoey Joyner placed 3rd, Charlotte Haws placed 4th and Ally Turner placed 6th. In storytelling, Kannon Bruce placed 2nd, Kensley Hutson placed 4th and Aaliyah Byrley placed 5th.
The CCMS Speech Team is coached by Jennifer Dunnaway, Scott Bonneau and Kaydee Sevilla.
Calloway County High School senior Daniel Puckett has been named the Murray Rotary Club's December Student of the Month.
Daniel is projected to be a valedictorian as he has maintained a 4.0 GPA and has a 31 ACT composite score. He has earned class awards in Honors Chemistry, English, and Geometry.
Daniel is an excellent student at CCHS in and out of the classroom. In addition to his remarkable academics, Daniel is a standout runner on the CCHS cross country and track teams. He is the CCHS record holder in the 3200m run at 9:57 and was named to the Class AA All-State Team. He finished ninth in the state cross country meet in October.
In addition to his academics and athletics, Daniel is also an active member of the Future Business Leaders of America. He also regularly volunteers and works at the Coldwater Church of Christ.
After graduating from CCHS in May, Daniel is undecided on which school he will attend, but intends to major in engineering. He also plans to attend the Memphis School of Preaching after graduating from college. After school, he wants to be a preacher - like his father.
Daniel is the son of Luke and Amber Puckett of Dexter.
Calloway County High School teacher Katy Walls has been named a 2022 McDonald's Outstanding Educator during a presentation at CCHS on December 15. She was presented the award by McDonald's area supervisor Conrad Love and restaurant manager Tim Clements.
McDonald's started this award program three years ago to celebrate educators for exhibiting the ultimate dedication to their students and going the extra mile to contribute to the improvement of education. Walls was one of four in the western Kentucky and southern Illinois region chosen for the award out of over 600 nominees.
Walls teaches English to students with learning and behavioral disabilities at CCHS. She is in her 22nd year of education.
"Thank you so much to McDonald’s for this award," said Walls. "I am humbled to receive so many nominations from the community. I love my job and am blessed to work for amazing administrators. My incredible students and great co-workers make it fun to go to work every day."
"It was an honor to recognize Ms. Walls", said McDonald's owner/operator Mike Love. "The way she motivates her students and treats each individual student with care is inspiring. She truly is an outstanding educator."
CCHS principal Steve Smith believes Walls is very deserving of the award.
"Ms. Walls is an enthusiastic and spirited teacher who puts kids first," Smith said. "During her tenure at CCHS, she has served in a variety of roles outside the classroom, which makes her an excellent 'school person.' I taught side-by-side with Katy in the classroom for years, and I can personally attest to the fine job she does with our students. It’s no wonder she received 16 separate nominations from her peers for this award. We are proud to call her a Laker-4-Life."
Michael Wright, an instructional assistant at the Calloway County Day Treatment Center (DTC), was honored with the 2022-2023 Kentucky Education Support Staff Professional (KESSP) Award on Dec. 12. He is one of two honorees in Kentucky and received his award in a surprise ceremony on December 12. Pictured are KDE commissioner Jason Glass, Wright, Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman, and Calloway County superintendent Tres Settle.
For the full article on Mr. Wright's accomplishment, check out the official KDE article on Kentucky Teacher.
Calloway County Board of Education member Mitch Ryan leads the non-profit group "Season's Readings" which gifts books to Kindergarten students at all Calloway County and Murray schools. Mr. Ryan's group lets students pick books of their own interest and gifts each student a bag with the books they have chosen. Mr. Ryan, along with CCHS students and Mr. Settle, visited East Calloway Elementary on December 9. Mr. Ryan plans to visit North on December 12 and Southwest on December 16.
Calloway County Middle School Sixth Grade Laker Academic Team brought home their 15th championship in the past sixteen years at the Academic Showcase. The event was sponsored by the Kentucky Association of Academic Competition and was hosted by Graves County Central Elementary, as it consisted of six other teams from around the region.
After a long day of competition, the Lakers posted an amazing team score of 103 points, while Graves County Central Elementary finished as runners-up with a total of 20 points.
In the written assessments, the Lakers brought home hardware in every competition and a first-place medal in each area! In Science, the Lakers claimed the top three spots as Ava Bogard finished in first place, followed by Collin Naber in second place, and Theodore Perlow in third place. The Lakers also claimed the top three medalists in Social Studies where Mason Falwell was named champion, followed by Kyler McKeel in second place, and Theodore Perlow in third place. The area of Mathematics had Ava Bogard claiming the championship with Emilio Gomez finishing in third place, and Kyler McKeel finishing in fifth place. In Language Arts, the Lakers had Collin Naber claim the championship with Leah Hughes finishing in second place. The Lakers had three students medal in Fine Arts with Hayden Gilbert claiming the championship, followed by Lorynn Russell and Mckenna Hopgood in a tie for third place. The Lakers also had success in composition with Leah Hughes being named champion, followed by Hayden Gilbert in fifth place, and Aubrey Cain in sixth place. In addition, the Quick Recall team won the championship going undefeated throughout the tournament! The Quick Recall team includes Ava Bogard, Hayden Gilbert, Kyler McKeel, Theodore Perlow, Collin Naber, and Mason Falwell. Other competing members for the Lakers include Jacquelyn Lira, Greyson McManus, Emma Lanier, Cash Pittman, and Logan Buck.
A few individuals of the Laker Team brought home some special state recognition from the weekend. Ava Bogard’s science score was the highest in the state while her math score was the fifth highest score in Kentucky. Collin Naber also had two top ten finishes as he placed third in the state in science and fourth in the state in language arts. Theodore Perlow also had a top score in state as he placed eighth in science. This is an impressive accomplishment since there are 218 total schools that compete in the sixth-grade showcase!
Kady Arant was recently named the December Laker Champion for Kids. Arant works in payroll at the Calloway County BOE central office and is the head coach of CCHS softball and volleyball teams. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Arant was nominated by Ryan Marchetti, who wrote:
"She is not only phenomenal in our finance department, but she is helpful to everyone in our office. She is an incredible softball coach and has led that team for many seasons. What especially makes her a champion was her willingness to take on the volleyball head coaching position this fall. She accepted the position, gathered support, and her kids had a great season when they really needed someone to step up. She took on this role only because she knew the kids and she wanted to make a great experience for them. And she did all of this while pregnant. Now, she is training someone else to do her job before she's out because she wants to keep things moving in our district. She is a rock star and deserves this recognition."
Pictured L to R: CCSD Director of Finance April Lax, Kady Arant, CCSD Assistant Superintendent Brian Wilmurth
Calloway County High School senior Josh Darnell has been named the Area Technology Center November Student of the Month by the Murray Rotary Club.
Darnell's trade at ATC is in automotive technology, where as a junior he passed the ASE Student Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair industry certification. As a senior, Darnell qualified for a work cooperative and works four hours each day at Ed's Wheel Alignment in Murray, where he is receiving high marks for his work ethic and initiative.
"Josh is very polite and considerate to others and works well with other classmates," said ATC automotive instructor Mitchell McNutt. "He demonstrates good mechanical knowledge and the ability to repair and replace faulty parts."
After graduating from CCHS in May, Darnell plans to continue his work as a full-time mechanic.
In his free time, Darnell enjoys motocross and mountain biking. He is the son of Christie Fryer of Murray.
Pictured (L to R) are ATC principal Dan Hicks, Josh Darnell, and Murray Rotary Club President-Elect Warren Edminster.
East Calloway Elementary second grade student Nick Frame submitted artwork that was selected for the Arts for All Kentucky exhibit, which will travel throughout Kentucky in 2023. Nick's artwork was a watercolor painting entitled "Hands" and is one of only 30 works in the entire state chosen for the exhibit.
Calloway County Middle School Academic Team recently finished first in the mid-season tournament hosted by the West Kentucky Academic Association (WKAA). The tournament included 16 middle schools from all around Region One in Kentucky. After a great day of competition, the Lakers walked away with several individual accomplishments and the overall championship title.
Five students from the choral program at Calloway County High School recently participated in the MSU Music Department Quad-State High School Honor Choir on the campus of Murray State University. Chosen by independent audition, they joined more than 200 other singers from five states in presenting a concert of music from the Romantic era in Lovett Auditorium. Pictured above left to right are, front row, Riot Boggess and Dr. Bradley Almquist, director of Choral Activities at MSU and the Quad-State Honor Choir; back row, Emma Martin, Olivia Lane, and Kylee Carter. Not pictured is Julia Parker.
Calloway County High School senior Cesar Villeda has been named the Murray Rotary Club's November Student of the Month.
Cesar is projected to be a valedictorian as he has maintained a 4.0 GPA and has a 32 ACT composite score. He has earned class awards in Honors Integrated Social Studies, Honors World History, Earth and Space Science, Accounting I, Honors U.S. History, Pre-Calculus, and AP Chemistry. He was also selected as a Governor’s Scholar at Morehead State University where he had the focus area of philosophy.
Cesar is involved at CCHS where he has been elected as a class officer for the past four years, and he has served as class president since his sophomore year. He has also served as a Student Council officer for three years, and he is now the Senior Vice President of the club. Cesar has been a varsity member of the academic team all four years of high school—earning numerous awards in social studies, math, and quick recall. He is also a four-year member of FBLA in which he has competed in International Business—winning the region the past three years as well as claiming state runner-up in 2021. Additionally, he is a member of FFA, the Chemistry Team, the Laker Pep Club, the Tennis team, and the Cross Country Team. Cesar is a 2021-2022 alum of Leadership Tomorrow.
Cesar is involved in the community as a two-year Beta Club officer. He volunteers around the community in events such as charity races and elementary school events. Every morning, he interns at the Calloway County Courthouse Annex under Judge Kenny Imes and Deputy Judge Gina Winchester.
After graduating in May, Cesar is undecided about which college to attend, but is considering Murray State and Louisville. He wants to major in economics and with a minor in political science, history, or statistics. He is unsure of his career plans, but wants to continue to contribute to local government.
Cesar is the son of Javier and Carolina Villeda.
Fourteen members of the Calloway County Schools tech team were recognized with the Stilwell Award by the Kentucky Department of Education. Jody Rose from the Office of Education Technology presented the team with their awards at the board of education meeting on November 10.
The Stilwell Award is named after the late William "Bill" E. Stilwell, a longtime faculty member of the University of Kentucky’s College of Education who worked diligently throughout his career to improve Kentucky K-12 educators’ access to modern technology.
The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) is recognizing about 2,400 key education technology staff from Kentucky’s K-12 school districts and KDE's Office of Education Technology (OET) for their dedication and support of education technology during the COVID-19 pandemic from March 2020 to March 2022 by selecting them as recipients of the 2020-2022 Stilwell Award.
This award’s two-year time frame recognizes the unique circumstances that came from the pandemic and the crucial role technology staff and faculty played in supporting the Kentucky educational system.
“During those 24 months, Kentucky K-12 education technology staff not only survived but thrived in providing quality EdTech enabled products and services to Kentucky K-12 students, teachers and staff, across this entire state, amongst all the sudden demands, uncertainty and intensity going on during that timeframe,” said David Couch, associate commissioner in KDE’s Office of Education Technology.
Calloway County tech team members who received the award are: Melissa Spiceland, Emily Hearn, Mitch Hultman, Angie Jones, Aymee Herndon, Melissa Bouland, Laken Falwell, Stacy Jones, CJ Dial, Kim Barrett, Michael Haven, Pat Kilby, Eric Payton, and Stephen Conner.
Calloway County High School Laker Chemistry Team took first place at the 52nd Annual Murray State Chemistry Scholarship Tournament on Thursday, November 10, 2022. The Lakers, made up of seniors Ethan Cain, Isaac Martin, Kerrigan McManus, and Cesar Villeda, placed first among fifteen teams from three states, including schools from southern Illinois, northwest Tennessee, and western Kentucky. The Lakers walked away with $500 in cash and $1600 in scholarships.
Rena Pivoras was recently named the November Laker Champion for Kids. Pivoras is a cook in the East Calloway Elementary cafeteria. The Laker Champion for Kids is awarded each month to a Laker staff member who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues.
Pivoras was nominated by Alyson Adams, who wrote:
“She goes above and beyond for the kids at East by taking an interest in each student and making the cafeteria fun and festive with her infectious personality, themed bulletin boards, spirit day participation and decorating skills. She spreads joy across the district with her classroom visits as the Tooth Fairy, and her spot-on impression of Chris Farley’s Lunch Lady character in a food service training. I have seen social media posts where parents proclaim that she is their child’s favorite person at school.
Districtwide she is an avid band booster parent and can be found helping with all events. She has been a big help at past project graduation events, even when she doesn’t have a child graduating.”
“She brings an energy to every room she enters," said Director of Food Service Megan Adams. She is both admired by her fellow staff and students. She puts a lot of effort into her student relationships and has a great way of talking and associating with the students in the cafeteria. She is the master behind our fun bulletin boards at East in the cafeteria! You’ll always catch her enjoying dress up days or holidays! She is a valued member of our team, and we are thankful for her continued service to our kitchen and students of East Calloway Elementary.”
Pictured are Megan Adams, Pivoras, East principal Monica Boggess, and Director of PD/PR Ryan Marchetti.
Southwest Calloway Elementary student Ava Lee was named the winner of the Calloway County Bicentennial Coloring Contest. Her detailed work coloring the historic "Old Post Office" in Murray was the winning selection in the county-wide contest. She was awarded spending cash from members of the Murray-Calloway Chamber of Commerce. The contest was headed by Randy and Jeanetta McCallon.
Other Calloway County winners included:
East: Abbigail Christopher, Anniston Canerdy
North: Parker Cook, Eliza Hall
Southwest: Adilyn Morrison
Calloway County Lakers cross country teams ran in the KHSAA Class AA State Championship in Paris, KY on October 29 competing against over 40 schools and 480 runners from across Kentucky.
The Laker Men started out the day with a 9th place finish overall for the 2nd straight year. This marks the 3rd year in a row for the Lakers finishing in the Top 10. Senior Daniel Puckett placed 9th individually, earning the highest finish of his career at the state meet with a 16:36. He earned KHSAA All-State honors for his finish. This is his 3rd year being named to the KHSAA All-State Team. Senior Landon McCartney ran a 17:10, finishing 16th overall. Senior Dominic Cashion came in 46th, giving the Lakers three runners in the Top 50 for the 2nd year in a row.
The Lady Lakers finished in 13th place as a team, led by Junior Reese Settle’s 13th place finish, earning KHSAA All-State honors. Settle ran the 5K race finishing with a 20:16, setting a new school record for the Kentucky State Meet at the Bourbon County XC Course. Freshman Sadie Lilly came in 62nd overall at 22:19, with 8th graders Bella Norsworthy and Angie Emery both coming in the Top 100.
Calloway County High School senior Sydney Naber has been named the Murray Rotary Club's October Student of the Month.
Sydney has a 4.0 GPA, scored a 32 on the ACT, and on track to be a valedictorian at CCHS. She is a Microsoft Award recipient, AP Chemistry Award recipient, and an attendee of the Governor's Scholar Program at Morehead State University this past summer. Sydney's extra-curricular activities at Calloway County High School include being a member of Calloway County Varsity Soccer team made it to 2A State this year; a member of Calloway County Track team. She has been regional champion in 300 hurdles and 4x400 and has set several school records on relay teams in high school. Sydney is a member of the CCHS Tennis team, with where she went to regionals last year. She is also a member of the CCHS Future Business Leaders of America, serving as reporter and placed fourth in state in Customer Service Competition. She is a member of Student Council, serving as class reporter. She is a member of the BETA club; Spanish Club, serving as reporter; and a member of Academic Team and KY YMCA. Sydney volunteers her time at Journey Church through the large group weekly meetings and as a volunteer leader for Kindergarten through Fifth Grade youth groups.
After graduating from CCHS in May, Sydney plans attend the University of Kentucky to major in biology to begin her education as a medical student. After UK, she plans to attend medical school to become a radiologist.
Sydney is the daughter of Casey and Jessica Naber.
Kentucky Department of Education recently released data showing Calloway County Schools ranking among the best in the state.
Congratulations to our students and teachers on a job well done!
Jennifer Dunnaway has been named the Laker Champion for Kids for the month of October. The award is for Laker faculty and staff members who go above and beyond for their students and colleagues.
Dunnaway is an eighth grade social studies teacher at Calloway County Middle School. She is also the speech team coach for CCMS and CCHS. She was nominated by CCHS teacher Miranda Wilson, who wrote:
“She is a champion in every sense of the word. She has spent countless hours as a champion for students on the Speech Team. Some join because they love giving speeches, but most join just because they her. I have personally been inspired by her enthusiasm and dedication to the youth of Calloway County (both in and out of school). She brings fun and positivity to her classroom each day and encourages each student to be his or her best self. She deserves the title of Laker Champion for Kids because she loves our school, loves our community, and loves our kids, and shows this in not only her words, but most importantly, her actions.”
CCMS teacher TJ Hargrove also thinks highly of this month's Champion.
“She always goes above and beyond to champion students of Laker Nation. Whether it’s dressing up for Civil War days, staying hours a week for speech practice, planning field trips, modifying assignments to reach each student, or designing countless activities to engage all students, she always has students’ best interest in mind. She’s a team player always willing to help her colleagues and I couldn’t ask for a better Social Studies partner to work with.”
Calloway County High School senior Ethan King has been named the Area Technology Center's September Student of the Month by the Murray Rotary Club.
Ethan is a culinary arts student at the ATC and is in his third year in the program. He was an instrumental part of the ATC's pop up restaurant event in April and is leading another restaurant event in October. He is also a member of the Skills USA club at ATC.
In his spare time, Ethan works in the kitchen at The Cookout restaurant in Murray. He also spends time working on cars and refining his skills in the kitchen. His culinary specialty is Italian dishes.
Ethan is the son of Anthony and Nikki Davenport of Almo. After graduation from CCHS in May, Ethan plans to attend Sullivan University in Louisville to study culinary arts to become a chef.
Calloway County Middle School sixth grader Collin Naber was selected for STEM Squad at WKCTC's Challenger Learning Center as a part of a grant from NASA. Collin is the son of Casey and Jessica Naber.
The CLC, one of only 21 organizations across the nation to win an award from a new NASA grant program, received $23,614 to offer unique STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) opportunities to the Squad over the next 12 months.
NASA's Community Anchor Award grant is designed to help informal education community resources like the CLC implement authentic NASA STEM experiences while reinforcing the CLC's identity as a vital community resource.
"We are privileged to be one of only 21 NASA Community Anchor Award grants in the nation. The student members will learn so much about the many facets of NASA and its missions," said Mellisa Duncan, CLC director. "We look forward to spending a whole year getting to know 30 students who will be the next generation of citizens to pursue STEM careers!"
CLC's "STEM Squad" of fifth-seventh graders will experience various STEM-themed learning opportunities through monthly "STEM Squad Summits," a summer project, and a trip to Space Camp in Huntsville, Ala. At the end of the project, students will participate in a community experience-sharing session and be encouraged to continue their engagement through the formation of an alumni group. This alumni group will be able to volunteer and serve the CLC in different capacities.
The students chosen completed an application that included an essay portion and reference letter from non-family members. Each essay was scored by four people: WKCTC/CLC staff, Paducah Junior College, Inc. board members and community members using a common rubric.
"All the essays were amazing. It was so hard to narrow down the applications," said Duncan, adding, "each had heartfelt reasons why that person should be chosen."
CCHS Academic Team Head Coach Erica Gray was inducted into the Kentucky Association for Academic Competition (KAAC) Coach’s Hall of Fame on September 23. KAAC recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond to provide a brighter future for Kentucky students through Hall of Fame recognition. Coaches, administrators, or officials who have accomplished noteworthy achievements that further academic competition on a local, regional, or statewide level can be inducted into the KAAC Hall of Fame. The 2022 inductees include Gray, Brian Sullivan from Henderson County High School, and the late Mary Ann Beshear Miller from the Kentucky Department of Education.
Gray has served as an Academic Team head coach for 16 years, the last 15 at CCHS, where her teams have earned 12 consecutive District championships, three Regional championships, seven Regional runners up titles, multiple State top 10 finishes, including a 2022 Future Problem Solving State championship. The Lakers have made numerous appearances at national and international competitions, including the Department of Energy National Science Bowl, PACE, and Future Problem Solving International Conference. Gray teaches chemistry at CCHS and is married to Dr. Chip Gray of Murray. They have two daughters, Claire and Laurel.
Calloway County Middle School eighth grade students attend the inaugural SPARK event created by the Murray Works Foundation as a part of the Murray-Calloway Chamber of Commerce. The event was held in the CFSB Center at MSU on September 21.
Businesses from around the region along with colleges from Murray State and WKCTC gave students hands-on experiences in an attempt to "spark" a career interest for them.
Ethan Cain has been named the CCHS Rotary Student of the Month for September by the Murray Rotary Club.
Ethan is a senior at Calloway County High School who has recently attended the Governor's Scholar Program this past summer. Ethan has kept a 4.0 GPA throughout high school and is on track to be Valedictorian of the graduating class of 2023. He has achieved a score of 34 on the ACT and is currently a member of the Calloway Academic Team, the Calloway Robotics Team, and the Calloway Tennis Team. Last year, he participated in the Calloway Leadership Tomorrow Program.
On the academic team, Ethan has earned awards at the district and regional levels, as well as qualifying for state many times in the subject areas of mathematics and science. This previous year, Ethan was the regional champion in KAAC science written testing. In addition, he has qualified for the U.S Department of Energy's National Science Bowl twice and has placed first in the KBEA state keyboarding contest five years in a row.
Ethan Cain is the son of Scott and Wendy Cain. After high school, Ethan plans to major in biomedical engineering on a Pre-Med track. He is currently undecided on what college he will be attending.
The CCHS Academic Team began their season on Monday night with a trip across our northern border to Carbondale, IL to compete as defending champions in the WSIU Scholastic Hi-Q tournament, which is televised on WSIU and aired on its website www.wsiu.org. The 32-team, single elimination tournament is in its 31st year and hosts high schools from across Illinois, Kentucky, and Indiana.
Calloway County High School FFA recently had members compete in the 2022 Kentucky State Fair, including two students who are state champions.
Junior Sayde Lowe was Grand Champion with her project entry in Grass Hay division. Senior Emma Arnett placed first and was named state champion in the Floriculture contest. CCHS FFA now has 74 state champions over the past 18 years.
Additionally, both the Agriculture Mechanics and Floriculture Team finished as the State Runner-up. The Meats Judging Team placed 5th in the state, and Tyler Ward and Fulton Manning performed well in the 4-H Land Judging Contest as a warm-up to the FFA contest next month. Finally, Cooper Housden, Ellie Falwell, and Sayde Lowe entered tobacco, hay, wheat, and/or soybean displays.
Calloway County High School teacher Lane Springer has been selected to participate in an initiative by the University of Kentucky to enhance Kentucky K-12 Holocaust education. Springer is a history teacher in her second year at CCHS and was one of 20 teachers from the state selected for the project.
The initiative is funded by a grant from the Jewish Heritage Fund for Excellence. Springer received extensive training during the summer and on-going training throughout the school year on best practice in teaching the Holocaust. Springer will be a leader in the region and will train other history teachers during this initiative.
Instructional materials created by Kentucky teachers through the UK Holocaust Initiative will be professionally peer-reviewed and then shared freely on the Initiative’s website.
“UK faculty will use their expert knowledge to empower Kentucky teachers with extensive middle and high school classroom experience and expertise by educating and collaborating with them and their peers. Through these multiple layers of collaborative work, we will create networks of experts at the local level and a sustainable model for educational excellence,” Project Co-Director Janice Fernheimer explains.
Maria Vincent has been named the September Laker Champion for Kids.
Maria is the guidance secretary at CCHS is loved by her students and our teachers.
She was nominated by CCHS nurse Erin Garland who wrote, “She goes above and beyond to ensure that each student is taken care of not only with their schedules and day to day issues, but she truly cares about each student and their well-being. She greets everyone with a smile on her face and if ever in need of a hug, she is your person. Simply put, she champions alongside each student, staff member and person she comes into contact with. I can't think of a better person that embodies the word CHAMPION.”
The Champion for Kids award recognizes a Laker staff member that goes above and beyond for kids, is always willing to step up and help their colleagues, and someone we are always proud to call a Laker.
Congrats to CCMS teacher Kevin Suiter! Mr. Suiter was named the 2022 KMEA First District Middle School Teacher of the Year. Suiter is pictured with CCHS band director Nick Calcamuggio and CCMS principal Jodi Butler.
"Kevin Suiter is an extremely dedicated teacher," said Butler. "He works tirelessly both in and out of school to be sure his students have opportunities to excel. Congratulations to Mr. Suiter for receiving this award. It is definitely well-deserved."
We are excited to welcome back our students! First day of preschool is Monday, August 22!
Michelle Hansen was named the inaugural Laker Champion for Kids for August during a ceremony for all faculty and staff at CCHS on Opening Day. Hansen is the FRYSC coordinator at North and East. She is pictured with the Laker Championship Belt along with Superintendent Tres Settle.
The Champion for Kids award recognizes a Laker staff member that goes above and beyond for kids, is always willing to step up and help their colleagues, and someone we are always proud to call a Laker.
Hansen was nominated by East principal Monica Boggess who wrote, "Our students are blessed to have her. She is always willing to stop whatever she is doing to meet the needs of our students and families. Our families look to her for support and trust her intentions when it comes to their needs. She is invaluable to our schools."
Southwest Calloway Elementary teacher Yvonna Hooper was named the 2022 Educator of the Year by the Murray-Calloway Chamber of Commerce. She received her award on July 15 at the Chamber's annual dinner.