Laurel County School Directory 2026-2027 | Page 4

LONDON, Ky.— Applause, laughter, and a few tears filled the room as Laurel County Adult Education celebrated the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 during its June commencement ceremony.

Friends and family gathered to honor graduates whose paths back to education were often anything but easy. Many balanced jobs, raised families, faced health challenges, or overcame personal obstacles while working toward their GED. For each graduate, the evening represented determination, resilience, and the promise of new opportunities.

Executive Director Tina Cook welcomed graduates and guests and reminded them that the evening was about much more than receiving a diploma.

“ Tonight, we celebrate something far greater than a diploma,” Cook said.“ Our work is not to carry people. Our work is to help them rise.” She told graduates that while instructors provide guidance and encouragement, it is the students who do the hard work of showing up, pushing through setbacks, and refusing to give up.

Families were encouraged to cheer and take photographs as graduates crossed the stage. The celebration reflected the pride shared by everyone who helped support the graduates along the way.

Scholarships were also presented during the

ceremony to encourage graduates as they continue their education.

The Kathy Claiborne Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Isaiah Griffith. The Elsa Spurlock Scholarship was presented to Dalton Wagers, and the Kathryn Hardman Scholarship went to Donovan Machin.

Three additional scholarships honored members of the Laurel County Adult Education family. The inaugural Rachael Chesnut Scholarship was awarded to Samantha Hope Prewitt. Chesnut, recently recognized as a national GED Instructor of the Year runner-up, was honored for her years of dedication to adult learners. Beginning her career with the program as a part-time data entry employee, she has grown into one of its most respected instructors, serving students in both the learning center and correctional education programs while continually expanding her

skills to better meet their needs.

The Sharee St. Louis Smith Scholarship was presented to Jaci Burkhardt, and the Mickey York Scholarship was awarded to Bethany Leopold.

Graduates also heard from classmates Landon Simpson and Jaci Burkhardt, who shared their personal journeys and encouraged others to keep believing in themselves, even when the road becomes difficult.

Four members of the Class of 2026 graduated with Honors after earning College Ready scores of 165 or higher on the Official GED examination.

Cook concluded the ceremony by thanking the instructors, board members, families, and friends whose support helped make the graduates’ success possible.

“ Education creates choices,” she said.“ It opens doors. It restores confidence. It reminds people that they are capable of more than they may have imagined.”

Following the ceremony, graduates gathered for the traditional cap toss.

Laurel County Adult Education serves adult learners in Laurel, Knox, Whitley, and Clay counties by providing GED preparation, English language instruction, workforce training, career services, and other educational opportunities for adults.

4 Laurel County School Directory