KL : During the past few years all schools have dealt with numerous challenges and distractions due to the pandemic . The Somerset Independent School District is truly fortunate to have a fantastic student body , supportive parents , and devoted educators that worked together to persevere through such adversity . Somerset students scored above the state average in reading , math and science at the elementary and middle school levels , along with math and science at the high school level . The high school also saw scores above the state average in all four content areas of the ACT , as well as the overall average composite score for our spring of 2021 11th grade students . The high school graduation rate has continually increased over the past four years , with a gain of six percentage points during that time span . Additionally , Somerset High School is ranked as a top 25 high school in Kentucky on an annual basis . We will utilize the data obtained from the state assessment to support each individual student ’ s academic growth and to progress each child toward becoming a successful and productive citizen .
5 . What ’ s the best thing about being superintendent at your district ?
PR : I am very proud to be the superintendent of Pulaski County Schools . We have the best staff and students . Our students are proven to be very smart and talented . They work hard in school work and competition and it shows . Our staff is second to none . They care about their students and they want to see them be successful . They are dedicated to the students they serve . We also have great support from our community partners and parents . It takes us all working together for our students to succeed .
JD : It definitely has to be the people .
We have such a strong and dynamic community of support that it makes my job easy . Business people , parents , grandparents , teachers , support staff , students . We all work together to make Science Hill the best school in Kentucky . We have a wonderful team here on “ The Hill ” and I ’ d never want to be anywhere else .
KL : The Somerset Independent School District is a very special place and it ’ s an honor to be part of an institution with such a rich tradition of excellence in every aspect . We have an outstanding Board of Education and the district is filled with talented individuals that always go above and beyond for students . It is a privilege to work with such caring and dedicated professionals . However , the best part of my job is getting to interact with students and helping to ensure that they have the best educational experience possible .
10 • SEKY - Life in Southeast Kentucky august 2022