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  • Community Connections Newsletter - April 2025

    Connections #TeamHopkins Parent and Community Newsletter April 2025   Online Registration Open for 2025-2026 Online Registration/Annual Update through Infinite Campus Parent Portal is now open for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.   Online Registration will be available on the portal for annual updates through the start of the school year. We encourage you to complete this soon for your students. Parents may also register new students, including incoming kindergarten students, by utilizing the links found on the district website. This is required for ALL students who will attend Hopkins County Schools next year.   This online process allows you to verify and submit required information to your child’s school. It also eliminates the forms and paperwork that used to be required for annual registration. Your child’s school may have other site-specific forms that you will be asked to complete later.   Only the legal guardian listed for the student in the primary household can complete online registration. The assigned school is based on the primary household address. If your child has a secondary household, please update the information for that additional household while completing the online update. Look for more information on the district's registration website.   Annual Book Giveaway for Kids April 28-May 1 Celebrate Literacy Hopkins County will host its “Ask Me” Button Book Giveaway sites from April 28-May 1. Children from preschool through 8th grade may choose a free book at the following sites: Monday, April 28 Hopkins Co Family YMCA Snack Shack, 3-5:30 p.m. * First United Event Plaza, 3-5 p.m. Pioneer Family Medicine, Nortonville, 3-5 p.m. Tuesday, April 29 Hopkins County-Madisonville Public Library, 3-5:30 p.m. * Dawson Springs Public Library, 3-5:30 p.m. Hanson Gazebo, 2:45-5 p.m. Earlington Shelter/Basketball Court, 105 W Main, Earlington, 3-5 p.m. Wednesday, April 30 Madisonville City Park Playground, 3-5 p.m. * West Hopkins School, 2:45-5 p.m. First United Bank, Main Branch in Madisonville, 3-5 p.m. Thursday, May 1 Mahr Park Arboretum at the Nature Play Area, 3-5 p.m. * Market Place, 3-5 p.m. Dr. Festus Claybon Park, 2:45-5 p.m. *Title I Family Engagement Sites Books are provided by Celebrate Literacy Hopkins County and Hopkins County Schools Title I.   BSMS Principal Receives State Award Browning Springs Middle School Principal Michael Griffin was honored at the Hopkins County Board of Education meeting on April 14 for being awarded the Kentucky Board of Education’s 2025 Robinson Award for Diversity and Equity in Public Education. KBE also presented the award to Jefferson County Public Schools Superintendent Marty Pollio at their March 27 meeting. Griffin thanked his staff for their support. “My nine years at Browning Springs have been rewarding, and I am grateful for the exceptional support of my staff,” said Griffin. “Their dedication has been instrumental in achieving this recognition. “I collaborate closely with my school's youth service center coordinator, our district director of community schools, and the rest of my administrative team to identify and address any barriers our students and community may face. I am truly appreciative of the commitment shown by my staff to prioritize the diverse needs of our students. At Browning Springs, we treat everyone as family.” Each year, the KBE gives the Robinson Award to a Kentuckian or a Kentucky organization demonstrating extraordinary efforts and contributions in educational diversity and equity. The criteria for receiving this award includes, but is not limited to: Successful efforts in closing socioeconomic and/or racial achievement gaps; and Significantly improving student learning, student achievement or other measured outcomes among students of color or economically-disadvantaged students. Additional Information   3 Teachers Honored for Excellence Three teachers from Hopkins County Schools were among those honored during the Regional Education Partnership Excellence in Teaching Award presentation at Glema Mahr Center for the Arts. HCS teachers honored include Rachel Flener, a special education teacher at Hanson Elementary; Michael Powers, 8th grade math teacher at James Madison Middle School; and Sarah Tyson, an English teacher at Hopkins County Central High School. The award recognizes outstanding classroom educators through a program involving public school partners from Caldwell, Crittenden, Dawson Springs, Hopkins County, Muhlenberg County, and Webster County districts along with Madisonville Community College and Murray State University-Madisonville.   Groundbreaking Move Community members and Hopkins County Schools staff celebrated earlier this month as the official groundbreaking was held for the district’s new Central Office! The project will involve renovations and an addition to property at 2135 N. Main St. in Madisonville.  District offices are currently located on Seminary Street in a building that opened in 1922 as Madisonville High School. The new facility will result in savings in repair and maintenance costs, provide energy savings, and allow for the latest technology upgrades. Garmong Construction is the general contractor on the project.   Future Ready Showcase - April 29   Preparing for FR Showcase Jesse Stuart Elementary students chosen to represent their school during the Future Ready Showcase started creating their displays on April 18. Each student will present on one of the six Hopkins County Future Ready Characteristics of Successful Graduates. The community is invited to the event, which will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29, in the Hopkins County Central High School gym.   Students Present Learning Defenses Browning Springs Middle School students took part in Future Ready Friday activities on April 18. Our April district-wide event was originally planned during the NTI days for flooding, so each school is rescheduling on its own. BSMS students presented their Learning Defense slides to peers and teachers on Friday. Some presented one or two of their favorite slides, while others shared their entire presentation.   DC Trip Offers Deeper Level of Learning Fifth graders in the 4-H Civic Club recently returned from a visit to Washington, DC, which reinforced the topics they have been learning about. “I think the kids, specifically, were able to grasp their classroom content on a deeper level experiencing it first-hand,” said teacher Heather Gordon. “The collaboration between schools offered them a sense of unity, as well, with all the students being 5th graders in Hopkins County. In addition, this gave many of them the opportunity to venture farther than they ever had before and experience life beyond their local community.” Thirty-five students and nine adults made the trip. This came about as a result of a partnership with the local 4-H Extension Office and teachers at Pride, Jesse Stuart, West Broadway and Grapevine Elementary schools. They took part in a pilot program that created a Civic Club for their 4-H classroom officers who were elected by their peers last August. The itinerary directly aligned with their Kentucky Social Studies Standards providing an authentic and vibrant learning experience with deep academic connections. Students toured Jamestown, Yorktown, Colonial Williamsburg, the White House, Arlington Cemetery, and the U.S. Capitol. Students saw the President on the White House lawn during their tour and observed the Changing of the Guard ceremony to a female soldier.  In addition to Gordon, educators involved in the pilot include Jessi Howard, Kelly Gates, Taylor Ruth, Stephanie Knott, Marco Rice, and Jeremy Nolin. With the success of this year's pilot, organizers intend for the opportunity to be extended to 5th grade classes throughout the district starting next year.  This experience was made possible by several sponsors including the following: AMVETS Post 75, American Legion Post 6, Clark, the Elks Club, Hopkins County Farm Bureau Federation, City of Madisonville Mayor, Hopkins County Fiscal Court Judge Executive, Davin Shaw-Attorney, Baptist Health Deaconess Madisonville, Carhartt, Mason & Sons, West KY Gobblers of the NWTF, Tactical Defense Manufacturing, Jarrett Brown KYFB, Stanley Black & Decker, Evolved Nutrition, Knight Wagner PLLC, Taco Johns, Riddle Attorney at Law, and MadCity Scrubs. Gordon said the program is “an incredible partnership with loads of potential to grow in the next three to five years. It also encompasses all six of our Future Ready Characteristics!”   Parents Invited to See Habitat Project The wooden frame of a house temporarily rose recently next to the tennis courts at Madisonville North Hopkins HS. Students in the school’s Geometry in Construction class set up the house that they’re constructing through a joint project with Habitat for Humanity. Parents and friends were invited to tour the house while learning about the GIC program. The event included the presentation of peer-nominated Golden Craftsman awards to the four students who performed best through the project/class. Recipients were Emma Gibson, Grayson Messamore, Maggie Killough, and Jude Gamblin. During the tours, students excitedly pointed out which parts of the structure they had worked on, while explaining the home’s layout. The Geometry in Construction class blends geometry concepts and residential building applications, with students gaining practical skills along with a better understanding of applied mathematics. The class has built 35 wall panels for the 1,200-square-foot Habitat home. Other projects include a Medical Shipping Container Clinic that’s now in Liberia, Africa; participation in the Books and Bunks project to build beds with Rotary Club; and construction of eight dog houses that were built for the Humane Society.   New Principal Selected for HCCTC Alaina Lancaster has been selected as principal of Hopkins County Career and Technology Center, beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. She has served as Hopkins County Schools director of secondary instruction since July 2020. “I am excited to accept the position as principal of the Hopkins County Career and Technology Center,” Lancaster said. “This allows me to return to working directly with students, which has always been my greatest passion. I look forward to the opportunity to sharpen our focus on enhancing future-ready learning and career readiness for every student who walks through the doors of the Hopkins County Career and Technology Center.  “HCCTC has a long-standing legacy of excellence in career and technical education,” she said, “and I am honored to be chosen to lead a team dedicated to continuing that tradition.” Additional Information   KHSAA Dead Period The KHSAA dead period is a designated time each summer when most athletic activities are prohibited in Kentucky high school sports. It's designed to provide athletes and their families with a break from competitive and practice activities, allowing for rest, recovery, and other activities. This year, dead period is June 25-July 9. The period is typically two weeks long, and during this time, school facilities, team equipment, and school uniforms cannot be used for athletic activities, and coaches cannot communicate with players about sports. All campuses will be closed for all athletic activities.   District Talent Shows Thanks to Madisonville Community College Lions Club for sponsoring the district competitions in collaboration with the Glema Mahr Center for the Arts! The Talent Show Series is organized by the Hopkins County Schools District Services for Gifted and Talented. June Johnson, a student at Jesse Stuart Elementary, won 1st place for a dance to “A Little Party Never Hurt Nobody.” Caitlyn and Kelsey Blue of JSES, who performed a vocal duet of “Popular,” received 2nd place. Maxwell Dunlap of Southside Elementary, who performed a ventriloquist act, placed 3rd.  Guest performer was Savana Adams. Reagan Barnes of West Broadway Elementary is the winner of the Summer Arts Academy Scholarship. Jane Emerson of James Madison Middle School won 1st place for a dance performance to “Someone Like You.” Bailey Ruby of South Hopkins Middle School, who gave a guitar/vocal performance of “Tennessee Orange,” received 2nd place. Mason Eagle and Camden Crowley of JMMS, who performed “Toxicity” on drums and guitar, placed 3rd. Jayden Chandler of Browning Springs Middle School received the Summer Arts Academy Scholarship. Abigail Keown of Hopkins County Central won 1st place for a vocal performance of “Alabaster Box.” Alyssa Townsell of HCCHS, who gave a vocal/piano performance of “Oceans,” received 2nd place. Mya Latimer of Madisonville North Hopkins, who gave a vocal performance of “I’m Here,” placed 3rd. Latimer also won the Summer Arts Academy Scholarship given by the Glema Center. Guest performance was by Kohl Arnett and Friends.   Be-YOU-tiful Leaders Offer Help to Homeless Individuals “Dare to be Legendary” was the focus of the Be-YOU-tiful Leaders Spring Conference held recently at Mahr Park Arboretum. The community service project for the day involved putting together hygiene bags for individuals who are homeless as well as planning support for the Little Pantries. Be-YOU-tiful Leaders involves girls from both Madisonville North Hopkins and Hopkins County Central High schools.  The event included a keynote message from El’Agance Shemwell, News 44 anchor. Breakout sessions included “Putting your Best Self Forward” led by HCS Director of Secondary Education Alaina Lancaster, yoga and wellness led by mental health therapist Bonnie Young Turley, and goal-setting led by UK students Molly Bachman and Chloe Young.   HCCHS Olympic Field Day The annual Olympic Field Day at Hopkins County Central offered lots of fun activities for younger students from its feeder schools. Kids slid down inflatable slides, climbed through obstacle courses, played carnival games, and much more. This is always a great event!    High Five Friday! Through April’s High Five Friday activity, spring athletes from both Hopkins County Central and Madisonville North Hopkins High schools greeted younger students arriving at school. The activity brings smiles and encouragement to students of all ages!    Getting Back to Nature Grapevine Elementary third graders spent time in nature recently with a special trip to Madisonville City Park! Kids made bird feeders, learned about bees, identified trees, made tie-dye T-shirts and took part in a scavenger hunt. Each student also received a tree seedling from the Kentucky Department of Forestry to take home and plant. The event was sponsored by Hopkins County Sportsmen and Sportswomen Club. What a great way to combine celebrations of Earth Day and Arbor Day!   DINO-mite Day at JSES First Graders at Jesse Stuart Elementary School had a DINO-mite day learning all about dinosaurs! They were welcomed by teachers in fun dinosaur costumes, setting the stage for an exciting adventure. They read engaging dinosaur stories, researched facts about the prehistoric creatures, and made their very own fossils. With help from Jesse Stuart's Cafe staff, the fun continued with a special afternoon snack - Dino nuggets climbing a mountain of mashed potatoes and gravy! Teachers report the kids had a roaring good time filled with learning, laughter, and creativity!   Visit our Website   Hopkins County Schools 320 S. Seminary St. Madisonville, KY 42431

    Monday, Apr 28 2025

  • Online Registration Open for 2025-2026

    Online Registration/Annual Update through Infinite Campus Parent Portal is now open for the upcoming 202 5 -202 6  school year.   Online Registration will be available on the portal  for annual updates  through the start of the school year. We encourage you to complete this soon for your students. Parents may also register new students, including incoming kindergarten students,  by utilizing the links found on the district website . This is required for ALL students who will attend Hopkins County Schools next year.   This online process allows you to verify and submit required information to your child’s school. It also eliminates the forms and paperwork that used to be required for annual registration. Your child’s school may have other site-specific forms that you will be asked to complete later.   Only the legal guardian listed for the student in the primary household can complete online registration. The assigned school is based on the primary household address. If your child has a secondary household, please update the information for that additional household while completing the online update.  Look for more information on the district's registration website .

    Monday, Apr 28 2025

  • Book Giveaway Sites - April 28-May 1

    Celebrate Literacy Hopkins County will host its “Ask Me” Button Book Giveaway sites from April 28-May 1. Children from preschool through 8th grade may choose a free book at the following sites: Monday, April 28 Hopkins Co Family YMCA Snack Shack, 3-5:30 p.m. * First United Event Plaza, 3-5 p.m. Pioneer Family Medicine, Nortonville, 3-5 p.m. Tuesday, April 29 Hopkins County-Madisonville Public Library, 3-5:30 p.m. * Dawson Springs Public Library, 3-5:30 p.m. Hanson Gazebo, 2:45-5 p.m. Earlington Shelter/Basketball Court, 105 W Main, Earlington, 3-5 p.m. Wednesday, April 30 Madisonville City Park Playground, 3-5 p.m. * West Hopkins School, 2:45-5 p.m. First United Bank, Main Branch in Madisonville, 3-5 p.m. Thursday, May 1 Mahr Park Arboretum at the Nature Play Area, 3-5 p.m. * Market Place, 3-5 p.m. Dr. Festus Claybon Park, 2:45-5 p.m. * Title I Family Engagement Sites Books are provided by Celebrate Literacy Hopkins County and Hopkins County Schools Title I.

    Thursday, Apr 24 2025

  • Connections Newsletter - March 2025

    Connections #TeamHopkins Parent and Community Newsletter March 2025   Middle School Career Labs to Open in the Fall Hopkins County Schools will open new Middle School Career Labs at the start of the 2025-2026 school year. One lab will be located in each of our four middle schools. “This lab is a game-changer for career readiness, workforce development, and student engagement in Hopkins County Schools,” said Alaina Lancaster, director of secondary instruction. Each lab will include 18 interactive modules focused on different career pathways. This instruction will encourage students in 6th through 8th grade to explore a variety of potential career fields. The district received a waiver to use Career and Technical Education Supplemental Funds through the Kentucky Department of Education on the project. Community sponsors will also play a crucial role in the success of these labs. Sponsors include the following: Bentley Badgett with the Badgett Foundation, Groves Electrical Services, Hopkins County Tourism, Baptist Health Deaconess Madisonville, and West Area Health Education Center. If your business is interested in becoming a sponsor, please email alaina.lancaster@hopkins.kyschools.us. Introducing students to Career and Technical Education at a younger age gives them early exposure to career possibilities, technical skills, and problem-solving strategies that will prepare them for future success. It also strengthens community connections by introducing students to local industries and workforce needs. “The support of our community sponsors is not just an investment in a classroom, it’s an investment in our students, our workforce, and the future of Hopkins County,” Lancaster said. “By working together, we are creating opportunities for students to explore careers, gain valuable skills, and connect with industry professionals who can guide them toward success.”   Ky Education Commissioner Visits HCS Focus on Ag Projects Madisonville North Hopkins welcomed Kentucky Education Commissioner Dr. Robbie Fletcher, along with other KDE officials, to learn about a variety of Ag Department projects Friday afternoon. Fletcher, who praised the “vibrant learning” going on at the school, made the visit as part of Kentucky’s first state-wide Agriculture Education Week.  Ag teacher Brian Welch led the visit, which included a meeting with FFA officers. Visitors also viewed the school’s second Shipping Container Clinic, which is currently under construction. This clinic, like the one completed last year, will go to Liberia. Fletcher and the other visitors spent time in a Geometry in Construction class before heading to the workshop where students are framing walls for a Habitat for Humanity House. Students and teachers did a great job demonstrating the amazing work that goes on in the ag program!   Best Place to Work   Best Charitable Organization   New Central Office Groundbreaking The community is invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Hopkins County Schools Central Office, located at 2135 N. Main St., Madisonville. The ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, 2025.    High School Graduations Scheduled HOPKINS COUNTY SCHOOLS ACADEMY GRADUATION HCSA Graduation, Thursday, May 15, 2025, 6:00 p.m. at Hopkins County Central High School MADISONVILLE NORTH HOPKINS GRADUATION Baccalaureate, Sunday, May 18, 2025, 6:00 p.m. at Victory Church Awards Ceremony, Monday, May 19, 2025, 1:00 p.m. Graduation, Thursday, May 22, 2025, 7:00 p.m. HOPKINS COUNTY CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION Awards Ceremony, Sunday, May 18, 2025, 2:00 p.m. Baccalaureate, Sunday, May 18, 2025, 5:00 p.m. Graduation, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 7:00 p.m. *Please note: Tickets are required to attend the Graduations at HCCHS and MNHHS.   Prepare Now for Online Registration Parents who do not know their Infinite Campus Parent Portal password should contact their school. You will need to be able to log in to your portal account to complete the Annual Update for Online Registration. Also, any parent who does not have a portal account should go to the Parent Portal page on the HCS website to request an account. OLR/Annual Update will open on Monday, April 28.   Deadline for Volunteer Applications Hopkins County Schools appreciates and values all volunteers in our schools! Please be aware that the application and approval process for new school volunteers may take up to 30 days for state and district staff to complete. Because of this time frame, the deadline for submitting an application to become a volunteer this school year will be Friday, April 18, 2025. If you want to volunteer for end-of-the-year activities or trips, please submit your application if you haven’t already done so. For more information and links to required forms, visit the HCS Volunteers webpage.   Elementary Amazing Shake Winners The top 11 students in the HCS Elementary Amazing Shake competition took part in the final round earlier this month. The “Dinner Etiquette” round involved setting a formal table, demonstrating conversation skills, during and after meal etiquette, and showing engagement in the activity. All the competitors were very impressive! The winners are Preslee Byard, 1st place; Ariyah Hopson, 2nd place; and Willow Bolden, 3rd place. All of them are students at West Broadway Elementary School. Congratulations to the winners and to ALL participants! They have gained valuable life skills that will serve them well in the future. We also want to thank our community volunteers who help make this annual event a success!   Students Serve as Legislative Pages Four HCS students were selected to serve as legislative pages during the current session of the Kentucky General Assembly! Collin Phaup, an 8th grader at South Hopkins Middle School, served as a page on February 13. Zoey Hibbs, a 9th grader at Hopkins County Central, participated on February 25. Two of the students, Pride Elementary 5th grader Rayleigh Neathery and Madisonville North Hopkins junior Aiden Clark, unfortunately weren’t able to make it to Frankfort because of winter weather. Legislative pages have a unique chance to witness firsthand the inner workings of state government. From interacting with state lawmakers to assisting in the legislative chambers, this experience allows students to actively engage in the legislative process.   Student Art Exhibit at the Glema Talented young artists from throughout Hopkins County Schools got to see their creativity on display in the Anne P. Baker Gallery at Glema Mahr Center for the Arts during the preview night on March 3.  The 2025 Student Art Exhibit, which consists of artworks created by students in kindergarten through 12th grade, will be on display through March 29. Regular gallery hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday with extended hours on Glema Center event days. Go check out the amazing artwork!   Remember Your Why Award Kasey Baldwin - Pride Elementary Teacher Kasey Baldwin, a kindergarten teacher at Pride Elementary, received the Remember Your Why Award at the Board of Education meeting on March 17. She is described as one-of-a-kind! She has gone above and beyond since the school year started. After the first day of school, according to a parent nomination, she called the student’s home to make sure the child had a great first day. She has helped make her students excited about school and learning! Her communication with parents is excellent, and she makes them feel comfortable knowing that their child is in great hands!  Baldwin said her “Why” is the following: “Teaching is my mission field. Every day, I have a chance to have a positive impact on my students' lives. I am fulfilled by the relationships I have with my kids and by being a part of their social and academic growth. Despite it being my fifteenth year, watching them learn a new skill or meet a goal is just as exciting as it was my first year. Kindergarten is so rewarding because the growth that we see from the beginning of the year to the end is astounding!”   Pam Todd - HCCTC Principal Pam Todd, principal of Hopkins County Career and Technology Center, was presented with the “Remember Your Why” Award at the Board of Education meeting on March 3. The nomination said she exemplifies the spirit of Remember Your Why through her unwavering commitment to students and staff. Her passion for education and dedication to fostering a positive, safe and enjoyable environment for learning are apparent on a daily basis. She takes the time to listen to student concerns, offering both guidance and encouragement during difficult times. She also creates a warm and welcoming environment at CTC, where every student feels valued and heard. Todd said her “Why” is the following: “Being the principal at Hopkins County Career and Technology Center is incredibly rewarding because I get to witness students develop real-world skills that prepare them for successful careers. I love seeing their confidence grow as they master hands-on learning experiences. Our dedicated teachers and staff make a lasting impact, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to excel. I enjoy developing partnerships with local businesses and industry so our programs stay relevant and provide students with valuable opportunities. Working with the teachers to help shape the future workforce and empower students to achieve their goals has made this role truly fulfilling.”   RYW Award Nominations Accepted Hopkins County Schools wants to recognize employees and students for good deeds and kindness shown to others. Remember Your Why Award winners may be nominated by any district stakeholder, including staff, students, parents, and community members. Through the theme "Remember Your Why," faculty and staff are encouraged to focus on what’s most important – the reason they went into education or chose to work in the schools. This initiative was initially designed to motivate staff. We always want to be there for our students! It has since been expanded to include students. Raising motivation levels will have positive impacts on students, parents, co-workers, and the community. Nomination Form   Future Ready Fridays Innovator HCS students became innovators for Future Ready Friday activities across the district on March 21! At Pride Elementary, these photos show kindergartners building things using a variety of items; 1st-graders working in groups to create “leprechaun traps”; and 3rd-graders using Legos to innovate as they created sturdy bridges. All the kids were very excited to think outside the box as they participated in the hands-on projects!  On Future Ready Fridays, schools emphasize the Hopkins County Future Ready characteristics of successful graduates. Effective Communicator Effective Communication was the focus of the Future Ready Friday on Feb. 28. These monthly activities encourage students to embrace the characteristics of being a Future Ready Graduate. This event involved students working on new ways to communicate as well as covering soft skills that are part of the HCS Amazing Shake competition.    Building Innovation After designing and building 3-D bedroom models, Hanson Elementary 3rd graders received a visit from a special guest showing how those skills can be used in real life. Brooke Dunbar Gilliam, who is featured on the TV show “Making Modern with Brooke and Brice,” visited the school today to talk to students about being a builder. Her niece, Aubrey Dunbar, is a 3rd grader at Hanson, and her mother, Jill Dunbar, teaches at Madisonville North Hopkins. “I have looked at your rooms and I have seen lots of innovation,” Brooke said. “What was the hardest part?” The students all answered at once! Several agreed they had trouble making sure everything would fit in the room. Brooke’s presentation showed clips from the TV show that gave examples of how they had to be innovators, such as using loft beds or Murphy beds to conserve space. “I hope it made y’all excited to be able to build and create other things in your world,” Brooke told the students. Her renovation series “Making Modern with Brooke and Brice” can be streamed on Magnolia Network, Max, and Discovery+. The “Designing Your Own Bedroom” project fits right in with Hopkins County Schools’ Deeper Learning initiative. Students used a variety of abilities to create their designs, drawing on math, art, and problem-solving skills. Schools are placing an emphasis on the characteristic of  being an Innovator this month. The kids were very excited to show off their designs!   'Little Mermaid' Musical Debuts Audience members traveled “Under the Sea” for the Hopkins County Schools Joint Production of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”! The show was presented March 21-22 at Glema Mahr Center for the Arts. This was a First United Bank and Trust Proud Partnership.   Now Hiring! Hopkins County Schools is now hiring for the 2025-2026 school year! To see the list of job postings, please visit www.hopkins.kyschools.us/jobs.   Board Honors HCCHS Dance Team The Board of Education honored Hopkins County Central High School High Voltage Dance Team members and coaches on March 3 for winning the UDA National Championship in Pom! The team also placed 2nd in the nation in Hip Hop. Congratulations to all!   MNHHS Swimmers Capture Region Titles Madisonville North Hopkins swimmers who captured Regional Championships were honored at the Board of Education meeting on March 3! A freestyle relay team of Addison Howard, Adison Melton, Emma Tagg, and Audrey Tate won the 200-yard freestyle as well as the 400-yard free relay. Emma Tagg also won the 50-yard freestyle event. Congratulations to all!   Sharing Kindness The Be-YOU-Tiful Leaders group visited children at First Church Church Preschool earlier this month. The Hopkins County Central and Madisonville North Hopkins students who participate in Be-YOU-Tiful Leaders read stories to the young children and led a lesson on kindness. The preschool kids made the pieces for a “kindness quilt.”   Hygiene Item Drive The BeYOUtiful Leaders will be collecting hygiene items for the homeless community until Friday, April 11. Products requested include the following: Deodorant;  Feminine products;  Toothbrushes;  toothpaste;  Baby wipes; Socks;  Hair combs;  Soap (bar and liquid form);  Lotion; Tissues; Lip Balm;  Shampoo/Conditioner. Drop-off locations are Madisonville North Hopkins High School, Hopkins County Central High School, Madisonville Fire Department, 98 E. Center St., Mister Taco, 506 E. Center St., and Hopkins County Family YMCA.  The leaders will be creating hygiene bags at the spring conference on April 23rd and distributing them throughout the community for their spring project.    Attendance Reminders Students receive 8 parent/guardian note excuses for full day absences. Medical notes (or other excuses) should be submitted within 5 days. After 6 unexcused absences, parents/guardians/students may receive a FINAL NOTICE from the DPP office with a notification to attend an attendance intervention meeting. After 15 unexcused absences, parent/guardian/student names will be reported to the local county attorney’s office. **Per school SBDM policy: Students may be prohibited from school-sponsored events: After 6 Unexcused Absences After 10 Tardies **KRS 159.051 outlines No Pass/No Drive Laws for attendance/truancy   Nominations Open for Teaching Awards Public school partners from Caldwell, Crittenden, Dawson Springs, Hopkins, Muhlenberg, and Webster County districts along with Madisonville Community College and Murray State University-Madisonville have announced the third year of the Regional Education Partnership Excellence in Teaching awards to recognize outstanding classroom educators. "We are excited to host this event for the third year, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to excellence in teaching and the vital role educators play in shaping the future of our communities," said Dr. Jay Parrent of Madisonville Community College. "We hope this award inspires educators to continue their invaluable work and serves as a reminder of the profound impact they have on their students' lives." The award was created to celebrate and highlight teaching excellence in elementary, middle, and high school education. Nominees who demonstrate exceptional skills and dedication to their profession and inspire and motivate students to achieve their full potential are sought. The colleges and school districts have been meeting regularly since 2017 to discuss issues of mutual importance, plan collaborative ventures, and refine and expand dual credit programming for students. Several key initiatives have been developed through this partnership since its inception.   The window for nominations will remain open online until Friday, April 4. To be eligible, nominees must be full-time regular classroom teachers in an elementary, middle, or high school with at least three years of experience. A committee of educators and administrators from each district and representatives from the colleges will select one teacher from each grade level from each district.   The award ceremony will take place on Thursday, April 17, on the Madisonville Community College campus. Follow this link to nominate a teacher for this recognition.   Employee of the Year Nominations Hopkins County Schools is seeking nominations for the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year and Employee of the Year awards. Teacher of the Year nominees must have a minimum of three years teaching experience. The Teachers of the Year will be selected in the categories of Elementary (P-5), Middle (6-8) and Secondary (9-12). Categories for Employee of the Year nominations are: Administrator of the Year, eligible nominees would include principals, assistant principals, central office administrators, and guidance counselors; Classified Support Services, eligible nominees would include instructional assistants who work in a classroom setting to enhance student achievement and Family Resource employees who provide student needs throughout the district; Facilities Management, eligible employees would include all custodians and district maintenance staff; Food Service, eligible nominees would include all cafeteria employees, cafeteria managers and district food service employees; Transportation, eligible nominees would include bus drivers, bus monitors, vehicle maintenance staff and district employees; Secretary of the Year, eligible employees would include all school secretaries; and Central Office Employee of the Year, eligible employees would include all central office staff. Nominations will be accepted through the close of business, 4 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025. Online nomination forms are available at the following links: Teacher of the Year Employee of the Year A printable form is also available. It may be emailed to jennifer.harris@hopkins.kyschools.us or mailed to Employee of the Year, Hopkins County Schools, 320 S. Seminary, Madisonville, KY 42431, Attention: Jennifer Harris. Telephone nominations will not be accepted. Employee of the Year Nomination Form (pdf)   Key Club Donates to Food Bank Madisonville North Hopkins High School Key Club officers presented a check to Sharmari Parker, director of Christian Food Bank of Hopkins County. The club donated the proceeds from this year’s Character Breakfast event to the food bank. What an awesome way to give back to the community!   KySTE Presentation HCS Technology Department staff Steven Vaught and Eric Stephens gave a presentation at the Kentucky Society for Technology in Education Conference recently in Louisville. The presentation, entitled “Unlocking Security: Mastering Door Access Control in K-12 Schools, talked about how IT personnel are becoming more involved in building and safety infrastructure.      Visit our Website   Hopkins County Schools 320 S. Seminary St. Madisonville, KY 42431

    Wednesday, Mar 26 2025

  • Nominations Accepted for Regional Education Partners...

    Public school partners from Caldwell, Crittenden, Dawson Springs, Hopkins, Muhlenberg, and Webster County districts along with Madisonville Community College and Murray State University-Madisonville have announced the third year of the Regional Education Partnership Excellence in Teaching awards to recognize outstanding classroom educators. "We are excited to host this event for the third year, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to excellence in teaching and the vital role educators play in shaping the future of our communities," said Dr. Jay Parrent of Madisonville Community College. "We hope this award inspires educators to continue their invaluable work and serves as a reminder of the profound impact they have on their students' lives." The award was created to celebrate and highlight teaching excellence in elementary, middle, and high school education. Nominees who demonstrate exceptional skills and dedication to their profession and inspire and motivate students to achieve their full potential are sought. The colleges and school districts have been meeting regularly since 2017 to discuss issues of mutual importance, plan collaborative ventures, and refine and expand dual credit programming for students. Several key initiatives have been developed through this partnership since its inception.   The window for nominations will remain open online  until Friday, April 4 . To be eligible, nominees must be full-time regular classroom teachers in an elementary, middle, or high school with at least three years of experience. A committee of educators and administrators from each district and representatives from the colleges will select one teacher from each grade level from each district.   The award ceremony will take place on Thursday, April 17, on the Madisonville Community College campus. Follow this link to nominate a teacher for this recognition . Thank you!

    Wednesday, Mar 12 2025

  • HCS Superintendent Survey

    Dear Hopkins County Schools Community,   As we begin our search for a new superintendent, the Hopkins County Board of Education is seeking your valuable input. We have launched an online survey to gather feedback from certified staff , classified staff , parents , and community members regarding the most important qualities for our next school leader. Your participation in this survey is crucial to our search process. The Board is committed to hearing from as many voices as possible to help us make the best decision possible. Your responses will help shape the profile of our ideal candidate by ranking and prioritizing the traits, skills, and characteristics our next superintendent needs to possess to lead our district successfully. All the listed qualities you will see are important, but which qualities do you feel we should consider  most important? While limits are placed on the length of the message (200 characters or less), there is an opportunity to share brief comments you encourage the Board to consider as we proceed.    To access, please visit:  Hopkins County Superintendent Survey . It will remain open until March 28, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. CDT.    Thank you for your commitment to Hopkins County Schools and for taking the time to contribute to this important decision-making process.   Sincerely, The Hopkins County Board of Education

    Friday, Mar 07 2025

  • HCS Connections Newsletter - February 2025

    ​ ​ Connections #TeamHopkins Parent and Community Newsletter ​ ​ ​ ​ February 2025 ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Employee of the Year Nominations ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools is seeking nominations for the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year and Employee of the Year awards. Teacher of the Year nominees must have a minimum of three years teaching experience. The Teachers of the Year will be selected in the categories of Elementary (P-5), Middle (6-8) and Secondary (9-12). Categories for Employee of the Year nominations are: Administrator of the Year, eligible nominees would include principals, assistant principals, central office administrators, and guidance counselors; Classified Support Services, eligible nominees would include instructional assistants who work in a classroom setting to enhance student achievement and Family Resource employees who provide student needs throughout the district; Facilities Management, eligible employees would include all custodians and district maintenance staff; Food Service, eligible nominees would include all cafeteria employees, cafeteria managers and district food service employees; Transportation, eligible nominees would include bus drivers, bus monitors, vehicle maintenance staff and district employees; Secretary of the Year, eligible employees would include all school secretaries; and Central Office Employee of the Year, eligible employees would include all central office staff. Nominations will be accepted through the close of business, 4 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025. Online nomination forms are available at the following links: Teacher of the Year Employee of the Year A printable form is also available. It may be emailed to jennifer.harris@hopkins.kyschools.us or mailed to Employee of the Year, Hopkins County Schools, 320 S. Seminary, Madisonville, KY 42431, Attention: Jennifer Harris. Telephone nominations will not be accepted. Employee of the Year Nomination Form (pdf) ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Bid Accepted for Central Office Project ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The Board of Education has selected Garmong Construction to provide general contracting services for the new Central Office project. The district currently operates out of the former Madisonville High School, built in 1922. The new facility will result in savings in repair and maintenance costs, provide energy savings, and allow for the latest technology upgrades. Garmong is based in Indiana and has an office in Evansville. Garmong submitted the low base bid. The tentative timeline calls for completion in spring 2026. Sherman Carter Barnhart is the architectural firm for the project. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Preschool Registration Opens for 2025-2026 ​ ​ ​ ​ Preschool Enrollment is starting for the 2025-2026 school year. Additional information and links to the forms are available at www.hopkins.kyschools.us/PreschoolRegistration. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Celebrating FRYSC Appreciation Week ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ We honored our FRYSC coordinators during a luncheon on Feb. 13 as part of Family Resource Youth Services Center Appreciation Week! FRYSCs play a vital role to help students succeed in school by developing partnerships and working to remove non-academic barriers to learning. Melissa Goins, director of the state Division of Family Resource and Youth Services Centers, was a special guest speaker. The work of FRYSC coordinators, like many roles in the education field, is “a calling,” she said. “While we are here to appreciate the work of our coordinators and of our centers, the centers don’t exist without community, without other people,” she said. “You need other people. People want to work with you. That’s the good news!” HCS Community Schools Director Wendy Gamblin shared the impact that the programs have had on students and families at each of our schools. Another special guest was Katie Morris, full service community schools manager for the state of Kentucky. Hopkins County Schools’ FRYSC coordinators are Zachary Evans, Browning Springs Middle School; Tonja Simms, Grapevine Elementary; Tonya Cotton, Hanson Elementary; Dana Byrum, Hopkins County Central High; Shanda Hughes, James Madison Middle; Charles Yarbrough, Jesse Stuart Elementary; Randall Campbell, Madisonville North Hopkins High; Lauren Oldham, Pride Elementary; Amanda McLevain, Southside Elementary; Kristin Mackey, South Hopkins Middle; Cindy Fletcher, West Broadway Elementary; and Bobbie Schaffer, West Hopkins School. A huge “thank you” goes out to each one of them! We appreciate their dedication!! ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ National SRO Appreciation Day ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ February 15 was National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day. We want to recognize the work our SROs do daily to help keep our schools safe! These photos show the celebration earlier this week at West Hopkins School, where students and staff dressed in honor of SRO Frank Cates. We are fortunate to have SROs in each of our schools thanks to partnerships Hopkins County Schools has with Madisonville Police Department and Hopkins County Sheriff’s Department! ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ RYW Award Nominations Accepted ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools wants to recognize employees and students for good deeds and kindness shown to others. Remember Your Why Award winners may be nominated by any district stakeholder, including staff, students, parents, and community members. Through the theme "Remember Your Why," faculty and staff are encouraged to focus on what’s most important – the reason they went into education or chose to work in the schools. This initiative was initially designed to motivate staff. We always want to be there for our students! It has since been expanded to include students. Raising motivation levels will have positive impacts on students, parents, co-workers, and the community. Nomination Form ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Pathway Expo for 8th Graders ​ ​ ​ ​ Our high schools hosted a Pathway Expo recently for 8th-grade students! This event was designed for 8th-grade students to explore the diverse career pathways, clubs, and sports opportunities available at the high school level. This hands-on experience allowed students to engage with teachers, coaches, and student representatives to learn about academic programs, extracurricular activities, and future career options. The expo helps students make informed decisions about their high school journey, setting them on a path to success. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Operation Tech Center ​ ​ ​ ​ Eighth graders got a glimpse into several career pathways during Operation Tech Center! The annual program gives students a look into the career pathways offered at CTC. This helps  students think about possible careers before registering for classes for their freshman year of high school. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Be-You-Tiful Leaders 'Heart Drop' ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Members of the Be-You-tiful Leaders group from Hopkins County Central met February 5 for their “winter breakout” to discuss possible projects and how to leave a lasting impact. They also created encouraging and inspiring messages to give to others as part of the “Heart Drop” project. To learn more, watch this piece from 44 News. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Glow in the Dark Artworks ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Glow paint combined with blacklights provided artistic inspiration for students at West Broadway Elementary! Students in the Primary Talent Pool and Gifted and Talented program learned about spacing and movement in art, said WBES GT coordinator Morgan Russell. She guided them in creating a sketch of a sea turtle, then students designed and painted their own turtles and underwater scenes. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Groundhog Job Shadow Day ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ HCS observed National Groundhog Job Shadow Day recently, giving 5th and 8th grade students the chance to shadow professionals in different careers. The goal is for students to connect what they learn in school with how that can be applied in the workplace. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ High Voltage Wins UDA Championship! ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Central HS High Voltage Dance Team won the UDA National Championship in Pom! They also placed 2nd in the nation in Hip Hop! They were competing in Varsity Intermediate Division II. Congratulations to the team members and coaches on their outstanding performance!! ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ JSES Student Wins Grandparent Essay Contest ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ HCS student June Johnson, a 5th grader at Jesse Stuart Elementary, is the winner of the AARP Grandparent Essay Contest for Hopkins County and the eight-county district! The contest is administered by the Kentucky Retired Teachers Association. June’s essay will advance to the state competition! ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Super Saturdays Design Winner ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Sadie Pearson, a 6th grader at James Madison Middle School, is the winner of the Super Saturdays T-Shirt Design Contest! Participants were asked to create a “captivating, original design that showcases Super Saturdays.” The design will be printed on this year’s Super Saturdays T-Shirt. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Visit our Website ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools ​ 320 S. Seminary St. Madisonville, KY 42431 ​ ​

    Thursday, Feb 27 2025

  • Preschool Enrollment

    Preschool Enrollment is starting for the 2025-2026 school year. Additional information and links to the forms are available at  www.hopkins.kyschools.us/PreschoolRegistration . Thank you!

    Tuesday, Feb 25 2025

  • January HCS Connections Newsletter

    ​ ​ Connections #TeamHopkins Parent and Community Newsletter ​ ​ ​ ​ January 2025 ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Superintendent Smith Announces Retirement ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools Superintendent Amy Smith announced at the January 13, 2025 Board of Education meeting that she will be retiring at the end of June. Superintendent Amy Smith “It is a bittersweet time, but an exciting one as well,” Smith said. “Your support in my tenure has been much appreciated. Continue to ‘Remember Your Why’ and lean on one another. It is an honor to lead HCS and I am looking forward to the remainder of our year together.” Smith’s resignation letter shares many accomplishments Team Hopkins has achieved during her tenure. The Board of Education will now take steps to move ahead with the search for a new superintendent. Kentucky School Leadership Associates will assist in the process. We will keep you updated on the district website ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Special Permission Applications Open Feb. 3 ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County students are required to attend school in their assigned attendance school zone. Parents may visit the district website to determine the school zone to which their address belongs. Students wanting to attend outside of their assigned school zone may only do so if they are approved through a Special Permission Transfer request during the specified window. The district will accept Special Permission Transfer requests for schools operating at less than 90% student capacity. Families do not have to submit a new application for special permission students if their student has previously received special permission to attend the same school. A new application will be needed if the student will be transitioning to a new school. Please note that information on attendance, grades and behavior must be attached to the application. Parents may access this information through the Parent Portal.  Applications may be submitted for the following schools: Browning Springs Middle School, Grapevine Elementary School, Hanson Elementary School, Hopkins County Central High School, James Madison Middle School, Jesse Stuart Elementary School, Pride Elementary School, South Hopkins Middle School, and West Hopkins School.  Applications for schools with availability will only be accepted Feb. 3 through April 1, 2025. The form will be available after 8 a.m. on Feb. 3 on the district website. Applications may also be picked up at the Board of Education’s Central Office starting on that date. Completed applications must be mailed or hand delivered to the Central Office; applications will not be accepted at the school level or through email. Requests will be processed in the order received by the Central Office Department of Pupil Personnel, 320 S. Seminary St., Madisonville. Applications will be reviewed by the DPP Office and the requested school on an individual basis. Approval or denial letters will be mailed by May 1. For more information, contact HCS DPP at 270-825-6000. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ 'Risk' Exhibit on Display at Glema Center ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Two Hopkins County Schools’ employees will have their artwork on display at Glema Mahr Center for the Arts. The Anne P. Baker Gallery presents “Risk: The Art of David Gilkey, Jade Niehaus, and Julie Oakley,” an eclectic exhibit on display through February 21, 2025.  Gilkey is a guidance counselor and Oakley is an art teacher, both at Hopkins County Central High School. “Risk can be both a powerful catalyst and a paralyzing restraint,” reads the artists’ statement. “This collection explores the inherent risks of artist and viewer, but also the delicate boundary between control and surrender, asking how far we can push ourselves, our mediums, and our interpretations of the art before the line of comfort and uncertainty blurs. “Each piece in ‘Risk’ is an invitation,” the statement continues. “Some are literal invitations to transition from part of the audience to part of the process. Some are invitations to view the artist’s vulnerability through raw and unpolished processes. Others are invitations to bold experimentation for experimentation’s sake regardless of reception. This body of work challenges both the creator and the viewer to lean into discomfort, to question, and to find meaning.” The Anne P. Baker Gallery is located inside the Glema Mahr Center for the Arts on the campus of Madisonville Community College. The gallery is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours on Glema Center event days. Gallery admission is free. For more information regarding this exhibit visit GlemaCenter.org or contact Toby Roberts at 270-821-2787 or Toby.Roberts@kctcs.edu. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Remember Your Why ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Rhianwen Lowbridge, West Broadway Teacher ​ Rhianwen Lowbridge, a teacher at West Broadway Elementary School, received the Remember Your Why Award at the Jan. 27 Board of Education meeting. She is an exceptional educator who invests in the well-being of her students. “Her love, acceptance, and dedication to her students are qualities that are rare and invaluable in an educator,” said a parent of one of her students. “She has a unique ability to see the true potential in each of her students and nurture it, helping them grow and thrive in ways that are both remarkable and heartwarming.” The parent shared this as the family prepared to relocate and the student struggled to come to terms with leaving his beloved teacher. “This speaks volumes about the impact Ms. Lowbridge has had on his life and the bond they have formed,” the parent said. Her outstanding contributions to her students and the community make her an asset to West Broadway and Hopkins County Schools. In explaining her “Why,” Lowbridge said, “The value of education and a love of learning were both instilled in me at a young age, and I strive to cultivate a classroom environment that encourages my students to be lifelong learners. My ‘why’ as an educator is to ensure that each and every one of my students know that I see and recognize their diverse talents and gifts, that I value each of them for their unique contributions to our school’s community, and that I am dedicated to their success and will always be there to support them both now and in the future.” ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ RYW Award Nominations Accepted ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools wants to recognize employees and students for good deeds and kindness shown to others. Remember Your Why Award winners may be nominated by any district stakeholder, including staff, students, parents, and community members. Through the theme "Remember Your Why," faculty and staff are encouraged to focus on what’s most important – the reason they went into education or chose to work in the schools. This initiative was initially designed to motivate staff. We always want to be there for our students! It has since been expanded to include students. Raising motivation levels will have positive impacts on students, parents, co-workers, and the community. Nomination Form ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Board Elects Leaders for 2025 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Scisney Chosen Chairman, Foster Named Vice Chairman ​ Board attorney Keith Cartwright administered the oath of office to re-elected Hopkins County Board of Education members Shannon Embry, John Osborne (participating remotely), and Kerri Scisney on January 13. Also during the meeting, the board elected Scisney as chairman for 2025 and elected Nicholas Foster as vice chairman. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Future Ready Friday ​ ​ ​ ​ Lifelong Learner ​ Becoming a Lifelong Learner was the focus of the January 17 district-wide Future Ready Friday activities! Students worked together on a variety of projects, including researching well-known individuals who overcame obstacles on their way to success. Future Ready Fridays empower students to embrace the characteristics of being a Future Ready Graduate. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Cookin' for Kids Fundraiser ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools will take part in the Cookin’ for Kids Fundraiser, which benefits the youth of our community through the Hopkins County Family YMCA and Madisonville Rotary Club. Food Service Director Scott Moore will participate along with Toni Clarke of West Broadway Elementary, Amy Crawley of Hopkins County Central HS, Rick Guck of Jesse Stuart Elementary, Sharon Crick of Madisonville North Hopkins HS, and Jenny Brown and Victoria Earl of the Central Office. Additional donations may be made at the online fundraising page. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Revolutionary Project ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Eighth-graders at James Madison Middle School examined the life, leadership abilities, and contributions of a variety of historical figures from the American Revolution for a special project earlier this month. The American Revolutionary War Museum included visits from other students as well as guests from the community who helped assess student work. “The purpose of this activity was to give the students the opportunity to learn about the history and impact that various people had on the Revolutionary War,” said 8th grade social studies teacher Amanda Bearden. “Often students just learn about George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and other ‘founding fathers,’ but I wanted the kids to see that people from all different backgrounds played a role in the Revolution.” ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ WKAC Champions! ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ JMMS 8th Grade Girls Basketball ​ James Madison Middle School’s 8th grade girls basketball team was honored by the Board of Education during the January 13 meeting. The team won the WKAC championship!  ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ SHMS Dance Team ​ The South Hopkins Middle School dance team was recognized January 13 during the Board of Education meeting. The Dance Cats captured the WKAC championship!  ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Visit our Website ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools ​ 320 S. Seminary St. Madisonville, KY 42431 ​ ​

    Wednesday, Jan 29 2025

  • HCS Connections Newsletter - December 2024

    ​ ​ Connections #TeamHopkins Parent and Community Newsletter ​ ​ ​ ​ December 2024 ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Deeper Learning Initiative Builds Future Ready Graduates ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools’ Deeper Learning initiative brings lessons to life for students.  Fifth-graders at Pride Elementary dressed in colonial attire to simulate a school day from long ago and created a cookbook filled with their own family recipes. Art students at Jesse Stuart Elementary learned about self-portraits through history and then created one, doing it “their own way.” Agri-biology students at Madisonville North Hopkins High plan science and agriculture lessons for second-graders at the annual Fall on the Farm event. “The purpose of Deeper Learning is to ensure students acquire not only basic academic knowledge but also develop critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills,” said Wendy Mitchell, district director of elementary education. “This initiative seeks to prepare the whole child for success in college, careers, and life by fostering not just an understanding of content, but applying knowledge in the real world.” Read the full story on the district website. This story was published in the Hopkins County Regional Chamber of Commerce 2025 Magazine. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Learn More About FRYSC Services ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ 'A Tri-State Christmas' ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The Madisonville North Hopkins Maroon Brass Quintet will perform on “A Tri-State Christmas,” which airs on Christmas Day. The show, which features talented musicians from throughout the area, will air from 5-7 a.m. on ABC 25 WEHT and from 7-9 a.m. on CW7 WTVW on Wednesday, Dec. 25. Organizers have advised people to set their DVRs because the show will not be posted on their website because of copyright restrictions and royalty fees. Quintet members are Sophia Wilson, trumpet; Cameron Leet, trumpet; Kendee Creekmur, horn; Judah Maddox, trombone; and Sam Page, tuba. Directors are Alan Emerson, Cory Mullins, and AG Van Fleet. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Remember Your Why ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Ashley Gaines, District Social Worker ​ Ashley Gaines, district social worker, was presented with the Remember Your Why Award at the School Board meeting on Monday. She tirelessly supports students and families. These efforts often extend beyond the school day to accommodate their schedules. She shows genuine kindness and empathy when working with parents, addressing their concerns with sincerity and care. She collaborates seamlessly with HCS mental health counselors, providing valuable support to enhance their work. Her unwavering dedication to the well-being of our students and families makes her an invaluable asset to our district. Gaines said, “My ‘why’ comes from a genuine desire to support students and families. I want to help students thrive by providing access to resources and opportunities, but also to ensure that they and their families feel included, supported, and valued as part of our school community.” ​ ​ ​ ​ RYW Award Nominations Accepted ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools wants to recognize employees and students for good deeds and kindness shown to others. Remember Your Why Award winners may be nominated by any district stakeholder, including staff, students, parents, and community members. Through the theme "Remember Your Why," faculty and staff are encouraged to focus on what’s most important – the reason they went into education or chose to work in the schools. This initiative was initially designed to motivate staff. We always want to be there for our students! It has since been expanded to include students. Raising motivation levels will have positive impacts on students, parents, co-workers, and the community. Nomination Form ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Parade Rings in the Season ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Southside, Jesse Stuart Take 1st, 2nd in Float Category ​ HCS participants in the Madisonville Christmas Parade helped ring in the season on Saturday! This year’s theme was “Silver Bells - It’s Christmas Time in the City.” Congratulations to everyone who took part! Two of our schools received special honors in the Best Float category! The Grand Prize for the 25th annual Kiwanis Club Christmas parade was presented to Southside Elementary, with 1st Runner-Up going to Jesse Stuart Elementary. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Moss Represents KY in SBO+ Magazine ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ '50 Music Teachers Who Make a Difference' ​ Hopkins County Schools teacher David Moss has been selected to represent Kentucky in the SBO+ magazine issue featuring 50 Music Teachers Who Make a Difference. The December issue was released recently. Moss teaches at both West Hopkins School and Hopkins County Central High School. He is band director at WHS and an assistant at HCCHS. "I am grateful to be recognized by SBO Magazine, but the real difference makers are the students, parents, and colleagues that I get to work with on a daily basis that make my job the best in HCS,” he said. “I wake up every day grateful I am given the opportunity to make a difference in our part of Hopkins County."  This award highlights music educators who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of students and their communities through music. Moss doesn’t know who nominated him, but said he wants to thank that person. He received this award once before, in 2006. This is the 25th year SBO+ has released this special edition. West Hopkins Principal Eric Stone said, “This prestigious award comes to no surprise to me as David Moss is an exceptional band instructor who continuously strives for excellence in our school and community. Mr. Moss is not only a role model and mentor but also a positive influence on every life he touches. This comes as no surprise to anyone at ‘The Ridge,’ as Mr. Moss consistently makes a meaningful difference in the lives of everyone at West Hopkins. His unwavering commitment to our students and the community is truly unparalleled. Every student in our school, whether they are part of the band or not, knows that Mr. Moss is always there to support them and help them achieve their goals.” HCCHS Principal Mike Zimmer also praised Moss. “Mr. Moss is one of the most compassionate and caring educators that I have had the pleasure of getting to work with,” Zimmer said. “This mentality is why he is able to make a difference in the lives of his students.” 50 Music Teachers Who Make a Difference Issue ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Central FFA Brings Home State Titles ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Members of several State Champion FFA teams from Hopkins County Central were recognized during the School Board meeting on Monday. The Hopkins County Central FFA Land Judging and Homesite Evaluation team competed against regional winners and runner ups from across the state of Kentucky in November. Our team earned the title of STATE CHAMPION in both the Land Judging and the Homesite contests! Additionally, Jo Oakley was recognized as the overall high individual in the state in both contests. This was the first time in state history a school and individual has won both contests.  Please join us in congratulating Addison Blanchard, Isaiah Davis, Eli DeMoss, and Jo Oakley for their accomplishments! The team will compete at the National competition in May in Oklahoma The HCCHS FFA Wildlife team competed in the state contest at the Ky State Fair in August. The team was named the STATE WINNER!!! Team Members included Elissa Adams, Hayden Crick, Isaiah Davis, Wesley Orange and Jessica Lawless. Jessica was also the overall high individual in the state! The team has been invited to compete in the National Wildlife Habitat Education Program contest next summer. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ MNHHS Chemistry Competition ​ ​ ​ ​ Seven students from Madisonville North Hopkins High School participated in the Murray State University Chemistry Scholarship Tournament. Hope Calhoun was the high scoring team member, and Carson Smith placed 3rd in the first-year division winning a $50 cash prize. Other team members include Duncan Eveland, Wesley Grace, Iliana Deras, Noah Thomas, and Reese Soriano. Maria Bailey and Jeremy Davis were the team coaches. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Roll Rumble 2024 Champs ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Our cafeteria staff recently put their baking skills to the test in “Roll Rumble 2024”! Congratulations go out to every school! Competition was VERYtough this year! Top honors go to Hopkins County Central High School, whose rolls were also honored for Best Smell, Best Volume, and Best Overall Taste. South Hopkins Middle School placed 2nd. Their rolls received honors for Best Symmetry and Best Crust Color. Third place went to Grapevine Elementary School, whose rolls were noted for Best Crust Color and Best Volume. Additional honors went to West Hopkins for Best Crust Surface; Hanson Elementary for Most Improved, and WHS and West Broadway Elementary for Best Tasting. Great job, everyone!  ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ SHMS Fall Athletes of Year ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ South Hopkins Middle School students who were recognized as Middle School Fall Sports Athletes of the Year were honored at the Board of Education meeting on Monday. They were unable to attend the previous presentation. Those recognized include Collin Phaup, Athlete of the Year; Hudson Beeny, Citizenship Athlete of the Year; Karoline Riddle, Heart of the Team Athlete of the Year; and McKenzie Gray, Sportsmanship Athlete of the Year. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Children's Literacy Activities ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools Title 1 and Celebrate Literacy Hopkins County teamed up to give away books to kids while offering special children’s literacy activities at The Flight Before Christmas. This special event sponsored by the city of Madisonville was held at Madisonville Regional Airport. There was a great turnout!  ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Visit our Website ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Hopkins County Schools ​ 320 S. Seminary St. Madisonville, KY 42431 ​ ​

    Friday, Dec 20 2024