TEST POST OF OWNERSHIP CHANGE

 TEST POST OF OWNERSHIP CHANGE

All,

I wanted to share a quick update from Frankfort, as a large number of education-related bills have already been introduced during the current session that started last week. More than 40 bills currently touch K-12 education. While many will never move past committee, several are already gaining traction and could have real impacts on schools, students, and staff across Kentucky.

Below are some of the most significant bills that have been introduced so far:

SB 181
You may recognize this bill number as it is intentionally the same number used last year. This new version is designed to correct and clarify issues created by the 2025 version of SB 181, which affected how schools communicate with students. Lawmakers are moving quickly on this bill, and it could be heard in the Senate Education Committee as early as this week.

SB 22
This bill would allow districts’ “Grow Your Own” teacher programs to qualify for dual-credit scholarships, potentially helping more students enter the teaching profession.

SB 26
This bill would prohibit Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs within KDE and local school districts.

HB 11 and HB 99
These identical bills create a framework for carving out independent school districts from districts deemed persistently underperforming. These proposals are largely aimed at JCPS but could set a precedent for how the state intervenes in struggling districts.

HB 88
This bill would give the State Auditor, instead of the Governor, the authority to decide whether Kentucky participates in a federal tax-credit program for private school scholarships. The Kentucky Supreme Court has previously ruled a similar program unconstitutional, so this bill could raise significant legal and funding concerns.

HB 102
This bill strengthens the handling of teacher misconduct, particularly by increasing transparency around prior disciplinary issues for individuals licensed by the EPSB.

HB 161
This bill would require school track facilities to be open to the public during daylight hours when not being used for school events.

HB 253
This bill would prohibit the use of three-cueing in reading instruction and require school districts to develop programs for students with dyslexia.

HB 257
This bill would allow districts to create their own local accountability systems.

HB 289
This bill would require districts to allow part-time student enrollment, but would prohibit those part-time students from participating in school athletics.

HB 304 (Governor’s Budget Proposal)
While the House majority is expected to introduce its own budget later, the Governor’s proposal (HB 304) includes funding for Pre-K for All and other education priorities. It is unlikely to move forward, but it signals where the Governor hopes to invest in schools.

If you care enough about this stuff to see the exact wording of these bills, you can find that information HERE. From the General Assembly's website, look under "Bills and Amendments" for both the House and the Senate, and select the appropriate bill number. 

I will continue to monitor these bills, especially those that directly affect our classrooms, students, and daily operations. I’ll share updates as anything moves forward that may impact us here at BES and across Bardstown City Schools.

Lance

A Few Things (cleaning, drills, events, printers, etc.)

 Folks,

I wanted to touch base about a few building-wide items and also invite your help and creativity as we move into the next few weeks.

First, I want you to know that I am aware of some cleanliness concerns that have been raised around the building. Our classrooms and common spaces matter, and you deserve an environment that feels well cared for. I have already spoken with Denise Culver, our housekeeping director, regarding a few concerns I have with the night crew, and she is aware that I am gathering feedback from staff. I would really appreciate it if you would take a moment to share anything you feel is being overlooked or needs attention by kindly adding it to this housekeeping feedback document. You all have the right to add/edit this. I shared with Denise that she and I need to connect next week to review areas of concern.  

Due to tomorrow’s weather forecast in the 20s, we will reschedule the planned drills to Thursday, January 22, from 1:45 to 2:15. Currently, it appears to be sunny and 45 degrees for that day. We will schedule them for a day with more reasonable temperatures, ideally in the 40-degree range, so we can complete them safely and comfortably for both students and staff.

As we look ahead to February, I would love some help in two important ways: Black History Month and SRO Appreciation. To support Black History Month, we will be hosting an optional door and hallway decorating contest for any teachers or teams who would like to participate.

• Participating classrooms will receive a slide pass for their class.
• We may also conduct a grade-level student vote, allowing one winning classroom per grade to be selected as the overall winner for the grade. Students will not be allowed to vote for their own classroom door. The grade-level prize will probably be something like a pizza party, ice cream party, or something along those lines. 

Additionally, I would love to host a Donut Breakfast for our first responders close to SRO Appreciation Day (Feb. 16), possibly on the Friday before Valentine’s Day, which would be February 13. I am looking for classrooms that might be willing to make cards, signs, or notes of appreciation, and even some groups who would enjoy stopping by to help greet and visit with our first responders that morning. More details will come, but if this sounds like something your class would enjoy, please let me know.

I also wanted to reach out because I know many of you have been experiencing issues with the copiers over the last couple of weeks. I have heard about the challenges happening around the building, and I can imagine how frustrating this must be when you’re trying to teach, plan, assess, and keep things running smoothly. IT is working with our vendor to diagnose and resolve the issue as quickly as possible. For now, we may need to share machines among hallways as best we can.

And in the spirit of finding a little humor in the middle of the frustration, I’d like to channel the great American philosopher, Jay-Z:

You got 99 problems and the printer is one,
Won’t print plans, won’t scan when you’re done.
It jams, it beeps, it just ain't fun,
You got 99 problems and the printer is one.

Hopefully, we’ll be good to go very soon. 

Side note, I sent this to Paola last night, trying to convince her to do some orchestra hip-hop classics at the next strings concert. When you see her, please peer pressure her as I am trying to do...

Thanks,

Lance

SportsYou Switch and Directions

 Hi all,

As mentioned to teachers and instructional assistants during your Gold Day, we will be switching from Remind to SportsYou. I have set up the account, and it's ready to go. I also have the Google Calendar imported and visible. 

A note on the calendar: Users cannot add events directly via the SportsYou calendar; instead, events can only be added via Google Calendar. The app is only set up to display events from the BES Google Calendar through Google's "export calendar" option, which only transmits data in one direction (from Google Calendar to SportsYou). 

The directions on how to download and join our BES account can be found HERE. In the directions, you will find the access code (W6LE-38EL) and instructional videos, which you can review if you wish. I plan to start using SportsYou instead of Remind on January 19, so you have a few days to join. 

 

If you encounter any issues, please don't hesitate to consult a tech-savvy colleague or reach out if you need assistance. 

Lance 

KCSS School Safety Visit and Survey

 Team,

On February 3, the Kentucky Center for School Safety will be conducting a voluntary safety assessment at Bardstown Elementary School. On February 4, the Center will complete similar assessments at BECEC and BPS. This process is not evaluative of staff or schools and is completely voluntary for our district. The purpose is to gather broad feedback and recommendations to help us continue strengthening our safety practices.

I had the same process take place at Bardstown Middle School and Bardstown High School last year, and the feedback provided to those schools was thoughtful, practical, and greatly appreciated.

As part of the assessment, staff, parents/families, and students will complete anonymous surveys.

Action Steps & Timeline

• Please complete the staff survey by January 21.
• Please also set aside time for students to complete the student survey by January 21. (NOTE: ONLY 4^th and 5^th Grade Students complete the student survey)
• If you use Google Classroom, I recommend posting the survey link there. If you work with younger students, 
• A good opportunity for completion would be during a morning meeting or another designated class time to ensure students have the support they need.
• I have drafted the script below, which you can use to introduce the survey to your students. 

Teacher Script for Introducing the Student Survey

You are welcome to use or adapt the script below when introducing the survey to students:

“Today you’re going to complete a short survey about how safe you feel at school and what helps you feel supported. This survey is anonymous, which means no one will know how you answered. There are no right or wrong answers — we just want your honest feedback so adults can make our school an even better place for everyone. Please take your time and answer thoughtfully.”

I will send the parent/family survey separately through Infinite Campus Messenger, allowing families to provide their input as well.

Thank you for supporting this process and for your continued commitment to keeping our schools safe, supportive, and responsive to the needs of students and staff. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

I appreciate your help.

Lance

BCS Leave Statement

 All,

I wanted to take a moment to share an update regarding leave documentation.

I was recently reminded of a state requirement related to personal, sick, and emergency leave that I had not considered thus far this year until reminded. This requirement has been in place under Kentucky law, and while it’s not something any of us love—or, in many cases, agree with—it is something we are required to follow unless and until Frankfort changes it.

To make this process as simple and streamlined as possible for you, I have created an electronic Leave Affidavit using a Google Form. This replaces the old paper version that Tina mentioned was previously used and mirrors the state-required affidavit. The form includes checkboxes for the type of leave, a date field, and a place for a digital signature.

When taking a personal, sick, or emergency day, please complete this form in addition to entering your absence as you normally would in Red Rover. Tina will also share the link in her daily morning email, providing easy access to it. 

I appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we align our practices with this requirement. My goal is to keep this process as clear and manageable as possible. If you have any questions or encounter issues with the form, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Lance 

Important Dates as We Start the Quarter

 Hi all,

I hope your first week back with students has been a good one. I wanted to share a few dates with you as we begin the new year and the early part of this semester. 

• 1/9 - Green Day: All students are allowed to dress down to celebrate schoolwide academic growth. 

• 1/9-  Tiger Tickets: It has been a couple of weeks since we have drawn for Tiger Ticket winners or provided an opportunity for students to cash in their tickets. Since it has been a few weeks, and I am sure we have quite the healthy "savings accounts" of Tiger Tickets out and about, the schedule for Friday will be as follows:
• 2^nd Grade: 1:00 - 1:15
  3^rd Grade: 1:15 - 1:30
  4^th Grade: 1:30 - 1:45
•             5^th Grade: 1:45 - 2:00

• 1/15 - Drills: At 1:45 p.m., we will participate in a review of all state-required emergency drills. This would include fire, earthquake, tornado, and active shooter. 
  
  
• 1/23 - 4^th Grade Junior Explorers
  
  
• 2/26 - MLK Day Celebration @ 7:45 AM. More information to come. Time may change a bit. 

I am probably missing something and will add that to our list, if needed. 

-Lance

A Few Recognitions as We Start the Year

All,

One of the best parts of working in a school like ours is getting to see the heart, hustle, and care that each of you brings to our students and to one another. The Roaring Recognitions have already started coming in with shout-outs that speak volumes about the kind of people we’re lucky to call teammates, and I wanted to share a few with you.

Take a look at the kind words families and colleagues have shared recently. If you’re ever having a tough day, come back to this list. It’s a great reminder that what you do, and your INFLUENCE. Others are noticing.

Terri Davis
Jillian T. Rodgers shared that Ms. Terri is monumental in making students feel seen and loved. She said Terri was a bright light during her son's 2nd-grade year and that her kindness carries over into the community as well. “We are so grateful for Ms. Terri!”

Ms. Melissa
Kenad Johnson shared that Melissa always takes care of her son “like her own.” She described how Melissa supports him emotionally, helps with supplies and even school clothes, and said, “She goes above and beyond. We love her!”

Keonna Stone
Teela Stone wanted to recognize Keonna for her patience, communication, and deep care. “She was truly amazing to my son… we appreciate you and love you.”

The Third Grade Team
Sarah Dunn called this team “the BEST in the whole wide district,” thanking them for being welcoming, generous, and a joy to work alongside.

Schrea Hardin
An anonymous person recognized Schrea for putting in hours of work on her a la carte PD presentation, complete with handouts and make-and-takes. They described it as helpful, relatable, and a perfect example of Schrea’s commitment to BES students and their need to MOVE and have their sensory needs met.

Caitlin Smith
Caroline Hazelwood praised Caitlin for her willingness to try new things, collaborate, and lend a helping hand. “She is calm and selfless—a joy to work with.”

Sarah Dunn
Courtney Blair shared that Sarah went above and beyond at Open House, helping both a new student and his dad feel welcomed to BES. She added that Sarah even introduced herself outside of school over the weekend. “She’s amazing, and we’re excited for the year ahead!”

Mrs. Richardson
Annie Turner shared that Mrs. Richardson brought out the absolute best in her child, boosting his confidence and becoming a lasting favorite for the whole family. “She is a blessing and a gift to the students, school, and community.”

Let this be a reminder that the work you do doesn’t go unnoticed. Keep lifting each other up, and if someone on your team inspires you, take a minute to submit a Roaring Recognition for them. It only takes a minute to make someone’s day. You can do so HERE.

We’re lucky to be in this together.

- Lance 

Required Moment of Silence for Kentucky Schools

 Team,

I wanted to take a moment to make you aware of a new state law that will affect our daily schedule beginning this school year. In compliance with recent legislation, all Kentucky public schools are now required to observe a one-minute moment of silence at the start of each school day.

This moment is intended to provide students and staff with an opportunity for quiet reflection, prayer, or personal contemplation. It is not to be used for instruction, announcements, or any other activities. The moment of silence must be maintained in a way that is neutral and respectful of all beliefs. Participation is silent and voluntary.

At BES, our moment of silence will take place daily at the end of the "Morning Roar" newscast. Cathy will work with our news crew to include a short message explaining to students that this is a time for quiet reflection before starting the day. After the announcements and pledge, the news team will prompt the start of the one-minute silence.

Please help model and encourage respectful observance of this time, while also ensuring that no student feels pressured to participate in a specific way.

If you have any questions about implementation or how to handle specific situations in your classroom, don’t hesitate to reach out. I appreciate your help in implementing (yet another) state-mandated requirement.

Lance

More New Faces...

Good morning,

I wanted to take a moment and introduce some new members of our Exceptional Child Education (ECE) team for the coming school year! They are:

Zoe Gilbert - Zoe will be co-teaching in grades 2nd and 3rd.

Michelle Bryan - Michelle will be working with students in our grades 2nd and 3rd Highly Structured Classroom.

Chance Bowen - Chance will be co-teaching in the 4th grade.

Shelby Greenwell - A familiar name and face to some of you, Shelby will be replacing Caitlyn Harris as one of our two MSD teachers. 

Below, you will find a short message from each of them. 

ZOE

Hello! My name is Zoe Gilbert, and I am excited to join the special education team at Bardstown Elementary School (BES) as an Exceptional Child Educator.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in elementary and exceptional education. My first student teaching placement was at a STEM academy, and my second placement was at an alternative school that served students with moderate exceptionalities. These two distinct experiences uniquely prepared me to meet a wide range of academic and behavioral needs. I taught first grade in my hometown of Campbellsville, Kentucky, for two years after graduation. While I loved my previous position, I am moving to your area, and I am eager to embrace the challenge of a larger school.

On the weekends, I enjoy being outdoors, exploring new cities, knitting, visiting coffee shops, and writing poetry. A fun fact about me is that I have three brothers and three sisters. My family just keeps growing, and I never miss a chance to spend time with my twelve nieces and nephews! My dog, Fern, is my best friend and hiking companion.

I can’t wait to meet everyone and work together at BES! I am sure that I will have plenty of questions, and I look forward to collaborating with such an amazing group of educators. Thank you for the warm welcome!

Sincerely,

Zoe Gilbert

zoegilbert001@gmail.com

MICHELLE

Hello Everyone,

My name is Michelle Bryan, and I am so excited to be a part of the BES team! I will be working with Carson in the 2^nd and 3rd-grade HSC.

I started working for Bardstown City Schools in 2010. I worked several different positions: substituting in the BHS cafeteria, an after-school childcare assistant, a staff childcare provider, and then a special education assistant.  I left the district to finish my master's and to gain much-needed experience. I was previously a teacher for the Nelson County Early Learning Center and a kindergarten teacher for Boston School. Currently, I am finishing my certification in LBD. 

Most of my time is spent with at least one of my children. Faith graduated from BHS in 2023, my son Corey graduated this past school year, and my youngest, Kylie, will be going into the seventh grade at BMS. 

I am happy to be back at Bardstown! Please feel free to reach out and say hi. Know I will gladly take any advice.

Excited to work with everyone!

Michelle Bryan

MaryMBryan@outlook.com

michelle.bryan@bardstown.kyschools.us

CHANCE

Hi Everyone, 

My name is Chance Bowen, and I’m excited to be a part of the fourth grade team at Bardstown Elementary. 

I recently earned my Bachelor’s Degree in General Studies from EKU and am currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in LBD at the University of the Cumberlands through the Option Six program. While I have experience as a co-teacher for half a school year, I have spent the past three years working as an Instructional Assistant in the MSD classroom at NCHS.

This past April, I was fortunate enough to marry my best friend, Carly. She is a nurse at Baptist Health Hardin Hospital. I enjoy spending my free time hanging out with friends and family, golfing, and working out. My wife and I have recently become dog parents with our golden doodle puppy, Alfie. 

I am new to teaching, so I’m willing to learn and continue to grow. I’m excited to start this school year and get to know everyone. Please feel free to reach out!

Chance Bowen

chance.bowen@bardstown.kyschools.us

SHELBY

Hello! My name is Shelby Greenwell. I am a familiar face to many, and I am so excited to be back with my Bardstown Tiger family. I have 3 kiddos of my own who also attend Bardstown City Schools. Adalynn will be in 2nd grade, Brinleigh will be in the 4-year-old preschool program, and Opal will be in the 3-year-old preschool program. 

This will be my 8th year in education. I spent 3 years teaching 5th grade, 3 years in Special Education, and 1 year teaching Kindergarten. This year, I am glad to be back teaching Special Education again. 

I am looking forward to working with all of you! Let’s have a great year. 

#onceatigeralwaysatiger

Shelby

As you start seeing these folks before the year starts, and in the halls once it does, please take the time to say hi and introduce yourself. I am sure they would love putting some faces with names that they will see and hear. 

- Lance