(Photo Source: Hopkins County Schools/Facebook)
Three teachers from Hopkins County Schools were recently recognized at the Regional Education Partnership Excellence in Teaching Award ceremony held at the Glema Mahr Center for the Arts.
According to school officials, the teachers honored were Rachel Flener, a special education teacher at Hanson Elementary; Michael Powers, an 8th-grade math teacher at James Madison Middle School; and Sarah Tyson, an English teacher at Hopkins County Central High School.
With over 25 years in education, officials said Flener has dedicated her career to supporting and empowering students of all abilities. She has taught for seven years at the middle school level and 18 years in elementary special education. In 2017, she earned National Board Certification, highlighting her commitment to teaching excellence. Beyond the classroom, she instructs Murray State University’s 22 program, preparing future educators. Officials said Flener is passionate about inclusive education, equity, and helping every student achieve their potential.
Powers has spent the last seven years teaching 8th-grade math at James Madison Middle School, dedicating his career to education and community service. As president of the Hopkins County Education Association, he has advocated for educators and public education improvements. Before teaching, he worked for four years as a school bus driver, ensuring students’ safe arrival. Officials said his commitment to the community reflects his passion for making a positive impact.
Tyson began her education at Madisonville Community College before transferring to Western Kentucky University for a bachelor’s in English Allied Arts. She earned a master’s in Reading and Writing from the University of the Cumberlands and achieved National Board Certification in Young Adult Literature. Currently, she is pursuing a master’s in English Literature at Campbellsville University, aiming to teach dual credit courses by May 2026. With 17 years of experience teaching English at Hopkins County Central High School, she also serves as department chair and feels honored to share her knowledge in such a supportive environment.
The award honors exceptional classroom educators through a program that includes public school partners from the Caldwell, Crittenden, Dawson Springs, Hopkins County, Muhlenberg County, and Webster County districts, as well as Madisonville Community College and Murray State University-Madisonville.
