(Photo: Dawson Springs Independent Schools/Facebook
Dawson Springs Jr./Sr. High has been selected by the Kentucky Department of Education as one of only eleven “Spotlight Schools” across the Commonwealth for the 2025-2026 academic year.
In a written statement, Veronica Boller, from the Kentucky Department of Education’s Office of Continuous Improvement and Support, said that this honor reflects the Jr./Sr. High’s outstanding academic achievements, innovative approaches, and dedication to helping students succeed.
Boller explained that these schools have demonstrated outstanding leadership, effective teaching strategies, and dedication to continuous improvement. She further stated that as Spotlight Schools, these schools will play a vital role in sharing their successful practices with other schools across Kentucky—inspiring and guiding educators in their efforts to raise student achievement and create positive, inclusive environments.
School officials said it is the Panther faculty’s focus on fostering strong relationships with students that the Kentucky Department of Education hopes will be the main takeaway when other schools visit their campus.
In a written statement, newly promoted Principal Elizabeth Robinson said she can say with full confidence that this recognition means more than words can express, and reflects the incredible support system built by their teachers, staff, families and community.
Micki Clark, who spent the 2024-25 school year as an English teacher before being selected as the Jr./Sr. High’s assistant principal, upon Robinson’s promotion to principal, stated that a lot of schools say “It’s all about the students,” but Dawson Springs is a place that fully commits to the kids every single day.
Superintendent Leonard Whalen agreed wholeheartedly with his administrator. He said the success of their schools over the years has been anchored on positive relationships and high expectations, with a focus on breaking down obstacles and maximizing our resources to the benefit of students.
Principal Robinson, Assistant Principal Clark, and Superintendent Whalen are celebrating the Jr./Sr. High’s status as a Spotlight School while poised to tackle the new school year when it begins on Aug. 19.
Whalen said he’s extremely excited and proud that the Jr./Sr. High School has been selected as a Spotlight School by the Kentucky Department of Education.
The Kentucky Department of Education also praised Dawson Springs Jr./Sr. High for offering flexible intervention periods and prioritizing academic standards across grade levels. Officials with the Kentucky Department of Education encourage educators from other schools to visit the campus or connect virtually to learn from Dawson Springs’ successful practices.
