Today, U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) visited with educators and students from both Corbin Independent and Whitley County School Districts during two events at Corbin High School and Whitley County High School.  

"Our students continue to prove they can compete with the best when given the opportunity, and I am so proud of the young community-minded leaders that are developing in our school systems through our UNITE and PRIDE Clubs. We need these well-rounded, high caliber students to help shape and develop the future of this region," said Rogers. "Kentucky statistics show we are doing a better job across the region of creating more educational opportunities and career-readiness skills for our students, and it is due to great leadership in school districts like Corbin and Whitley County."

Rogers commended local students who have been selected as Rogers Scholars, Rogers Explorers and local seniors who are receiving the Operation UNITE "I Am UNITE" Scholarship award.

Twenty-three students from across southern and eastern Kentucky have been selected to receive a $1,500 scholarship from UNITE. Local students include Alisha Kersey from Corbin High School and Kaitlyn Mitchell, a Lighthouse Academy homeschool student. Students from Whitley County High School include Corey Crisologo, Matthew Douglas and James Faulkner.

Local Rogers Scholars include MaKenna Thibodeaux from Corbin High School and Ryan Richardson from Williamsburg High School.

Rogers Explorers from Corbin Middle School include: Ryan Shackleford, Abbey Norvell, Molli Mulberry, Braden Dickerson and Julianne Devers. Students from Whitley County Middle School include: Anna Grace Zehr, Christian Sharpe andLily Dennis-Bay.                                                        

Rogers presented Corbin Independent Superintendent Ed McNeel with a Congressional Certificate of Recognition for being selected by the Kentucky School Boards Association as the 2014 F.L. Dupree Outstanding Superintendent. Rogers noted McNeel's his vision and efforts to lead Corbin Independent Schools to the top of the state's roster for highly performing school districts.

"Striving to be the best is an active part of the culture for the school district and the Corbin community.  We work together to establish an environment where every child will experience success in a variety of venues," said McNeel. "The district’s high ranking among Kentucky school district happens because of the dedication and commitment by our students, staff, parents, and community."                                                   

Rogers also presented long-time Whitley County School Board Member Delmar Mahan with a Congressional Certificate of Recognition for being selected by the Kentucky PTA as the 2014 Warren Proudfoot Outstanding School Board Member. Mahan was selected for his leadership in improving the financial status and performance of Whitley County Schools.

"Our school district is fortunate to have many students and faculty members who are working hard every day and are motivated to achieve at high levels. Because of their hard work we have a lot of great things taking place in the district," said Mahan. "It is an honor to have Congressman Rogers with us to help recognize some of the students who are making great things happen in the Whitley County School District. Through his vision and the creation of programs such as PRIDE, UNITE and Rogers Scholars, our kids are given more opportunities to earn scholarship money and to make a difference in our community."                                                       

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information, visithttp://halrogers.house.gov/ or follow Rogers on Twitter or on Facebook. 
                                                                                                                                                                        

 

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