STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Barren County educator Jessica Willmes has been recognized by The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky for her support of high-ability students.
Willmes, of Austin Tracy Elementary School in the Barren County School District, was one of 14 educators from across the Commonwealth recently honored by the academy, according to a release from the program.
The recognition took place during The Gatton Academy’s May 9 commencement ceremony in Van Meter Hall, where the Class of 2026 celebrated its graduation.
The Gatton Academy created its Educator Recognition Program in 2018 to acknowledge the teachers, counselors, gifted and talented specialists, and principals who support students on their educational journeys.
Students often first learn about The Gatton Academy through school staff who recognize their potential and point them toward the academy’s advanced opportunities.
Graduates in the Class of 2026 were each invited to nominate one educator from a Kentucky school to be recognized at graduation.
Selected educators received a certificate of recognition and a specific message of gratitude from the student or students who nominated them.
They were also invited to stand and be acknowledged as their names were read during the commencement ceremony.
Established in 2007, The Gatton Academy is Kentucky’s first residential two-year program for gifted and talented high school juniors and seniors.
Students enroll as juniors and are full-time Western Kentucky University students, focusing on advanced coursework in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The academy has received national recognition for its STEM programs, including the 2022 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from Insight Into Diversity Magazine and the Innovation Partnership Award from the National Consortium for Secondary STEM Schools.
Key Facts
– The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky recently recognized 14 educators from across the state.
– Austin Tracy Elementary School’s Jessica Willmes from Barren County was among the honorees.
– The recognition came during The Gatton Academy’s May 9 commencement ceremony at Van Meter Hall.
– Graduates in the Class of 2026 nominated one educator from their Kentucky schools for the honor.
– Honorees received a certificate, a message of gratitude and public recognition during the ceremony.
– The Gatton Academy’s Educator Recognition Program began in 2018 to celebrate support for high-ability students.
– The Gatton Academy is a residential two-year STEM program for gifted Kentucky juniors and seniors based at WKU.
