Bardstown Elementary’s third-grade teacher Melissa Kyser has been selected as one of 10 educators for the Kentucky Innovative Learning Network’s Innovative Teacher Fellowship. The program supports teachers in creating engaging learning experiences aligned with the “United We Learn” vision, focusing on vibrant learning, accelerated innovation, and building a bold future.
For the 2024-25 school year, Kyser and the other selected teachers will complete at least 35 hours of professional development to develop, implement, and share innovative classroom projects. These projects will center around learner-focused approaches such as personalized learning, competency-based education, and high-quality performance assessment.
“Student needs are ever-changing, and an opportunity to focus on innovation in the classroom through the fellowship is a wonderful vehicle for meeting those needs,” Kyser explained. “I try to implement new ideas and practices every year, and this fellowship will help push that progress forward.”
Two years ago, Kyser launched a classroom podcast with her third-grade students, and now she aims to build on that work as part of her fellowship project. While still finalizing the details, she plans to incorporate the podcast into her approach to assessment, focusing on projects and performance-based evaluations rather than traditional tests.
“One of my key interests to bring to the fellowship is the idea that even young students can make choices about their learning, can be given opportunities to be creative, and that these early foundations set them up for success in school and in life,” said Kyser.
The Innovative Teacher Fellowship offers a platform for the selected teachers to collaborate and share their insights and challenges, intending to foster a community of educators committed to shaping the future of learning. The Kentucky Innovative Learning Network hopes that the projects and experiences shared by the fellows will inspire broader changes and advancements in the state’s educational landscape.
“Mrs. Kyser’s participation is an incredible personal achievement and a point of pride for Bardstown City Schools,” said Dr. Ryan Clark, superintendent. “Her fellowship is an opportunity for Bardstown City Schools to lead by example in advancing educational practices, showing that innovation and personalized learning can transform the classroom experience.”
