State and National Recognition for Taylor County's Own!

State leaders, administrators, students, and teachers gathered at Taylor County Intermediate School to celebrate Ms. Lyons' extraordinary service to students and families across our district. The award presentation was led by Kentucky Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher and Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman, alongside Superintendent Robert Braden.

Now in her 25th year serving Taylor County Schools, Ms. Lyons provides reading intervention services for students in grades three through five while also coordinating the school’s 21st Century Community Learning Center afterschool program. Known for arriving on campus before sunrise, she often begins her day by greeting students during morning drop-off, welcoming them with a familiar, caring face.

“Ms. Lyons represents the very best of Kentucky public education,” said Commissioner Fletcher. “Her commitment to students goes far beyond her job description. She builds relationships, removes barriers to learning, and ensures students feel supported every single day.”

School administrators and fellow teachers credit Ms. Lyons with transforming reading intervention into an engaging and confidence-building experience for students. Through individualized instruction, creativity, and encouragement, she helps students view reading not as remediation, but as an opportunity.

TCIS Principal Jennifer Fitzpatrick noted that she consistently steps forward to meet student and school needs, whether organizing community initiatives, tracking academic data, or supporting families facing challenges outside the classroom.

Her dedication extends beyond academics. Upon learning that some students lacked food at home on weekends, she quietly used personal funds to provide meals while connecting families with long-term support resources, actions administrators say reflect her genuine compassion and deep commitment to students’ well-being.

Lieutenant Governor Coleman emphasized the vital role classified staff members play in education success. Kentucky has more than 46,000 classified employees, and schools simply could not function without them.

“Ms. Lyons didn’t wait to be asked to help; she saw a need and created solutions,” Lt. Governor Coleman said. “She exemplifies leadership, professionalism, and service. Classified staff is the glue that holds our schools together, and Vanessa Lyons is a shining example of that impact.”

Among her many contributions, Ms. Lyons organized additional early-morning supervision for students when families needed earlier drop-off times, ensuring children entered school safely and welcomed each day. She also oversees critical back-to-school processes that help families access meals, health services, and essential student supports.

Students describe "Ms. Vanessa" as someone who “always makes reading fun,” bringing humor, patience, and encouragement into every interaction.

Please join us in congratulating Ms. Lyons on this incredible honor and well-deserved recognition at both the state and national levels!

This also marks an incredible milestone for our district. Taylor County Schools has now produced back-to-back Kentucky Education Support Staff Professional Award winners, with Sam Graham recognized in 2025 and Vanessa Lyons in 2026, a testament to the outstanding classified staff who serve our students every day.

Expect greatness from Taylor County Schools!