3 minute read
Becoming a Teacher Leader
By Stacey Walters
In the world of education, few educators embody passion, resilience and innovative spirit quite like Courtney Keene, M.A. ’24. Growing up in Appalachia, Keene always believed that education could change lives. After high school, she earned her degree in Elementary Education. In May 2024, she completed the Master of Arts in Education through the Teacher Leader Program (TLP) at the University of Pikeville.
Keene serves as a second grade teacher and certified reading specialist at Johns Creek Elementary and enjoys helping students gain confidence in reading.
“Since the beginning, I’ve always felt like teaching was more than a job. It is my purpose,” said Keene. “I am inspired by the opportunity to make learning more accessible, engaging and tailored to individual needs.”
This belief has been the guiding force behind her more than 18 years in the classroom, where she has taught students from kindergarten through third grade. Whether serving as a tutor, mentor or Sunday school teacher, her commitment to her students has always been personal. Over the years, Keene’s approach to education has evolved, reflecting both her growing expertise and the changing needs of her students.
“I love all the moments when the puzzle pieces finally ‘click.’ There is nothing that makes my heart happier than when students come back to me for help and guidance long after they have left my classroom,” said Keene. “I have grown so much as an educator, and I hope I always continue to grow and learn with my students.”
Returning to UPIKE for the online TLP course was a choice that felt both meaningful and impactful for Keene. Her experience in the program reignited her passion for teaching while equipping her with the tools to take on leadership roles.
“I chose UPIKE because it was home. The program gave me great insight to further my education. It helped me develop as an educator and opened doors for my career,” said Keene. “I needed a program that was flexible and affordable, and UPIKE delivered. I could work full-time while earning my master’s. It was a nurturing environment that helped bolster my confidence and inspire fresh ideas, which I now bring back to my classroom and the community.”
Director of Teacher Education and Division Chair at the Patton College of Education Coletta Parsley, Ed.D., is incredibly proud of the TLP graduates and their dedication and commitment to education.
“The 30-credit hour, online TLP allows teachers to gain advanced Kentucky teacher certification by earning a Rank I or II. It was designed for the working professional and can be completed within two years,” said Parsley. “By empowering teachers with the knowledge and skills to conduct action research and use the results for continuous improvement efforts, the program develops transformative teacher leaders who can drive meaningful change and advance educational outcomes within their schools.”
While Keene cherishes every moment spent with her young learners, she also plans for the future, where her aspirations continue to thrive.
“I would like to focus my career on becoming a reading interventionist, to specialize in helping students who are struggling with reading,” said Keene. “I believe schools could greatly benefit from the advanced knowledge and insight into researching dyslexia. With perseverance and drive, an educator’s impact can shape lives and inspire future generations.”
