Jennifer Montgomery, 2025 Kentucky Teacher of the Year

I grew up in a rural part of Trimble County with no running water or telephone service, and I was convinced early on that this would impact me negatively. Instead, it taught me that resources, like water, are precious. It taught me to cultivate a mindset of gratitude, and most importantly, it taught me that where you come from doesn’t limit who you can become. My family and my teachers helped me change my perspective.

I believe that teaching is an act of hope. In my classroom, I am dedicated to fostering empathy, student agency, and real-world learning. I love bringing learning to life by connecting students with their community, ensuring their education extends beyond the classroom. This page represents my desire to celebrate the stories of teachers across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Each of you has a story that led you to the classroom, and every story matters. Will you share yours? Submit your story using this form.