SEES Wins WBKO Poppy's Leadership Award

WBKO and Flora Templeton Stuart, Attorney at Law, have partnered up to launch a leadership event with Poppy the Raccoon to recognize schools who have empowered students to lead, learn, excel and serve our communities. South Edmonson Elementary School was presented "Poppy's Leadership Award" as they were recognized today for their outstanding achievement.

Above: WBKO's Kristi Hancock, Flora Templeton Stuart, and SEES Principal Jamie Woosley stand with the Leadership Award. (D. Doyle)

Attorney Flora Templeton Stuart, a former educator, said she was excited to see every child have the opportunity to become a leader in schools like South Edmonson. "The energy here is amazing!" she said. "We're so glad to be here at such a wonderful school."

Students listen as the award is presented.

Stuart and Hancock watch as the Bulldog interacts with students.

"The students have been so hyped up about this," said Principal Jamie Woosley. "We feel strongly about the Leader In Me program, and the kids really embrace it." Woosley said the program has had tremendous effects at school, but he wants to see those effects community wide. "That's what the Leader In Me program is all about...to get these kids prepared for what comes after school. We want parents involved, too. These are things that can also be used at home," he said.

South Edmonson Elementary will now be entered in a grand prize drawing to be held at the end of the school year. The overall winner will receive a $2,000 check to be used to promote leadership activities and/or ‘Leader in Me’ initiatives and programs.

The presentation was taped by WBKO and will air sometime on Friday morning, January 9 on the station's "AM Kentucky." Fourth grader Alyssa Doyle, who was interviewed for the segment, said it was scary at first, for fear of messing up in front of the camera, but she soon changed her mind. "It was awesome!" she said. "I'm gonna be on TV!" The segment will air sometime between 5:30am and 7:00am. 

Edmonson Voice Staff
Darren Doyle, photos