Letter to the Editor: AmeriCorps Week

Dear Editor, 

March 12-18 was AmeriCorps Week. AmeriCorps is a federally funded community service program that focuses on the underserved communities. There are about 23 AmeriCorps programs in Kentucky. Edmonson County has two AmeriCorps programs. I am grateful to serve as the AmeriCorps Kentucky College Coach at Edmonson County High School! 

AmeriCorps members can only serve four years. This is my final year  as an AmeriCorps Kentucky College Coach. In the near future the position of the Edmonson County High School AmeriCorps Kentucky College Coach application will be open. The position is from August-May, with possible summer extension and renewal up to the four years. Members are expected to serve 1200 hours in that time period. Members receive a monthly living stipend and may be able to use the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award to help pay for college tuition or pay toward college loans. AmeriCorps Kentucky College Coaches’ Program targets and mentors first generation college students about steps needed for a successful after high school life, careers, as well as other helpful skills to help them be successful in the future. 

My four years as an AmeriCorps Kentucky College Coach has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional life. I started my service at North Bullitt High School with the hopes of coming back home. It was a dream come true when I learned I could transfer to my alma mater. While communicating with students during virtual learning was a challenge; we figured things out. Through the past four years I have watched students grow, mature, and make informed life decisions. Watching students apply for college and seeing their reaction after realizing they are a future college student is priceless. Helping students  research what careers may be a good fit for them is worth its weight in gold. 

For more information about the Kentucky College Coaches’ Program you may contact the KHEAA KCC Program Manager, Toni Wiley, at tmwiley@kheaa.com or 859-200-8317. You may also contact me carmon.hughes@edmonson.kyschools.us or 270-597-2151. 

In Service, 
Carmon Hughes
ECHS AmeriCorps Kentucky College Coach/Ambassador

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