Through encouragement from KEDC, I applied to serve on the Social Studies Review Committee for the Kentucky Academic Standards. This experience proved to be an invaluable professional development opportunity. Participating in the review process provided meaningful insight into how academic standards are developed and revised on a cyclical basis, as well as how vertical alignment is intentionally built across grade levels.
I served on the Elementary Panel, where we closely reviewed the elementary social studies standards using survey data collected directly from teachers. This process reinforced the importance of educator feedback—teacher voices truly do matter in shaping the Kentucky Academic Standards. I strongly encourage educators to complete these surveys when given the opportunity.
This experience is just one of many professional growth opportunities I have had through KEDC grant involvement. KEDC consistently provides high-quality opportunities that positively impact both teachers and students.
Jennifer Chandler
Roundstone Elementary School
Rockcastle County
5th Grade
