As Debby Edelen’s daughters progressed through Woodford County Public Schools, she became quite active in volunteering in the schools. After a few years, Debby’s experience as an involved parent led her to consider an even deeper commitment to serving the school district — running for election to the Woodford County Board of Education. Mrs. Edelen says, “As I got more involved and learned more [about the schools], I saw it as a way that I wanted to serve and be a part of the community.” In January 2009, Debby began her tenure on the Board of Education.
Throughout her time on the Board, Debby has certainly gained great insight into public education. When asked about the role of a Board of Education member in Kentucky, she said the following, “Education is heavily regulated by state and federal governments. There are few decisions left at the local level. However, local school Board members are the means by which the local schools can reflect the unique community they serve. They set the budget, establish policies and procedures, and hire, evaluate, and oversee the performance of the Superintendent. I encourage everyone to come to our meetings or speak directly to a school Board member with any questions or concerns they may have.”
Additionally, through her service, Mrs. Edelen has learned so much about the various challenges that students face each day. It has been extremely eye-opening to understand the wide range of student needs and to work to meet those needs. Her time on the Board has also allowed her to understand how other districts in Kentucky operate. All in all, the past eleven years of public service have provided Mrs. Edelen with countless incredible moments, which she says have brought about much personal growth.
Though there are several aspects of our district that make Debby quite proud of Woodford County Public Schools, she believes that the growth in student opportunities over the years is especially noteworthy. Some of these expanded opportunities are the orchestra program, dual credit, involving kids in local business, the Community Activism class at WCHS, and much more. Debby says, “These opportunities build confidence in kids and help them achieve when they [graduate].” She also remarks on how unique it is that our community is so eager to involve and engage our students.
In regards to the importance of establishing relationships in our schools, Mrs. Edelen is grateful for the powerful impact that teachers have on their students. She says that her daughters, who are now both in college, are in their areas of study as a direct result of teachers they had in Woodford County Public Schools. Mrs. Edelen believes that a teacher’s ability to see endless possibilities in each student is quite profound. As both a parent and a member of the Board, it is exciting for Debby to know that our schools are filled with people who see potential in each student.
We are so grateful for Mrs. Edelen’s dedication and service to Woodford County Public Schools. She continues to support our students and staff, and she works to create a thriving, educational environment in our district. Thank you for everything, Mrs. Edelen!
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