Mr. Bill Calloway was recently nominated for the Kentucky Rural Teacher of the Year Award by Principal Jeb Blevins. With over 30 years of classroom experience, Principal Blevins says Mr. Calloway embodies the spirit of this award: he is a pillar in his rural community, an innovator in the classroom, and a tireless advocate for student success.
Mr. Blevins notes that in a rural setting, a teacher must often wear many hats to provide students with the same opportunities found in larger schools and districts. Mr. Calloway has not only worn these hats, but he has worn them with excellence, having led students to victory in STLP, Academic Team, and various other academic competitions at both Right Fork and Page School Center. Mr. Blevins says Mr. Calloway’s impact is most visible through four distinct areas: academic excellence, scientific leadership, dedication beyond the bell, and a legacy of impact.
Mr. Calloway’s science classroom is a hub of high achievement. Under his leadership, students have consistently secured the number one science scores in the district. Perhaps more impressively, some of his classes have reached the Top 10 science scores in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. These results are not accidental; they are the fruit of his meticulous lesson preparation and his ability to translate complex scientific concepts into relatable, hands-on learning for Right Fork’s rural students.
Mr. Blevins was most impressed with Mr. Calloway’s commitment to his students extending far beyond the final bell. Mr. Calloway spends countless hours after school coaching the Science Olympiad team. “His mentorship has turned our local program into a powerhouse, proving that geographic location is no barrier to competitive excellence,” said Blevins. He added, “Furthermore, his coaching of the National History Day program is legendary within our halls, and because of his guidance, his students qualify for state and national competitions every single year, giving our rural youth the chance to represent Kentucky on the national stage in Washington, D.C.”
The community can appreciate that with three decades of experience, Mr. Calloway has taught generations of families. Mr. Blevins says Mr. Calloway understands the unique challenges and strengths of a rural community. He went on to say, “He doesn’t just teach curriculum; he builds the confidence of his students, teaching them that they can compete with any student, anywhere in the country.” Mr. Blevins also called Mr. Calloway a “teacher’s teacher” due to his longevity, record-breaking data, and dedication to extracurricular coaching. All of these factors have made Mr. Calloway the ideal candidate for Right Fork’s nomination for this recognition. Mr. Blevins closed by saying, “Bill represents the very best of what Kentucky education has to offer.”
The Bell County School District is thankful for Mr. Calloway’s obvious dedication to every student—every day.
Written by: Jonathan Neely