During the Boone County School Board meeting on May 9, 2025, the district celebrated the achievements of students and teachers who were recognized for their excellence in education at the annual Northern Kentucky Excellence in Education dinner. This event, organized by the Northern Kentucky Education Council, highlighted the dedication and accomplishments of local educators and students.
Among the honorees, Madison Nickel from Ignite Institute was named a Career and Technical All-Star, while Hajar Aladi, also from Ignite Institute, received the Student Leadership Award. Elm Nunn from Cooper High School was recognized with the Against All Odds award, showcasing resilience and determination. Several students received scholarships from Saint Elizabeth Healthcare, including Urvashi Niani from Boone County High School and Jake Caminiti from Conner High School, among others.
The meeting also honored nine teachers from the Boone County School District who received the prestigious Golden Apple Award, the region's highest honor for educators. The recipients included Rhonda Herold from Steeplechase Elementary and Sherry Kilmer from Long Branch Elementary, with several awardees present to accept their accolades.
Additionally, Wes Kiley Dance was recognized as the Kentucky High School Teacher of the Year, further underscoring the high caliber of teaching within the district. The meeting concluded with the announcement of the Community Partner of the Year award, which was presented to First Church of Christ for its exemplary partnership with New Haven Elementary School, demonstrating the importance of community involvement in education.
These recognitions not only celebrate individual achievements but also reflect the strong commitment to educational excellence within Boone County, fostering a supportive environment for both students and educators.