Vibrant Learning Collaborative chooses CCPS to kick off training

Superintendent Dustin Howard and Assistant Superintendent Kelly Fithen welcomed KDE's Vibrant Learning Team to CCPS - Alexa Hardin, Kalli Colley, and Kristal Doolin.

If learning doesn’t matter to kids, it isn’t learning.

This is the foundation of the Innovation division of the Kentucky Department of Education and the focus of a professional learning experience that began in Clark County.

The Vibrant Learning Collaborative is a teacher-led, teacher-driven initiative that kicked off at GRC with multiple sessions crossing content and grades meant to inspire teachers to reimagine classroom learning.

Clark County was selected as the first of four stops across the state, with Laurel, Nelson, and Hopkins counties also on the schedule.

“I reached out to Kelly Fithen (CCPS Assistant Superintendent) several months ago and she said absolutely we would love to be a part of this,” said Alexa Hardin, Regional Innovation Specialist for Northern and Eastern Kentucky. “It's been it's been a fantastic experience working with your district.”

CCPS teacher Tobi Sadler, left, and Instructional Specialist Amber Murphy presented at the Vibrant Learning Cooperative event.

The 20 sessions covered a wide variety of topics and were taught mostly by teachers and education professionals from all over the region, including two of our own.

Instructional Specialist Amber Murphy led a session on the Amazing Shake, and Conkwright teacher Tobi Sadler discussed how to incorporate project-based learning in early childhood classrooms.

Each session is rooted in the principles of vibrant learning—a core pillar of the Kentucky United We Learn vision, which emphasizes student-centered, meaningful learning experiences.

“All of our topics focus on learning that truly matters to kids,” said Ms. Hardin. “We know our kids need durable skills to be successful in whatever path they choose – skills like communication and collaboration. That’s what drives this work and excites people about the Vibrant Learning Initiative.”

CCPS is honored it all began here.

“Collaborating with KDE and districts across Kentucky helps us grow greatness right here in CCPS,” Ms. Fithen said. “These shared learning experiences through opportunities like the Vibrant Learning Collaborative help spark innovation and strengthen our work as educators.”