Cathy Thrasher, an English teacher at Apollo High School, has been named one of 10 teacher ambassadors by GoTeachKY, a campaign designed to recruit the next generation of educators in the Commonwealth.
Thrasher and her colleagues from across the state will work to encourage high school and college students to consider teaching careers; communicate with potential and current teachers to celebrate the rewards and opportunities associated with a teaching career; and support and promote programs, focus areas and organizations of GoTeachKY, including Educators Rising and the Teaching and Learning career pathway.
Much of her work will be done through social media, and she invites interested people to follow her and share the journey on Twitter @smalltown67 or @GoTeachKy and on Instagram at @eng_teacher67 or @goteachky.
Thrasher said she was inspired to submit her application as an ambassador by considering students who are in school today and in the future.
“I know our entire state faces a shortage of quality teachers; some areas more than others,” she said. “All Kentucky students deserve the very best, and if I can help encourage people to step up to the task, I am happy to do that. It truly is about the kids.”
Thrasher said she hopes the experiences gleaned throughout her 25 years as a teacher will inspire others to consider the education profession.
“I want to share my incredible passion for young people with others,” she said. “I want everyone to know the good work we do in public education and the rewards it brings.” As for herself, Thrasher said her experience as a teacher is always rewarding, “but my highest award is the gratitude of my students.”
She said she is also excited about the potential to learn and grow in this new endeavor.
“I hope this experience will teach me ways to engage with people so they will want to join this profession,” Thrasher said. “I have already learned that the state has created alternative paths to certification with a goal of recruiting the very best teachers for every classroom. I want to learn why many students never consider teaching … and then change their minds.”
Thrasher has taught at both the middle school and high school levels. This is her first year as a member of the DCPS staff. In addition to teaching English, she is also the sponsor of the National Honor Society at Apollo High School. Thrasher has a bachelor of science degree and Rank I from Western Kentucky University and a master’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University.
