Roy G. Eversole Elementary was recently recognized as a spotlight presenter during the Perry County Community Collaborative meeting held at the Perry County Extension Office. The event brought together educators and community partners focused on improving kindergarten readiness across the region.
During the meeting, RGE Principal Derek Allen shared strategies being implemented at Roy G. Eversole that have contributed to strong gains in Brigance kindergarten readiness scores, increasing from 32% in 2022–23 to 67% of students considered Kindergarten Ready in 2024-2025.
District leadership was highlighted for supporting early learning. Superintendent Sondra Combs, Director of Federal Programs Jamie Hughes, and the Hazard Independent Board of Education helped expand the preschool program in recent years, allowing more young learners to access early childhood education and build a stronger foundation before entering kindergarten.
The presentation highlighted the hard work and dedication of Roy G. Eversole’s preschool and kindergarten teachers, whose intentional instruction, strong routines, and focus on early literacy help prepare students for success from the very beginning.
In addition, Roy G. Eversole also prioritizes frequent, high-quality family engagement events that strengthen relationships between school and home. Through partnerships with organizations such as Partners for Rural Impact, Save the Children, and the Family Resource Center, families receive resources and learning opportunities that help reinforce readiness skills outside the classroom.
Another key initiative is KinderBoost, a school readiness camp designed to help incoming kindergarten students become familiar with classroom routines, develop early academic skills, and build confidence before the school year begins.
These combined efforts reflect the strength of an entire school community. It takes every member working together to ensure Roy G. Eversole students begin school ready to learn and prepared for success.
Pictured above (left to right): Preschool teachers Ashlie Sherman and Traci Lindon, Save the Children Community Impact Coordinator Kristi Robinson Minks, Hazard Independent Schools Superintendent Sondra Combs, Director of Federal Programs Jamie Hughes, RGE Assistant Principal and Reading Interventionist Rebecca Gabbard, RGE Principal Derek Allen, and PRI School Coordinator Christine Cornwell.
