October 16, 2025
District Spotlight: Burgin Independent School
Nestled in the heart of Mercer County, Burgin Independent School stands as a model of what small schools can achieve when every student is known, valued, and empowered to lead. Serving approximately 530 students from preschool through 12th grade, the district continues a long legacy of community-driven education that dates back to its founding alongside the town of Burgin in the late 1800s.
Under the leadership of Superintendent Chris LeMonds, Burgin Independent has embraced the power of connection—both within the classroom and across generations. One shining example is Burgin Family Day, a monthly, schoolwide initiative that brings together students from every grade level to build relationships, foster leadership, and strengthen the school’s family-like culture. Each month, a new theme—such as kindness, respect, or teamwork—guides activities that pair older and younger students for mentorship, collaborative learning, and fun.
The results speak volumes. Since the program’s launch, 100% of students have participated each month, disciplinary referrals have declined, and teachers report stronger classroom relationships and improved morale. Parents echo that sentiment, often calling Burgin’s approach “a small school with a big heart.” One 10th grader shared, “I like Family Day because I get to spend time with younger kids and help them feel welcome,” while a second grader reflected, “The older students make me feel special because they spend time with me.”
Legislative support has also played a key role in helping Burgin continue its mission. Through the recent increase in SEEK funding, the district is now hiring a full-time School Resource Officer (SRO)—a long-held priority that ensures every student learns in a safe and supportive environment.
As Burgin Independent looks ahead, the district aims to expand Family Day to include community partnerships, parent engagement, and cross-curricular connections, continuing to model the power of unity and empathy in education.
December 6-8 at the Louisville Marriott Downtown Organizations that support Kentucky public school districts can now register to exhibit, sponsor, or join as a Preferred Partner at the 2026 KASS Annual Conference, December 6-8 at the Louisville Marriott Downtown. The Annual Conference is the largest KASS gathering of the year, bringing Kentucky's school superintendents together for professional learning, peer connection, and conversation about the work ahead for their districts. For superintendents, the partners in the room are part of that work. For organizations, it is a direct and personal way to understand what district leaders need. What This Conference Means for Districts and Partners Kentucky's superintendents are the chief decision-makers for districts across the Commonwealth. They are accountable for governance, operations, and long-term student outcomes, and they come to KASS events to learn alongside peers and find partners who can help them do the job well. Because KASS is the state organization dedicated solely to superintendents, partners at the Annual Conference are in the room with the leaders who set direction and shape priorities for their districts. This year's conference theme is The Power of Possibility: Empowering Learners. Igniting Innovation. Transforming Education. Conference at a Glance
The KASS Fall Superintendents Summit brings Kentucky district leaders together September 8–9 in Lexington for focused conversation and peer connection. Limited sponsorship opportunities available for organizations committed to Kentucky public education.
Join Kentucky superintendents at the KASS Summer Summit in Lexington. Limited sponsorship opportunities available for meaningful, relationship-driven engagement.
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