The Kentucky Valley Educational Cooperative (KVEC) is proud to celebrate Pikeville High School and W.B. Muncy Elementary as two of only eleven schools across the Commonwealth named 2025 Spotlight Schools by the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE).
This prestigious recognition honors schools that are not only achieving strong academic results but are also creating dynamic, student-centered environments rooted in innovation, resilience, and community. Both Pikeville High and W.B. Muncy Elementary exemplify the kind of educational excellence and cultural strength that defines the Appalachian region.
Pikeville High School – A Culture of Achievement and Belonging
Nestled in the heart of Pike County, Pikeville High School has built a reputation for academic distinction, rich extracurricular opportunities, and a deep commitment to the whole child. From ACT scores that top both state and national averages to an impressive slate of AP, dual credit, and arts programs, Pikeville blends rigorous academics with real-world readiness.
At the heart of Pikeville’s success is an intentional focus on leadership, student voice, and community connection. Initiatives like Leader in Me, Kagan Cooperative Learning, and JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) foster engagement and personal responsibility. A strong Response to Intervention (RtI) system and student mentorship through the National Honor Society ensure no student falls through the cracks.
Pikeville High’s students not only excel in the classroom but also thrive in athletics, arts, and service. With nearly 200 district athletic titles and over 30 state championships—including the 2023 state football title—this is a school where Panther pride runs deep.
W.B. Muncy Elementary – Small School, Big Impact
In the mountains of Leslie County, W.B. Muncy Elementary is proving that size is no barrier to excellence. Serving grades K–8, the school has earned KDE’s highest rating—Blue—in both elementary and middle school performance, a reflection of intentional planning, collaborative leadership, and deep-rooted community spirit.
At W.B. Muncy, every child is seen and valued. From one-on-one goal-setting with the principal before every testing cycle to data-driven interventions designed by tightly-knit educator teams, the school’s approach is both strategic and heart-centered.
A school culture built on relationships over outcomes and people over programs empowers students to set goals, reflect on progress, and celebrate every success—academic or personal. This student ownership is woven through every grade level, starting with writing protocols in kindergarten and growing through structured PLCs and high expectations across the board.
Leading by Example
Pikeville High and W.B. Muncy Elementary are more than Spotlight Schools—they are lighthouses for rural innovation, equity, and student empowerment. Their journeys, now featured as part of KDE’s Spotlight School Story Cards, offer valuable models for schools across the state.
KVEC encourages fellow educators to explore these story cards and, when possible, schedule a visit to see these schools in action.
View Pikeville High’s Full Story Card (PDF)
View W.B. Muncy’s Full Story Card (PDF)
Together, these schools remind us what’s possible when Appalachia tells its own story—and leads with purpose.
