HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The Kentucky Department of Education announced nine Kentucky educators as recipients of the 2027 Kentucky Teacher Achievement Awards, including local art teacher Paula Gieseke from Christian County High School.

Gieseke’s passion for teaching art to students is visible not only through her teaching, but through public art seen around the city, as she has worked with students through various programs to create murals. This includes jazz inspired pieces on the back of the Alhambra Theater, the ‘Welcome to Hopkinsville‘mural downtown, the alien abduction mural at the museum, and a large mural inside the YMCA.

All nine nominated teachers were honored during a ceremony in Frankfort on Sept. 9, and winners were chosen in elementary, middle and high school teaching divisions. From those three finalists, one was be named the 2027 Kentucky Teacher of the Year. Although Gieseke ultimately did not take home the title, she was still able to represent Hopkinsville on a grand scale.

“We are so proud of ‘Mrs. G’ and everything she brings to CCHS and our students every day,” said a statement from CCPS. “She not only shares her immense talent with our schools but also our community, often sponsoring community projects alongside her students.”

She has previously spoken about her passion for teaching art to the Hopkinsville Rotary Club, referring to herself as the “recycling queen” to help get the most of art supplies that are available to her and her students.

“Our incredibly dedicated Teacher Achievement Award winners represent some of our best talent in the state,” said Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher.

A news release from KDE says they received 600 teacher nominations this year. Judging was conducted by a qualified panel of veteran educators from across the state. Nominees were interviewed and judged based on their teaching philosophies, teaching experiences and involvement in their respective communities. Judges also considered letters of recommendation from peers, students, families, administrators and others.

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