HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Anthony Darnall has been named the 2025-26 Kentucky Music Education Association State High School Teacher of the Year. Darnall currently serves as the Director of Fine arts for Christian County Public Schools and the Director of Bands for Christian County High School.
In addition to having the opportunity to be recognized in February during the KMEA’s Conference Awards Ceremony, Darnall will also be awarded a $500 contribution to support the school’s music program. Each year, one music educator is chosen from KMEA from the entire state at the elementary, middle, secondary, and college level.
“It was incredibly humbling and truly an honor to receive this award, especially this year,” Darnall told Christian County Now. “I’ve been extremely fortunate to be surrounded by an outstanding team of administrators, colleagues, students, family members, and phenomenal parents who consistently support our program and help make everything we do possible. Their belief in our students and our vision has paved the way and made even the most challenging moments feel achievable.”
Darnall has led the CCHS band program for just over a decade and was recently chosen to lead the band program at the new consolidated Christian County High School that will open in fall of 2026. He shared that this year has been particularly meaningful for the program, with his marching band seeing much success during regional and state competitions.
Additionally, the school’s Symphonic Band and Percussion Ensemble were chosen to perform at the same KMEA conference and will have the chance to be present when the award is given. Darnall said, “Being able to celebrate this honor alongside them makes it all the more rewarding.”
| FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Follow Christian County Now on Facebook