Editorial Roundup: Kentucky
Bowling Green Daily News. May 11, 2021.
Editorial: Thoughtful gestures mean much in tough times
As the shutdowns and disruptions of the coronavirus pandemic enter their 15th month, it remains important to honor the exceptional work of those who have stepped up in difficult times. There are many groups that fit this description – including, of course, teachers, who have ably and repeatedly adjusted to changing educational environments and requirements.
That’s why we were happy to report this week that Bowling Green’s Compton Orthodontics chose to adapt its traditional award initiative – which has previously honored students who have consistently performed acts of kindness – into a recognition of educators who were identified as examples of “Excellence in Adversity.”
This editorial had to be written because of young people in our community: They have been winning so many honors that the kudos are piling up and need to be distributed.
We published three stories in less than a week about local students who, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, have excelled in their endeavors.
⢠A team from Russell High School has won the Dave Ziegler Technical Award in the Student Technology Leadership Program, the first time a team in the region received the prestigious award, for its virtual reality education program. Their work includes designing an affordable VR viewing device, curricula and teacher training and support.
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RUSSELL Russell High Schoolâs Varsity Dance Team won the 2021 National Dance Alliance National Championship for the Small Varsity Pom Division in April.
They also earned third in the nation in Medium Gameday and fourth in the nation in Medium Hip Hop.
Coached by Lauren Gibbs Burgess and assistant Rachel Francis Ferguson of TJS dance studio in Greenup, the team competed virtually because of COVID-19 restrictions, which was a blessing and a curse, Gibbs said. It seemed like, in the beginning, it was going to be better because you can retape it and do it until itâs perfect, Burgess said. The problem is, itâs never perfect enough. The girls get tired and itâs stressful. We retaped many times. I hope we never have to do it again, but it worked out for the best.