It's time for us to plan the calendar for the 2026-2027 school year. We would like to have your input. Please consider completing this survey to share your preferences for the calendar, which includes first day of school, various breaks and other items. Thank you for being a part of the Harlan County Public Schools family.
Please be aware that the main phone line is down at Harlan County High School. AT&T is aware of the problem and working to correct it. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. However, should you need to reach the school for an urgent matter, please call 606-574-2028.
Freshman Representatives
The Harlan County High School Basketball coronation will be Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 5 p.m. prior to the games against Breathitt County. Freshman representatives are, first row, left to right, Alexis Caudill, Reagan Clem and Gracie Youngs. Standing are Jaycee Simpson, Shasta Brackett and Maddy Fields. Not pictured: Kenadee Sturgill.
The Harlan County High School Basketball coronation will be Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 5 p.m. prior to the games against Breathitt County. Freshman representatives are, first row, left to right, Alexis Caudill, Reagan Clem and Gracie Youngs. Standing are Jaycee Simpson, Shasta Brackett and Maddy Fields. Not pictured: Kenadee Sturgill.
Sophomore Representatives
Sophomore representatives for the Harlan County Basketball coronation are, left to right, Lauren Lewis, Carmen Thomas, Jaylee Cochran and Adriana Rowe. Not pictured: Anabelle Collett. The coronation will be at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 13.
Sophomore representatives for the Harlan County Basketball coronation are, left to right, Lauren Lewis, Carmen Thomas, Jaylee Cochran and Adriana Rowe. Not pictured: Anabelle Collett. The coronation will be at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 13.
Junior Sweetheart Representatives
Pictured, seated, left to right, are Abbie Blackburn, Maddie Gray, Kendall Brock and Alyssa Whitehead. Standing is Harley Rice. Coronation will be at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 13th, prior to the Breathitt County games.
Pictured, seated, left to right, are Abbie Blackburn, Maddie Gray, Kendall Brock and Alyssa Whitehead. Standing is Harley Rice. Coronation will be at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 13th, prior to the Breathitt County games.
Senior Sweetheart Candidates
Harlan County High School Basketball Sweetheart will be Tuesday, January 13 at 5 p.m. before the HC vs Breathitt County games at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Pictured, left to right, first row, Elaina Salyers, Whitney Noe, Hailie Hensley and Lacey Robinson. Standing left to right: Sophie Day, Kalista Dunn, Savannah Hill, Alley Stewart and Kaylissa Daniels.
The Harlan County Schools Local Planning Committee will conduct an LPC Meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the Harlan County Board of Education Central Office at 5 p.m. Immediately after, the Local Planning Committee will convene a Public Forum at 5:30 p.m. to solicit public comment on the proposed District Facilities Plan. The Local Planning Committee Meeting and Public Forum are scheduled in accordance with KRS 157.620 and regulated by 702 KAR 1:001.
The Harlan County Schools Local Planning Committee will conduct an LPC Meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the Harlan County Board of Education Central Office at 5:00 p.m. Immediately after, the Local Planning Committee will convene a Public Forum at 5:30 p.m. to solicit public comment on the proposed District Facilities Plan.
The Local Planning Committee Meeting and Public Forum are scheduled in accordance with
KRS 157.620 and regulated by 702 KAR 1:001.
The Local Planning Committee Meeting and Public Forum are scheduled in accordance with
KRS 157.620 and regulated by 702 KAR 1:001.
We will utilize NTI #5 on Monday, December 15, 2025 due to predicted single digit temperatures.
Friday, December 12th, will be NTI Day 4 for Harlan County Schools. Please complete NTI Day 4 assignments. Teachers available from 8:30-3.
Due to hazardous road conditions from the snow which has fallen overnight, the Harlan County School District will observe NTI Day 3 today, Thursday, December 11, 2025. Students should complete NTI Day 3 assignments. Teachers are available to provide assistance if needed.
Due to the advisory issued by the National Weather Service and the timing for predicted snow accumulation, we will observe NTI Day 2 today — Monday, December 8, 2025. Students should complete NTI Day 2 assignments. Teachers are available throughout the day to assist students.
We will observe NTI Day 1 on Friday, December 5th.
HC STUDENTS HEADED TO NASA FOR
PROPULSION TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE
Three Harlan County High School students are among 36 from across the Eastern Kentucky region headed to NASA in Huntsville, AL today.
Selected for the NASA Propulsion Technology Experience, students Shania Middleton, Gabriel Clay and Ethan Nichols will participate for four days in the STEM outreach program funded by the Kentucky Space Grant Consortium through the University of Kentucky Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
UK’s College of Engineering’s Mechanical Engineering Department, in partnership with The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation, is taking 36 juniors and seniors from across Eastern Kentucky to tour the NASA Propulsion Labs. This program seeks to inspire students toward education and careers in the STEM fields related to aerospace propulsion, advanced space systems and advanced manufacturing.
Nichols, an HC engineering student, said, “I am thankful to be able to attend this trip, and look forward to it. It is an opportunity I will remember and learn from for a long time.”
Middleton noted, “I am honored to be selected for the NASA Propulsion Trip. I believe this trip will present opportunities to network and meet others that are just as excited about the engineering discipline as myself while simultaneously broadening my knowledge of space technology and aerospace engineering. I am excited to be a part of this trip, and I can't wait to see how it adds to my passion for engineering.”
This research is aligned with NASA’s strategic goals in Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD), Space Operations Mission Directorate (SOMD), and Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD). This program will build collaborations for STEM education between the University of Kentucky, local high schools in the Commonwealth, and colleagues at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC).
The required skillset of the 21st century workforce will rely heavily upon knowledge and training in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. This statement is true not only for the fields of hard science (engineering, chemistry, physics, etc.), but also for those pursuing degrees such as law and the humanities. Most certainly, the technological advances will outpace the legal and ethical implications, about which key decisions will be made for society.
An education in the STEM fields, therefore, is as important as ever. NASA has a strong commitment to programs that advance STEM education, expose underrepresented groups to STEM fields, and that form collaborations between often disparate groups to achieve a common goal.
This project will provide a learning opportunity for Kentucky High School students interested in STEM related fields. Specifically, the University of Kentucky is collaborating with NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to provide an all-expenses paid, overnight field trip to MSFC and the US Space and Rocket Center. Students in the program will also have an opportunity to meet and speak with NASA engineers at MSFC who are alumni of the University of Kentucky Pigman College of Engineering.
PROPULSION TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE
Three Harlan County High School students are among 36 from across the Eastern Kentucky region headed to NASA in Huntsville, AL today.
Selected for the NASA Propulsion Technology Experience, students Shania Middleton, Gabriel Clay and Ethan Nichols will participate for four days in the STEM outreach program funded by the Kentucky Space Grant Consortium through the University of Kentucky Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
UK’s College of Engineering’s Mechanical Engineering Department, in partnership with The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation, is taking 36 juniors and seniors from across Eastern Kentucky to tour the NASA Propulsion Labs. This program seeks to inspire students toward education and careers in the STEM fields related to aerospace propulsion, advanced space systems and advanced manufacturing.
Nichols, an HC engineering student, said, “I am thankful to be able to attend this trip, and look forward to it. It is an opportunity I will remember and learn from for a long time.”
Middleton noted, “I am honored to be selected for the NASA Propulsion Trip. I believe this trip will present opportunities to network and meet others that are just as excited about the engineering discipline as myself while simultaneously broadening my knowledge of space technology and aerospace engineering. I am excited to be a part of this trip, and I can't wait to see how it adds to my passion for engineering.”
This research is aligned with NASA’s strategic goals in Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD), Space Operations Mission Directorate (SOMD), and Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD). This program will build collaborations for STEM education between the University of Kentucky, local high schools in the Commonwealth, and colleagues at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC).
The required skillset of the 21st century workforce will rely heavily upon knowledge and training in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. This statement is true not only for the fields of hard science (engineering, chemistry, physics, etc.), but also for those pursuing degrees such as law and the humanities. Most certainly, the technological advances will outpace the legal and ethical implications, about which key decisions will be made for society.
An education in the STEM fields, therefore, is as important as ever. NASA has a strong commitment to programs that advance STEM education, expose underrepresented groups to STEM fields, and that form collaborations between often disparate groups to achieve a common goal.
This project will provide a learning opportunity for Kentucky High School students interested in STEM related fields. Specifically, the University of Kentucky is collaborating with NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to provide an all-expenses paid, overnight field trip to MSFC and the US Space and Rocket Center. Students in the program will also have an opportunity to meet and speak with NASA engineers at MSFC who are alumni of the University of Kentucky Pigman College of Engineering.
Harlan County High School students in Transition to Engineering (T2E) attended a project kick off event at the University of Kentucky last week.
Engineers from the community were stationed at tables. Students presented their project ideas to them for help in bettering the ideas and ways to quantify data.
These year-long projects are a requirement for T2E students to receive college credit for the first two engineering courses offered at the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville and Western Kentucky University.
Students participating were Jimmy Shepherd, Shania Middleton and Elijah Moore.
Engineers from the community were stationed at tables. Students presented their project ideas to them for help in bettering the ideas and ways to quantify data.
These year-long projects are a requirement for T2E students to receive college credit for the first two engineering courses offered at the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville and Western Kentucky University.
Students participating were Jimmy Shepherd, Shania Middleton and Elijah Moore.
Harlan County Schools invites students and families from across the region to take flight into the future during Pathways to Purpose: Aviation and Engineering Edition on Thursday, November 20, at James A. Cawood Elementary School.
This highly anticipated STEM experience will be held in two sessions — from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and again from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. — giving families multiple opportunities to explore exciting, hands-on learning.
Hosted by Harlan County Schools and made possible through the partnership of The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation, The Be Elite Foundation, and Stay Plugged In, this event will immerse students in the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through interactive stations and real-world demonstrations.
Participants will have the chance to:
Pilot flight simulators
Navigate a drone obstacle course
Build with LEGO engineering and computer science challenges
Experience shoutcasting and streaming setups
Take on the classic egg drop competition
Learn from professionals during a mentorship panel
…and explore many other engaging STEM activities!
“This event gives our students the chance to shape the technology of tomorrow through the STEM of today,” said Greg Longworth, Harlan County Schools Math Resource Teacher. “We’re empowering the students of today to be the innovators of tomorrow. We are so appreciative of the organizations who are making this possible for our community. This is something you don’t want your school-age child to miss.”
Longworth added, “I’m reminded of the quote, ‘Don’t be afraid to be the only one in the room, but be the first so others can follow.’ We want our students to have the courage to lead, to explore, and to inspire others to join them on their journey toward success.”
Harlan County Schools Superintendent Brett Johnson praised the event as an example of the district’s commitment to connecting learning with the future world of work.
“Pathways to Purpose is more than a STEM event — it’s an investment in our students’ futures,” said Johnson. “When young people are given the chance to see, touch, and experience real-world technology, it ignites a spark that traditional learning alone can’t always reach. We’re grateful to our partners who are helping us provide these transformative experiences that show students the incredible possibilities waiting for them right here in Appalachia and beyond.”
Throughout the evening, students will rotate between stations to gain hands-on knowledge and exposure to a variety of STEM career paths. “We hope this experience creates curiosity — the spark that inspires students to pursue a STEM future,” Longworth said.
The event is free of charge and open to all area students and their families. A team of highly trained STEM volunteers will guide participants at each station, sharing their expertise and enthusiasm for these fast-growing fields.
Come see what’s possible when creativity meets technology — and discover how today’s curiosity can lead to tomorrow’s innovation.
This highly anticipated STEM experience will be held in two sessions — from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and again from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. — giving families multiple opportunities to explore exciting, hands-on learning.
Hosted by Harlan County Schools and made possible through the partnership of The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation, The Be Elite Foundation, and Stay Plugged In, this event will immerse students in the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through interactive stations and real-world demonstrations.
Participants will have the chance to:
Pilot flight simulators
Navigate a drone obstacle course
Build with LEGO engineering and computer science challenges
Experience shoutcasting and streaming setups
Take on the classic egg drop competition
Learn from professionals during a mentorship panel
…and explore many other engaging STEM activities!
“This event gives our students the chance to shape the technology of tomorrow through the STEM of today,” said Greg Longworth, Harlan County Schools Math Resource Teacher. “We’re empowering the students of today to be the innovators of tomorrow. We are so appreciative of the organizations who are making this possible for our community. This is something you don’t want your school-age child to miss.”
Longworth added, “I’m reminded of the quote, ‘Don’t be afraid to be the only one in the room, but be the first so others can follow.’ We want our students to have the courage to lead, to explore, and to inspire others to join them on their journey toward success.”
Harlan County Schools Superintendent Brett Johnson praised the event as an example of the district’s commitment to connecting learning with the future world of work.
“Pathways to Purpose is more than a STEM event — it’s an investment in our students’ futures,” said Johnson. “When young people are given the chance to see, touch, and experience real-world technology, it ignites a spark that traditional learning alone can’t always reach. We’re grateful to our partners who are helping us provide these transformative experiences that show students the incredible possibilities waiting for them right here in Appalachia and beyond.”
Throughout the evening, students will rotate between stations to gain hands-on knowledge and exposure to a variety of STEM career paths. “We hope this experience creates curiosity — the spark that inspires students to pursue a STEM future,” Longworth said.
The event is free of charge and open to all area students and their families. A team of highly trained STEM volunteers will guide participants at each station, sharing their expertise and enthusiasm for these fast-growing fields.
Come see what’s possible when creativity meets technology — and discover how today’s curiosity can lead to tomorrow’s innovation.
There will be no classes in Harlan County Schools on Tuesday, November 11, 2025! This is a snow day, not an NTI.
Happy Veterans Day !
The Harlan county School District will not be in session today, Monday, November 10, 2025. This is a traditional snow day, not an NTI day.
Foundations Unite to Launch ‘Pathways to Purpose’ STEM Initiative in Harlan County
HARLAN — The Be Elite Foundation, together with The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation, Stay Plugged In, and Harlan County Schools, announced the launch of “Pathways to Purpose: Aviation & Engineering Edition”, a two-day, innovative experience designed to introduce students to aviation and engineering careers through interactive hands-on engagement and skill development that parallels workforce experiences.
This exciting initiative will give middle school students and beyond the opportunity to explore hands-on STEM, aviation, and engineering concepts in a fun, engaging, and game-based environment. STEM serves as an essential field for all students and communities to engage in, allowing increased workforce development, career opportunities, and social mobility, thanks to the abundant high-salary jobs in the field, and Harlan County aims to be at the forefront of innovation through their STEM programming.
“We are thrilled to bring together these incredible partners to create a unique experience for students,” said Justin Ellis, Director of Education at Stay Plugged In. “Pathways to Purpose is more than just a STEM event; it’s an opportunity to inspire young minds to explore engineering, problem-solving, and innovation. By combining accessible, academic technology with real-world STEM learning, we’re helping students envision career pathways they may not have considered before.”
Through this collaboration, The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation, The Be Elite Foundation, and Stay Plugged In are committed to expanding access to STEM education and fostering early interest in engineering careers. By providing interactive learning experiences and mentorship, the event aims to spark curiosity and build foundational skills that will prepare students for future success.
“Our goal at The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation is to guide students toward meaningful futures through opportunity, education, and access,” said Kelsey Tackett, Director of Appalachian Engagement. “Events like Pathways to Purpose bring learning to life, helping students connect their passions to career possibilities in aviation, engineering, and beyond. We are thrilled to partner with Stay Plugged In to empower young learners right here in Harlan County to pursue their dreams.”
Pathways to Purpose: Aviation & Engineering Edition will feature a series of interactive stations, including:
Flight Simulators
Drone Obstacle Courses
LEGO Engineering & Computer Science
A Shoutcasting & Streaming Station
A Mentorship Panel
Egg Drop Competitions
And More!
The event will take place at James A. Cawood Elementary in Harlan County, Kentucky on November 20th & 21st, 2025, and is open to all middle-school students in the area. At 3:30, the venue will be open to all students and members of the community until 5PM, with an evening event on the 20th from 6:30-8.
Participating students will have the chance to engage in interactive workshops, experience cutting-edge technology, and connect with mentors from STEM communities.
About The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation (TLBF) is dedicated to empowering students through enhanced STEM education and a comprehensive scholarship program. We provide need-based scholarships, including support for engineering students through the University of Kentucky’s Pigman College of Engineering. Scholarships are paired with the programmatic backing that includes enrichment, mentorship, and leadership development.
Additionally, TLBF supports STEM initiatives throughout eastern Kentucky by providing support for organizations such as the Technology Student Association (TSA), MathCounts, and Engineering by Design. These resources offer unique opportunities for students and teachers by promoting STEM education and serving as a catalyst for innovation across the region.
About The Be Elite Foundation The Be Elite Foundation is dedicated to creating educational and career opportunities for students through STEM, gaming, and community programs. By fostering hands-on learning experiences and mentorship, The Be Elite Foundation inspires students to explore new career pathways and develop critical problem-solving skills.
About Stay Plugged In Stay Plugged In is dedicated to creating educational and career opportunities for high school students through esports, CTE, and STEM programs. Established in 2020, Stay Plugged In has been named the leading esports recruiting platform in the US for three consecutive years, generating more than $50 million in scholarship benefits for its student members. Stay Plugged In is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for students of all levels, enabling growth, learning and community through gaming.
HARLAN — The Be Elite Foundation, together with The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation, Stay Plugged In, and Harlan County Schools, announced the launch of “Pathways to Purpose: Aviation & Engineering Edition”, a two-day, innovative experience designed to introduce students to aviation and engineering careers through interactive hands-on engagement and skill development that parallels workforce experiences.
This exciting initiative will give middle school students and beyond the opportunity to explore hands-on STEM, aviation, and engineering concepts in a fun, engaging, and game-based environment. STEM serves as an essential field for all students and communities to engage in, allowing increased workforce development, career opportunities, and social mobility, thanks to the abundant high-salary jobs in the field, and Harlan County aims to be at the forefront of innovation through their STEM programming.
“We are thrilled to bring together these incredible partners to create a unique experience for students,” said Justin Ellis, Director of Education at Stay Plugged In. “Pathways to Purpose is more than just a STEM event; it’s an opportunity to inspire young minds to explore engineering, problem-solving, and innovation. By combining accessible, academic technology with real-world STEM learning, we’re helping students envision career pathways they may not have considered before.”
Through this collaboration, The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation, The Be Elite Foundation, and Stay Plugged In are committed to expanding access to STEM education and fostering early interest in engineering careers. By providing interactive learning experiences and mentorship, the event aims to spark curiosity and build foundational skills that will prepare students for future success.
“Our goal at The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation is to guide students toward meaningful futures through opportunity, education, and access,” said Kelsey Tackett, Director of Appalachian Engagement. “Events like Pathways to Purpose bring learning to life, helping students connect their passions to career possibilities in aviation, engineering, and beyond. We are thrilled to partner with Stay Plugged In to empower young learners right here in Harlan County to pursue their dreams.”
Pathways to Purpose: Aviation & Engineering Edition will feature a series of interactive stations, including:
Flight Simulators
Drone Obstacle Courses
LEGO Engineering & Computer Science
A Shoutcasting & Streaming Station
A Mentorship Panel
Egg Drop Competitions
And More!
The event will take place at James A. Cawood Elementary in Harlan County, Kentucky on November 20th & 21st, 2025, and is open to all middle-school students in the area. At 3:30, the venue will be open to all students and members of the community until 5PM, with an evening event on the 20th from 6:30-8.
Participating students will have the chance to engage in interactive workshops, experience cutting-edge technology, and connect with mentors from STEM communities.
About The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation (TLBF) is dedicated to empowering students through enhanced STEM education and a comprehensive scholarship program. We provide need-based scholarships, including support for engineering students through the University of Kentucky’s Pigman College of Engineering. Scholarships are paired with the programmatic backing that includes enrichment, mentorship, and leadership development.
Additionally, TLBF supports STEM initiatives throughout eastern Kentucky by providing support for organizations such as the Technology Student Association (TSA), MathCounts, and Engineering by Design. These resources offer unique opportunities for students and teachers by promoting STEM education and serving as a catalyst for innovation across the region.
About The Be Elite Foundation The Be Elite Foundation is dedicated to creating educational and career opportunities for students through STEM, gaming, and community programs. By fostering hands-on learning experiences and mentorship, The Be Elite Foundation inspires students to explore new career pathways and develop critical problem-solving skills.
About Stay Plugged In Stay Plugged In is dedicated to creating educational and career opportunities for high school students through esports, CTE, and STEM programs. Established in 2020, Stay Plugged In has been named the leading esports recruiting platform in the US for three consecutive years, generating more than $50 million in scholarship benefits for its student members. Stay Plugged In is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for students of all levels, enabling growth, learning and community through gaming.
Harlan County Schools families affected by loss of SNAP funds are encouraged to seek assistance through this program at Christ's Hands. Follow the QR code or link to complete an application.
Anyone needing assistance accessing the link may contact your Harlan County Schools Family Resource Centers. THE DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL THE PROGRAM REACHES ITS MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdGavpHACwh57gEt7FxIqnytD0ugU4p9NJhcfShoqHlv77Xzg/viewform
