In a move set to strengthen the ties between higher education and K-12 policy in Kentucky, Governor Andy Beshear has appointed Juston Pate, President and CEO of Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC), to the Kentucky Board of Education (KBE). This appointment marks a significant step in aligning educational strategies across all levels in the Bluegrass State.
Key Highlights:
- Juston Pate appointed to Kentucky Board of Education
- Pate to represent Supreme Court District 2
- Appointment aims to bridge gap between higher education and K-12 policy
- Two other new appointees: Mike Borchers and Paul Long
Who is Juston Pate?
Juston Pate brings a wealth of experience to the Kentucky Board of Education:
- Current Role: President and CEO of Elizabethtown Community and Technical College since January 2017
- Educational Background: Started career as an English and humanities teacher at the high school level
- Higher Education Experience:
- Served as provost of Maysville Community and Technical College
- Interim president of Hazard Community and Technical College
Pate’s diverse background in both K-12 and higher education positions him uniquely to contribute to the KBE’s mission of improving educational outcomes for all Kentucky students.
Why This Appointment Matters for Kentucky Education
- Bridging the Gap: Pate’s experience in both K-12 and higher education can help create smoother transitions for students
- Community College Perspective: Brings insights from the community college system to K-12 policy discussions
- Regional Representation: As representative for Supreme Court District 2, Pate will bring the perspective of central Kentucky to statewide educational policy
Other Notable Appointments to the Kentucky Board of Education
Governor Beshear’s appointments also include:
- Mike Borchers:
- Recently retired superintendent of Ludlow Independent Schools
- 29-year career in education
- Former member of the Local Superintendents Advisory Council
- Representing Supreme Court District 6
- Paul Long:
- Lawyer with over 30 years of experience in Stanford
- Former Lincoln County Attorney (1990-1997)
- Established an endowed scholarship at Lindsey Wilson College
- Representing Supreme Court District 3
The Future of Kentucky Education
These appointments, along with the reappointment of four existing members, signal a commitment to diverse perspectives in shaping Kentucky’s educational future. The Kentucky Board of Education plays a crucial role in:
- Setting state standards for K-12 education
- Developing the state’s assessment and accountability system
- Advocating for adequate funding of public schools
- Guiding the implementation of educational reforms
With Juston Pate’s appointment, Kentucky’s education system stands to benefit from increased alignment between K-12 and higher education strategies, potentially leading to better outcomes for students at all levels.
What’s Next?
All Kentucky Board of Education appointments, including Pate’s, are subject to confirmation by the state Senate. Once confirmed, these new members will join the board in its mission to ensure that all Kentucky students are prepared for success in college, career, and life.
For more information on Kentucky’s education initiatives and the Kentucky Board of Education, visit Kentucky Dept. Of Education.
