Berea School Recognized for Exceptional Academic Performance and Innovation
Farristown Middle School has been selected as one of only 11 schools statewide to receive Kentucky Spotlight School recognition from the Kentucky Department of Education. The honor highlights the school’s exceptional academic performance, innovative teaching practices, and commitment to student success.
Located at 751 Farristown Industrial Drive in Berea, the Madison County school joins an elite group of institutions recognized for demonstrating outstanding leadership, effective teaching strategies, and dedication to continuous improvement.
Sharing Success Across Kentucky
As a Spotlight School, Farristown Middle will play a vital role in sharing successful practices with other schools across Kentucky. The recognition positions the school as a model for educators statewide who are working to raise student achievement and create positive, inclusive learning environments.
“We have learned and grown so much over the years through collaboration with other schools, and we are excited to continue that journey,” said Principal Angie Alexander. “This opportunity allows us to share what we have learned and gain new insights to keep growing together.”
The Kentucky Department of Education selected Spotlight Schools based on their ability to close achievement gaps, elevate student and family engagement, and foster academic success through creative and effective approaches.
A Story of Continuous Improvement
Each Spotlight School documented their journey on a story card, providing insights into key strategies, initiatives, and lessons learned. These narratives serve as powerful tools for educators and leaders seeking to implement effective practices in their own schools.
Farristown Middle School’s story card is available on the Kentucky Department of Education website, offering detailed information about the specific practices and approaches that have contributed to the school’s success. Educators from across the state are encouraged to explore these resources and even schedule visits to see the school’s strategies in action.
Recognition from State Leadership
“Recognizing these outstanding schools allows us to showcase the incredible work happening in classrooms across Kentucky,” said Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher. “Their dedication to student success and commitment to innovation make them valuable models for schools statewide.”
The 2025 Spotlight Schools represent diverse communities across Kentucky, from Beechwood High School in Northern Kentucky to W.B. Muncy Elementary in Leslie County. Farristown Middle School stands as the sole Madison County representative in this year’s cohort, bringing recognition to Berea’s educational excellence.
A Title I Success Story
Farristown Middle School opened in Berea on August 15, 2011, and serves students in grades 6-8. As a Title I school, Farristown’s recognition is particularly significant, demonstrating that high achievement and innovative practices can thrive in schools serving diverse student populations.
Under Principal Angie Alexander’s leadership, the school has built a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. The school’s approach emphasizes working with other institutions to learn, grow, and share effective strategies—a philosophy that aligns perfectly with the Spotlight School mission.
What Makes a Spotlight School
The Kentucky Department of Education looks for schools that demonstrate:
- Exceptional academic performance across student populations
- Innovative practices that can be replicated in other settings
- Effective leadership that supports teachers and students
- Commitment to continuous improvement and professional growth
- Success in closing achievement gaps among different student groups
- Strong family and community engagement strategies
Farristown Middle School’s selection indicates the school has excelled in all these areas, creating a learning environment where students thrive and educators continuously refine their craft.
Learning from Excellence
Schools across Kentucky are encouraged to visit the Spotlight Schools webpage and explore the story cards to learn more about promising practices. Each school’s story card provides valuable insights and inspiration for educators looking to strengthen their own instructional strategies and initiatives.
For Farristown Middle School, the recognition validates years of hard work while opening new opportunities to collaborate with schools across the Commonwealth. The school welcomes visits from educators interested in seeing their practices firsthand—whether through on-site tours or virtual discussions.
A Community Achievement
The Spotlight School recognition reflects not just the work of teachers and administrators, but the entire Farristown Middle School community—including students, families, and community partners who support the school’s mission.
For Berea and Madison County, Farristown Middle School’s recognition brings well-deserved attention to the quality of education happening in local schools. It’s a reminder that exceptional teaching and learning are taking place right here in our community.
Farristown Middle School📍 Location: 751 Farristown Industrial Drive, Berea, KY 40403👤 Principal: Angie Alexander📞 Phone: 859-387-8600🌐 More Info: Farristown Middle School📚 Spotlight Schools: Kentucky Department of Education
Congratulations to Principal Angie Alexander, the entire Farristown Middle School staff, students, and families on this outstanding achievement!