Commander Academy Teacher Selected as District-Wide Nominee for Kentucky Rural Education Teacher of the Year Award
Hillary Wright-Kaufman
Jan 22 2026 6:45 PM

(SPRINGFIELD, Ky.) – Washington County Commander Academy teacher Tiffani Ballard has been selected as the district-wide nominee for the Kentucky Rural Education Teacher of the Year, an honor that recognizes her selection to represent Washington County Schools in the statewide selection process. Sponsored by the Kentucky Rural Education Association and Eastern Kentucky University, the award recognizes an educator who demonstrates exceptional dedication, innovation and impact in a rural school and community. Ballard is 2000 graduate of Pike County Central High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in history and sociology from Morehead State University in 2005. She later earned a Master of Arts in Teacher Leader from the University of the Cumberlands in 2025 and is currently working toward obtaining an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership also from UC. Ballard has been employed in Washington County Schools for the past five and a half years, first as a secretary for the special education department before taking on the role of head teacher at Commander Academy, the district’s alternative school, three years ago.

Tiffani Ballard 

“I pursued the role as teacher at Commander Academy to work with students who need higher supports,” said Ballard. “I saw an opportunity to teach with compassion, foster relationships and meet students where they are emotionally and academically. The best parts of my job are the kids and the relationships I have built with them. Seeing our students re-engaged, confident and happy to be at school is extremely rewarding.” Ballard said she was humbled to learn that she had been nominated for the award. “It makes me feel appreciated when some days I feel like I’m not making a difference. It reaffirms my desire to continue the work with our students, and I am deeply grateful to work in a district that believes in its students and supports educators. I am so thankful to work alongside a dedicated principal and instructional assistants that are committed to the growth of our students.”

“Mrs. Ballard leads Commander Academy with heart, consistency and an unwavering belief in our students,” said Commander Academy Principal Chad Willis. “She creates a safe, structured environment where students feel valued and understood, often for the first time in their educational journey. Her ability to build trust, set clear expectations and celebrate growth, no matter how small, has transformed our program and the lives of the students we serve. I am thrilled that she is on our team, and she is more than deserving to represent Washington County for this award nomination.”

“Mrs. Ballard brings a thoughtful, student-first approach to her work every day,” said Director of Special Education and Director of Student and Staff Supports Amanda Mattingly. “She understands that success looks different for every learner and designs supports that help students re-engage, build confidence, and see a path forward. Her leadership at Commander Academy reflects a deep commitment to helping students overcome challenges and achieve meaningful, lasting growth.”

“Mrs. Ballard has worked tirelessly to ensure that every student, regardless of past challenges and current situation, has the opportunity to succeed,” says WCS Superintendent Dr. Robin Cochran. “Mrs. Ballard never gives up on a student. She individualizes instruction, motivates learners, and consistently teaches them to see life with a ‘glass half full’ mindset. She has secured co-ops, internships, and employment opportunities, while also providing meaningful life experiences through tours of local businesses and industries to build career pipelines. She loves her students like her own and sets high expectations for herself and those she serves, making a lasting difference in her school and community.”

The Kentucky Rural Education Teacher of the Year will be selected from nominees representing school districts across the state.