Shelby County is celebrating a remarkable achievement as Dr. Carla Kent, Principal of Shelby County High School, has been selected for the 2026 Kentucky Women in Education Leadership (KWEL) cohort. This honor, awarded by the Kentucky Association of School Administrators (KASA), recognizes 32 outstanding women leaders from 22 districts across the Commonwealth who are shaping the future of education in Kentucky.
Now in its ninth year, KWEL is a prestigious network of more than 250 visionary female educators committed to innovation, integrity, and student success. The initiative provides mentorship, professional learning, and a statewide community of support for women in educational leadership.
Dr. Kent’s selection is a testament to the transformational work taking place at Shelby County High School. “This recognition is important because it acknowledges the transformational work happening at Shelby County High School,” said Dr. Kent. “For me personally, it represents the power of visibility, showing that strong, authentic women in leadership belong in every space where decisions about the future of education are made. It’s not about me, it’s about the inspiration it offers for others who may not always see themselves reflected in leadership.”
Under Dr. Kent’s leadership, the school has focused on strengthening Tier 1 instruction, expanding intervention supports, and building strong professional learning communities. Initiatives such as WIN (What I Need) time and authentic learning experiences rooted in community partnerships reflect a commitment to ensuring every student has a pathway to success.
“We are building strong professional learning communities, redefining our intervention model through WIN time, and elevating student engagement through authentic learning experiences and community partnerships,” Dr. Kent explained. “Every initiative is rooted in our belief that when we support teachers well, students flourish.”
Dr. Kent also emphasized the importance of female leadership in education. “Our presence, perspective, and perseverance help shape environments where students of all backgrounds can see themselves as capable of greatness. For young women, especially students of color, seeing women in leadership reinforces the message that their voice, intellect, and leadership matter.”
KASA CEO Dr. Rhonda Caldwell praised the cohort, saying, “These women are not only leading their schools and districts with excellence, they are shaping the future of education in Kentucky.”
Dr. Kent concluded, “I am proud to lead a school where innovation meets heart. Data driven decisions are made while relationships drive success. My journey as a leader is grounded in both purpose and gratitude.”
Shelby County is proud to celebrate Dr. Kent’s achievement and the continued excellence she brings to our schools and community.