Fleming County, KY — At Fleming County Schools, learning extends far beyond traditional classroom walls. It comes to life in gyms, performance stages, community spaces, and, in this case, a fair barn. Alec Hardin from Simons Middle School recently demonstrated remarkable dedication, leadership, and personal growth through participation in sheep showing events at the Bourbon County Fair and additional fairs throughout Kentucky.
Alec’s work reflects the district’s commitment to developing Learners of Distinction: young people who practice real-world skills, embrace challenges, and grow through authentic learning experiences that shape their future success.
Leadership and Learning in Action
Sheep showing requires far more than guiding an animal through the ring. It demands discipline, consistent practice, communication, and the ability to adapt under pressure. According to Dr. Whitney Wilson, Principal at Simons Middle School, Alec excelled in these areas and earned awards that reflect strong preparation and persistence.
Throughout the season, Alec demonstrated essential BRIDGE Performance Indicators, including:
Teamwork — working collaboratively with peers, mentors, and the agricultural community.
Communication — engaging effectively with judges, listening attentively to feedback, and presenting with confidence.
Growth & Achievement — practicing daily, responding to challenges, and showing measurable progress over time.
These skills are foundational components of the Learner of Distinction Profile, which emphasizes durable, lifelong competencies such as collaboration, clear communication, goal-setting, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
A Vibrant Learning Experience Rooted in Purpose
Alec’s accomplishments align with the district’s Vibrant Learning Ecosystem, which ensures students have opportunities to engage in real-world, hands-on experiences that connect to their interests and passions.
Agriculture programs, like this one, offer powerful opportunities for students to:
Develop responsibility through daily animal care
Build confidence through authentic public presentations
Strengthen problem-solving skills in unpredictable environments
Gain exposure to career pathways connected to Kentucky’s agricultural heritage
These experiences embody the Vibrant Learning category of the district’s Vibrant Ecosystem by showcasing robust, student-driven experiences that prepare learners for life beyond school.
Principal Wilson noted, “Alec practiced leadership, communication, and teamwork throughout the showing season. He demonstrated tremendous growth and earned recognition for his hard work,” a reflection of both Alec’s dedication and the supportive environment fostered within the school community.
Reflecting the Mission and Vision of Fleming County Schools
Fleming County Schools remains committed to its mission of providing an equitable, high-quality education in a caring and safe environment, ensuring all students grow academically, personally, and socially. Real-world learning opportunities like sheep showing are essential to helping students discover their strengths and prepare for future college, career, and life success.
As the district continues its journey toward becoming a District of Distinction, stories like this highlight how authentic learning, student agency, and community partnerships are shaping well-rounded, confident learners who are ready for the challenges ahead.
This Simons Middle School student stands as a proud example of what it means to be a Learner of Distinction in Fleming County Schools through his demonstration of skill, character, and a commitment to continuous growth.