Alumna honored as Kentucky Department of Education award recipient
By Jillian Smith | Sep 2, 2025
MURRAY, Ky. — Murray State University College of Education and Human Services alumna Kara Dowdy has been named one of nine recipients of the 2026 Kentucky Teacher Achievement Award by the Kentucky Department of Education.
Dowdy earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary English education in 2004, a master’s in reading and writing in 2008 and an education specialist degree in educational administration and instructional supervision in May 2025.
Dowdy, who teaches English at Mayfield High School, said she was shocked but excited to learn she had been selected from more than 750 nominations across the state. She advanced through multiple rounds of applications and interviews before receiving the news in August.
“Teaching is a selfless profession. We give back to others endlessly just because we care,” Dowdy said. “This achievement award is not just about me. It reflects my colleagues, who go above and beyond every single day for our students, and of course, it includes our students as well.”
Her school community, colleagues and students quickly celebrated the recognition, sharing the news on social media and even surprising her with gifts.
As a teacher leader in Mayfield Independent Schools, Dowdy serves as chair of the English language arts department and district mentor. She has also led initiatives such as the “Different Abilities” fundraiser to support students with special needs.
“I am a teacher every single second of every single day,” she said. “My goal has always been to help others—my sons, students and colleagues—reach their full potential. Hopefully, those in my community and across the state will see that it doesn’t matter how small the town [is]—reaching full potential just takes dedication and support.”
If selected as the 2026 Kentucky Teacher of the Year, Dowdy said she would emphasize “voice and value” as her message to educators and the public.
“All students have a voice, no matter how they communicate, and all students deserve to feel valued,” she said. “Relationships and communication are the keys to success in my classroom.”
The 2026 Kentucky Teacher of the Year will be announced in October.
For more information about the College of Education and Human Services, visit .