Kellie Moses, a music educator at Garth Elementary in Scott County, was named a 2027 Kentucky Teacher of the Year finalist and winner of the elementary school teaching division, Kentucky Teacher reported. The recognition honors her 25-year career dedicated to providing accessible music education and fostering student growth.
Moses has served in multiple roles within Scott County Schools, including K-5 general music educator, choral director for fourth- and fifth-grade ensembles, string and percussion director, and interim assistant choral director at Scott County High School. At the Title I elementary school, she integrates Orff-Schulwerk pedagogy with Modern Band frameworks to create a culturally responsive curriculum. Her efforts include establishing after-school ensemble initiatives designed to increase participation among historically underrepresented students.
To support literacy and community engagement, Moses launched Musical Storybook Night, an annual event teaching families music-based strategies to improve reading fluency. She also recently introduced a ukulele program, developing a leveled curriculum after securing instruments through donations. Her instructional approach includes differentiating lessons for diverse needs, such as designing a custom strumming device for a second-grade student with a transverse limb deficiency. Moses emphasizes collaboration with classroom teachers to align music instruction with core content, ensuring every student feels valued and connected.
For more information, visit kentuckyteacher.org.