Mitchell named Kentucky History Teacher of the Year
Justin Mitchell
Justin Mitchell, a social studies teacher at Franklin-Simpson Middle School in Franklin, Ky. and long-time participant in the McConnell Center's Civic Education Program, has been named the 2021 Kentucky History Teacher of the Year. The award is presented annually by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.
Mitchell was among the top 10 finalists for the National History Teacher of the Year Award and will be recognized during a livestream program honoring other exceptional American history teachers on Oct. 6. In addition to a $1,000 honorarium, Mitchell's school will receive a collection of American history books and materials from Gilder Lehrman. He will also be honored at a ceremony hosted by the Kentucky Historical Society.
Since 2010, Mitchell has taught 8th grade social studies at Franklin-Simpson Middle School, where he also serves as the gifted and talented coordinator, a SBDM council member and sponsor for a variety of student clubs. He earned a bachelor's degree in social studies and history and a master's degree in education from Western Kentucky University. He is currently pursing a doctorate of education at WKU.
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History was founded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman to promote the knowledge and understanding of American history through educational programs and resources. The institute provides teachers, students and the general public with direct access to unique primary source materials.