Lexington teacher finalist for $40K classroom makeover; how you can help

By Tyler Melito

LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — A Lexington elementary school teacher is in the running to win a classroom makeover worth $40,000.

Now in its second year, Wisconsin furniture company KI is providing teachers across the country with the chance to win a classroom furniture giveaway.

The 12 finalists were announced on Jan. 19, split up into four regions of three teachers each. One of the finalists is Northern Elementary School STEM teacher Ashley Wilkirson.

“Our students come first here,” Wilkirson explained. “So we always are looking out for each other’s growth and trying to help challenge each other to be better here.”

You may be wondering how this unique opportunity came about for Wilkirson. The story all starts with her sister.

“My sister shared the link with me and said, ‘Hey, this would be a really great opportunity for you all,'” Wilkirson said.

From the outset of entering this contest, Wilkirson said she had one goal in mind.

“I wanted a learning space that matches the level of learning I’m giving our students because our students are thriving as they investigate and understand the world, and they need a space that reflects that,” Wilkirson detailed. “I tell them they’re scientists and engineers, while they should have a space that looks like they’re a scientist or engineer.”

It’s no secret that STEM education has become more and more of a focal point in schools, but that’s primarily at the high school level.

Wilkirson said her dream learning space reflects the skills she’s teaching our youngest students.

“The tables are designed so it’s easy to lean over and have conversations,” described Wilkirson. “Plenty of smart space to move around and have connections. Get your creativity flowing. That’s a huge part of it.”

It’s not just about setting kids up for the remainder of their time in school but also for the rest of their lives.

“Everything they learn now is a steppingstone toward their future and things they will need for the rest of their life, regardless of whatever their career choice is,” Wilkirson said.

Wilkirson said one thing she loves about Northern Elementary and Fayette County Public Schools as a whole is how they lock arms and support one another.

She needs the community’s support to win the classroom makeover. Use this link to vote for Wilkirson; you have until Wednesday, Jan. 31 to do so.

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