Asbury Educator of the Month: Stacey Middleton

No one can say that special education teacher Stacey Middleton backs down from a challenge.
After working five years at alternative schools in Fayette County, Middleton was allowed to choose her next assignment. In 2001, she picked Bryan Station High, the only Title I high school in Lexington.

“So many of our students have disadvantages, like homelessness, poverty, learning English as a second language,” Middleton said. “But there’s not one day that I regret that I decided to come here. I feel that everyone at our school tries hard to be culturally aware and responsive.”

As the special education department co-chair since 2005, Middleton has played a central role in developing that mindset.

“I’m proud of the work we’re doing here,” she said.

So proud that even though she is credentialed to be a high school principal, she has no intention of leaving Bryan Station, which is now called the Academies at Bryan Station.

Middleton’s job duties alternate with each day. On “A” days, she is a co-teacher in three English classes filled with students with a wide range of needs. The difference in academic ability between the students can be vast, as much as six or seven grade levels in reading, for instance.

Proper preparation is crucial to the success of each class. Middleton develops activities that are suitable for all students, and pre-teaches vocabulary when necessary.

On “B” days, Middleton works with a case list of 20 students, either one on one in her resource room or assisting in their classes.

“We have daily successes here, and they’re not the kind that can be measured by ACT scores or college entrance letters,” she said. “Self-advocacy is one of the most important things we teach. I have the most fun when I watch students explore something they’re passionate about.”

Middleton ensures that success with skills she has developed in her 23-year career – and with buckets of sweat equity.

“She lives in this building as much as I do and I’m sitting here now and it’s spring break,” Principal James McMillin said. “She’s a hard worker and has a deep love for the kids of this community.

“She believes that everyone can learn at high levels and never forgets that these kids are important.”