Beech Tree News Network

Butler County Schools proudly announces its successful participation in the South-Central Kentucky (SCK) Launch, a dynamic career exploration initiative designed to introduce 8th-grade students to various businesses and industries in south-central Kentucky. This program, hosted in Bowling Green, brings together community partners across our region to guide students as they begin exploring their future career pathways.

During the SCK Launch, Butler County’s 8th graders toured a range of businesses and industries across fields like healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and more. They had opportunities to interact directly with industry professionals, gaining hands-on experience and insights into potential careers. This initiative helps students link classroom learning with real-world applications, broadening their understanding of the skills needed in today’s workforce.  Butler County Middle School used this learning experience to teach the portrait of a learner competencies of – Character, Problem Solving, Communication, Collaboration, and Global Citizenship. 

The SCK Launch program is part of Butler County Schools' commitment to preparing students for a successful future by fostering early career exploration and education. By introducing students to a diverse array of career paths and local employers, the district aims to inspire and equip them with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures.

Butler County Middle School Principal Tim Freeman, said, “The SCK Launch program gives our students a unique perspective on the many career opportunities available here in south-central Kentucky. It’s our mission to ensure every student sees the range of possibilities their future can hold, starting right here in our local region.”

Building on the success of the SCK Launch program, Butler County Schools proudly continues its commitment to career exploration by expanding opportunities for students. Following the 8th-grade career exposure program, the district has launched a hands-on initiative for high school freshmen and sophomores, allowing them to engage with local businesses and industries in south-central Kentucky. Our sophomores completed their career pathway experience this week.  Freshmen will tour these businesses in the spring.  

These experiences will help our students see what is available in our local community as they determine their transition pathway.  This will also help students determine possible future Co-op and work-based learning for their junior and senior year.  We would like to thank our local partners Aerospace Composites Solutions, Butler County EMT/Paramedic, Chad’s Body Shop and Wrecker Service, Corvac, Cardwell Farms, Delta Faucet, Morgantown Bank and Trust, Struttin Rooster Farms, and WRECC right here in Morgantown.  We also like to thank our Bowling Green partners Bowling Green Stockyard, Hills Pet Nutrition, Holley Manufacturing, WKU Medical Center, and Stupp Bridge.  

Stoye Young, Principal of Butler County High School, commented, “Our freshmen and sophomores now can build on the foundation laid in 8th grade with meaningful experiences in real work environments. These visits are invaluable for helping students visualize their future roles within the community and the broader workforce.”

Through these on-site visits, freshmen and sophomores gain real-world insights into the day-to-day operations of various industries, from advanced manufacturing, agriculture and healthcare to business, technology and skilled trades. This hands-on experience is designed to deepen their understanding of potential career paths, introducing them to practical skills and roles that align with their developing interests.

The initiative reflects Butler County Schools’ mission to create a seamless career exploration pathway from middle to high school, preparing students for success in the workforce or further education. By engaging with local professionals and witnessing business operations firsthand, students are empowered to make informed choices about their post-secondary goals and aspirations.

Robert Tuck, Superintendent of Butler County Schools, emphasizes the importance of career exploration in shaping students' futures:

“Career exploration opens doors for our students, helping them discover pathways that align with their passions and goals. By exposing students to a range of industries and professions early on, they’re able to make informed choices about technical classes, dual credit courses, and work-based learning that directly support their ambitions. Our goal is to provide a clear direction, allowing each student to build skills and experience that will lead to fulfilling careers and meaningful contributions to our community.”