(by Don Meador)
Ashley McPeak will be one of several new faces at Allen County-Scottsville High School this year. McPeak steps into an ECE (Exceptional Child Educator) role after four years in a similar position at the Allen County Intermediate Center.
“I chose to go into education because I wanted to make a positive impact on the lives of students and help them reach their full potential,” McPeak explained. “Growing up in this community, I experienced the difference that caring, supportive educators can make, and that inspired me to pursue a career in education.”
McPeak is a 2015 graduate of AC-SH. She earned a degree in Social Work from Western Kentucky University in 2018. Afterwards, McPeak obtained a Masters of Arts in Teaching: Special Education from the University of the Cumberlands.
“One of the most important parts of teaching for me is building strong relationships with my students,” McPeak said. “I believe that students learn best when they feel valued, supported, and genuinely cared for. As a special education teacher, I am passionate about helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally while developing the skills they need to become independent and successful.”
McPeak feels that relationships formed in school are foundational steps to becoming a life-long supporter and encourager.
“I also believe that the relationships we build with students shouldn’t end when they leave our classroom,” McPeak pointed out. “I am passionate about supporting and maintaining connections with my students long after they move on, celebrating their accomplishments and continuing to encourage them as they grow. Seeing former students succeed and knowing I played a small role in their journey is one of the most rewarding parts of being an educator.”
Having the opportunity to educate students in the community in which she calls home is also important to McPeak.
“Being able to serve the students and families of my hometown makes this work even more meaningful, and I am grateful for the opportunity to invest in the next generation every day,” McPeak said.
When asked what her students and their parents/guardians can expect in the classroom, McPeak mentions three core things.
“Students and parents can expect a classroom built on trust, respect, and meaningful relationships,” McPeak explained. “I strive to create a supportive environment where every student feels valued, encouraged, and capable of success. My goal is to meet students where they are, help them grow academically and personally, and provide them with the tools they need to become confident and independent learners. Parents can expect open communication, collaboration, and a strong partnership focused on what is best for their child. I believe families play a vital role in a student’s success, and I want parents to feel comfortable reaching out with questions, concerns, or celebrations. Students can expect high expectations paired with patience, understanding, and support. I will always advocate for my students, celebrate their progress, and encourage them to challenge themselves. Most importantly, students and families can expect a teacher who genuinely cares and is committed to building lasting relationships that extend beyond the school year.”
McPeak will transition to teaching older students but she notes that being in the classroom for several years has taught her valuable lessons about relationships, respect, and realization---lessons applicable to and and all students.
“Throughout my years in education, one of the most important lessons I have learned is that relationships matter,” McPeak stated, “While academics are important, students are often most impacted by knowing they have someone in their corner who believes in them and will go to bat for them every single day when they walk into school.
I have learned that students are more willing to take risks, overcome challenges, and grow when they feel seen, heard, and valued. Many students face obstacles that others may never see, and having a trusted adult who consistently supports and advocates for them can make a tremendous difference in their confidence and success. I have also learned the importance of meeting students where they are, celebrating growth of all sizes, and recognizing that every child learns differently. Building strong relationships with students and their families has reinforced my belief that education is about more than academics, it’s about helping students develop confidence, resilience, and the skills they need to be successful in life. My experiences have shown me that when students know they have someone who genuinely cares about them and will fight for their success, they are capable of achieving far more than they often believe possible.”
Away from the classroom, McPeak values her family and their time together as well as living a life filled with an abundance of home activities.
“Family is very important to me,” McPeak stressed. “I am the proud mom of two daughters, Adley and Holland, who bring so much joy to my life. They keep me busy and constantly remind me of the importance of patience, love, and making time for the people who matter most. I highly value family relationships and believe that strong connections and support systems are essential. Being a mom has also helped me become a better educator by giving me a greater appreciation for the partnership between families and schools. Building meaningful relationships with students and their families is something I truly value. I enjoy spending time with my daughters, as well as my family and friends. Some of my favorite hobbies include gardening, growing flowers and vegetables, canning, thrifting, and spending time outdoors. I often joke that I have a lot of ‘granny hobbies,’ but I love the slower pace and satisfaction that comes from creating, growing things.”
McPeak returns to AC-S---a place that holds fond and unforgettable memories.
“A fun fact about me is that I was part of the 2015 Lady Patriots girls basketball team that competed in the state championship, where we finished as the runners-up,” McPeak shared. “Being able to experience that level of teamwork, dedication, and school spirit is something I will always cherish. I am excited to now have the opportunity to watch and support our students in athletics from a different perspective and cheer them on as they create their own memories and experiences.”
Students and parents/guardians can meet McPeak at the high school Open House slated for Thursday, August 6.