Lincoln County Schools is proud to announce Tish Burns as the district’s Director of Federal and State Programs. Mrs. Burns has served the district since 2005 in a variety of capacities, beginning her career as an elementary school teacher before serving as a cadre leader and teacher mentor.
Since 2015, Burns has served as the district’s English Learner Program Coordinator. In that role, she has worked closely with students, families, and staff to support student success. She has also gained valuable experience in federal and state program compliance, grant administration, program monitoring, data analysis, and school improvement, further preparing her for her new role as Director of Federal and State Programs. Burns holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Berea College and a Master of Science degree from Western Kentucky University. She also holds professional certifications in Instructional Leadership, Supervisor of Instruction and Director of Pupil Personnel.
Superintendent Bruce Smith said Mrs. Burns' combination of experience and knowledge will be a valuable asset to the district in her new role. “Tish’s experience working with state and federal programs, combined with her 21 years of service to Lincoln County Schools, makes her uniquely prepared for this position,” Superintendent Smith said. “She understands our district, our schools, and the needs of our students and families. I am excited to see Tish step into this new role and look forward to the contributions she will continue to make to Lincoln County Schools.”
“I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to serve Lincoln County Schools in this new role,” Burns said. “Having spent my entire 21 year career in Lincoln County, I care deeply about our students, families, staff, and community. Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to opportunities that help remove barriers and create meaningful experiences for students. I’m looking forward to building on the strong work already happening in our district and collaborating with our schools and community to make the most of the resources available to support student success.”
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Burns enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She and her husband, Gary, have two adult children, Kaleb and Kylee. Her hobbies and interests include traveling, cruising, playing volleyball, trying new things, and enjoying new adventures and experiences with the people she loves.
Lincoln County Schools is grateful for Burns 21 years of dedicated service and looks forward to her continued leadership and contributions to the district in this new role.