Mission
Mission
Our mission is to assist students transitioning into high school, maintain engaging rigorous, and safe classrooms, encourage school involvement, and teach skills that help build resiliency, student success, and commitment to graduation.
The Academy of Freshman Success Principal
Mrs. Lacey Ramirez
Welcome to the Academy of Freshman Success, and thank you for taking the time to learn more about who we are and the work we are proud to do. My name is Lacey Ramirez, and I am honored to serve as the principal of the Academy of Freshman Success, the cornerstone of Christian County High School. As a 2003 graduate of Hopkinsville High School and a lifelong member of the Christian County Public Schools family, this role is deeply personal to me. I began my career in education as a teacher and have spent my entire professional journey committed to serving the students and families of this community. My journey in school administration began in 2022 and I am honored to have been given the opportunity to serve as the principal of the Academy of Freshman Success.
My educational background includes degrees from Berea College, Western Kentucky University, and Murray State University, along with two master’s degrees in education and an endorsement as a Supervisor of Instruction. I am also a 2025 graduate of the Chamber Foundation’s Truist Leadership Institute and am currently pursuing my Superintendent Certification. Each of these experiences has strengthened my belief in the power of strong leadership, intentional systems, and high expectations for all students.
The Freshman Academy of Success is not just a program—it is where every student’s high school journey begins with purpose. This is where expectations are set, habits are formed, and a sense of pride and belonging takes root. I am confident that a well-designed freshman experience sets the tone for success throughout high school and beyond. Our work here is intentional, engaging, and student-centered, because the foundation we build in the freshman year truly matters.
I am deeply committed to leading this academy with focus, care, and unwavering belief in our students’ potential. Together with our dedicated staff, supportive families, and engaged community, we will inspire achievement, ignite confidence, and prepare students not only for high school, but for life. The difference truly begins here, and I am excited to get to work alongside you. Thank you for being part of our journey, and as always—Go Tigers!
Lacey Ramirez, Academy Principal
Understanding the Freshman Year
Freshman year is an important transition into high school and sets the foundation for future academic and career success. Students will be scheduled into eight 90-minute class blocks, four on A-Day (Monday, Wednesday, and every other Friday), and four on B-Day (Tuesday, Thursday, and every other Friday).
Graduation Pathway
Students will first determine which high school diploma they plan to pursue.
Traditional Diploma
Honors Diploma
This decision helps guide course rigor and long-term academic planning.
All freshmen will select one course in each of the following course subject areas:
English
Math
Science
Social Studies
Career & Elective Courses
To support college and career readiness, student will also select:
One entry-level career pathway course - Introduces students to career areas and helps the begin exploring future options
One elective course - Allows students to explore personal interests, talents, or skills
The following courses are required for all freshmen:
Freshman Seminar - focuses on academic success skills, goal setting, and the transition to high school
Health Education 1 - 1/2 credit
Physical Education 1 - 1/2 credit
Doing Your Best Matters
Freshman year truly counts. All high school courses and grades earned beginning in the ninth grade are recorded on a student's official high school transcript. These grades are reviewed for:
Graduation eligibility
Honors diploma requirements
College admissions
Scholarships and postsecondary opportunities
Students are encouraged to choose thoughtfully, develop strong study habits, ask for help when needed, and put forth their best effort from day one. A strong freshman year builds confidence, opens doors, and sets the tone for high school success.
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