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“After 25 years of teaching and a masters degree, going back to school was the last thing I ever thought I would be doing. However, after moving to Kentucky and learning about the ranking system used here, I found myself no longer at the top of the salary schedule. I initially did not give it much thought because I have 2 daughters in college and frankly did not think I could afford to enroll in a rank change program. So I thought I would finish out my career as a Rank 2.
Last summer all that changed when I was attending some professional development at SESC and heard about the rank change program they facilitate. I quickly learned that it is tailored with working teachers in mind and very affordable–they even have a payment plan. I immediately enrolled and it has been a wonderful experience!
The classes are relevant to every teacher, at every grade level, and every subject area. At first I thought that I wouldn’t really have much interaction with the other teachers in the cohort, but quickly realized that although the classes are virtual, they are very interactive. It’s been very rewarding and refreshing to view teaching from other perspectives and I have learned so much.
I have talked to colleagues that have gone through other rank change programs and they have described it as tons of writing and lots of busy work. This program is NOT like that. The instructors are in the field of education and do not assign any busy work. All projects are things that you are currently working on in your own classroom and instructors are very flexible. This program truly is geared towards working teachers that want to learn and facilitate best practices in the classroom. I have thoroughly enjoyed this program and highly recommend it!”
Ronda Vacca
1st Grade Teacher
Hopkins Elementary
Somerset Independent
Rex Bray
Clay County High School
Clay County
“I just wanted to drop a line of appreciation, and a recommendation for this program that allows teachers to advance up a pay rank. Initially, I was hesitant and apprehensive about such a program. I'd been doing what I do for a long time, and to be honest had developed a certain routine, a safe routine. I knew I was too far into my career to make the investment into the traditional Rank I program, and had settled on the idea that I was stuck where I was.
I love the Program! I am learning so much about our craft, about our kids, and about new technologies and teaching theories. And I'm doing so on my time.
If a teacher or administrator is on the fence about doing this, my advice would be for them to jump in. They'll be finished in one year, and will very soon realize a return on their investment. They will watch themselves grow as a professional, learning new techniques and technologies that will genuinely enhance the quality of their work.”
"My favorite part of the SESC rank change program was how every course and assignment was designed to help me improve my practice in my own classroom. I love that we were given the freedom to choose activities and projects that would help make an immediate, positive impact on my teaching. All of my work with this program was applicable to me and my students and pushed me to be a better educator! I worked hard throughout the year, but all of the coursework was manageable and the weekly class meetings via zoom were so convenient. Signing up for this program was a stretch out of my comfort zone, but I am so thankful I did it and I would recommend this program to anyone who is interested in pursuing a rank change."
Kellie Farmer
1st Grade Teacher
Northern Elementary School
Pulaski County
Tanner Harris
McKee Elementary
Jackson County
Tanner joined the CEO program during his first year in the classroom. “I had just finished college, and I was burned out on the endless busy work that didn’t really help me in a real classroom,” he admitted. Hearing about the CEO program from his father, Tanner was intrigued by its practical focus and affordability. “It wasn’t like college. It wasn’t about piling on assignments. It was about stuff that was actually useful in the classroom.”
“We tackled everything from pencil sharpening distractions to chronic attendance problems,” Tanner explained. He and a partner developed an attendance incentive plan during the course, which led to significant improvements in student attendance. “That plan didn’t just work in first grade; we’re still using it now in third grade. It’s simple, but it makes a difference.” This focus on problem-solving and immediate application stood out to Tanner. “Every class offered practical strategies that I could take back to my classroom and use right away. Even now, I still rely on what I learned.”
“I didn’t have to take out loans or worry about financial stress. The cost made it accessible, and the structure of short, eight-week classes kept it manageable.” Beyond the financial benefits, Tanner praised the program’s structure and content. “It was organized in a way that didn’t feel overwhelming. Each course was meaningful and provided tools I could immediately use to become a better teacher.”
When asked if he would recommend the program to others, Tanner’s response was a resounding YES. “I’ve already encouraged several of my colleagues to join. It’s a win-win: you learn things that make you a better teacher, and you get a raise. Plus, it’s only a yearlong commitment.”
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