FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kentucky SHAPE Members to Advocate for Health and Physical Education at SHAPE America Speak Out Day in Washington, D.C.

Frankfort, KY — Kentucky SHAPE (Society of Health and Physical Educators) is proud to announce that a dedicated group of educators and leaders will represent the Commonwealth at the annual SHAPE America Speak Out Day in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday February 26th. This important advocacy event, hosted by SHAPE America, brings together health and physical education professionals from across the nation to engage with lawmakers and advocate for quality health and physical education programs in schools.

This year’s Kentucky delegation features some of the state’s most distinguished educators and leaders in the field:

Kara Young, SHAPE America National Health Education Teacher of the Year from Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), will be joining the team to share her expertise and passion for comprehensive health education.
Casey Page, SHAPE America National High School Physical Education Teacher of the Year from Shelby County Schools, will advocate for the importance of physical education in fostering lifelong fitness and well-being.
Jamie Sparks, Executive Director of KYSHAPE and SHAPE America Past-President, a seasoned advocate for school health initiatives, will lead the delegation.
MeMe Ratliff, President of KYSHAPE, will represent the organization’s ongoing commitment to advancing health and physical education in Kentucky schools.
LaDonda Porter, Past-President of KYSHAPE, will contribute her extensive experience in shaping best practices for quality physical education and promoting student wellness.
Angela Stark, President-Elect, will join in championing the future of health and physical education in Kentucky.

Additionally, Robin Walker, KYSHAPE Past-President and current SHAPE America Board of Director member, will participate as part of the state leadership team. Robin is also a candidate for SHAPE America President, further highlighting Kentucky’s strong influence on national health and physical education policy.

The Kentucky delegation will meet with federal legislators to advocate for critical issues affecting students, educators, and school communities. Their efforts aim to ensure that every child has access to high-quality health and physical education, supporting lifelong health, academic success, and overall well-being.

“Advocacy is essential in ensuring that health and physical education remain priorities in our schools,” said Robin Walker KYSHAPE Past-President. “Our delegation represents the best of Kentucky’s educators, and we are excited to bring their voices to Washington, D.C. to share the importance of federal funding for local schools and districts.”

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