At LINK nky, we believe that educators – whether they are teachers or principals, tutors or superintendents – are at the heart of our community’s success. The Educator of the Week contest is our way of recognizing and celebrating the incredible educators who go above and beyond for Northern Kentucky students every day.
Each week, we will choose three nominees who have made an impact on their community and who represent a diverse mix of roles, grade levels, subject areas, school types and geographic locations.
Click here for a full list of official rules and to nominate an educator.
The Educators
Educator: Ashley Hicks
Role: Fourth-grade teacher at Crossroads Elementary
Nominator: Emily Poe
Why Poe nominated Hicks:
I am nominating Mrs. Hicks due to her exceptional dedication and impact on students. She has a passion for teaching that is unmatched and is evident in everything she does. Each day she approaches learning with enthusiasm, purpose, and a genuine love for learning that inspires students to be engaged and confident.
What truly sets Mrs. Hicks apart is her commitment to one‑on‑one attention. She takes the time to understand each student’s individual strengths, challenges, and learning styles, ensuring no one feels overlooked. I have been fortunate enough to have Mrs. Hicks teach both of my sons and while I know my children are exact opposites, she has the ability to truly understand them and reach them both on their level. Her ability to make each child feel seen only reiterates the fact that her students know they can seek support, guidance, or encouragement at any time, and it is always met with patience and understanding.
Mrs. Hicks has always made sure to build meaningful relationships not only with students, but also with families and parents. I know I can always call her, meet with her if ever a concern. Expectations are clear, feedback is constructive, and conversations are always handled with empathy and professionalism.
Above all, Mrs. Hicks is deeply trustworthy. Students and families can trust her with their academic concerns and personal struggles, knowing they will be met with honesty, confidentiality, and unwavering support. Her positive influence extends beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impression on students’ growth and confidence. Mrs. Hicks is truly deserving of recognition for her passion, compassion, and commitment to her students. Thank you, Mrs. Hicks, for all you do!
Educator: Benjamin Davis
Role: Teacher at the Ignite Institute
Nominator: Lexy Davis
Why Lexy nominated Benjamin:
I am honored to nominate Ben Davis for Northern Kentucky Educator of the Week. As the Precalculus teacher at Ignite Institute, Ben exemplifies the dedication, expertise, and heart that define the very best of our region’s teaching profession.
Ben’s impact on his students’ academic trajectories is undeniable. This year, his commitment to his students’ future success was strikingly evident: every single student for whom he wrote a recommendation letter for the prestigious Governor’s Scholar Program (GSP) was selected for the award. This achievement is a testament to Ben’s ability to truly see his students, recognize their unique strengths, and articulate their potential.
Beyond the classroom walls, Ben has become a cornerstone of the educational community across both Kenton and Boone Counties. He has spent time umpiring baseball in the community where he connects with his students outside of the traditional classroom. He has evolved into much more than an instructor; he is a trusted confidant, a loyal friend, and a timeless mentor.
In a field that demands both intellectual rigor and emotional intelligence, Ben Davis represents the gold standard. He balances the high expectations of a Precalculus curriculum with a deep, personal commitment to mentorship that changes lives. For his excellence in the classroom and his unwavering support of students throughout the NKY community, he is truly deserving of being named Educator of the Week.
Educator: Jamie Smallwood
Role: Teacher at Turkey Foot Middle School
Nominator: Amelia Klaene
Why Klaene nominated Smallwood:
Mrs. Smallwood is a kind, caring and amazing teacher. Although she sees more students a day than any other teacher, she makes all of them feel like they can come talk to her about anything, whether it be about school or anything that is happening in their personal lives. She is always willing to help when anyone is struggling with their instrument. Each year she teaches the sixth grade band members how to play each and every one of their individual instruments on her own.
Through the program she runs, she teaches students to be kind, respectful, and compassionate to their teachers and peers. Her classroom is always so positive, and she encourages students to be positive as well. She teaches them not only an instrument but also valuable life lessons and skills through her program and positivity.
Now it’s time to vote
Voting closes at 3 p.m. on June 8. Winners will be announced that evening.
Vote as often as you like! There’s no limit to how many times you can show support for your favorite educator during the week.
Share the voting link with friends, family, students and coworkers—the more people who know about your nominee, the more votes they can earn!
LINK nky encourages friendly competition and community spirit. We want to see entire classrooms, schools and neighborhoods rally behind their favorite educators.