iLEAD Academy Director

iLEAD Academy, a school dedicated to advancing educational opportunities and outcomes for high school students across five rural counties, has named Katherine Ashcraft as its new director.

Ashcraft will begin serving as the Director of iLEAD Academy on July 1. This role

encompasses leading initiatives to enhance educational programs, strengthening community

partnerships and improving student engagement and success.

"I am honored to accept the iLead Executive Director position,” said Ashcraft. “I am

passionate about helping students define what 'success' looks like for them and guiding them to

achieve it.”

Ashcraft has a track record of providing opportunities for students. In her most recent role as a high school counselor for Scott County Schools she has offered academic, social/emotional, and career support for a diverse student body of more than 1,700 students. Prior to that, she was a high school Chemistry/Biology teacher at Owen County Schools, where she planned and executed curriculum and lesson plans aligned with state and national standards. She also served as the Science Department Chair and sponsored the Science Club, demonstrating her commitment to inspiring students to achieve their highest potential.

Ashcraft’s career also includes extensive experience in environmental management. As a Senior Project Manager at Lee Engineering, LLC, she managed multi-million dollar contracts and provided comprehensive environmental regulatory assistance. Her roles with the Kentucky Division for Air Quality, the Office of Inspector General and Kentucky Natural Resources Cabinet, further highlight her diverse expertise and leadership capabilities.

“I am eager to start working with our five districts, fostering the unique spirit of collaboration in our area to create opportunities for our students, families, and community partners to thrive. Together, we can achieve so much more. I look forward to advancing this vision and seeing

where it leads," she said.

"Katherine Ashcraft will be a tremendous asset to the students at iLEAD Academy,” said Jason Adkins, OVEC’s Chief Executive Officer. “Her experience in a STEM career field and in school counseling gives her a unique perspective in preparing students for high-demand jobs.”

Ashcraft holds an MAEd in Secondary Education from Georgetown College and an MAEd in School Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. Her academic achievements, combined with her professional experience, position her as a strategic and visionary leader for iLEAD Academy.