Harlan Independent Recognized by Niche.com as One of Kentucky’s Best Districts
Harlan, Ky. In a recently published 2024 Niche.com report, the Harlan Independent School District was listed as the 15th best public School District among Kentucky Districts. The new report shows that Harlan Independent was also among the top of the list for best teachers in Kentucky ranking 3rd and is listed as the 4th best place to teach from the 168 school districts in the Commonwealth.
The Green Dragons were awarded an Overall Niche Grade of A- and had impressive ratings at the national level as well. Based on data collected by Niche.com teachers at Harlan Independent were ranked #217 out of 11,466 public school districts across the nation. This put the Green Dragon staff members amount the top 2% in the country.
Superintendent C.D. Morton was thrilled with the news from Niche.com and pointed out the importance of recognizing the tremendous work staff members are doing for students. “I am so proud of our faculty, staff, and students and we pride ourselves on being effective at what we do. Our small school district, although growing rapidly, is a special place. The students are cared for and challenged to meet high expectations and they rise to the occasion year after year. It is wonderful to see our schools and teachers recognized for achieving at such a high-level year in and year out. This type of achievement within our schools does not happen by accident, we have a dedicated system of schools that are focused on the issue that matters the most, high-level academic student achievement. It all begins with effective teachers pushing students to achieve at the highest level. When you can do that from Sunshine Preschool through Harlan High these are the results you get. There is a tremendous source of pride that comes with this kind of honor. We are pleased to be recognized for the investments our school system is making into the school community of Harlan.”