Reigning Miss Teen Kentucky Lauren Wallace and Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman each visited a local school to read to young students as part of Read Across America Week. Wallace returned to her former school Meadow Lands Elementary, while Coleman stopped by Hager Preschool.
Wallace is the first representative from Daviess County to win a Kentucky State Fair pageant and was crowned in October. Kindergarten teacher Stelyn Kahle, who taught Wallace in 1st and 4th grads, asked the teen to come back to her old school and read to the students.
Wallace read Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin.
“It was a pretty cool experience, it was cool to be back in these halls where I went to elementary school and read to the class,” Wallace said.
Wallace also allowed the students to try on her crown and sash as they lined up through the classroom.
Wallace’s mom, who joined her on the trip, said that seeing her daughter give back to the community is the best part of the pageantry.
“That’s the best part of pageants, seeing her do community service and work in the community and connect with kids and be a good role model. That’s what I’m most proud of,” Leann Wallace said.
Across town, Coleman made a stop at Hager Preschool to read Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You? by Dr. Suess.
Coleman is a former high school teacher and basketball coach. She told the students she still enjoys visiting schools.
“My favorite thing about being lieutenant governor is spending time with kids like you and going to visit schools. So I’m really excited to be here with you today,” Coleman said.
Hager Principal Sherry Baber was appreciative the Coleman took the time to visit the school.
“Early childhood education is a big focus right now in our community as well as throughout the state, and it just means the world to have (Coleman) come and to read our children,” said Baber. “With Coleman in the position she’s in and having been an educator previously, it just means the world for her to support what we’re doing and be able to show her appreciation for our children and their families and our staff.”
