Superintendent's Welcome Message

Dear Augusta Independent Families,

Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year! It is my privilege to serve as Superintendent of Augusta Independent School District, and I am grateful for the continued support and partnership of our students, families, staff, and community. Together, we continue to build upon the proud tradition that makes Augusta Independent such a special place to learn and grow.

At Augusta Independent, our commitment remains unwavering: to build a culture of high academic achievement where students develop confidence, character, and perseverance for lifelong success. This mission reflects who we are as a school district and guides every decision we make. We believe every student has unique potential, and it is our responsibility to provide the opportunities, support, and encouragement necessary for each learner to achieve success.

Our district motto, “Small School, BIG Experience,” continues to define the Augusta experience. Our size is one of our greatest strengths, allowing us to know our students personally, recognize their individual strengths, and provide meaningful relationships that support academic and personal growth. At Augusta Independent, students receive a high-quality public education with the personal attention and care often associated with a private school experience.

We are incredibly proud of the accomplishments of our students and staff. Augusta Independent continues to make significant progress in academic achievement and commitment to preparing students for success beyond graduation. This commitment is reflected in our strong graduation outcomes, 100% student participation in college and career pathways, expanded dual credit opportunities, industry-recognized certifications, and meaningful work-based learning experiences that help students achieve their future goals. These accomplishments are a direct reflection of the dedication of our teachers, the support of our families, and the determination of our students.

As one of only eight school districts selected for GEAR UP Kentucky, Augusta Independent provides numerous opportunities to prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong success. This year, the program is expanding college and career readiness opportunities to include our middle school students, ensuring they begin exploring future pathways and developing the skills needed for lifelong success at an earlier age.  Through Kentucky's Dual Credit Scholarship Program, career and technical education pathways, and the continued investment of the Augusta Independent Board of Education, students can earn college credit and industry-recognized credentials while still in high school, giving them a strong foundation for whatever path they choose after graduation.

Our partnerships with Maysville Community and Technical College, Northern Kentucky University, Morehead State University, Mason County Career Magnet School, and Mason County STEAM Academy provide students with expanded opportunities to explore their interests, develop career skills, and graduate prepared for their next chapter. Our Portrait of a Panther Program is designed to help students develop the professional behaviors, attitudes, communication, critical thinking, and employability skills that employers’ value most. The goal is to ensure students graduate not only with academic knowledge and technical skills but also with the character and workplace habits needed to be successful in any career or job.

Academic excellence remains at the heart of our mission. We are committed to providing every student with high-level instruction, research-based interventions, and highly-qualified instructional resources necessary to achieve their highest potential. Our district continues to implement HQIRs and aligned curriculum across all grade levels to ensure students develop strong foundations in literacy, mathematics, financial literacy, science, social studies, citizenship, and critical thinking skills.

The district implements a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework for ensuring every student receives the academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and attendance supports they need to be successful. Rather than waiting for students to struggle significantly, we use data to identify needs early and provide increasingly intensive interventions based on each student's progress. This is beyond special education or intervention programs and is to improve outcomes for ALL students through prevention, early intervention, and continuous monitoring.

Augusta Independent also continues to expand educational opportunities through New Horizons Academy, our fully accredited, tuition-free virtual homeschool program for students in grades 6-12. This program provides a flexible, personalized learning environment led by certified teachers while allowing students to earn a high school diploma and remain connected to school activities and opportunities.

To support student well-being, Augusta Independent provides a comprehensive network of resources, including counseling services, mental health support, character development programs, and social-emotional learning opportunities. Through tools such as Terrace Metrics, we proactively monitor student wellness and identify opportunities to provide additional support. Our dedicated team, including our guidance counselor, Family Resource and Youth Service Coordinator, GEAR UP Coordinator, school-based mental health professional, and community partners work collaboratively to ensure students have the support they need to learn and thrive.

Thank you for being part of the Augusta Independent family. It is an honor to serve this incredible community, and I look forward to another year of growth, achievement, and opportunity as we continue to encourage and nurture our students to Go Beyond; Dream BIG!

Sincerely,

Ms. Lisa A. McCane

Superintendent

Augusta Independent School District