MORGANTOWN, KY (October 27, 2025) — At Butler County High School, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Under the leadership of Principal Stoye Young, students recently organized and promoted a community-wide blood drive, turning a simple act of service into a powerful lesson in Global Citizenship (one of the key pillars of Butler County Schools’ Portrait of a Learner framework.)

The event, held on the Butler County High School campus, drew participation from both students and staff, with many rolling up their sleeves to donate blood for the benefit of others. More importantly, it showcased how young people in Butler County are using their skills, empathy, and leadership to make tangible contributions to their community.

“This blood drive was about showing our students that they have the power to make a difference right here in Butler County and that even small actions can have a global impact.” said Principal Young.

The idea originated from a group of student leaders who recognized the need for accessible community service opportunities that make a real difference. Working collaboratively, they planned every detail of the event, from advertising across campus and local businesses to coordinating logistics with the blood collection team. The experience allowed students to practice essential skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, all while developing a deeper understanding of what it means to serve others.

In doing so, these students embodied the spirit of Global Citizenship, which is defined in the district’s Portrait of a Learner as “acting with awareness, empathy, and responsibility toward others, both locally and around the world.” The drive’s success illustrated how service learning can connect students’ academic growth with their moral and civic development.

For many participants, this was their first time engaging in a large-scale community project. Yet, despite busy schedules and the usual challenges of event planning, the students demonstrated resilience, creativity, and compassion, which are the hallmarks of the Butler County learner. Teachers and staff supported the project by encouraging participation and modeling service-minded leadership.

“Seeing our students take ownership of this initiative made me incredibly proud,” Young shared. “They didn’t just talk about helping others; they showed up, worked hard, and made a real difference. That’s what being Butler Strong is all about.”

The blood drive also served as a valuable reminder of how school and community partnerships strengthen Butler County’s shared mission. Local organizations and families supported the effort, recognizing that when students engage in service, they’re also developing the empathy and initiative needed for lifelong success.

Superintendent Robert Tuck commended the effort, noting that it reflects the district’s broader commitment to developing learners who are both academically prepared and community-minded. “Our Portrait of a Learner is so much more than just words on a page,” he said. “It’s something we see in action every day through students like those at Butler County High School who understand that learning includes caring for others.”

As Butler County Schools continue to highlight stories like this one, the district reaffirms its vision that education is not confined to tests or textbooks. Instead, it’s about shaping character, building civic awareness, and preparing students to contribute meaningfully to a connected world.

The Butler County High School blood drive may have lasted just one day, but its impact will ripple far beyond campus. For every unit of blood donated, multiple lives can be saved: a powerful outcome that began with a simple student idea and a shared desire to help.

In every aspect, this project captured the essence of what it means to be a Global Citizen: understanding that our actions, no matter how small, can create change that extends far beyond our immediate surroundings. It’s a lesson that will stay with these students long after graduation.

As Butler County Schools celebrate these efforts, the district remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate learners who demonstrate Character, Communication, Collaboration, Problem Solving, and Global Citizenship in all they do.

Together, the students and staff at Butler County High School have shown that through compassion and initiative, education truly can transform communities — one act of service at a time.

One team with one vision that makes us Butler Strong.