Juanita King, principal of Stanton Elementary School in Stanton, has served as president of both the Kentucky Elementary Principal's Association and the Kentucky Association of School Councils. In her capacity as president, and participation in other professional associations, Ms. King has served as a catalyst for school restructuring in Kentucky. One of her most important contributions as an educator follows from her ability to adapt innovative reform to the specific cultural needs of her community. Most recently, at her school she has implemented Wise Village, a program designed to "nurture the educational growth of all community members and to cultivate the social capital necessary for a sustained community collaboration." The program also promotes appreciation and a heightened understanding of traditional art forms native to Appalachia. In 1994, the United States Department of Education recognized Ms. King as National Distinguished Principal.
