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Kentucky is replacing the ACT with the SAT as the state's required high school college admissions exam for juniors, starting in spring 2026. This change was announced by the Kentucky Department of Education, which has signed a contract with the College Board for the SAT. The new, digital SAT is shorter and adaptive, while the ACT is longer and consists of separate English, math, reading, and science sections. 

With that said, Graves County High School will be required to transition from the ACT to the SAT as our college readiness assessment this school year.  So, what does that mean for students, particularly current juniors?

High school juniors will take the SAT instead of the ACT during the school day as the required college admissions exam.  This change brings exciting new opportunities for our students.  The SAT is accepted by every college and university in the United States and provides valuable insight into each student’s academic strengths and readiness for college and career pathways. The SAT also connects directly to College Board resources like Khan Academy, giving students access to free personalized practice tools designed to help them succeed.

While this is the graduation requirement for students in the state of Kentucky, the ACT will still be facilitated as normal for students who are interested.  As the tentative in school date for the SAT approaches in March, juniors will have access to practice tests, a fact sheet about the SAT, and Mastery Prep sessions will be available to sophomores and juniors.  

As additional information and details become available in the coming weeks, our counselors will inform students and families about test dates, preparation opportunities, and how families can support their student. 

Thank you for your continued support as we take this next step forward together to ensure the success of every student! 

#GDTBAE #PursuingExcellenceTogether

“Dreams don’t work unless you do.”

Wise words for such a young lady.  However, big goals require dedication, discipline, and the determination to keep going when the path gets difficult.  Bella Henson is no stranger to difficulties.  One month after auditioning, being selected and committing to a role in the Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet, injury attempted to shatter that dream.

“My most recent injury, a pilonidal cyst, was operated on in the first week of November. At that time, I had already been committed to the Nutcracker for nearly a month.”

With a very intense rehabilitation schedule, last Wednesday night, Henson took the stage adding one more accomplishment to her dance resume.  A journey that started when she was merely two years old, it was at age 4 that the realization settled in with her that dance was a way of life for her.

“Watching the older girls at my very first national competition was the moment I fell in love with dance. In that moment, even at four years old, is when I decided that I was born for this, and that passion has continued to grow.  It challenges me and is a constant for me!”

Fast forward 13 years, Bella has danced her way across the United States in various competitions.  Henson has been crowned Petite + Junior Dancer of the year, named Teen Dance America, and most recently was selected for KAR Protege, a program that offers the opportunity to travel, assist, and train with industry leading choreographers and master instructors. 

Currently, Henson spends about 10 hours a week in the studio in addition to the time she dedicates on her own.  Each year, she competes in around 5 conventions, 10 competitions, and 3 nationals each year.  While the schedule can at times seem grueling, her built in support system and inspiration serves as motivation to never settle.

“My mom has been a huge inspiration to me.  She has shown me what hard work looks like, while always going above and beyond to make sure I have all the training and opportunities possible.  She is by far the most determined person I know. Her determination and work ethic inspire me to not give up when things get hard, and to always continue to push myself to be the best version of me I can be.”

While injury reared its ugly head, perseverance ultimately triumphed.  The Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet will always serve as a defining moment that Henson can revisit when adversity creeps in.  As for the future, all roads lead to dance.

“I hope to make a college dance team, possibly become a dance choreographer, or maybe even own a dance studio.”

Congratulations, Bella!  

#GDTBAE #PursuingExcellenceTogether

The end of the year sometimes serves as a time of self-reflection. A moment where we pause to look back on where we started…the journey we took…and where we finished.  For junior Aubrey Coyle, that finish line was none other than the completion mark of the St. Jude Half Marathon.

“Since I was a little girl, I have been surrounded by a family that believes in the power of physical fitness.  The women,especially my nanney, Paige Thompson, are my inspiration. We share a special bond through health, fitness, and a love for running.  As I have grown up, I witnessed first hand the positive results that come from taking care of your body,” explained Coyle. 

Each year, the St. Jude Marathon is held in Memphis, Tennessee. Initially, the race was named the Memphis Marathon when it originated in 1977, but in 2002 it was changed to the St. Jude Memphis Marathon. Over the years, millions of dollars have been raised for research on childhood cancers in hopes of discovering a cure. 

Marathon…it’s definitely a word that hints at the requirement for endurance, and perhaps even preparation.  After all, who can just up and run 13.1 miles without some extensive training?  Coyle spent many months building her stamina, and not only physically preparing her body, but also mentally preparing her mind.  I think most, if not all participants, would agree that physical events such as these require a mind over matter mentality. 

“Training for this half marathon took a lot of hours and dedication.  I usually walked at least 6 miles a day in addition to incorporating runs throughout the week.  But, it was also time spent with my nanny and aunt that I am grateful for.”

As the race day approached, Coyle found herself anxious, yet excited.  The atmosphere is truly something you cannot understand unless you have experienced it first-hand. Coyle recalls it being vibrant, inspirational, and just when you wanted to throw in the towel, the cheers and smiles around the corner pushed you to just keep running.

“My time was 2 hours and 21 minutes, but time did not really matter. When I was in the middle of my run, which was the most difficult, and my body was aching, those children were the motivation I needed to keep going.  When the finish line was in sight and the cheers from the spectators were loud, a ton of emotions hit me and my adrenaline drowned out any ache or pain I was feeling. It was a wonderful day.”

With her first race under her belt, Coyle insists that this is only the beginning.  She’s hooked.  

“I will be running the next one in Memphis next year!”

Congratulations, Aubrey!  

#GDTBAE #PursuingExcellenceTogether