Harvey Franklin, an agriculture teacher at Lincoln County High School, was recently recognized for his statewide impact with the Ag Teachers Changes Lives Award from the Kentucky Association of Agricultural Educators. 

Established in 2009, this award recognizes Kentucky agriculture teachers who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and impact in agricultural education. Honorees are nominated and chosen by their colleagues from across the state.

Franklin has been a dedicated agriculture teacher for 43 years, beginning his career in 1983. He spent 29 years as an agriculture teacher at Madison County High School in North Carolina before moving to Kentucky and continuing his teaching career at Lincoln County High School. His dedication to hands-on learning and community service has left an indelible mark on his students and colleagues alike.

Franklin’s devotion to student success is evident in the countless hours he spends preparing students for leadership opportunities and career success. Through his commitment, he has led several individual students and teams to compete at the state and national level, accumulating multiple award titles for the Lincoln County FFA Chapter.

Franklin’s service has not gone unnoticed, earning him numerous accolades over the years, including the Patriot Award from Lincoln County Public Schools, the Team Lincoln Award, and the Honorary American FFA Degree. His contributions to agricultural education extend to leadership roles within FFA contest committees and professional organizations at both state and national levels.

Beyond the classroom, Franklin is a mentor, friend, and role model for his students. Former students and colleagues alike praise his ability to build relationships that extend far beyond high school.

As an Agriculture Teachers Change Lives recipient, Franklin will receive $1,500 and have a plaque honoring his legacy permanently displayed at the Kentucky FFA Leadership Training Center. 

The Agriculture Teachers Change Lives award is sponsored by the Forever Blue Endowed gift from Ken & Brenda Reed. Mr. Reed is passionate about supporting teachers because of the profound impact his agriculture teacher, Mr. C.O. Neal, made in his life in the 1950’s. 

Harvey and his wife Deborah have three daughters, Samantha and her husband David Branscum, Amanda and her husband Shaun Johnson, and Heather and her husband Michael Poteete. They have one son, Aaron, married to Christian Franklin. They have 14 grandchildren.

The Kentucky Association of Agricultural Educators is the professional organization for individuals involved in school-based agricultural education at any level. To support its members, KAAE advocates for agricultural education, provides professional development opportunities, and works to recruit and retain educators in the profession. KAAE is part of the National Association of Agricultural Educators, which has more than 9,000 members nationwide.