(Frankfort, Ky.) – The Kentucky Association of School Administrators (KASA) announced the finalists for the 2018 Fred Award.

The award – inspired by Fred Shea, the postman who became the subject of Mark Sanborn’s national best seller, “The Fred Factor” – recognizes non-administrative staff, students and volunteers statewide whose daily efforts are deemed extraordinary and integral to a positive learning atmosphere in their school communities.

This year’s finalists include:

  • Josh Penn, custodian at Peaks Mill Elementary School (Franklin County).
  • Rita Renfrow, a classroom assistant at North Butler Elementary (Butler County).
  • Bryan Tackett, a school resource officer for the Russell Independent school district.

“We are proud to honor these finalists and introduce them to the world,” said Rhonda Caldwell, KASA deputy director. “Freds are change agents and this award brings them center stage and honors the work they do and the lives they live each day.”

Finalists are selected by a blue-ribbon judging panel representing education leaders from school districts across the state. A film crew visited each finalist’s district to capture the spirit of his or her service. Footage from these visits will be presented during the final award presentation July 27 at KASA’s Annual Leadership Institute & Expo in Louisville.

Each finalist will receive a $250 check, overnight lodging at the Galt House Hotel and a marble plaque. The winner will receive a $500 check.

KASA is the largest school administrator group in Kentucky, representing more than 3,100 education leaders from across the commonwealth. Formed in 1969, KASA connects education leaders to policymakers, legislators and other interest groups, and provides numerous benefits and services to Kentucky’s school administrators.