By Blake Jackson
Bryan Estes, a retired agriculture teacher from Logan County High School, has been honored with the prestigious Ag Teachers Changes Lives Award by the Kentucky Association of Agricultural Educators for his significant statewide impact.
This award, established in 2009, recognizes Kentucky agriculture teachers who demonstrate exceptional dedication and make a profound difference in agricultural education, with honorees nominated and selected by their peers.
A native of Auburn, Kentucky, Estes' passion for agriculture stemmed from his upbringing on a family dairy farm. This passion fueled a distinguished 30-year teaching career, beginning at Ohio County High School in 1989. Estes returned to his community in 1993, serving Logan County High School until his retirement in 2019.
Under Estes' guidance, the Logan County FFA chapter consistently achieved Gold Emblem status, fostered significant student leadership involvement, and attained remarkable success in Career and Leadership Development Events.
Perhaps the most significant evidence of Estes' impact is his son, Wesley Estes, who was inspired to follow his father's path and now serves as the agriculture teacher at Logan County High School. Wesley is committed to upholding the values and traditions his father instilled, ensuring their continuation for future students.
Throughout his career, Estes received numerous accolades, including being named NRCS Conservation Teacher of the Year five times and Logan County Chamber of Commerce Teacher of the Year in 2019.
Estes was also repeatedly recognized by graduating seniors as the "most influential" teacher in their yearbook, highlighting his lasting impact on their lives.
As a recipient of the Agriculture Teachers Change Lives award, Estes will receive $1,500, and a plaque commemorating his legacy will be permanently displayed at the Kentucky FFA Leadership Training Center.
The award is sponsored by the Forever Blue Endowed gift from Ken & Brenda Reed, who values the impact of agriculture teachers, inspired by his own influential teacher, Mr. C.O. Neal.
Bryan and his wife, Jan, have two children, Robyn Smotherman and Wesley Estes, and four grandchildren: Bella Rose, Linken, Colton, and Millie Smotherman.
Photo Credit: kentucky-ffa
Categories: Kentucky, Education