Judy Woodring, who recently retired as director of Western Kentucky University’s forensics program, has started the Southern Kentucky (SKY) Academy to offer speech and debate training for students who do not have speech programs in their schools.

Woodring, who does all the coaching, prepares the students for different competitions just like other high school teams. “We just returned from the junior high national championships where Caroline Ford (of Bowling Green) won two national championships,” Woodring said.

Since its start last September, SKY has been made up of mostly home school students.  “The parents of the home school students have been doing a tremendous job with helping,” Woodring said. “I have a phenomenal group of parents.”

Bowling Green home school student Aspen Hennessey found out about SKY Academy from a friend. “A family friend who is also home schooled told us about SKY Academy and now I’m getting ready to start my second year,” Hennessey said.

            Edmonson County native Alex Hawkins, who is in his second year in SKY Academy, is competing in several events. “I do Public Speaking, Broadcasting, Declamation and will also be doing Duo next year,” Hawkins said.

For more about the program, contact Judy Woodring at (270) 745-6340.