PADUCAH - Brent Buchanan has been named the Director of District-Wide Programs for McCracken County Schools.

Buchanan began his teaching and coaching career at Lone Oak and Reidland Middle Schools in 1991. He taught math and coached basketball, football and golf. He left the education field to pursue a career in management and insurance sales for six years. In, 2001 he became a U.S. History teacher and basketball coach at Livingston Central High School before coming back to McCracken County Schools in 2005. Buchanan taught world civilization at Heath Middle School for two years and from 2007-2011 he was an assistant principal and interim principal at Lone Oak Elementary School. He has spent the last 8 years as principal of Lone Oak Middle School.

In 1991, he earned a Bachelor's of Science Degree in elementary education from Bethel College. He also received a Master's Degree in school administration from Murray State University in 2005.

The Director of District-Wide Programs is responsible for coordination and leadership in the administration of budgets, services and activities pertaining to the district's federal and state instructional grants including Title III, Title IV, Flexible Focus Funds as well as Family Resource Youth Service Centers. This position works with the community and regional businesses to create innovative instructional programs.

Buchanan said he is humbled by the opportunity to serve the students of McCracken County Schools in this capacity.

"I look forward to continuing and providing new career opportunities for our students to experience and explore through the internship program at MCHS," Buchanan said. "We have extraordinary programs with Family Resource and 21st Century that provide for our children, families and community.  I hope to be a support to each school and their administration and staff as they continue to lead their communities to educate the lives of their children and better their futures."

"It is difficult to leave the incredible learning community of Lone Oak Middle School. I have learned much from our amazing children, supportive parents and dedicated staff," he said.  "I am certain that I am leaving an outstanding team to join another."