Butler County, KY – September 26, 2025 — At Butler County Middle School, learning is more than just reading from a book—it’s about building meaningful connections, strengthening communication, and discovering wisdom from the people who shape our community. Seventh grader Carter recently embodied this approach through a classroom project that celebrated both education and family legacy.

As part of a reading assignment in Mrs. Derque’s seventh-grade class, students studied the Japanese folktale The Wise Old Woman, a story that emphasizes respect for elders and the value of generational knowledge. To bring this lesson to life, each student was tasked with interviewing someone over the age of 60 and writing an essay about what they learned.

Out of all the people Carter could have chosen, he picked Whirly—a family member whose life experiences and resilience made the project especially meaningful. Carter asked thoughtful questions about Whirly’s life as a young person, what he misses most about earlier years, and what he might change if given the chance. The conversation was filled with curiosity, honesty, and laughter, creating a moment that highlighted the Portrait of a Learner pillar of Communication in action.

Carter’s mother, Ashley Cardwell, captured the heartwarming exchange in a Facebook post:

“Too sweet not to post. Carter’s homework for school was to interview someone over 60, and out of everyone he could’ve picked, he chose Whirly. He asked what life was like when he was young, what he misses most, and what he’d change if he could go back. Watching Carter’s curiosity and hearing Whirly’s answers was priceless.”

Ashley also shared an update that Whirly had just graduated from physical therapy the day before the interview—a milestone that made the experience even more powerful for their family.

The assignment was more than just a school project. It reflected the deeper purpose of Butler County Schools’ Portrait of a Learner, which prepares students not only with academic knowledge but also with durable skills such as character, communication, and problem-solving. Through Carter’s interview, he strengthened his ability to listen, engage in meaningful dialogue, and connect across generations—skills that will serve him for a lifetime.

Principal Tim Freeman of Butler County Middle School emphasized the importance of such opportunities:

 “Assignments like these show students that learning isn’t limited to the classroom. Carter demonstrated curiosity, respect, and strong communication skills, which are all part of what we hope every Butler County student carries into their future. This is exactly what our Portrait of a Learner is all about—preparing students to thrive not just in school, but in life.”

The story also reflects the close-knit nature of the Butler County community. Projects like these reinforce the district’s mission of valuing relationships, honoring history, and celebrating growth. By connecting literature to real-world experiences, Mrs. Derque’s class helped students discover that wisdom is all around them, waiting to be shared.

For Carter, the assignment became an opportunity to deepen his relationship with Whirly, celebrate an important personal achievement in his life, and reflect on the importance of listening. For Whirly, it was a chance to pass on his experiences and wisdom to the next generation while being recognized for his resilience. For the school community, it was a powerful reminder that the Portrait of a Learner is not just a framework—it’s a lived experience in classrooms every day.

As Butler County Schools continues its commitment to empowering students with essential lifelong skills, stories like Carter’s showcase how education can bridge generations, honor personal journeys, and create lasting connections. It’s this focus on people and relationships that makes Butler County Schools a place where learning truly comes alive.

Together—as one team with one vision—Butler County Schools is building a future where every student is prepared to succeed, lead, and contribute meaningfully to the world.

One team with one vision that makes us Butler Strong.