After a career spent helping students reach their full potential, Carroll County High School Principal Amy Sutter is ready to embrace a new adventure—one that involves a camper, a map of Kentucky’s state parks, and a lot of reflection. But before she goes, she’s taking time to celebrate the students and staff who have made her time in Carroll County so rewarding.
Sutter’s journey in Carroll County began at the Alternative Learning Center, an experience she describes as “fantastic.” It gave her a unique perspective on the challenges and growth students can experience.
“I got to work with a group of students who taught me so much,” she says. “Watching them grow and develop was incredibly rewarding.”
That early experience shaped her approach as a leader. When she moved into the principal role at the high school, Sutter carried with her a deep respect for students’ voices and a commitment to helping them thrive.
“Carroll County kids, our young adults, are amazing,” she says. “They want to get better every day. They love this community, and they want to be part of it and support it.”
Sutter’s pride in the students is matched by her admiration for the staff she’s worked alongside.
“My proudest moments are seeing our staff develop,” she says. “They work so hard on their own professional development and seek opportunities to learn.”
She points to the Project-Based Learning program for seniors as a particular highlight of her years as principal.
“It gives kids the knowledge and opportunities to experiment. They’re understanding it’s about the learning, not the grade,” she says.
Sutter’s vision for the school has always been focused on supporting students as individuals, helping them discover their strengths and develop the confidence to chase their goals.
“The kids are cool,” she says with a smile. “They want to be good at whatever they’re doing. There’s a lot of cool stuff going on, and lots of opportunities for our kids to develop skills.”
As she prepares for the next chapter, Sutter’s goal is to visit every state park in Kentucky within a year of retirement.