Layne Elementary’s Karyn Staton Recognized with Junior Achievement Teacher Award at Baird Excellence Awards
Author: Jillian Cantu
Corporate Responsibility
Published:
Monday, 29 Sep 2025
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Junior Achievement of Kentuckiana proudly congratulates Karyn Staton, a dedicated 22-year elementary school educator at Layne Elementary, on being honored with the Junior Achievement Teacher Award at the 12th Annual Baird Excellence Awards. This recognition, presented in partnership with Jefferson County Public Schools, celebrates educators who demonstrate outstanding teaching performance, leadership, and commitment to student success.
The Baird Excellence Awards are among the most prestigious honors in Louisville’s education community. Educators are nominated by principals, students, and district leaders, with final selections made by a panel of business and community representatives. Honorees are recognized as “the best of the best” and receive both public recognition and classroom resources to further support their students.
Karyn Staton exemplifies those qualities and more. As a 5th grade teacher, she has become one of the most exceptional educators we’ve had the privilege of working with through Junior Achievement BizTown®.
JA BizTown® is an immersive program where 5th grade students spend the day in a simulated town, taking on real-world roles such as business owners, employees, and consumers. The program blends classroom lessons with hands-on learning, teaching students’ essential skills in financial literacy, teamwork, and civic responsibility.
Karyn’s passion, preparation, and encouragement shine brightest during her students’ BizTown experiences. Thanks to her leadership, Layne Elementary students consistently arrive well-prepared, engaged, and ready to excel as thoughtful and responsible “citizens” of BizTown.
Reflecting on why she values the program, Karyn shared:
“My kids always get so excited about being the adult for the day. They are always so inquisitive and want to learn more. I also appreciate being able to get in those everyday life skills that are important and need to be taught at an early age.”
Karyn goes above and beyond to ensure her students understand not only academics, but also what it means to be contributing members of society. Through her tireless work, she instills kindness, responsibility, and work-readiness in the next generation.
Her recent recognition by the Baird Excellence Awards underscores what we at Junior Achievement have always known: Karyn Staton is an extraordinary educator whose impact will continue to shape students and our community for years to come.
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