Among the first in Kentucky to be part of the special education school, Patsy Faye Mullins dedicated her career to working with students who needed extra help. She started her journey at Cumberland University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1962. The degree led her to her first professional position, elementary teacher at the Kenton County Board Education. Then, in 1964, Ms. Mullins completed postgraduate coursework at the University of Kentucky and transitioned into the role of kindergarten-fifth grade special education teacher at the district. She knew almost immediately that she had made the right decision; she loved the work. Ms. Mullins maintained her title even as she transitioned to the Laurel County Board Education in 1970. She remained there until her retirement in 1995.
One of the highlights of Ms. Mullins’ journey was being the first in her family to go to college. She was doubly thrilled when her achievement inspired some of her younger siblings to follow in her footsteps and get their own degrees. Other highlights include raising her son, Eric Ronald, helping children, and receiving accolades for her work. She was notably named Teacher of the Year by Jaycees Kenton County and Outstanding Young Educator by the Covington-Kenton Jaycees.
Looking to the future, Ms. Mullins hopes to be remembered as someone who was always motivated to get things done. She was so devoted to her work that she brought it home a lot of the time; helping children was her priority. She also made strides to remain connected with her peers and professional community outside of the classroom. To do this, she obtained membership with organizations like the National Education Association, the Council for Exceptional Children, and the Kentucky Education Association.
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Mullins’ hobbies include sewing, hunting, fishing, and camping.