Leah Chumbler

My career began upon high school graduation in 1982. My focus during this time was volunteering in the library and working in public service.

After high school, I went to PCC in Paducah, KY and earned a degree in journalism and english. During this time, I wrote for the college newspaper under the supervision of Lloyd Ford, teacher and newspaper owner in Calvert City, KY.

From there, I moved to Murray, KY and attended MSU, earning a BS degree in english and radio/television. During my two years a at the university, I volunteered at the campus radio station and worked at the local radio station.

After college, I worked in advertising, and returned to school to obtain my teaching certificate while substitute teaching for the Paducah City School System.

After obtaining my Rank III teaching certificate, I worked as an Aide for Reidland Middle School under the guidance of Principal Jim Mitchell and Assistant Superintendent Jim West. At the end of the year, I moved to Florida.

While in Florida, I was a tenured teacher for the Okaloosa County Board of Education under the supervision of State Representative Matt Gaetz's father, a distinguished member of the Board of Education for the Okaloosa County School System. In fact, I guided Matt in the Forensics tournament during his 6th grade year. In addition, I obtained my Masters in Educational Leadership degree from the University of West Florida. Then, I obtained my Rank II Teacher Certification.

After spending nearly a decade in Florida, I returned to Kentucky and accepted a teaching position with the Marshall County School System where I remained until 2012. It was here that I joined the CEO program, earning a Rank I Teacher Certification. At this point, and with tenure, I made the decision to be a stay-at-home mother to my first and only child. As an older mother, I felt it was important to embrace this experience.

After a life-changing experience, I moved with my young adult and started a new journey in life, working part-time/temporary jobs until I was provided the opportunity to be a high school teacher under the supervision of Principal and later Asst. Superintendent Brian Lovell, with the Union County School System.

Working with my high school kids was a blessing, except for the 3 hour daily commute. After 5 years, I was led to the position of library director within 30 minutes of my home.

Currently, I am the director at CCPL in Marion, KY. It is a dream job filled with rewards, but I am always looking toward new possibilities that will advance my professional goals.