BACK TO SCHOOL: LEARNING NEVER STOPS

BACK TO SCHOOL: LEARNING NEVER STOPS

By Sen. Matt Nunn

Y’all, it’s that time again. It’s a new school year with fresh notebooks and a whole lot of opportunities ahead. As one of my favorite lines from the song "Mountain Parkway" by the Prestonsburg, Kentucky band 'Sundy Best' says, “A big yellow school bus is loaded down with dreams."

Whether you’re stepping into high school for the first time or taking on your freshman year of college, you’re about to learn so much—not just about your classes, but also about yourself. I know that feeling.

I just wrapped up my own “freshman year” as your state senator for Kentucky’s 17th District. Let me tell you, the learning never stops. Every day brought new challenges, new ideas, and new people to learn from. That’s one of life’s best lessons: never strive to be the smartest person in the room. Instead, chase knowledge, seek wisdom from others, and keep your ears open.

This year, I want you to think big about your future, but also remember the value of a hard day’s work. The world needs people who show up, put in the effort, and follow through. Maybe you’ll find your calling in military service, like I did, serving something bigger than yourself. Maybe you’ll be drawn to a career that strengthens your community—teaching, law enforcement, firefighting, or nursing. Perhaps you’ve got the spark of an entrepreneur, ready to run a small business that keeps Main Street thriving. Whatever you choose, the habits you build now—discipline, persistence, and curiosity—will carry you further than you can probably imagine.

So as the bell rings on this school year, remember that learning isn’t something you finish when the final test is over. Life’s real test is in how you carry yourself, how you respond to adversity, how you treat others, and how you leave the world for the next generation. Learning is a lifelong pursuit, so seek out mentors, get involved in your school and community, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. When the opportunity comes to work hard, take it. Don’t let the you of tomorrow regret the decisions made by the you of today. Pride comes from giving your best, and win or lose, succeed or fail, that’s something no one can take away from you. When moments of failure or mistakes arise, get up, dust yourself off, learn, and seize the day.

I’m wishing every student, teacher, support staff member, and parent across the district a school year full of growth, discovery, and purpose. Make it a year worth remembering.

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Sen. Matt Nunn represents the 17th Senate District, including Grant and Scott Counties, southern Kenton County, and northwestern Fayette County. He serves as co-chair of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Protection. He also serves on the Interim Joint Committees on Agriculture; Appropriations and Revenue; Economic Development and Workforce Investment; Licensing, Occupations, and Administrative Regulations; Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection; and Tourism, Small Business, and Information Technology. Additionally, he is a member of the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee and the 2026–2028 Budget Preparation and Submission Statutory Committee.

For a high-resolution .jpeg file of Nunn, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate117.jpg