New principal named for Barren County Middle School

GLASGOW, Ky. – Joey Bunch has been named principal of Barren County Middle School.

Bunch has been a teacher, guidance counselor and administrator in Barren County Schools since 2004, according to the district.

Barren County Schools says he began his teaching career at Hiseville Elementary, where he also served as a guidance counselor.

In 2017, Bunch was named principal of Austin-Tracy Elementary School. Under his leadership, Austin Tracy achieved a four-star rating from the Kentucky Department of Education and was also recognized by the Kentucky State Commissioner of Education as a Top 20 School for Growth. Bunch served as director of transportation for the district from 2021-2024.

Bunch earned his master of science in elementary education from Western Kentucky University in 2004. He went on to earn a master’s degree in school counseling from WKU in 2009, and he received his administrative certification from University of the Cumberlands in 2015.

“Thank you to superintendent Irwin and the BCMS site-based council for the time and energy they invested in the principal selection process. Barren County Middle School has a strong record of providing amazing opportunities for students and staff, and we will continue to build a culture where students feel valued and supported,” Bunch said.

Amy Irwin, Superintendent of Barren County Schools, stated, “Mr. Bunch has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in every position he has held in Barren County Schools. He brings a powerful combination of experience and knowledge to his role as BCMS Principal. He will do a wonderful job leading our middle school students and staff!”