LEXINGTON, Ky. — Jenny Mock, a physical education teacher at Leestown Middle School, has been named the 2026 Middle School Physical Education Teacher of the Year by KYSHAPE, the state affiliate of SHAPE America.

Mock was honored during KYSHAPE's sixth annual summer conference for health and physical education educators. The recognition follows a career at Fayette County Public Schools marked by schoolwide leadership initiatives and efforts to help students develop physically, socially, and emotionally through movement.

"P.E. is crucial for helping middle schoolers understand their bodies and teaching them how to move them in fun, constructive ways," Mock said. "Regular physical activity not only builds coordination and muscle, but creates opportunities for healthy socialization and cooperation – a lifelong skill that everyone needs."

A Kentucky native, Mock earned a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and Health Promotion from the University of Kentucky and a master's degree in Teacher Leadership in Sport and Physical Education from the University of the Cumberlands. She is currently pursuing an Ed.S Principal degree.

Mock joined Fayette County Public Schools in 2012 and has taught physical education at Leestown since 2016. At the school, she serves as a PBIS teacher coach, sponsors the Fellowship of Christian Athletes club, and serves as secretary for the SBDM Council. Her professional interests center on helping students develop vital lessons about kindness, inclusivity, compassion, conflict resolution, and communication.

SHAPE America recognizes outstanding educators in physical education and school health education at the national level. According to the awards program, state-level winners are eligible to compete for SHAPE America's District Teacher of the Year award, with district winners then competing for the national award. Mock is now in the running for national recognition, with national honorees to be celebrated in spring 2027.