A Tradition of Excellence

The Harlan Independent School District is located in the city of Harlan and has served students and families in the surrounding areas for more than 100 years.  

Harlan Independent is the regions premier academic institution and routinely ranks among Kentucky's highest performing K-12 public school districts each year. The district consists of Sunshine Preschool that serves K3/K4 students, Harlan Elementary School serving  Kindergarten through 4th Grade, and Harlan Middle/High students in grades 5 through 12.  

The exceptional success of our students begins at Sunshine Preschool, a facility and staff dedicated to the early childhood development of the communities three (3) and four (4) year old students. Sunshine Preschool offers families the foundational experiences to ensure a smooth transition to Kindergarten. Sunshine Preschool is staffed with Kentucky Educational Professional Standards Board certified teachers and is home to the district's first National Board Certified Teacher.