Public education is the cornerstone of our community, where every child has a place and a team to help them succeed. In Weakley County, our schools reach beyond the classroom – providing the village that cares for our students beyond just their education. Behind this vision is a team of public servants working tirelessly: the members of the Weakley County School Board.
Our school board serves as the bridge between schools and the community, helping to set high goals and standards for our students, teachers, and staff while also making sure that they are provided with the tools to meet them. The leadership from this team of individuals drives progress, innovation, and accountability throughout the district.
Made up of 9 elected members representing each section of the district, these board members make the needs and opinions of the community a priority when making decisions. “Being a member of this board means being a voice for the community. We are here to listen, to guide, and to help create an environment that supports the bright future of our students,” shared Josh Moore, chair of the Board.
With a district-wide focus on creating well-rounded students who are teachable, coachable, and employable, the board realizes that the tools needed to achieve that goal go beyond academics. Supporting programs that focus on mental and emotional health, creative outlets, and outside the box thinking are what make Weakley County Schools stand out when looking at districts across the state. When students show up to class feeling supported and ready to learn, the academic successes follow, as is evident in Weakley County’s recent designation as a Level 5 district by the TDOE.
Not only do these members make decisions for our schools, but they also advocate for them at the local and state levels. They push for funding, policies, and resources that benefit both the school system and the community as a whole.
“Our schools do more than educate, they make our communities better. In Weakley County, we benefit greatly from the strong leadership of a school board that is unified in prioritizing the best interests of all students across the district,” said Jeff Cupples, Director of Weakley County Schools. “Their dedication to our schools creates opportunities that change the lives of our students, and we are deeply grateful for their leadership and service.”
As we celebrate School Board Appreciation Month, we extend our gratitude for the unwavering dedication of Gath Meeks, District 1 (Dresden and Palmersville); Beau Atkins, District 2 (Gleason); Jeff Floyd, District 3 (Greenfield); Vice Chair Martin Hamlin, District 4 (Sharon); Wendell Cates, District 5 (Martin); Steve Vantrease, District 6 (Martin); Doug Sims, District 7 (Martin); John Hatler, District 8 (Martin); and Chairman Josh Moore, District 9 (Dresden) in serving the needs of our community. Patricia Adams, Bookkeeper for the Director of Schools, has served as the Board Secretary for 15 years.
Every day, our school board members defend the belief that all kids deserve the level of education that both pushes them and empowers them to achieve their dreams. Public education isn’t just free – it’s priceless. And due to the leadership of these members, it’s stronger than ever in Weakley County Schools.