Weakley County Schools is thrilled to announce the “Feature Teachers” for March 2025! These educators have earned the spotlight for their unwavering dedication to students and their outstanding embodiment of the district’s core values of purpose, connection, and growth.
This month, we proudly honor Koby Ashmore from Martin Elementary School representing the Pre-K–5th grade band and Whitney Cates from Dresden High School representing the 6th–12th grade band. These educators were selected for going above and beyond to inspire, teach, and make a lasting impact in their schools.
As part of their recognition, each teacher is surprised in their classroom with resounding applause and awarded the honor of temporarily holding the towering 6-foot “Feature Teacher” trophy. Much like a championship belt, the traveling trophy represents their exceptional contributions and is passed on monthly to the next deserving recipient.
The “Feature Teacher” initiative was created to celebrate the educators who make Weakley County Schools a better place to learn and grow. Each month, nominations are received for outstanding educators, and two are selected: one from Pre-K–5th grade and one from 6th–12th grade.
Koby Ashmore has become a valued team member at Martin Elementary, bringing passion and creativity to his work with special education and general elementary students.
“Mr. Koby has jumped into the special education world, as well as the elementary world, with both feet,” said Patresa Rogers, Principal of Martin Elementary School. “His passion for helping students and advocating for them is immeasurable. He’s flexible, willing to adjust his day to help others, and always thinks outside the box. He supports inclusion classrooms and is a true team player. We are lucky to have him at MES.”
Through innovative instruction and real-world application, Mrs. Cates recently led her students in a meaningful dissection activity that made a big impact and helped students better understand the human body.
“I observed a phenomenal lesson where Mrs. Cates guided her class through a sheep heart dissection,” shared Kandace Jackson, Weakley County Schools CTE Director. “She did an excellent job leading students step-by-step, encouraging them to think critically and explore how the heart impacts health and well-being, going far beyond anatomy. The students absolutely walked away from that lesson showing growth concerning heart health.”
In addition to her engaging lessons, Mrs. Cates coordinated a local blood drive and is actively supporting student leadership by taking students to HOSA State.
Betsi Foster, Assistant Director of Schools, shared high praise for this month’s honorees.
“Whitney Cates is providing students with real-world experiences in health science, helping them gain both knowledge and leadership skills that extend beyond the classroom. Koby Ashmore’s flexibility, collaboration, and creativity have already made a big impact at Martin Elementary and leaves a lasting impression on his students. These educators truly represent the heart of our district’s mission, and we are proud to celebrate them.”
The March “Feature Teachers” will enjoy well-deserved bragging rights and will be highlighted in upcoming district stories and across social media platforms, celebrating their inspiring work and strengthening connections across the community.
Weakley County Schools is proud to be a champion in support of outstanding educators.