Education Day is designed to show students how our schools operate and impact our communities, with an added emphasis on the wide range of careers available throughout the WCS district — from teaching to physical therapy to accounting to technology. Throughout the day, students experienced firsthand the many pathways available right here at home:
🎭 Westview High School – Fine arts in action through theater, music, and visual art
💙 Sharon School – Careers in physical therapy, special education, speech language pathology, and a look at inclusive playground design
🐾 Greenfield School "The Hive" School – Mental health support in schools, school social work, and a visit with therapy dog Bebe
📚 Gleason School PreK-12son School – The importance of reading and connections as older students read to younger learners
🌾 Dresden High School High School – The Ag Complex, entrepreneurship through the school-based enterprise, and hands-on experiences in the health science lab
🏫 Central Office – A behind-the-scenes look at how the Board of Education and district staff work together to support students, teachers, and families
Youth Leadership Weakley County gives high school sophomores the opportunity to explore industries, build leadership skills, connect with community leaders, and earn a half credit toward graduation — all while discovering how their community works and where they fit in it.
We’re proud to partner with the Weakley County Chamber of Commerce and First Community Bank of the Heartland, Inc. to help students see that their future doesn’t just exist somewhere else — it’s right here.
Because in Weakley County Schools, opportunity truly is in every corner. 💛
Families can now view important dates for the upcoming school year, including the first and last days of school, holidays, and scheduled breaks.
🔗 View the full calendar: https://www.weakleyschools.com/page/calendar
We’re proud to celebrate these Weakley County Schools students who have been selected to represent our district at the Tennessee School Boards Association Student Congress on Policies in Education (SCOPE)! 👏
They’ll travel to Nashville to take part in real conversations about public education — stepping into roles like school board members, educators, parents, and community members to discuss key issues impacting schools across Tennessee.
Representing Weakley County Schools are:
• Sophie Beasley and Shelby Mayo, Gleason School
• Caroline Warren and Deegan Arant, Greenfield School
• Tyler Moore and Harrison Hodges, Dresden High School
• Daniel Kang and Izaiah Chua, Westview High School
Being selected for SCOPE is an honor and a reflection of these students’ leadership, confidence, and willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue. We can’t wait to cheer them on as they represent Weakley County Schools on a statewide stage! 💙❤️
It’s one of our favorite springtime traditions in Weakley County Schools — and we’re incredibly thankful to the Weakley County Farm Bureau Women for making it possible year after year. Through the annual Chick Hatching Project, second grade students across the county get a hands-on look at the life cycle of chicks, turning science lessons into real-world learning. From observation and responsibility to curiosity and care, this experience brings classroom concepts to life in a way students never forget.
We can’t wait for those fluffy yellow arrivals around March 11… stay tuned for chick updates! 🐣✨
📊 Based on data, Greenfield was projected to have 43% of students reading proficiently by third grade.
📈 Instead, 79% of students met or exceeded proficiency — nearly double what was expected.
This achievement builds on Greenfield’s already impressive track record, including being a Reward School, earning an A on the Tennessee State Report Card, and receiving a Level 5 growth designation — the highest possible.
Read the full story at https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2704469
👏 We’re incredibly proud of Greenfield School and grateful for the educators, students, and families who make this kind of success possible every day.
This month, we’re recognizing Lauren Mitchell, speech-language pathologist serving Gleason and Greenfield Schools (Pre-K–5), and Evan Jarrett, history teacher at Dresden Middle School (6–12).
Mrs. Mitchell is known for the trust she builds with families and the way she connects with students to help them grow and succeed. At DMS, Mr. Jarrett creates an engaging, welcoming classroom where students don’t just memorize history — they truly understand it.
Both were surprised in their classrooms with the traveling 6-foot Feature Teacher trophy, a fun tradition that celebrates excellence across our district.
We’re so proud of the purpose, connection, and growth they bring to our schools every day. 💙
We know many families were hopeful for a return to school, but after evaluating road conditions today, they have not improved enough to safely operate buses or accommodate young drivers.
The safety of our students, staff, and families remains our priority. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we continue to navigate the weather and road conditions, and thank you to the crews working tirelessly to clear roads and improve conditions!
Stay safe, stay warm, and continue to use caution if traveling! ❄️💙
Every day, the Weakley County School Board works behind the scenes to support our teachers, address community priorities, and ensure our schools have the resources students need to thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally. Their leadership helps shape not only our schools, but the future of our entire county.
As we recognize School Board Appreciation Month, we are grateful for a board that leads with unity, purpose, and a people-first mindset!
In the meantime, families and staff may want to begin planning ahead in case the weekend winter storm requires closures next week. The safety of our students, staff, and families remains our top priority.
As soon as decisions are made, updates will be shared through robocall and text messages to families who are opted in, along with local news outlets and our official channels and website.
Nash has been elected Tennessee State Junior Beta President, representing DMS and Weakley County Schools on the state level.
With a message rooted in positivity—“Smash the Trash, Vote for Nash”—Nash encouraged students to replace negative thinking and actions with leadership, service, and character. From confidently campaigning among strangers to delivering a powerful speech in front of thousands, Nash showed courage, preparation, and heart every step of the way.
When his name was announced, the room erupted in cheers—and it’s easy to see why. Nash’s leadership, kindness, and confidence reflect the very best of our students.
We’re incredibly proud of Nash and can’t wait to see the impact he’ll make as he begins his role in July 2026! 💙⭐
In Mrs. Steele’s band room, music is more than notes and rhythms, it’s where students build confidence, discover their strengths, and find a sense of belonging. Her student-centered approach has helped grow a thriving band program where beginners feel brave and every small win is celebrated.
“The students are the heart of this honor,” Steele shared. “Seeing them grow, gain confidence, and discover who they are through music is what makes this work so meaningful. I’m honored to represent Dresden Middle alongside the incredible students who make it special.”
We’re incredibly proud of Mrs. Steele and the talented Dresden Middle students who make this recognition possible. 💙🎺🎶
Volunteers will gather to help pack food bags that support students across Weakley County Schools when they’re away from school. Thank you to everyone who is able to give their time and help make a difference for our students and families! 💙
Lunch menus for all schools for the month of January:
www.weakleyschools.com/page/lunch-menus
WCS families, here's your January dates to note:
📅 Jan 6 – Students return to school
📅 Jan 6 – Backpack Program packing day at Dresden First Baptist Family Life Center (12:00 PM)
📅 Jan 8 – School Board Meeting | 5:00 PM at the Board of Education (agenda link below)
📅 Jan 19 – No school in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day
📅 Jan 29 – Parent-Teacher Conferences | 3 hours after school
The agenda for the school board meeting can be found here:
www.weakleyschools.com/page/school-board
This kind of recognition reflects the everyday hard work happening in classrooms, the commitment of our teachers and staff, the determination of our students, and the incredible support from families and communities. 💙
This month, we’re celebrating two outstanding educators whose creativity, leadership, and commitment to student success shine across Weakley County Schools.
Join us in congratulating Mrs. Susan Kendall (Dresden Middle) and Mr. Jonathan Holden (Dresden High) — two teachers making learning meaningful and helping students grow in remarkable ways. From hands-on projects to powerful personal connections, their classrooms are places where purpose, connection, and growth thrive every day.
Read their full stories ➡️ https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2594120
Weakley County Schools 2026–2027 Teachers of the Year 🌟
For the full story, visit: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2578797
Weakley County Schools is proud to recognize the educators selected as our 2026–2027 Teachers of the Year, a group celebrated for their creativity in the classroom, dedication to students, and the steady leadership they model every day. Across all schools, teachers voted to honor outstanding colleagues in three grade bands—Pre-K–4th, 5th–8th, and 9th–12th—continuing a district tradition rooted in pride, connection, and professional respect.
🏫 School-Level Teachers of the Year
Pre-K – 4th Grade
• Carla Hutcherson — Dresden Elementary
• Lauren Mitchell — Gleason
• Jan Mitchell — Greenfield
• Karen Baker — Martin Elementary
• Kendall Wylie — Martin Primary
• Jennifer Lamb — Sharon
5th – 8th Grade
• Becca Steele — Dresden Middle
• Jacob Canaday — Gleason
• Amee Hayes — Greenfield
• Paige Hatchel — Martin Elementary
• Kimberly Ware — Martin Middle
• Kristi Parsley — Sharon
9th – 12th Grade
• Whitney Cates — Dresden High
• Lori Wilson — Gleason
• Tucker Turner — Greenfield
• Jennifer Ognibene — Westview High
🌟 District-Level Teachers of the Year
After reviewing the school-level submissions, the district committee selected one representative from each grade band to advance to the regional level:
• Pre-K – 4th Grade: Jennifer Lamb, Sharon
• 5th – 8th Grade: Paige Hatchel, Martin Elementary
• 9th – 12th Grade: Jennifer Ognibene, Westview High
Novice Teacher of the Year: Annie Beard, Martin Primary
This year, Weakley County Schools introduced the Novice Teacher of the Year Award, created to recognize early-career teachers making an immediate and meaningful impact within their first three years in the profession.
Our teachers are the heart of Weakley County Schools. Whether they are just beginning their careers or have served students for decades, each plays a critical role in supporting families, strengthening communities, and ensuring students grow, thrive, and feel seen. Thank you to all WCS educators for the difference you make every day!
