Greenfield School has been named one of the Top 5 schools in Tennessee for beating the odds in 3rd grade reading, according to a new national analysis by The 74. This recognition highlights schools where students are achieving far beyond expectations, especially when considering poverty rates — and Greenfield’s results are nothing short of remarkable.
📊 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.
📊 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.
We’re excited to celebrate our February 2026 Feature Teachers, two educators who are making a real difference for students across Weakley County Schools.
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. 💙
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. 💙
Due to continuing hazardous road conditions, Weakley County Schools will remain closed on Wednesday, February 4.
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!
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!
Due to continued hazardous travel conditions, Weakley County Schools will remain closed tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3rd.
Stay safe, stay warm, and continue to use caution if traveling! ❄️💙
Stay safe, stay warm, and continue to use caution if traveling! ❄️💙
With hazardous travel conditions continuing on secondary roads, Weakley County Schools will be closed on Monday, February 2. We hope all of our WCS families are staying safe and warm! ❄️
Our school board members are more than names on a roster — they are neighbors, community members, and dedicated advocates for the students and families of Weakley County. 💙
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!
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!
Weakley County Schools will remain closed Wednesday - Friday, January 28 - January 30. Stay safe and warm, WCS families!
Due to the Winter Storm Warning this weekend and dangerously cold arctic temperatures forecasted to follow, Weakley County Schools will be closed Monday and Tuesday, January 26-27.
We will evaluate conditions again Tuesday afternoon. If additional closures are needed, families will be notified by call and/or text using the phone numbers we have on file, and updates will also be posted at weakleyschools.com and our official social media channels.
If assistance is needed during the storm, please contact Weakley County EMA at 731-364-5454. Community updates can also be found on Facebook at Weakley County EMA.
We’re closely monitoring the winter weather expected this weekend through daily briefings with the National Weather Service. Forecast confidence is continuing to increase for our area, and we’re staying in close contact with local officials as conditions develop.
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.
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.
Big congratulations to Dresden Middle School’s Nash Bynum! 🎉
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! 💙⭐
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! 💙⭐
We’re proud to share that Becca Steele, band director at Dresden Middle School, has been named a semifinalist for the national CMA Foundation Music Teachers of Excellence Award!
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. 💙🎺🎶
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. 💙🎺🎶
Reminder! Backpack Program packing will take place today at 12:00 PM at the Dresden First Baptist Family Life Center.
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! 💙
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! 💙
We’re excited to welcome our students back as we head into the second half of the school year! ✨
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
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
We’re so proud to celebrate Dresden Elementary, Dresden High, and Greenfield School for being named Tennessee Reward Schools—meaning they’re officially in the top 5% of schools in the entire state based on the data for the 2024-25 school year. 👏
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 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. 💙
We’re excited to introduce our December 2025 Feature Teachers! 🎉
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
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!
When local leaders walk into a second grade classroom, learning truly comes to life! Martin Primary's second graders recently got to meet the subjects they were learning about in their unit on local government. With visits from Mayor Dale Hutcherson, Judge Jeff Parham, and Lieutenant Josh Pope, students got to ask questions and see how government works in real life.
Read the full story here: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2573742
Read the full story here: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2573742
Math is clicking at Martin Middle! 📚✨
At Martin Middle School, math doesn’t look—or sound—like you may remember. Thanks to the school’s Core + Encore model, students now spend time learning new concepts and strengthening them through small-group instruction, flexible pacing, teamwork, and real-time support.
And it’s paying off in a big way: over the last three years, MMS math proficiency has climbed dramatically across every grade level.🙌
This approach gives students a major advantage: they learn the “why,” practice the “how,” and build the confidence to tackle more challenging problems. Teachers work side by side, share ideas daily, and meet students exactly where they are.
It’s innovation, collaboration, and student-centered learning at its best—and it’s happening right here in Weakley County. 💛
👉 Read the full story to see how Core and Encore Math are helping students grow and thrive: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2566142
At Martin Middle School, math doesn’t look—or sound—like you may remember. Thanks to the school’s Core + Encore model, students now spend time learning new concepts and strengthening them through small-group instruction, flexible pacing, teamwork, and real-time support.
And it’s paying off in a big way: over the last three years, MMS math proficiency has climbed dramatically across every grade level.🙌
This approach gives students a major advantage: they learn the “why,” practice the “how,” and build the confidence to tackle more challenging problems. Teachers work side by side, share ideas daily, and meet students exactly where they are.
It’s innovation, collaboration, and student-centered learning at its best—and it’s happening right here in Weakley County. 💛
👉 Read the full story to see how Core and Encore Math are helping students grow and thrive: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2566142
Strong leadership and standout sportsmanship continue to shine across Weakley County Schools! ⭐️
This year, several WCS coaches, administrators, and school communities were honored by the TSSAA for their impact on student athletics:
⭐️ Director of Schools Jeff Cupples named School System Administrator of the Year - Grand West Division
⭐️ Greenfield’s Tori Liggett named Female Coach of the Year - Grand West Division
⭐️ Gleason School selected as an A.F. Bridges Divisional Finalist - Grand West Division, one of just 27 schools statewide to earn the distinction for exemplary sportsmanship and a positive athletic culture.
Read the full story: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2560215
This year, several WCS coaches, administrators, and school communities were honored by the TSSAA for their impact on student athletics:
⭐️ Director of Schools Jeff Cupples named School System Administrator of the Year - Grand West Division
⭐️ Greenfield’s Tori Liggett named Female Coach of the Year - Grand West Division
⭐️ Gleason School selected as an A.F. Bridges Divisional Finalist - Grand West Division, one of just 27 schools statewide to earn the distinction for exemplary sportsmanship and a positive athletic culture.
Read the full story: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2560215
We are proud to celebrate Board Chair Josh Moore and Board Member Steve Vantrease for their recent recognitions from the Tennessee School Boards Association! Their continued growth and leadership reflect our district’s commitment to purpose, connection, and growth.
Thank you for serving with heart and leading with vision for the students and families of Weakley County Schools. 💙
🔗 Read the full story: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2540714
Thank you for serving with heart and leading with vision for the students and families of Weakley County Schools. 💙
🔗 Read the full story: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2540714
