Central Office Update

As we close out another school year, I want to take a moment to extend my gratitude to each and every one of you for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to our students and community. Your passion for education and your perseverance through challenges have made this school year a success.

To our retiring employees—thank you for your years of service and the countless lives you’ve impacted along the way. Your legacy will continue to be felt throughout our schools, and you leave behind a strong foundation for future generations.

As we head into the summer months, I hope each of you finds time to rest, recharge, and enjoy well-deserved time with family and friends. You’ve earned it.

Looking ahead, I’m excited for what the new school year will bring. With your continued dedication, I know we’ll reach even greater heights together.

Thank you again for all you do. Have a wonderful summer!

Warm regards,
Tommy

Ben didn’t always know he was meant for education. In his early 20s, he explored different paths and believed he was headed for vocational ministry. Education, at the time, was simply a way to become a better communicator. But once he stepped into the school setting, something clicked. He discovered a genuine love for being around students and quickly shifted his focus to teaching full-time. What started as a means to an end became his calling.

Interestingly, school leadership wasn’t something he initially pursued. “I never wanted to be an administrator,” Ben admits, “until some educators I really respected told me they saw that potential in me.” That encouragement led to his first administrative role as an assistant principal—working under a former teacher of his—and it seemed like a great fit. But when the principalship at Rush Strong School opened up, he knew it was something special. For Ben, RSS wasn’t just another school. It was a place rich with personal history: the school where his grandmother taught for over 30 years, where he attended fourth grade, where both he and his mother did their student teaching, and where he once served as an instructional coach. Taking the lead at Rush Strong felt less like a promotion and more like a homecoming.

Now in his fifteenth year with Jefferson County Schools, Ben finds joy in the daily rhythms of school life. Most mornings start with coffee and a walk through the cafeteria, gym, and auditorium, greeting students as they begin their day. “That’s my favorite part—getting a hug from a kindergartner or a secret handshake from a sixth grader,” he says with a smile. “It’s the best way to start the day.”

When asked about his proudest professional moment, Ben doesn’t point to a personal accolade. Instead, he celebrates the resilience and hard work of his school community. After the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, his students and staff turned around some tough test scores and, within two years, earned the designation of Tennessee Reward School. “I didn’t teach a single lesson during that time,” he says humbly. “I just put the right people in the right places and supported them. Our success belongs to the students and teachers.”

Outside of school, Ben enjoys traveling, spending time with his family, and hitting the golf course. But no matter where he is, his heart is never far from Rush Strong School—the place that shaped his past and inspires his present.

Susan Garber’s passion for mathematics began early in life, but her journey into education has been shaped just as much by her love for people as her love for numbers. After earning her degree from the University of Mary Washington in Virginia, Susan chose the classroom over careers in banking and computer programming. Teaching high school math allowed her to combine her strengths in education with her enthusiasm for coaching tennis and basketball, making a difference in students’ lives both academically and athletically.

After taking time to raise her four children, Susan returned to education in 2009 as an 8th-grade math teacher at Jefferson Middle School. A chance hallway conversation with Pat Wilder led her to apply for a newly created math coach position in Jefferson County—a role she has embraced for the last 15 years. Now in her 16th year with the district, Susan continues to provide essential support to teachers and students alike as a district math coach.

Susan finds great purpose in collaboration. She thrives on building relationships with teachers, students, principals, and colleagues across the district. Whether she’s helping a new teacher grow in confidence or guiding a student to overcome math anxiety, Susan sees each small moment of success as part of a much bigger picture. Her coaching style—fueled by determination and encouragement—could be summed up by the song “Eye of the Tiger.” She believes every student can succeed in math, and she works tirelessly to make that belief a reality in every classroom she supports.

Some of her most memorable experiences are personal—watching her own children move through the Jefferson County school system from kindergarten to high school graduation. For Susan, this work is more than professional—it’s deeply rooted in her family, her community, and her commitment to helping others thrive.

When she’s not in classrooms or coaching educators, Susan finds joy in hiking, playing pickleball and softball, reading audiobooks, and spending quality time with her children. She’s also active in her church, serving as a deacon and Fellowship Coordinator.

At Jefferson Middle School, Tanzi Farrow is redefining what it means to teach physical education. Since 2018, she has created a classroom where students not only build physical skills, but also confidence, teamwork, and lifelong healthy habits.

Tanzi’s path to teaching began with a desire to help others. Though she started in nursing, a shift to education at Carson-Newman University revealed her true calling. “Teaching became my passion and purpose,” she says.

With a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s in Educational Leadership, Tanzi brings both expertise and heart to her work. Beyond the classroom, she advocates for student wellness, having spoken at conferences about vaping prevention and the vital role of health education in PE.

For Tanzi, learning is more than performance—it’s about growth. “I know students are learning when they show progress not just physically, but in their attitude, decision-making, and willingness to try,” she explains. She values meaningful conversations that connect lessons to students’ lives.

What she loves most? Building strong relationships. “Seeing students support each other, push through challenges, and grow as individuals reminds me why I teach,” she says.

One of her favorite moments is watching a student go from frustration to success after mastering a skill. “That smile of pride—it never gets old.” Tanzi Farrow is more than a PE teacher—she’s a mentor, motivator, and champion for student growth.

At Mt. Horeb Elementary School, we are so fortunate to have had Mrs. Laura Harrell as our receptionist since we opened our doors 13 years ago. Mrs. Laura began her career at Jefferson County Schools 29 years ago…

She has served in several roles during her career. She spent more than half of her time at Jefferson Elementary as a special education instructional assistant, a kindergarten instructional assistant, and a library assistant.

It has been Laura’s warm, welcoming personality that has greeted families as they walked through our doors. She has developed lasting friendships with all our parents, students, and staff. She has always been quick to listen and guide those needing support. Her dedication to MHES has been invaluable, and she will be greatly missed.

As she begins this next chapter in her life, we wish her the very best! We know that spending time with her family and particularly her grandson will bring her great joy!

After 35 years of dedicated service at MMS, Andrea Hance, our Attendance Secretary, is stepping into a new chapter—retirement. While we are overjoyed for her to begin her next adventure, it's impossible not to feel her absence already.

Spending 35 years in one school is an accomplishment in itself. She has worked with seven different admin teams, 5 nurses, 6 bookkeepers, countless teachers and hundreds of families. It’s a testament to Mrs. Hance’s loyalty and love for the MMS community. I don’t mind sharing that her favorite administrator was Mr. Tommy Bettis. After his passing, Mrs. Hance was adamant that the school community continued his legacy and with the help of the Bettis family, the annual Tommy Bettis Basketball Tournament began. After 25 tournaments, Mrs. Hance remains in attendance, popping popcorn, greeting families, and cheering on the Hornets.

Mrs. Hance will be sorely missed by many in the MMS community, but we will not truly understand the impact of her absence until we enroll a new student, transfer records, upload records, or dare I say, attempt the dreaded schedule changes. When the office phone is ringing, when a parent needs assistance with Aspen, or when Gary Jett shows up for a truancy discussion, we will instinctively look for Mrs. Hance.

But she won’t be there. She will be enjoying retirement on her Harley-Davidson bike, meeting her husband Steve for an early lunch at Tinsley Bible, and then headed home to watch the Price is Right.

And we will be at MMS missing her terribly.

Connie had been with JCHS for the past 30 years, serving in the English Department throughout her time. Students who entered her class may have had their worries at first, but by the end, they respected her and the high standards she set. Mr. Rogers stated, “Her students knew they were leaving her class as better students—and better people.” She also served as the school’s first girls’ soccer coach. We will truly miss her.

With 25 years of service in education, this remarkable educator has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students. What she enjoys most about her work is hard to narrow down—because, as she says, “When you love what you do, it’s hard to pick just one thing!” From the joy of an unpredictable day to the deep connections formed with students over six or seven years, her favorite moments come from watching students grow, hearing about their latest reads, and learning about their dreams for the future.

One standout memory comes from her final year at Jefferson Elementary before moving to Dandridge Elementary. That year, while teaching a beloved group of fourth graders, her middle son Johnny was deployed to Afghanistan. Together, the class created a chain with 180 links—one for each day until his return. The care and empathy her students showed was extraordinary. They shielded her from difficult conversations about war and brought tissues in anticipation of the tears they knew would come when she read books about Japan, where she had grown up. It was a class that truly became a family, and she’s confident those now twenty-something former students are spreading that same spirit of kindness in the world today.

As she looks ahead to retirement, she’s most excited about spending more time with her grandchildren—and not having to start her day at 4:30 a.m. anymore! Her legacy of compassion, connection, and care will undoubtedly continue to inspire long after the school bell rings for the final time.

With over 27 years of service in education, Pam Murph’s career has been defined by patience, perseverance, and a deep belief in every child’s potential. Even when she wasn’t formally in the classroom, she could be found volunteering in her sons’ schools—always supporting students and staff however she could.

What Pam has loved most about teaching is that magical moment when a student “gets it”—when understanding clicks into place and the hard work suddenly feels more than worth it. For her, those moments have been the heartbeat of a career spent guiding and encouraging learners of all abilities.

One memory stands out as a powerful reminder of Pam’s unwavering determination and heart. While teaching Special Education in a CDC classroom, Pam and her assistant worked closely with a young student on his reading skills. Despite being told he might never learn to read, Pam and her student never gave up. Day after day, he practiced without complaint. Then, one day, everything changed—he began reading full sentences. It was a breakthrough moment. The joy was contagious as he walked the halls of the school, proudly reading to every person who would stop and listen. For Pam, that day wasn’t just a victory in reading—it was a celebration of belief, effort, and the joy of learning.

As she looks ahead to retirement, Pam is excited to begin a new chapter near her son Jonathan and his family in Ohio, where she’ll spend plenty of time with her two beloved grandchildren. She also looks forward to visiting her son David and his wife in California, embracing the freedom to be with the people she loves most.

Pam Murph’s career has left an indelible mark on her students, her colleagues, and the schools she served. Her quiet determination, kind spirit, and unshakable faith in her students will be remembered long after the classroom lights dim.

Jan Oxley's journey in education began long before her time in the classroom. After high school in Ohio, she taught Sunday School and learn-to-swim classes—early signs of the educator she was meant to be. Once her daughters started school, she formally entered the classroom, teaching English Language Arts and later serving as a preschool and daycare director for seven years. In 2013, a job transfer brought her family to Tennessee, where she spent two years teaching in Knox County before joining Jefferson County Schools. For the past ten years, she has made a lasting impact at Maury Middle School as a dedicated member of the Exceptional Children Services Department.

Jan has enjoyed most about her work is helping students build strong reading skills—giving them the tools to enjoy books and confidently tackle grade-level texts. She has always believed in the importance of early, intentional support, especially in middle school, when time is short and the stakes are high.

One of her most memorable moments came when four determined students exited their IEPs just before moving on to the Patriot Academy. Watching their progress and knowing how hard they worked—and how many people worked alongside them—was deeply rewarding. It was a reminder that growth takes a team, and that with the right support, students can reach remarkable goals.

As she enters retirement, Mrs. Oxley is looking forward to traveling and spending more time with family—especially with her energetic granddaughters who are sure to keep her on her toes. Her commitment to her students, her calm presence, and her belief in every child’s potential will leave a legacy at Maury Middle that continues long after her well-earned retirement begins.

After 36 years in education, Tammy Taylor leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and deep connections with her students. For her, the joy has always been in the children—especially the bright energy and excitement second graders bring to school each day. Their love for learning, their notes, and their heartfelt drawings have filled her days with purpose and joy.

Among her many meaningful memories, one stands out as a powerful reminder of why building relationships is at the heart of teaching. While teaching fifth grade, Tammy had a student who unexpectedly began cursing at her—day after day. One afternoon, during another outburst that escalated to throwing objects, Tammy calmly asked the student to step outside the classroom. But what happened next was unforgettable: the student threw her arms around Tammy in a hug and broke down. Through tears, she asked to be suspended—not out of anger, but because she wanted to be sent to Kingswood, where her only family, her brother, had been placed. The next day, the student left a letter saying she would continue to act out, not because she didn’t care, but because she needed someone she trusted to help her. Tammy still keeps that letter to this day—a lasting reminder that while academics matter, it’s the relationships we build that leave the most lasting impact.

Now entering retirement, Tammy calls it “bittersweet.” Teaching was never just a job to her—it was a calling. As she looks to the future, she’s excited to spend more time with her family, enjoy camping trips, travel, and savor every moment with her new grandson, Judson.

Her years of service, heart for students, and unwavering commitment to relationships have left an indelible mark on everyone lucky enough to work or learn alongside her.

After 26 years of dedicated service in education, Sally Musick is closing one beautiful chapter and opening another as she steps into retirement. For Sally, teaching was more than a job — it was a calling, one deeply inspired by her own mother, who was also an educator. “Following in my mother's footsteps was an honor,” she shares. “I truly enjoyed my career. My greatest joy is watching the children grow into kind adults. At this stage, those lasting relationships have meant so much to me.”

In a profession where connections are often thought to be fleeting, Sally found meaning in the enduring bonds formed with her students. “One may think you are just with the student for a school year, but they are with us for a lifetime,” she reflects. It’s the unexpected reunions and heartfelt acknowledgments that stay with her. “One of my favorite moments of all is the question, ‘Do you remember me? I loved having you as my teacher!’ I always think, how in the world did they remember me? I can hope, they remember I was a loving teacher.”

As she enters retirement, Sally looks forward to a new rhythm — slower mornings, warm coffee, and time to explore the world. Her plans are filled with simple joys: reading new books, experimenting in the kitchen, and traveling to places she’s always dreamed of visiting.

While her presence in the classroom will be deeply missed, Sally Musick’s impact will continue to echo through the lives of the students she touched. Her career may be ending, but her influence — and her memory — will endure in countless hearts. We wish Sally a joyful, peaceful, and well-deserved retirement.

After 28 inspiring years in education, Kim McCoig is closing the chapter on her career as a beloved teacher and library media specialist—but the stories she’s helped write in the lives of her students will live on for generations. Kim began her journey in education as a kindergarten and fifth-grade teacher, but it was in the library where her true passion took root and blossomed. As a library media specialist, Kim discovered her calling: empowering students through the magic of books and the boundless possibilities of imagination. “What inspired me most about my librarian job was empowering people—especially students—with the resources and stories that ignited their passions and fueled their dreams,” Kim reflects. That deep sense of purpose translated into an atmosphere where every child felt seen, supported, and inspired. Whether she was transforming the library into a whimsical wonderland themed around the seasons or curating reading programs that matched students with books that captured their hearts, Kim brought unmatched creativity and devotion to her work.

One of her most cherished memories speaks volumes about the impact she’s had. A second-grade student, once struggling and unsure of her abilities, found newfound confidence when Kim introduced her to a simple nonfiction book about baby animals. That spark of joy and achievement lit a path toward transformation. “She began visiting the library more frequently, seeking new books, and gradually gaining self-assurance in her reading skills,” Kim recalls. “It reminded me why I was passionate about being a librarian—to empower kids to believe in themselves through the power of books.”

Now, as Kim steps into retirement, she looks forward to embracing a slower pace and savoring life’s simple joys. “I’m really looking forward to spending more time with my family, maybe traveling to places I’ve always dreamed about, but never had the time to see,” she shares. Kim also plans to become more involved with her church, volunteer her time, and expand her event planning business, Just Believe Occasions. “It brings me so much joy to help folks celebrate life’s big moments with beauty and meaning.”

Though she’s retiring from the school setting, Kim’s legacy as an educator, encourager, and joyful spirit continues. She leaves behind not just a career, but a lasting imprint on countless hearts and minds. As she looks ahead to this next chapter, there’s no doubt she’ll continue to inspire—just as she always has.

With three decades of service in education, Alisa Lemons has built a career centered on connection, care, and community. Throughout her 30 years, what brought her the most joy was simple but powerful—getting to know her students and their families. Whether she was spending time helping a student grow or sharing in moments with parents, Alisa found meaning in building relationships and being a consistent, supportive presence in her students’ lives.

One defining moment in her journey came when she briefly stepped away from Jefferson County Schools. That time away offered unexpected clarity—it reminded her just how much she valued being rooted in the community she calls home. There was something special about running into students and families at church, at the pool, at ball games, and around town. That daily sense of connection reaffirmed what mattered most to her: giving back to the people and place that had given her so much. Being a part of the community—and serving the students and families within it—became one of the most meaningful parts of her career.

Now enjoying retirement, Alisa is embracing something she gave so much of to others throughout her career: time. Time to be with family, time to slow down, and time to fully enjoy the little moments with her grandchildren. No more rushing—just room to breathe, reflect, and savor the days ahead.

Alisa Lemons leaves behind a legacy of kindness, deep community ties, and a heart for service that touched countless lives. Her presence in Jefferson County Schools will be missed, but the impact she made—both in and out of the classroom—will remain for years to come.

Anne has been an integral part of the JCHS family for the past 38 years, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, heart, and unwavering commitment to her students and colleagues. As a beloved teacher in the Science Department, she brought energy and curiosity to every lesson, making science meaningful and memorable for generations of students. She also served as the cheer coach for many years, leading with the same passion and positivity that defined her teaching. Mr. Randy Rogers remarked that Anne was “a team player that all students enjoyed and respected.”

Jefferson County Schools would like to recognize and express our heartfelt appreciation for the following dedicated employees who retired during the 2024–2025 school year:

• Kenny Phipps, Custodian at JMS

• Judy Holt, Cafeteria Assistant at WPS

• Patricia Shults, Cafeteria Assistant at PES

• Sandra Etters, Custodian at PES

• George Toby, Mechanic in Transportation

We thank them for their many years of faithful service and commitment to the students and community of Jefferson County. Their contributions have made a lasting impact, and they will be greatly missed. We wish each of them a joyful and well-deserved retirement.

National Teacher Appreciation Week is a cherished tradition in Jefferson County Schools, with individual schools across the district celebrating in unique and heartfelt ways. Local businesses and community organizations consistently go above and beyond to recognize the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of our students. Their generosity and support reflect the deep appreciation felt throughout the community for the hard work, passion, and dedication our educators bring to their classrooms every day.

To add to these school-based celebrations, the district leadership team joined in by delivering a small token of appreciation to teachers countywide. This year’s theme, “Take Note… We Appreciate You!” highlighted the thoughtfulness behind the gesture. Each teacher received customized stationery, a JCS pen, and a JCS sticker as a practical and personal reminder of their impact. District staff members had the opportunity to hand-deliver many of the gifts, offering their thanks in person to the educators who do the heavy lifting every day. A special thank you goes to Knoxville TVA Credit Union for their generous support in helping us recognize the outstanding teachers of Jefferson County Schools.

The job of a principal or assistant principal begins well before the first bell rings and often stretches long past the end of the school day. These dedicated leaders are the first to arrive and the last to leave, juggling a seemingly endless list of responsibilities. In Jefferson County, our administrators go far beyond managing the day-to-day operations of their schools—they can be found setting up for school events, opening milk cartons in the cafeteria, cheering on student athletes at games, and offering steadfast support to both teachers and students. Their work is demanding, often behind the scenes, and yet essential to the success of every school day.

This year, Jefferson County Schools honored the dedication and leadership of our principals and assistant principals on National School Principal Appreciation Day. To mark the occasion, students from Jefferson County High School, in collaboration with Adam Martin’s agriculture classes, designed and created a custom plaque to recognize each administrator’s contributions. Members of the district leadership team personally delivered these tokens of appreciation, a small gesture to express our deep gratitude for their tireless commitment. While no single gift can fully capture the value these individuals bring to our schools, we hope this recognition reminds them how much they are appreciated.

This month, we proudly celebrate National School Nurses Week and recognize the incredible impact our school nurses have every single day. From caring for scraped knees to managing complex health needs, our nurses are a steady source of comfort, compassion, and expertise. They play a vital role in keeping our students healthy, safe, and ready to learn. We couldn’t do what we do without you—thank you for all that you do!

With deep love and appreciation, Jefferson County Schools remembers and honors the extraordinary life and legacy of Leigh Daley. Leigh began her teaching career in 1993 and went on to shape countless lives in public and private schools across multiple states. In 2000, she found her home in Jefferson County, teaching 5th grade at Piedmont Elementary with a passion and heart that students and colleagues never forgot. Leigh joined the Jefferson County Schools Instructional Coaching team in 2005, sharing her knowledge and supporting educators across the district. By 2007, she became the full-time instructional coach at Jefferson Elementary, where she poured her heart into the teachers and students.

Leigh had an enormous love for literacy. An officer and active member of the Mossy Creek Literacy Council, Leigh was instrumental in promoting reading across the county. Her contributions were so impactful that MCLC has established the Leigh Daley Literacy Grant—two annual awards given to educators attending the Mossy Creek Literacy Conference at Carson-Newman University, a cause Leigh fervently supported.

To continue her legacy of literacy and love for animals, Jefferson County Schools has gifted each elementary school library a copy of the National Geographic Kids Animal Encyclopedia in her honor. Inside each book is a sticker that reads: "In loving memory of Leigh Daley, Longtime JCS Educator, Animal and Literacy Lover." These books embody her two great passions: literacy and animals.

Known for her ever-changing lady-bug book display in the hallway beside her classroom, Leigh was always ready with a recommendation for a curious reader. She had an enormous personal library of children’s books and was constantly looking for new ways to engage students.

Leigh’s compassion extended far beyond the classroom. She had a deep love for animals—caring for reptiles, doting on her beloved hairless cats, and regularly volunteering at the local animal shelter. She opened her home and heart to countless dogs and cats, often taking in those that needed special care. In her honor, the staff at Jefferson Elementary has collected much-needed supplies for the local animal shelter—an effort that reflects the love and empathy Leigh showed every day.

Leigh Daley's legacy is one of love, service, and inspiration. She made an indelible mark on Jefferson County Schools, on every student she nurtured, every colleague she mentored, and every animal she cared for. Her absence is deeply felt, but her impact will continue to guide us for years to come. We are forever grateful for Leigh—and we will carry her memory in every book read, every child encouraged, and every act of compassion shared.

On May 8, 2025, Mossy Creek Literacy Council and Jefferson County Schools welcomed families, educators, and community members for a joyful evening honoring the district’s most creative young minds at the Celebrate Literacy Young Authors’ Awards Banquet. This annual event is a cherished tradition that recognizes student authors whose imagination, storytelling, and writing skills have captured the hearts of readers and judges alike.

The evening began at 5:00 p.m. with check-in and a delicious dinner prepared by the Jefferson County High School culinary arts students. At 5:40 p.m., the awards program commenced, spotlighting elementary and middle school students from across the district who have demonstrated outstanding literary talent. The program celebrated these remarkable young authors and the dedicated teachers who guided and inspired them.

This year’s Young Author Award Recipients include:

• Dax Nunez, DES, “Dax and the Six Planets," 1st Grade, Teacher: Darla Lewis

• Miles O’Connor, DES, “Cookie the Constrictor," 3rd Grade, Teacher: Jayne Martin

• Hazel Evans, DES, “The Big Battle: Pathogens and White Blood Cells," 4th Grade, Teacher: Sommer Mullins

• Adaiah Azeem, JES, "The Fantastic Five of East Tennessee,” 3rd Grade, Teacher: Madison Latham

• Myla Mullins, JES, “The True Story of Little Red Riding Hood," 4th Grade, Teacher: Mike Orlando

• Savannah Stinnett, JES, “All the Places I've Lived In,” 4th Grade, Teacher: Mike Orlando

• Arya Cipriano, MHES, “Ripley's Aquarium," 1st Grade, Teacher: Natosha Franklin

• Griffin Fisher, MHES, “My Snake," 1st Grade, Teacher: Taylor Wice

• Lanie Crowe, MHES, “What If? Original Poems," 5th Grade, Teacher: Jennifer Golden

• Remington Taylor, NMES, "The Pirate Chicken Looks for the Golden Egg," 1st Grade, Teacher: Kristen Miller

• Carter Lowery, NMES, "Maggie's Play Date," 2nd Grade, Teacher: Taira Gladwin

• Piper Fielden, NMES, "Gymnastics," 3rd Grade, Teacher: Brandi Ingle

• Caroline Collins, PES, "Gymnastics," Kindergarten, Teacher: Donna Dobyns

• Hendrix Hall, PES, "Soccer," Kindergarten, Teacher: Donna Dobyns

• Blake Jones, PES, "The Big Farm," Kindergarten, Teacher: Donna Dobyns

• Amelia Morris, RSS, "The Long, Lost Sibling," 1st Grade, Teacher: Stephanie Burtt

• Luke Morris, RSS, "Bugs," 1st Grade, Teacher: Kate Vick

• Tennessee Stahr, RSS, "A Dog's Story," 5th Grade, Teacher: Laura DeHart

• Hadley Stahr, RSS, "The Reflection of Her," 6th Grade, Teacher: Melissa Aaron

• Leah Soydinc, TES, "Rose and the Big Bully," 1st Grade, Teacher: Janet Sedlacek

• Eevie Hall, TES, "Caves," 2nd Grade, Teacher: Nicole Beaudreau

• Daisy Phillips, TES, "Dante the Wizard," 2nd Grade, Teacher: Nicole Beadreau

• Beckham Bowen, WPS, "Lost Out of Sea," 1st Grade, Teacher: Heather Clabough

• Adilyn Haynes, WPS, "Bahamas," 1st Grade, Teacher: Channie Phagan

• Fynn Hughes, WPS, "A World of Irish Setters," 2nd Grade, Teacher: Nikki Jackson

• Anneston Dapson, WPS, "Heart's Home," 6th Grade, Teacher: Michael Horner

Following the award presentations, guests were treated to an entertaining and inspiring keynote by celebrated author, illustrator, and storyteller Mike Artell. Known for his wit and engaging style, Mr. Artell connected with students and adults alike, sharing insights into his creative journey and encouraging young writers to keep imagining and creating.

The Celebrate Literacy Banquet is a testament to Jefferson County Schools’ dedication to literacy, creativity, and the empowerment of young voices. Special thanks to Heather Martin and the culinary arts students along with the Mossy Creek Literacy Council Officers for their hard work to ensure the event was successful. Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees—and to the teachers who continue to inspire excellence in writing across the district.

Award-winning author, illustrator, and cartoonist Mike Artell recently completed an exciting tour of every elementary school in Jefferson County, sparking creativity in thousands of students. Known for his engaging blend of storytelling, cartooning, and music, Artell turned each school visit into an interactive experience where students didn’t just listen—they got to draw.

In every session, Artell demonstrated fun cartooning techniques, encouraging students to create their own characters and stories. Laughter and excitement filled the rooms as children discovered how simple shapes could come to life on the page. Teachers praised the visits for making reading and writing feel accessible and fun.

“Seeing the kids so eager to draw and share was amazing,” Melissa Barbee, Talbott Elementary Instructional Coach said. “Our students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and were totally engaged.”

Artell, who has visited over 1,000 schools worldwide, emphasized the importance of creativity and self-expression. We hope his hands-on approach will inspire students to read and write, continuing the momentum long after his visit.

For Jefferson County’s young artists and authors, Mike Artell’s visit was more than just a fun day—it was a spark that showed them the power of their own imagination.

Jefferson County Schools recently held its annual Scholar's Bowl competition, an exciting academic event that brought together some of the district’s brightest young minds for a day of challenging questions and intellectual competition.

In the elementary division, eight teams competed in a single-elimination tournament that lasted throughout the day. Students tackled fast-paced toss-up questions worth 10 points and collaborative bonus questions worth 20 points. After several intense rounds, Jefferson Elementary earned a strong second-place finish, while Piedmont Elementary claimed the championship title.

The middle school competition featured a double-elimination format with two nine-minute halves per match. Students answered questions spanning a wide range of subjects, including history, science, literature, math, and current events. Jefferson Middle School emerged as the first-place winner, demonstrating outstanding teamwork and academic skill. Rush Strong School also delivered a strong performance, securing second place.

Special thanks to Lisa Knight and Susan Garber who facilitated the elementary and middle school competitions. The Scholar’s Bowl continues to be a celebrated tradition in Jefferson County, showcasing the academic excellence and enthusiasm of its students. Congratulations to all the teams who participated!

As the school year comes to a close, students, teachers, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, maintenance staff, and everyone who helps our schools run smoothly come together to celebrate the accomplishments of our students who’ve spent 180 days learning and growing. Aside from the occasional snow day, few moments are more joyful than field days, awards ceremonies, graduations, and all the memories made in between. Thank you for making the 2024–2025 school year one of our best yet. Have a wonderful and well-deserved summer!

SSI Hour requirements.

Where to find June PD Form

Where to find Summer PD list: www.jc-tn.net/SummerPD

Recognizing the importance of regular school attendance, TES launched a fun and rewarding initiative to encourage students to be present each day. For every day a student attended school, they received a ticket entered into a daily drawing for exciting prizes such as gift cards, toys, and even a scooter! What began as a simple idea quickly grew into a schoolwide celebration, culminating in the recognition of district-wide school attendance winners for the month of April.

Jefferson Middle School continued to demonstrate outstanding daily attendance throughout the month of April. With a student-focused approach at the heart of their success, they’ve made the 6–8 Attendance Award feel right at home in Elk Country.

Three outstanding students from Laura Shrader's Teaching as a Profession 2 (TAP2) class—Lexi West, Mia Lewis, and Kelly Romines—had the honor of representing the program at the 2025 SCOPE Conference held at Belmont University. These students were recognized at the April 28 meeting of the Board of School Commissioners.

In TAP2, students have gained valuable skills essential for their future careers in education, including classroom management, lesson planning, organization, and an understanding of the history of education. The SCOPE Conference provided these students with a platform to apply their knowledge and engage with current issues in education. At the conference, they debated whether schools schools should have a 30 hour minimum requirement of community service in order to graduate.

Each student has a strong passion for teaching and a clear vision for their future. Lexi West aspires to teach special education, Mia Lewis is focused on elementary education, and Kelly Romines plans to teach secondary math.

Their experience in the TAP2 class, combined with the opportunity to attend SCOPE Conference, has been a significant and enriching step toward their goals in the field of education.

The Jefferson County Middle School Co-Op Golf teams were recognized at the April 28, 2025 meeting of the Board of School Commissioners. The boys team placed 3rd in the district tournament to move on to regionals at Dandridge Golf Club May 7th. We wish them luck! Our girls team placed 4th in the district tournament and narrowly missed 3rd place by 5 strokes. It was a great season for golf and both teams played well and improved throughout the matches! Congratulations to both teams and Coach Steve Simpson on a great season!

This year, a special request from the district office sparked an inspiring project in the JCHS welding shop. Students Cainan Fawbush, Ethan Jacobson, Colton Marion, Nathan Larrance, Ethan Stout, Conner Lawson, and Aidan Allen took on the challenge and exceeded all expectations.

With creativity, skill, and dedication, the students crafted two stunning sets of letters spelling out "JCHS". What began as a simple request evolved into a remarkable display of craftsmanship that reflects their talent and pride in their school. These metalworks will be proudly displayed in the Performing Arts Center, serving as a lasting symbol of student achievement for years to come.

This project would not have been possible without the guidance and mentorship of Tim Epling, JCHS Welding Instructor. His support helped bring the vision to life, and the results speak for themselves.

Thank you all for your outstanding work and attention to detail. You’ve created something truly special.