For more than two decades, Farm Day has been one of our county’s favorite traditions — a hands-on, boots-on-the-ground experience that gives students a closer look at the people, animals, and hard work behind our food and fiber.
This year, more than 325 students and teachers spent the day learning about agriculture, meeting local farmers, and discovering how much of their everyday life connects back to the farm. From tractors and crops to bees, goats, pigs, and pumpkins, every station offered something new to explore!
None of this would be possible without the incredible volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who show up year after year.
Special thanks to:
🤝 Our hosts Jack and Cathy Ogg, for welcoming us to their working farm (the perfect classroom!)
💧 Farm Credit of Mid-America, Robinson and Belew Grain Co., Coates Farms, Weakley Co. Co-op, and Young Farmers & Ranchers for sponsoring and supporting every detail
🐄 The many local farms, ag educators, and FFA members who brought animals, equipment, and expertise
As Jesi Vallee, event coordinator and YF&R Representative shared, “It may look different than it did in 2000, but the goal is still the same: to help students understand where their food comes from and appreciate the farmers who make it happen.”
Here’s to another successful YF&R Farm Day — celebrating 26 years of learning, laughter, and life on the farm. 🌻
This year, more than 325 students and teachers spent the day learning about agriculture, meeting local farmers, and discovering how much of their everyday life connects back to the farm. From tractors and crops to bees, goats, pigs, and pumpkins, every station offered something new to explore!
None of this would be possible without the incredible volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who show up year after year.
Special thanks to:
🤝 Our hosts Jack and Cathy Ogg, for welcoming us to their working farm (the perfect classroom!)
💧 Farm Credit of Mid-America, Robinson and Belew Grain Co., Coates Farms, Weakley Co. Co-op, and Young Farmers & Ranchers for sponsoring and supporting every detail
🐄 The many local farms, ag educators, and FFA members who brought animals, equipment, and expertise
As Jesi Vallee, event coordinator and YF&R Representative shared, “It may look different than it did in 2000, but the goal is still the same: to help students understand where their food comes from and appreciate the farmers who make it happen.”
Here’s to another successful YF&R Farm Day — celebrating 26 years of learning, laughter, and life on the farm. 🌻
Fall Break Reminder! 🍂🍁
All Weakley County Schools will be closed next week, October 13–17. Wishing all our WCS students and families a safe, fun, and “fall-tastic” week! ✨
All Weakley County Schools will be closed next week, October 13–17. Wishing all our WCS students and families a safe, fun, and “fall-tastic” week! ✨
Classroom Close-up: Mrs. Paige Hatchel, Martin Elementary 📚✨
(September's PreK-5 Feature Teacher)
Step inside Mrs. Hatchel’s classroom and you’ll see why students don’t just learn, they thrive!
For this lesson, making inferences wasn’t just a reading skill, it was an experience. She kept her students engaged by moving around the room, bringing energy and focus to every corner. New vocabulary came alive as students acted out definitions with motions, turning words into something they could see and feel.
From there, students paired off to dive into their stories, some even choosing to read on their bellies, building core strength as they built comprehension. And the learning didn’t stop there. Mrs. Hatchel circled back to each pair, checking for understanding and making sure every student had the tools they needed to succeed.
It’s clear why she was nominated for the core value of connection—her classroom is a place where students feel supported, challenged, and seen. 🌟
(September's PreK-5 Feature Teacher)
Step inside Mrs. Hatchel’s classroom and you’ll see why students don’t just learn, they thrive!
For this lesson, making inferences wasn’t just a reading skill, it was an experience. She kept her students engaged by moving around the room, bringing energy and focus to every corner. New vocabulary came alive as students acted out definitions with motions, turning words into something they could see and feel.
From there, students paired off to dive into their stories, some even choosing to read on their bellies, building core strength as they built comprehension. And the learning didn’t stop there. Mrs. Hatchel circled back to each pair, checking for understanding and making sure every student had the tools they needed to succeed.
It’s clear why she was nominated for the core value of connection—her classroom is a place where students feel supported, challenged, and seen. 🌟
Happy Coaches Day! 🏆✨
Today we celebrate all of the amazing coaches in WCS who make a huge difference in our students' lives - from pep talks to practice drills! Thank you for your dedication and leadership in shaping our athletes on and off the field. 💚
Today we celebrate all of the amazing coaches in WCS who make a huge difference in our students' lives - from pep talks to practice drills! Thank you for your dedication and leadership in shaping our athletes on and off the field. 💚
Named a Tennessee Early Educator of the Year, Martin Primary School's Brandie Roberts brings joy, heart, and dedication to every student—and the whole state is taking notice!
Congratulations, Brandie! We are so proud of you and the magic you to bring to the classroom. 🌟📚
Read the full story here:https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2462526
Congratulations, Brandie! We are so proud of you and the magic you to bring to the classroom. 🌟📚
Read the full story here:https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2462526
📅 Reminder: The Weakley County School Board will meet Thursday, October 2 at 5:00 PM at Gleason School PreK-12.
View the full agenda here ➡️ https://www.weakleyschools.com/page/school-board
View the full agenda here ➡️ https://www.weakleyschools.com/page/school-board
📅 It’s time for the #WeakleyMonthly!
Here’s what’s happening in October across the district:
📌 Oct. 2: School Board Meeting – 5 PM at Gleason School
🎒 Oct. 7: Backpack Program Packing Day
🍁 Oct. 13–17: Fall Break – NO SCHOOL
🥪🍎 PLUS: October lunch menus are now live! Find them for all schools here: www.weakleyschools.com/page/lunch-menus
Mark your calendars and stay in the loop—there’s a lot to look forward to this month!
Here’s what’s happening in October across the district:
📌 Oct. 2: School Board Meeting – 5 PM at Gleason School
🎒 Oct. 7: Backpack Program Packing Day
🍁 Oct. 13–17: Fall Break – NO SCHOOL
🥪🍎 PLUS: October lunch menus are now live! Find them for all schools here: www.weakleyschools.com/page/lunch-menus
Mark your calendars and stay in the loop—there’s a lot to look forward to this month!
“All students are capable of learning if we give them the right tools.”
Caitlin Tucker, an SLP at Sharon School and this year's Grand Division West TN Teacher of the Year Winner, is proving just that every day. From helping students who can’t speak find their words to leading school-wide strategies that improve learning for all, her dedication is changing lives.
Read the full story here:https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2456690
Caitlin Tucker, an SLP at Sharon School and this year's Grand Division West TN Teacher of the Year Winner, is proving just that every day. From helping students who can’t speak find their words to leading school-wide strategies that improve learning for all, her dedication is changing lives.
Read the full story here:https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2456690
“We’ve seen Nate as a student, we’ve cheered him on in this program, and now we get to see him shine as a coworker.” 💙
Nate Snider is beginning his next chapter in the Westview cafeteria—and his story is one you’ll want to read from start to finish.
Read the full story here: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2453435
Nate Snider is beginning his next chapter in the Westview cafeteria—and his story is one you’ll want to read from start to finish.
Read the full story here: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2453435
✨ Weakley Roundup ✨
It’s been a BIG week across Weakley County Schools, and our students and staff have been busy learning, leading, and making memories. Take a look at just a FEW highlights from around the county ⬇️
📚 Dresden Elementary (DES)
Ms. Britne’s first grade class worked on short “u” sounds and key details.
Mrs. Penny’s kindergarteners dove into Horrible Bear!—discussing, retelling, illustrating, and sharing their stories with confidence.
🎭 Dresden Middle (DMS)
Mrs. Owen’s students researched ballet dancers after reading about Michaela DePrince.
Mrs. Sheena’s 8th graders explored non-contact forces through hands-on science fun.
🍫 Dresden High (DHS)
The Transition Program hosted its first bake sale! Brownies sold out before the end of break.
💙 Martin Primary (MPS)
Student leaders proudly kick off each day with the Pledge of Allegiance. This week, Ms. Gurley’s 2nd graders led with confidence and pride.
🏀 Martin Elementary (MES)
UTM athletes greeted students at morning drop-off—always a highlight!
Mrs. Candace’s students used Play-Doh and counters to build multiplication arrays.
💛 Martin Middle (MMS)
Beta Club and WCPC created a Wall of Hope in recognition of Suicide Awareness Month.
🐐 Westview High (WHS)
Large Animal Science students got real-world experience vaccinating and caring for the school goats—learning teamwork and animal care firsthand.
🧲 Greenfield School
Mrs. Mull’s 3rd graders experimented with magnetic forces in science.
🏺 Gleason School
Ms. Shae’s 6th graders are learning about Ancient Egypt by mummifying… hotdogs! (Don’t worry, no eating involved. 😉)
🦅 Sharon School
Hosted its first Donor Day to celebrate the generosity of families, organizations, and community members. Students created heartfelt posters and cards, and staff served a special breakfast to honor those who give so much.
It’s been a BIG week across Weakley County Schools, and our students and staff have been busy learning, leading, and making memories. Take a look at just a FEW highlights from around the county ⬇️
📚 Dresden Elementary (DES)
Ms. Britne’s first grade class worked on short “u” sounds and key details.
Mrs. Penny’s kindergarteners dove into Horrible Bear!—discussing, retelling, illustrating, and sharing their stories with confidence.
🎭 Dresden Middle (DMS)
Mrs. Owen’s students researched ballet dancers after reading about Michaela DePrince.
Mrs. Sheena’s 8th graders explored non-contact forces through hands-on science fun.
🍫 Dresden High (DHS)
The Transition Program hosted its first bake sale! Brownies sold out before the end of break.
💙 Martin Primary (MPS)
Student leaders proudly kick off each day with the Pledge of Allegiance. This week, Ms. Gurley’s 2nd graders led with confidence and pride.
🏀 Martin Elementary (MES)
UTM athletes greeted students at morning drop-off—always a highlight!
Mrs. Candace’s students used Play-Doh and counters to build multiplication arrays.
💛 Martin Middle (MMS)
Beta Club and WCPC created a Wall of Hope in recognition of Suicide Awareness Month.
🐐 Westview High (WHS)
Large Animal Science students got real-world experience vaccinating and caring for the school goats—learning teamwork and animal care firsthand.
🧲 Greenfield School
Mrs. Mull’s 3rd graders experimented with magnetic forces in science.
🏺 Gleason School
Ms. Shae’s 6th graders are learning about Ancient Egypt by mummifying… hotdogs! (Don’t worry, no eating involved. 😉)
🦅 Sharon School
Hosted its first Donor Day to celebrate the generosity of families, organizations, and community members. Students created heartfelt posters and cards, and staff served a special breakfast to honor those who give so much.
📢 Just a reminder, all Weakley County Schools will dismiss early tomorrow to allow time for Parent-Teacher Conferences.
Times vary by school, so be sure to check with your child’s school for exact times. Be sure to attend the conference at your child's school! It’s a wonderful chance to connect, celebrate progress, and partner with teachers in your child’s success. 💙✨
Big news for little learners! 🌟
We're now accepting applications for 3 year olds with limited openings for both 3 and 4 year olds at our free, high-quality Pre-K program at your school! To apply, contact your school.
For more information on the program, visit https://www.weakleyschools.com/page/pre-kindergarten
We're now accepting applications for 3 year olds with limited openings for both 3 and 4 year olds at our free, high-quality Pre-K program at your school! To apply, contact your school.
For more information on the program, visit https://www.weakleyschools.com/page/pre-kindergarten
Level 5 Celebration! 🎉
Dresden Elementary, Dresden Middle, and Greenfield School have hit the highest mark for student growth in Tennessee! 🌟
Thanks to amazing teachers, dedicated students, and supportive families, these schools are shining examples of what teamwork and hard work can achieve. See all the details here: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2424213
Dresden Elementary, Dresden Middle, and Greenfield School have hit the highest mark for student growth in Tennessee! 🌟
Thanks to amazing teachers, dedicated students, and supportive families, these schools are shining examples of what teamwork and hard work can achieve. See all the details here: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2424213
Two teachers. Two schools. One big impact. 🙌
Meet our September Feature Teachers: Paige Hatchel (Martin Elementary) and Jacob Canaday (Gleason School).
🌟 At Martin Elementary, Paige Hatchel has created more than just a classroom—she’s built a welcoming community where students feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. Her creativity shines through in the way she connects with her fifth graders and collaborates with her team, and the results are already visible in her students’ growth.
🌟 At Gleason School, Jacob Canaday is showing what it means to teach with purpose. Every math lesson is carefully prepared and delivered with energy, leadership, and innovation. From transforming his classroom environment to inspiring his students to aim higher, he’s making learning meaningful every single day.
Together, these educators reflect what makes Weakley County Schools special: our commitment to purpose, connection, and growth.
💡 Read more about their inspiring work: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2418309
Meet our September Feature Teachers: Paige Hatchel (Martin Elementary) and Jacob Canaday (Gleason School).
🌟 At Martin Elementary, Paige Hatchel has created more than just a classroom—she’s built a welcoming community where students feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. Her creativity shines through in the way she connects with her fifth graders and collaborates with her team, and the results are already visible in her students’ growth.
🌟 At Gleason School, Jacob Canaday is showing what it means to teach with purpose. Every math lesson is carefully prepared and delivered with energy, leadership, and innovation. From transforming his classroom environment to inspiring his students to aim higher, he’s making learning meaningful every single day.
Together, these educators reflect what makes Weakley County Schools special: our commitment to purpose, connection, and growth.
💡 Read more about their inspiring work: https://www.weakleyschools.com/article/2418309
At last night’s School Board meeting, we paused to honor two remarkable Sharon community members whose lives shaped not only Sharon, but Weakley County Schools as a whole.
🌟 Dr. Gordon Morris
Dr. Morris began his career as a WCS science teacher before serving as a beloved professor of biology at UTM until his retirement in 2001. From 1987 on, he dedicated decades of service as a WC School Board member. Beyond education, he gave his time and talents to the community of Sharon through several organizations. In his honor, the Sharon School has gifted a set of Science Encyclopedias to their library—a gift meant to spark curiosity in future generations.
🌟 Mrs. Aline Roberts
Mrs. Roberts’ love of history and teaching stretched across decades. After moving to Sharon in 1958, she dedicated herself to preserving local history through her work with the James Buckley Chapter of the DAR. She documented history across Weakley County, ensuring future generations would know their stories. For over 40 years, she shared her passion for history with students during Constitution Week—continuing even into her 80s. Her family was honored with a certificate of appreciation from the DAR for her life’s work.
Weakley County Schools is deeply grateful for the example of these two community members and for the legacy they will leave for generations to come. 💛
🌟 Dr. Gordon Morris
Dr. Morris began his career as a WCS science teacher before serving as a beloved professor of biology at UTM until his retirement in 2001. From 1987 on, he dedicated decades of service as a WC School Board member. Beyond education, he gave his time and talents to the community of Sharon through several organizations. In his honor, the Sharon School has gifted a set of Science Encyclopedias to their library—a gift meant to spark curiosity in future generations.
🌟 Mrs. Aline Roberts
Mrs. Roberts’ love of history and teaching stretched across decades. After moving to Sharon in 1958, she dedicated herself to preserving local history through her work with the James Buckley Chapter of the DAR. She documented history across Weakley County, ensuring future generations would know their stories. For over 40 years, she shared her passion for history with students during Constitution Week—continuing even into her 80s. Her family was honored with a certificate of appreciation from the DAR for her life’s work.
Weakley County Schools is deeply grateful for the example of these two community members and for the legacy they will leave for generations to come. 💛
Weakley County Schools been named a Best Place for Working Parents®, a national recognition that highlights our commitment to supporting educators not just as the essential staff for our schools, but as parents and caregivers too.
We believe in supporting our people to show up as their best selves, and that often starts with feeling balanced at home. When we care for our educators as parents, our classrooms and students benefit. ✨💙
We believe in supporting our people to show up as their best selves, and that often starts with feeling balanced at home. When we care for our educators as parents, our classrooms and students benefit. ✨💙
Congratulations to Mrs. Caitlin Tucker!! ✨
Mrs. Caitlin was selected to represent all of West Tennessee as the 2025-2026 West Grand Division Winner Teacher of the Year. We are so blessed to have the BEST teachers in Weakley County Schools!
Mrs. Caitlin was selected to represent all of West Tennessee as the 2025-2026 West Grand Division Winner Teacher of the Year. We are so blessed to have the BEST teachers in Weakley County Schools!
When our teachers grow, our students thrive — and these three are leading the way! ✨
Three of our amazing educators have been selected for the WestTeach Leadership Program through UT Martin’s WestStar Leadership Program. This honor gives teachers the chance to grow their leadership skills, connect with local industries, and bring back new ideas to better prepare our students for the future.
Through WestTeach, our teachers will:
🌟 Visit school programs showcasing best practices
🌟 Learn directly from West Tennessee businesses and industries
🌟 Strengthen leadership skills that will impact our classrooms and students
We are so proud of Alivia, Beth Anne, and Sunni for representing us in this year’s WestTeach class. Their dedication and passion shine bright, and we know their students will benefit from all they bring back!
📸 Pictured (left to right):
Alivia McDowell, Career Coach, Gleason School PreK-12
Beth Anne Overholt, Career Coach, Dresden High School
Sunni Cooksey, Special Education Teacher, Westview High School
Kandace Jackson, CTE Director for Weakley County Schools & proud WestTeach alumna
Three of our amazing educators have been selected for the WestTeach Leadership Program through UT Martin’s WestStar Leadership Program. This honor gives teachers the chance to grow their leadership skills, connect with local industries, and bring back new ideas to better prepare our students for the future.
Through WestTeach, our teachers will:
🌟 Visit school programs showcasing best practices
🌟 Learn directly from West Tennessee businesses and industries
🌟 Strengthen leadership skills that will impact our classrooms and students
We are so proud of Alivia, Beth Anne, and Sunni for representing us in this year’s WestTeach class. Their dedication and passion shine bright, and we know their students will benefit from all they bring back!
📸 Pictured (left to right):
Alivia McDowell, Career Coach, Gleason School PreK-12
Beth Anne Overholt, Career Coach, Dresden High School
Sunni Cooksey, Special Education Teacher, Westview High School
Kandace Jackson, CTE Director for Weakley County Schools & proud WestTeach alumna
🌟 Get to Know: Mrs. Kimberly Jarred, Educational Assistant at Dresden Elementary School 🌟
Across Weakley County Schools, we have dedicated staff in every role, from classrooms to buses, cafeterias to front offices, who help our schools run and our students thrive. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but it’s essential to the learning and growth of our children. That’s why we’re sharing their stories through this series: so our community can see the people, passion, and purpose behind the roles.
This week, meet Mrs. Kimberly Jarred, who has served Weakley County Schools for 10 years.
For Mrs. Jarred, the best part of her job is “seeing the growth and the ah-ha moments. There is such joy in seeing a student's eyes light up when they realize they can do something that was difficult for them."
One of her favorite memories is helping a student who “hated reading” discover a book series she loved, meet her AR goal, and realize that reading could be fun. “I felt I truly made a difference in helping her understand reading doesn't have to be a chore, and it can be fun,” she said.
She wishes more people knew that Educational Assistants carry a long list of responsibilities from the moment they arrive until the moment they leave — and even then, they’re still thinking of ways to help students, teachers, and staff.
Thank you, Mrs. Jarred, for loving your school and your people so well. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom! 💛
Across Weakley County Schools, we have dedicated staff in every role, from classrooms to buses, cafeterias to front offices, who help our schools run and our students thrive. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but it’s essential to the learning and growth of our children. That’s why we’re sharing their stories through this series: so our community can see the people, passion, and purpose behind the roles.
This week, meet Mrs. Kimberly Jarred, who has served Weakley County Schools for 10 years.
For Mrs. Jarred, the best part of her job is “seeing the growth and the ah-ha moments. There is such joy in seeing a student's eyes light up when they realize they can do something that was difficult for them."
One of her favorite memories is helping a student who “hated reading” discover a book series she loved, meet her AR goal, and realize that reading could be fun. “I felt I truly made a difference in helping her understand reading doesn't have to be a chore, and it can be fun,” she said.
She wishes more people knew that Educational Assistants carry a long list of responsibilities from the moment they arrive until the moment they leave — and even then, they’re still thinking of ways to help students, teachers, and staff.
Thank you, Mrs. Jarred, for loving your school and your people so well. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom! 💛
Weakley County Schools is ranked 7th in the state for education and we didn’t get here by accident, luck, or chance. We got here because of our people.
Because our teachers are providing top-tier instruction that’s helping students grow and master the skills they need for each step in their education.
Because our support staff, from bus drivers to cafeteria teams to office assistants to administrators, are creating safe, welcoming environments where kids can thrive.
Because our communities and our families show up for our schools.
Because our students show up, work hard, and commit to growing every single day.
Because our schools are graduating students ready for college, careers, and life.
This ranking is proof of the dedication, hard work, and heart our entire county pours into our schools every single day. And our kids are winning because of it. ✨
Because our teachers are providing top-tier instruction that’s helping students grow and master the skills they need for each step in their education.
Because our support staff, from bus drivers to cafeteria teams to office assistants to administrators, are creating safe, welcoming environments where kids can thrive.
Because our communities and our families show up for our schools.
Because our students show up, work hard, and commit to growing every single day.
Because our schools are graduating students ready for college, careers, and life.
This ranking is proof of the dedication, hard work, and heart our entire county pours into our schools every single day. And our kids are winning because of it. ✨
