Weakley County Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Kirsten Rook as the new Transportation Supervisor. The appointment comes after Supervisor Tim Barker announced his retirement this spring. An essential member of the transportation department since 2019, Rook brings a depth of experience and an insightful understanding of the district’s needs.
Rook began driving Dresden bus routes in 2019. In October 2021, Rook’s role expanded to assuming the position of Training and Safety Administrator. In this capacity, she facilitates the training and test preparation of new and prospective drivers to obtain their commercial driver's licenses (CDL), as mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This spring, she has served as the Interim Transportation Supervisor.
Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to lead the transportation team, Rook stated, "I am honored to step into this role and build upon the foundation laid by Mr. Tim Barker. His commitment to the drivers and their experiences is commendable, and it’s my goal to continue fostering a culture of support and appreciation within our team."
Rook's vision for the future of transportation in Weakley County Schools centers on strengthening safety and relationships.
“Looking ahead, our focus for transportation in Weakley County Schools to build on Mr. Barker’s work in prioritizing safety and cultivating stronger relationships. My goal is to build stronger connections between schools, the district, and our bus driver team.” Rook continued, saying, “Safety is always our top priority, ensuring that every student's journey to and from school is safe and reliable. Additionally, I hope to highlight the invaluable contributions of our bus drivers, uplifting all that they do for our district.”
Rook is a graduate of Weakley County Schools, having attended Palmersville School until its closure. She graduated from Dresden High School in 2008. Her personal investment in the district extends further, with all seven of her children enrolled in Dresden Elementary, Middle, and High Schools.
Director of Schools Jeff Cupples commented, "We are confident that Mrs. Rook's leadership will further elevate our transportation department. We’re excited to continue the good work of Mr. Barker. Prioritizing safety while highlighting the great work of our drivers perfectly aligns with our district's values of purpose, connection, and growth.”