VITAL Orientation Prepares Students For Virtual Learning
The Putnam County VITAL School hosting an orientation day Friday to prepare new students and ninth graders for a virtual and hybrid learning environment. Assistant Principal Becky White said the orientation serves as a critical introduction for students to meet their teachers, understand how attendance is calculated and get adjusted. White said the school has […]
Parker Retires After Managing Putnam Codes Work Growth
Putnam Director of Codes Stephen Parker stepping down after 17 years of managing the building standards and residential expansion of Putnam County. Parker said the county experienced a significant shift from a period of stagnant growth when he first began his tenure to the current high-volume development. Parker said the primary driver of this expansion […]
Recovery Court Participants Secure Manufacturing Certifications
Nine Recovery Court participants completing a manufacturing certification program to expand their career opportunities while undergoing outpatient substance abuse treatment. Recovery Court and Veterans Treatment Court Program Director Holly Roysden said the initiative was a collaborative effort with the Upper Cumberland Workforce Development Board. The program brings specialized training to participants who are not incarcerated. […]
Commissioners Approve Bonuses In Putnam Budget
Putnam County employees receiving a $500 bonus after the Putnam County Commission approved the payment during its budget session Monday night. Commissioner Jonathan Williams proposed providing county employees with a permanent $500 annual cost-of-living increase, saying rising inflation has made additional compensation necessary. “I think there’s more than enough money in our general fund based […]
Inclusive Soccer Facility Honors Legacy Of Joseph Warlick
The Warlick Family has officially opened its new non-profit indoor soccer facility called “The 11.” The center provides an inclusive athletic space for athletes of all abilities in honor of their late son, Joseph. Foundation Co-Founder Elizabeth Warlick said the organization operates with a specific mission to serve the special needs community and individuals of […]
Putnam Early Learning Academy Now Ready For Students
The Putnam County Early Learning Academy will open as scheduled for its first full day of classes next Friday. The project faced major delays in remodeling the former Park View Elementary. Early Learning Academy Principal Allison Painter said the administration managed the construction timeline by focusing on internal tasks such as creating schedules and moving […]
Putnam Leaders Break Ground On $11.2M Expo Center
Putnam County officials broke ground Friday on a new 67,000-square-foot Expo Center designed to serve as a driver for tourism. County Mayor Randy Porter said the $11.2 million project is being funded primarily through an $8.75 million Community Development Block Grant for Disaster Recovery. Porter said the federal and state funding covers some 78 percent […]
New Helipad Improves Putnam County Emergency Response
Putnam County launching a new initiative to install a network of concrete helipads to streamline emergency medical evacuations for first responders. Putnam County Commissioner Jonathan Williams said the project originated from conversations with paramedics and pilots. “The idea struck me that we really needed some safe pre-designated constructed places for these helicopters to land so […]
Two Putnam Educators Named State Award Finalists
Two Putnam County educators named state finalists for the Tennessee Department of Education’s Principal and Teacher of the Year awards. Burks Elementary School Principal Heather Tinch and Northeast Elementary School physical education teacher Jared Zachary selected to represent the Upper Cumberland region. Director Of Schools Corby King said both finalists serve as examples of the […]
Putnam Young Farmers Showcase Local Beef In Cookeville
Putnam County Young Farmers and Ranchers hosting Red, White, and Beef in Cookeville Saturday to connect local consumers with beef producers. Putnam County Young Farmers and Ranchers Chair Elizabeth Wick said educating the community helps residents feel confident that their food is safe while supporting the local economy. “We have a great diversity across our […]
