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 Schools Close Year Academically On The Rise
The books closed, the technology off as the Putnam County Schools wrapped up the school year Friday. Communications and Marketing Supervisor Buddy Pearson said the district earned more reward school designations and higher school letter grades during the 2025-2026 term than in previous years. Pearson said the school year ended with issues the system wish […]
Wood Honored As Tennessee’s Supervisor Of The Year
The Tennessee Department of Education has honored Putnam County Elementary Instructional Supervisor Diana Wood as the Tennessee Supervisor of the Year. Wood becomes the first supervisor from Putnam County Schools to receive the statewide honor. Wood said the award reflects the recent success of Putnam County Schools. “I work alongside so many wonderful supervisors in […]
Pickett Schools Designated As “In Need Of Improvement”
The Pickett County Schools designated as “In Need of Improvement,” putting the district in the bottom five among school systems statewide. This designation is based on performance indicators such as student achievement and student growth. Director of Schools Melissa Robbins said the designation is not what the school system was hoping for, or what they […]
Teacher License Changes, Little Impact On Teacher Shortage
As the state proposes changes to teacher licenses, the Dean Of Tech’s School of Education said the impact will be minimal in addressing the teacher shortage. The Tennessee Department of Education wants to create a new “Limited Occupational License,” which will allow Industry professionals to teach in their respective field without a traditional education degree. […]
Jackson Gets Grant To Help Students With Disabilities
The Jackson County School District received a $30,000 grant designed to help students with disabilities enter the pre-K program. Director of Schools Jason Hardy said the grant will provide instructional supplies. Hardy said the grant will also allow teachers in the district to receive professional development training so they are better equipped to work with […]
As Testing Begins, Parents Can Help Students Be Ready
As school districts prepare for the start of state testing Monday, parents can help prepare students by encouraging good sleep and positivity. Putnam County Schools Data and Testing Supervisor Jason Stickler said the most important thing a parent can do is encourage their child to get a good night’s rest the night before a test. […]
OEA President Agrees With Survey Findings, Says Disconnect Still There
The President of the Overton County Education Association said she agrees with most of the findings in a recent state Teacher’s Survey, but there is still a disconnect between the state and teachers. President Jennifer Eilender said the findings were not surprising. Most of the survey questions regarded how adequately trained teachers felt in new […]
State Recognizes White County’s Beverly Dronebarger For Work With Families
The Tennessee Department of Education recognized White County Schools Family Resource Center Director Beverly Dronebarger for her service. Dronebarger has spent 27 years serving students and parents through the center. Dronebarger said the center helps students and families who have challenges at home. Those can prevent the student from being successful. “I have a passion […]
Putnam & White Schools Director Concerned About Measurement In New School Grades
Putnam County Director of Schools Corby King said the state’s new system to grade schools needs to be clear and precise about the information being used. The State Legislature implemented the grading system in 2016 calling for a letter grade system for schools. It was delayed by issues with state testing and then COVID. Now, […]
