New teachers celebrated as school year kicks off

During a recent school board meeting, several new educators were welcomed into the district, including Elise Lescuto for 8th grade ELA, Kristen Milan as a school counselor, and Cooper Renich in the PE department, among others. The board members and attendees applauded the new staff, highlighting their contributions to the educational community.

A special recognition was given to Jordan Wagers, who was named one of Tennessee's novice teachers of the year. Wagers, in her first or second year of teaching, was selected from numerous nominees across the state, marking a significant achievement for both her and the district.

The meeting also featured a presentation from Mike Chai, principal of Arnold Memorial Elementary School, celebrating the school's 95th year of operation. Chai reported a growth in student enrollment, now at 301, the highest since a rezoning initiative. He emphasized the importance of the school's diverse demographic, noting that over 43% of the student population identifies as Hispanic or Latino. This shift has necessitated the hiring of additional ESL teachers and support staff to better serve the community.

Chai highlighted the school's recent accomplishments, including being designated as a Capturing Kids' Hearts National Showcase School for the second consecutive year, which focuses on fostering positive relationships within the school environment. Additionally, Arnold Memorial received a STEM designation, showcasing its commitment to innovative education.

The board also discussed upcoming improvements to the school facilities, including renovations to the parking lot and classroom enhancements, which have been well-received by the faculty. The meeting concluded with a first reading of a new policy regarding student transportation management, reflecting recent legislative changes. The board unanimously approved the motion to accept the policy for further consideration.