Author name: TN Educator Collective

Administration Insights, Stories to Inspire and Encourage

Called to Teach: Two Generations, One Purpose

 

Some families share traditions. Others share professions. But for Brenda Arwood and Jessica Strickland, they share something even deeper—a calling. Serving in different Tennessee school districts and in different roles, this mother-daughter duo has spent decades shaping lives through education. Brenda, a veteran elementary educator with experience as both a teacher and administrator, now inspires […]

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Stories to Inspire and Encourage

More Than Dates and Documents: Tennessee History Teachers Share Why the Past Still Matters

 

Every July, communities across Tennessee gather beneath bright fireworks, wave American flags during hometown parades, and spend time with family and friends celebrating Independence Day. For many, however, July 4th simply marks the middle of summer break—a day filled with cookouts and celebrations. Behind the festivities lies a story that reaches back 250 years, one

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Stories to Inspire and Encourage

Growing Hearts, Minds, and Futures

 

In just four years in education, Ms. Hawkins has already made a meaningful impact across multiple grade levels and school settings, including K-2 RTI, second grade, and kindergarten. Her journey reflects dedication, resilience, and a heartfelt commitment to ensuring every child feels safe, valued, and supported. A Calling Rooted in Belonging For Hawkins, the path

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Stories to Inspire and Encourage

Dancing with Purpose: How Bowers’ Sweethearts and Hip Hop Boyz Are Building Leaders Through Kindness

 

At Bowers Elementary, dance is about far more than choreography, performances, or halftime shows. Under the leadership of Dawn Jenkins and a dedicated team of volunteer coaches, the Sweethearts and Hip Hop Boyz have become a shining example of what happens when students are taught to lead with kindness, courage, and compassion. Known throughout their

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Administration Insights

Leading with Trust, Compassion, and Purpose: Leadership Insights from Superintendent Shane Paschall 

 

Strong leadership in education is rarely about a single defining moment. More often, it is built through years of service, relationships, and a steadfast commitment to students, staff, and community. For Shane Paschall, Superintendent of Paris Special School District (PSSD), the journey to district leadership has been shaped by experiences across nearly every level of

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Administration Insights, Stories to Inspire and Encourage

How Do I Succeed as a First-Year Educator?

 

Eight Principles for Building a Strong Foundation in the Teaching Profession The first year of teaching is often described as one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences in an educator’s career. New teachers quickly discover that success requires much more than content knowledge and lesson planning. It demands professionalism, adaptability, empathy, and an unwavering

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Administration Insights

Regaining Student Engagement in a Screen-Saturated World: Helping Students Rediscover Focus, Creativity, and Critical Thinking

 

Walk into almost any classroom in 2026 and you will find students who have grown up in a world filled with screens. Many children encounter digital devices before their second birthday, and screen exposure continues to increase throughout childhood and adolescence. Common Sense Media (2025) reports that children ages 5–8 average more than three hours

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Administration Insights

Building Futures: CTE in East Tennessee with Cindy Lockett

 

Cindy Lockett knows that high school graduation is only one piece of the educational puzzle. As the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director for Roane County Schools in Tennessee, Lockett has spent the past four years transforming how students prepare for life after the classroom. With over 18 years of dedicated experience in the CTE

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Stories to Inspire and Encourage

The Full-Circle Educator: 10 Years of Love, Laughter, and Legacy

 

Every educator’s journey begins with a spark, but for some, the path leads right back to where it all started. As we navigate the ever-evolving world of teaching, the heart of the classroom remains the same: it is built on connection, community, and creativity. Meet Kayla Walls.  The Calling: Growing Up in a Village With

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