As students return to school following winter break, January marks an important time to rebuild routines and set the stage for a successful second semester. West Carroll Primary School focused on helping students transition back in to daily learning with confidence, consistency, and support!
Teachers and support staff are spending the first weeks of the new year reinforcing classroom expectations, reestablishing schedules, and creating positive learning environments where students feel welcomed and ready to succeed. These intentional efforts help students regain focus, reduce anxiety, and reconnect with the rhythm of school life.
In addition to academics, staff are emphasizing social and emotional skills such as organization, goal-setting, and perseverance. Supporting the whole child remains a priority, ensuring students are not only prepared to learn, but also feel encouraged and supported as they move forward.
Families and the WCP community play a key role in this transition. Maintaining consistent routines at home, encouraging open conversations about school, and staying engaged with teachers all contribute to student success.
By working together, West Carroll schools, families, and community members are helping students start the new year strong—ready to learn, grow, and thrive in the months ahead.
Submitted by Cindy Smith
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #WCSSD #WestCarrollCTE
PreK- Kaleigh Edwards, Adisyn Laird
Kindergarten- Landri Bass, Haislee Mitchell
1st- Lillian Moore, Colton Sellers
2nd- Mary Bell, Sebastian Jones
For Week 15, Ledger Bass, a fourth-grade student, earned recognition for receiving the most Class Dojo points. His teacher, Mrs. Beth Hysmith, praised his dedication, saying, “Ledger is a student who has really given his all. In December, he worked extremely hard on every assessment and benchmark, and his excellence has continued after the break. He sets an incredible example for his peers with both his behavior and work ethic.”
Week 16 honors went to Landon Story, also a fourth grader, who earned the most Dojo points that week. Mrs. Hysmith commended Landon for his character and responsibility, stating, “Landon is a very respectful young man who sets the standard high for manners in our group. He is always eager to participate in class and does an excellent job with his classroom responsibilities. He is dependable and completes every task with care and precision.”
In addition, Raelyn Darnes was nominated by her fourth-grade teachers for the SOAR Award during Weeks 15 and 16. Ms. Madison McClure shared, “Raelyn is responsible, prepared to learn, and a wonderful leader among her classmates. She frequently goes out of her way to help both her teachers and peers. Her responsibility and kindness truly make our classroom a better place.”
20+ Employee Highlight: Jonathan Wheeler, 20+ Years of Service
A Legacy of Music and Growth🎶🦅
Today, we recognize Mr. Jonathan Wheeler for more than 20 years of service to West Carroll Special School District and for the lasting impact he has made through music education.
Mr. Wheeler joined WCSSD in 2002 and has spent more than two decades helping students discover their voices, talents, and confidence through music. His knowledge reaches far beyond the music classroom, and his lessons are known for being engaging, thoughtful, and full of purpose.
Since beginning school musical productions in 2003, Mr. Wheeler has helped create a tradition that families and the community look forward to each year. In 2017, he expanded these opportunities even further by directing his first second-grade musical, giving younger students a chance to step on stage and shine.
Mr. Wheeler is passionate about helping students grow, not only as performers but as individuals. He consistently creates opportunities for students to share their talents in programs and performances, building confidence, pride, and a love for the arts that stays with them long after the curtain closes.
We are grateful for Mr. Wheeler’s creativity and the meaningful role he plays in shaping student experiences through music.. His is an example of what makes WCSSD special, big opportunities delivered in a personal way, and his legacy continues to inspire students year after year.
💙🦅
#20YearsAndBeyond #WestCarroll #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
20+ Employee Highlight: Tammy Lovell, 20+ Years of Service
The Heart of West Carroll Elementary School ❤️🦅
Today, we recognize Mrs. Tammy Lovell for more than 20 years of service to West Carroll Special School District and West Carroll Elementary School.
Mrs. Tammy began working with WCSSD in 2003 as a substitute teacher, joined West Carroll Elementary as a paraprofessional in 2005, and became the school secretary in 2014. Over the years, as principals have changed and new generations of Eagles have walked through the doors, Mrs. Tammy’s kind welcome has remained a positive constant of each school day.
From greeting students and families to supporting teachers and staff, Mrs. Tammy does far more than manage the front office. She is often described as the glue that holds the school together, helping students and staff throughout the day. As she says herself, she "hopes students always remember that they were loved."
As Principal Dr. Jessica Williams shares, “Mrs. Tammy goes above and beyond the expectations of her role, and her work helps our school run safely and smoothly.”
We are grateful for Mrs. Tammy, the glue that holds our school together, and for the legacy she continues to build every day at West Carroll Elementary School. 💙🦅
#20YearsAndBeyond #WestCarroll #smallschoolbigopportunities
McLemoresville, TN — In December, students at WCP were filled with holiday cheer as festive learning took over classrooms and the gym. Physical education classes featured creative seasonal games such as snowball races, reindeer races, sled races, Grinch tag, and even sleigh rides, giving students a fun and active way to celebrate the season.
WCP’s Related Arts teachers worked diligently to weave holidays and real-world connections into their curriculum. While Mr. Wheeler was busy preparing the second-grade musical, Mrs. Karen, the school librarian, brought “Christmas Around the World” to life. Dressed in costume, she introduced students to global traditions, foods, and hobbies, encouraging cultural appreciation and curiosity.
In the gym, Coach Cindy helped students physically experience winter-themed activities, blending movement with imagination. Meanwhile, in computer class, Mrs. Jeannie Hooper integrated technology and holiday learning games, keeping students engaged while strengthening digital skills. Together, these experiences made December both educational and memorable for WCP students.
Submitted by Cindy Smith
This season, the WC Jr Lady War Eagle Volleyball team chose giving over gifts 💙
Instead of exchanging personal presents, the team purchased gifts for two Angel Tree students.
"So proud of these athletes for living out the true spirit of the holidays," cited Coach Gracie & Coach Hudgins.
20+ Employee Highlight: Sherry Cobb, 20+ Years of Service
From Substitute to Staple: 20+ Years of Service! 🦅
Some people find their calling and stick with it. That is certainly true for Ms. Sherry Cobb. After working as a substitute teacher for many years, Ms. Sherry joined the district full-time and has served as an educational assistant for over 20 years. She is known for her positive attitude and her willingness to help in any capacity needed.
Her long journey with West Carroll proves her dedication to our students and our community. We are so lucky she chose to make West Carroll her home!
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #WCSSD #TeacherTributeThursday
20+ Employee Highlight: Brandi Tolley, 20 Years of Service
Ms. Brandi Tolley has served the West Carroll Special School District for 20 years. She currently works as the RTI Interventionist for grades K–2.
Ms. Tolley’s career at West Carroll began after she completed her student teaching within the district. Over the years, she has taught 5th grade science, 3rd grade self-contained, and 6th grade Science and Social Studies.
Principal Jackie Wester notes that Ms. Tolley manages student interventions and testing coordination. She also assumes leadership responsibilities in the principal's absence.
Outside of work, Ms. Tolley spends her time with her sons, doing CrossFit, hunting, fishing, and playing video games.
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #WCSSD #TeacherTributeThursday
As a culminating activity, students created felt Christmas tree ornaments, practicing threading needles, tying knots, and stitching with care. They added beads and decorative details, focusing on neatness, durability, and design while making each piece their own. The project helped students build patience, confidence, and fine motor skills, and gave them a tangible reminder of what they learned throughout the unit. A great blend of learning, creativity, and holiday spirit in the classroom!
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #WCSSD #WestCarroll
Students in Ms. Jennifer Hames’ class recently traded in their pencils for detective badges during an exciting, hands-on learning adventure. Each student received an official case file outlining a mysterious classroom crime and their mission was clear: use math skills to catch the culprit.
The investigation began with a series of carefully crafted math problems. Above each problem hung a lineup of potential suspects, each accompanied by an identifying number. When students solved a problem correctly, they searched for the matching number and eliminated that suspect from their list. With every accurate calculation, students could rule out one possible suspect.
As the activity went on, suspects disappeared one by one until only a handful remained. Finally, after working through every clue, students discovered the truth: the only suspect whose number did not match any answer was the criminal. Mystery solved!
To celebrate their sharp thinking and determination, successful detectives were awarded special certificates recognizing their math skills, perseverance, and outstanding investigative work. It was a day of learning, problem-solving, and plenty of excitement. An excellent case for proving that math class can be both challenging and fun.
West Carroll Elementary recently honored 72 students who each read 50+ books or earned 50 Accelerated Reader points during the first semester,
To celebrate their hard work, students enjoyed a festive lunch in the library, themed around “First Frontiers” and the American Revolution. From eagle-shaped desserts to keepsake ornaments, the day was filled with joy, pride, and patriotic spirit.
Celebrating academic milestones like these helps keep reading exciting and goal-driven for our learners. #WCESReads #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #WCSSD
Congratulations to our Dual Enrollment Students! We’re proud to celebrate these students for completing a strong semester of college-level coursework while still in high school. Balancing two academic worlds isn’t easy, and these students have shown real determination, responsibility, and commitment to their future goals.
This semester, West Carroll partnered with:
University of Tennessee, Martin: Understanding Music, Topics in Healthcare, Precalculus College Algebra, and Intro to Ag Business
Bethel University: Sociology, English Comp 1, US History 1, and Speech
TCAT Henry/Carroll: Coding 1 and Administrative Office Technology
University of Memphis: Latin 1
Jackson State Community College: English Comp 1, Anatomy and Physiology 1, US History 1, College 1010, Music Appreciation, Stats, Sociology, and World Lit
We appreciate the work these students put in and the support provided by our college partners and faculty.
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #WCSSD #WestCarroll
Mrs. Nikki Gilley’s 4th grade homeroom showed up for their reading goals, squeezing in AR books during class and in every spare moment (even while waiting in line!). Their hard work paid off as students who hit 50 books or 50 points earned the honor of riding on WCES floats in the Town of Trezevant Christmas Parade 🎄🚗
Huge shoutout to Principal Dr. Jessica Williams, Librarian Mrs. Pat Hudgins, and the entire WCES team for creating a school culture where reading is celebrated, rewarded, and fun.
🔴 Red tile – Chloe Pinson
🔵 Blue tile – Elizabeth Hritz
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #WCSSD #WestCarroll
20+ Employee Highlight: Jeanne Hooper, 21 Years of Service
"Ms. Jeanne Hooper wears many hats and handles each role with grace and dedication." - Jackie Wester, Principal of West Carroll Primary
For 21 years, Ms. Jeanne has been a vital part of West Carroll Primary. She started in 2004 in the copy room and now manages the computer lab, supports teachers in classrooms, and even organizes the yearbook and picture days!
She originally joined the district to be more involved with her daughter’s activities. Now, years later, her granddaughter is a junior in our high school! When Ms. Jeanne Hooper looks back on her 21 years at West Carroll Primary, she sees more than just a job.
"The teachers and staff I have worked with through the years are like having a second family," she shares. She recalls how supportive the West Carroll team was during her husband’s illness, proving that our community truly cares for one another.
Ms. Jeanne hopes to be remembered as a caring and dedicated co-worker. Her advice to those starting in education is a reminder we all need: "Balance out the work and discipline with big doses of love and praise."
Thank you, Ms. Jeanne, for always stepping in wherever you are needed and always with a cheerful heart.🤍
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #WCSSD #TeacherTributeThursday
