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The Decatur County School System is seeking Bus Drivers. Requirements: CDL certified with PS Endorsement. (Will train if needed to get CDL certified with PS Endorsement).
Interested applicants may:
-Contact Mr. Darren Martin, Transportation Supervisor at (731) 616-3363 or email darren.martin@decaturschools.org
-Apply in person at the Decatur County Board of Education at 59 West Main Street Decaturville, TN. 38329
-Or apply online here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
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The district is fully cooperating with the Sheriff’s Office and conducting its own review in accordance with state law and district policy. Because this is an active criminal matter and due to confidentiality laws, we are unable to share additional details at this time. Questions regarding the criminal case should be directed to the District Attorney’s Office.
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Our primary focus remains the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and school community. **Additional support will be available across all campuses, with additional counseling resources on-site at Decaturville Elementary School and Riverside High School for any students or staff who may need assistance during this time.
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We appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation as we work to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment for all.
STATEMENT FROM DECATUR COUNTY SCHOOLS:
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The Decatur County School System was notified by the Decatur County Sheriff's Office that criminal charges have been filed against a district employee. The employee was placed on immediate administrative leave and is prohibited from all campuses and from contact with students and staff. The employee will remain on leave while law enforcement proceeds with the investigation.
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The district is cooperating fully with the Sheriff's Office and is conducting its own review consistent with state law and district policy. Because this is an active criminal matter and due to confidentiality laws, we cannot share additional details. Questions about the criminal case should be directed to the 24th Judicial District Attorney's Office.
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Our focus at this time is on the safety of our students, staff, and school community. Support will be available for any students or staff who may need assistance at this time.
🌟 Decatur County Schools Employee Spotlight: Ms. Jill Farlow 🌟
Decatur County Schools is honored to spotlight Ms. Jill Farlow, a dedicated and deeply loved teacher at Decatur County Middle School, whose impact has touched generations of students. Ms. Jill is known for giving 110% every single day, for her dependability, and for the genuine love she pours into her program and her students.
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Ms. Jill’s mother, Mrs. Glenda Farlow, and her brother, Jimmy, shared reflections that beautifully capture her spirit and lifelong passion for learning:
“It was a snowy February 5, 1978, that she made her appearance. Since then, she has had a passion and curiosity for all things that grow. She has always—and continues to—love learning. That passion has shaped who she is and is evident in everything she does, from the way she teaches to the way she encourages and inspires those around her. We believe that Jill is a gifted teacher.”
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They also noted her remarkable accomplishments, including being the first female to receive the Outstanding Agricultural Student Award at Riverside High School, and later becoming only the second female to complete and earn the Outstanding Agrimechanics Student Award at Murray State University—a true testament to her drive, talent, and willingness to blaze new trails for others.
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Ms. Jill’s experiences extend far beyond the classroom. After teaching agriculture for a year in Covington, she worked in the private sector as a technical advisor for Krone Industries, traveling throughout the United States and Puerto Rico to provide technical support for farmers and dealerships. Her travels have also taken her to Germany, Italy, Mexico, and much of the U.S., and while in college, she completed a summer apprenticeship at a horse farm near London, England.
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Her curiosity and creativity extend beyond work. Jill taught herself to refinish furniture, create stained glass, and is currently focused on mastering camping skills and innovative gardening techniques. She enjoys hiking, traveling (especially with her niece and nephews), singing, and acting with the Rivertime Players, and she is always ready for a new adventure. She is also a beloved aunt to a niece and several nephews who absolutely adore her, and she treasures the memories they create together.
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Her sister-in-law, Mrs. Leslie Farlow, shared:
“Jill is not just an enthusiastic teacher, but also the biggest cheerleader for all her students—both in academics and outside of school. She truly cares about her students, past and present, and loves to see them succeed.”
Though she has taught across the state, Ms. Jill proudly says of Decatur County students, “We have such good kids. People don’t realize how fortunate we are.”
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DCMS Principal, Ms. Kodi Beck, shared how Ms. Jill’s commitment extends well beyond the school day:
“Ms. Jill is a Rockstar! She is a tremendous teacher. In addition to her teaching duties, Ms. Jill serves as the Beta Sponsor and the Robotics Club sponsor. She has arranged field trips to competitions for both clubs, and all of those competitions have taken place on days outside of school. She gives a tremendous amount of her own time and resources to invest in our students' welfare and academics.”
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Director of Schools, Mrs. Melinda Thompson, added:
“Ms. Jill Farlow exemplifies what it means to be an educator in Decatur County. Her passion for learning, dedication to students, and willingness to go above and beyond make her an invaluable part of our school system. She not only teaches content—she inspires confidence, curiosity, and character in our students.”
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Dr. Amanda Creasy further emphasized Ms. Jill’s extraordinary impact, stating:
“If you’re picking a team—whether it’s an egg toss, academic bowl, corn husking, or any competition you can imagine—Ms. Jill would be a #1 draft pick. She excels at everything she does while lifting others up. More than that, she brings grit, creativity, and heart into every space she enters.”
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Decatur County Schools is incredibly grateful for Ms. Jill Farlow’s leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to students and the community. She is the very definition of lifelong learning and a true treasure to our district.
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Decatur County Schools was excited to welcome our teachers and staff back following Christmas Break for a meaningful and engaging district-wide in-service day. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, reflect, and prepare for the second half of the school year—together.
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The day began with a warm welcome back and breakfast at Riverside High School, generously provided through a UTrust Employee Appreciation Grant.
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Director of Schools Melinda Thompson shared district updates, words of encouragement, and door prizes. Their message emphasized appreciation for our employees’ dedication and a shared commitment to student success as we move forward into the spring semester.
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Staff then gathered in the William R. Duram Performing Arts Center for professional learning led by Dr. Allison Oliver from Austin Peay State University. The session focused on behavioral learning and support strategies, equipping educators with practical tools to better serve students and support positive learning environments.
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Later that day, employees returned to their respective schools to collaborate with colleagues. These sessions included discussions around Pathways assessments and EOC data, targeted data chats focused on the bottom 25%, collaborative planning, and faculty and staff meetings. These conversations allowed teams to align instruction, share strategies, and plan intentionally for continued growth.
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We also extend our sincere thanks to UT Health for providing free health screenings for staff, including blood pressure, blood glucose, and weight checks—an appreciated service supporting employee wellness.
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Decatur County Schools is grateful for the dedication of our educators and staff. We are excited to continue this school year together and wish everyone a strong and successful start to the new semester. Welcome back!
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-ACREASY
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Decatur County Schools extends its deepest sympathy to the family and loved ones of Mr. J. Wayne Stanfill, a lifelong educator and servant leader whose legacy is woven into the foundation of public education in Decatur County.
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Mr. Stanfill was raised and educated in Decatur County and pursued higher education at Freed-Hardeman College (1958–1960), Bethel University (1960–1962), where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, and Murray State University (1962–1963), where he completed his Master’s degree.
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His distinguished career in education began in Hardin County (1963–1967) as a teacher, followed by leadership roles as Principal at Scotts Hill (1967–1970) and Riverside High School (1970–1976). Mr. Stanfill went on to serve as Director of Schools for Decatur County from 1976–1996, and later continued his service as a Decatur County Board of Education member for District 2 (2007–present).
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In total, Mr. Stanfill devoted 51 years to public education, dedicating his life to the students, educators, and families of Decatur County.
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Director of Schools, Mrs. Melinda Thompson, stated:
“Mr. Stanfill’s impact on Decatur County Schools is immeasurable. His leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to students helped shape our district into what it is today. He believed deeply in education as a calling, and his legacy will continue to influence generations to come.”
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Chairman of the Decatur County Board of Education, Mr. Kent Whitwell, shared:
“Mr. Stanfill was more than a leader—he was a mentor, a man many of us looked up to, and a friend. His wisdom, integrity, and steady guidance set a standard for leadership and service. He truly cared about people and always kept students at the center of every decision. His influence taught me a great deal, guided our course, and will never be forgotten.”
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Former Decatur County Director of Schools and current Board of Education member, Mrs. Rhonda Mitchell, stated:
“Mr. Stanfill has been an integral part of the education system for as long as I can remember. He was my principal at Riverside before leading Decatur County Schools in a positive direction. We later served together on the school board, where he continued to push for consistency and high expectations. His intellect, spirituality, and strong moral compass were evident at all times. He will be greatly missed.”
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Mr. Stanfill’s dedication, leadership, and heart for education have left an enduring mark on Decatur County. We honor his service, celebrate his legacy, and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who were blessed to know him.
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- ACREASY
📅 Calendar Update – Decatur County Schools
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Please note a change to the Decatur County School System calendar:
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➡️ There will be NO SCHOOL on Monday, December 22nd.
This day was previously scheduled as an abbreviated day; however, schools will be closed, and buses will not run.
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Students, we wish you a wonderful Christmas Break! We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday, January 5, 2026.
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Thank you, and enjoy the holidays! 🎄✨
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-ACREASY
January Breakfast and Lunch Menu for RHS
Decatur County Schools has been awarded a Tennessee Risk Management Trust (TRMT) grant in the amount of $7,034.40 to support safety improvements across the district. The grant was written and will be administered by Dr. Amanda Creasy.
These funds will be used to purchase essential safety equipment, including activity carts, step stools, ladders, dollies, and hand trucks. These resources will help reduce the risk of workplace injuries, improve efficiency, and enhance overall safety for both staff and students.
Director of Schools Mrs. Melinda Thompson shared, “Student and staff safety is our number one priority, and the support we have received from Tennessee Risk Management Trust directly supports this priority.”
Decatur County Schools is grateful for the partnership and support provided by TRMT. Their investment helps ensure safer learning and working environments throughout the district, allowing staff to better serve students while minimizing risk.
We sincerely appreciate TRMT’s generosity and commitment to school safety, and we are thankful for the opportunity to utilize these funds to strengthen our safety practices system-wide.
On December 15th, seven outstanding students proudly walked across the stage to receive their diplomas from the Decatur County Virtual Academy. These graduates completed their academic requirements in December and are now stepping confidently into their following chapters.
Students from this cohort will move on to TCAT, Tennessee Tech, Jackson State, and one graduate will begin an apprenticeship working with transformers—proof that success looks different for every student.
During the ceremony, Mr. Jay Cox shared his personal journey and closed his remarks with a powerful reading of “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost, reminding students that their paths are uniquely their own.
🎓 Graduates include:
- Braydon Bunn
- Kody Coleman
- Dustin Ervin
- Taylor Hickerson
- Brooklyn Ivey
- Zachary Long
- Carson Wade
Mr. Mathis and Dr. King extend their sincere thanks to the Decatur County Board of Education for its continued confidence in the Virtual Academy—an innovative program that truly allows us to meet the needs of every student, every day.
We are proud of each of you and look forward to what the future holds!
https://forms.gle/8fv3q8QUoCLe5yJb7
Sealed bids will be received by the Decatur County Board of Education, Decaturville, Tennessee, until 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday January 13th 2026. At this time, bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the office of the Director of Schools of Decatur County, Decaturville, Tennessee for the following items:
• Remove the current 12-feet by 5-feet pad in front of restrooms and install a new pad that meets ADA requirements. Lay 46’ x 2’ of 8” CMU with a cap block on top of the existing CMU at the back of the bleachers. Pour a 620 square feet ADA compliant pad at the back of the CMU. Pour 105’ x 5’ ADA compliant sidewalk from asphalt to the new pad, also connecting to the front of the restroom.
• All concrete to be 4” thick, 3500 PSI Limestone w/ 6x6 WWF on compacted subgrade. Cross slopes shall conform with the surrounding grade for a positive drainage with no ponding. The layout shall be staked by the contractor for approval before construction. All disturbed areas to be seeded and covered with straw blankets or sodded.
• Completion date April 15th 2026.
Interested bidders will need to contact Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor, to do an onsite inspection of the project.
Bids shall be presented in sealed envelopes, plainly marked on the outside with RHS Baseball name of person or firm submitting bid and including all appropriate license and insurance. Bids will be received only from responsible firms or persons capable of filling same. The board has committed to award bid to the low bidder. The owner reserves the express right to accept any bid or reject any and/or all bids and to waive any informalities therein.
For additional information, please contact:
Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor
Decatur County Board of Education P.O. Box 369
Decaturville, Tennessee 38329
Phone: 731-733-1168
Email:keith.dickson@decaturschools.org
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Sealed bids will be received by the Decatur County Board of Education, Decaturville, Tennessee, until 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. At this time, bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the office of the Director of Schools of Decatur County, Decaturville, Tennessee, for the following items:
Purchase and Install the following:
(3) 2200 HP Gate Operators with safety interlocks.
(3) Post & key pad to each gate.
(3) Exit loops to each gate.
Run electrical to each gate from the on-site electrical panel.
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Bids shall be presented in sealed envelopes, plainly marked on the outside with the Pre-K Fence Automatic Gate Openers' name of person or firm submitting bid and including all appropriate license and insurance. Bids will be received only from responsible firms or persons capable of filling the same.
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The board has committed to award the bid to the low bidder. The owner reserves the express right to accept any bid or reject any and/or all bids and to waive any informalities therein.
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For additional information, to do an on-site inspection of the project, please contact:
Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor
Decatur County Board of Education
P.O. Box 369
Decaturville, Tennessee 38329
Phone: 731-733-1168
