Please join us for a come-and-go Retirement Celebration honoring Mr. V.
Everyone is welcome!!!
A Teacher’s Heart Extends Far Beyond the Classroom Walls
At Decatur County Middle School, we are constantly reminded that education is not just about lessons taught—it’s about lives inspired. One remarkable example of this is sixth-grade science teacher, Mr. Justin Kelley.
Mr. Kelley recently took it upon himself to apply for a classroom set of guitars through the Songbirds Foundation in Chattanooga—a program aimed at supporting music education and enriching student experiences. Out of many applicants across the state, Mr. Kelley was selected as a recipient, securing an incredible set of guitars and resources that will have a lasting impact on our students.
What makes this story even more special is that Mr. Kelley didn’t do this for recognition or reward—he did it out of love for his students. Twice a week, during the afterschool program, Mr. Kelley teaches guitar lessons, helping students develop creativity, discipline, and confidence in a fun, engaging way. For many of them, this is their first time learning a musical instrument—an experience they’ll carry with them for the rest of their lives.
When asked about being selected, Mr. Kelley humbly said, “I’m just proud to be able to do something for my kids. This is a blessing.”
Mr. Justin Kelley, your humility, initiative, and heart for our youth are exactly what make Decatur County schools so special. You’ve not only brought music into the classroom—you’ve brought hope, opportunity, and inspiration.
We are extremely proud of you, Mr. Justin, and grateful for everything you do to invest in the next generation. Your passion is making a difference every single day.
Let’s all show Mr. Kelley some love and appreciation in the comments—and thank him for proving that teachers change the world one student at a time. 🎸🍎💙
PARENTS:
The Decatur County School System is seeking applicants for an Assistant Principal at Decatur County Middle School (Grades 5-8) for the 2025-2026 school year.
Applicants should submit a detailed resume that includes previous employment experience and all Tennessee teacher license certifications. Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdH12Vhs88SbPo7m3YU1wKVMEgiBhlCle_PzZnf9iYXRqq0tg/viewform.
Only applicants with a current Tennessee teacher license with an endorsement in School Administration and Supervision (ILL-Professional Administrator 443 or ILL-Beginning Administrator 442) will be considered for the position.
The deadline for applying is Friday, June 13, 2025.
For questions or inquiries, please contact Melinda Thompson, Director of Schools.
(731) 852-2391 or melinda.thompson@decaturschools.org.
New Registration for all schools in Decatur County:
Panther points 5/20/25
8th Grade Class breakfast is in the gym in the morning at 8:00!
Parents are welcome for coffee and pics!
*Please remember to bring your job shadow interview form!
Panther points 5/19/25
It's a busy week of celebrations at DCMS!
ROAR Day tomorrow! Wear dark colors and bring a change of clothes if you plan to participate in water balloons!
8th grade breakfast Tuesday morning!
Awards on Wednesday morning!
Panther points 5/16/25
Panther points 5/13/25
🌞📚 Summer School is Almost Here! 📚🌞
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Don't forget to complete and return your Summer School application! All forms are due by Thursday, May 15th.
Let’s keep the learning going strong this summer! ☀️✏️
🎉 IT'S TIME!
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Click the link below to register for the 2025–26 school year.
Let’s get ahead and make it a great year!
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👉 https://www.decaturcountyschools.com/.../student...
Yearbooks are in.
Haiku winners and finalists.
Panther points 5/12/25
8th Grade Job Shadow forms are due to homeroom teachers on Wednesday, May 14. Job Shadow day for our 8th graders is May 16th.
PAID sheets for the week of 5/12/25.
Panther points 5/9/25
Mr. Joel Jones’ 5th grade science students at DCMS are diving into the Engineering Design Process through a hands-on egg drop project. Working in teams, students are brainstorming, designing, building, and testing protective structures to prevent their eggs from breaking upon impact. It’s a fun and engaging way to apply critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork while learning real-world STEM concepts.
Student pictured are:
Alexis Hall and Drake Hendrix
