
JOIN OUR TEAM:
The Decatur County School System is seeking applications for a Substitute School Nurse.
Applicants must have an Active LPN or RN license with experience in Pediatric Nursing preferred.
Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office, 59 West Main Street, Decaturville, TN 38329 or picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
The Decatur County School System is seeking applications for a Substitute School Nurse.
Applicants must have an Active LPN or RN license with experience in Pediatric Nursing preferred.
Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office, 59 West Main Street, Decaturville, TN 38329 or picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8


DCMS Pumpkin Palooza Craft Fair.


Welcome Back to DCMS, Coach Matt Marshall!
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Decatur County Middle School is excited to welcome Coach Matt Marshall back to campus as Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, and Behavioral Support Interventionist for the 2025–26 school year!
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A proud Decatur County native, Coach Marshall began his educational journey as a student in this very school system. After earning his Bachelor of Science from Lambuth University and a Master’s in Administration and Supervision from Tennessee State University, he was blessed to begin and build his 29-year career right here at home—serving the community he loves.
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Coach Marshall’s career began at Parsons Junior High, where he taught 8th grade Science and Health & PE while also coaching football. When DCMS was formed, he transitioned to the middle school, continuing his teaching and coaching duties while also becoming a school bus driver and later Assistant Principal. Most recently, he served as Assistant Principal at Parsons Elementary for the past three years.
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Now returning to DCMS, Coach Marshall brings a wealth of experience and a heart for students. “I am excited to return to DCMS as an Assistant Principal,” he shared. “My 26 years’ experience working with the middle school age group has given me the knowledge to be able to facilitate most, if not all, the situations that could occur at the middle school level.”
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This year, he’s adding a few more hats to his role—serving as both Athletic Director and Behavioral Support Interventionist. With 18 years of coaching football and a lifelong love for athletics, Coach Marshall is a natural fit to lead the school's athletic programs. He also looks forward to implementing positive behavioral strategies that support the whole child, not just their academic performance.
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DCMS Principal, Ms. Kodi Breeden, shared, “I look forward to Coach Marshall’s assistance with behavioral interventions, safety and security, along with being our Athletic Director.”
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When he’s not on campus, Coach Marshall enjoys traveling, watching movies, and cheering on the Tennessee Vols in any sport. He and his wife Kara are both dedicated supporters of Decatur County students and families.
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As Coach Marshall put it best: “I hope that the students, parents, and all staff are as enthusiastic about the upcoming school year as I am.” 💙💛
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Decatur County Middle School is excited to welcome Coach Matt Marshall back to campus as Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, and Behavioral Support Interventionist for the 2025–26 school year!
.
A proud Decatur County native, Coach Marshall began his educational journey as a student in this very school system. After earning his Bachelor of Science from Lambuth University and a Master’s in Administration and Supervision from Tennessee State University, he was blessed to begin and build his 29-year career right here at home—serving the community he loves.
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Coach Marshall’s career began at Parsons Junior High, where he taught 8th grade Science and Health & PE while also coaching football. When DCMS was formed, he transitioned to the middle school, continuing his teaching and coaching duties while also becoming a school bus driver and later Assistant Principal. Most recently, he served as Assistant Principal at Parsons Elementary for the past three years.
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Now returning to DCMS, Coach Marshall brings a wealth of experience and a heart for students. “I am excited to return to DCMS as an Assistant Principal,” he shared. “My 26 years’ experience working with the middle school age group has given me the knowledge to be able to facilitate most, if not all, the situations that could occur at the middle school level.”
.
This year, he’s adding a few more hats to his role—serving as both Athletic Director and Behavioral Support Interventionist. With 18 years of coaching football and a lifelong love for athletics, Coach Marshall is a natural fit to lead the school's athletic programs. He also looks forward to implementing positive behavioral strategies that support the whole child, not just their academic performance.
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DCMS Principal, Ms. Kodi Breeden, shared, “I look forward to Coach Marshall’s assistance with behavioral interventions, safety and security, along with being our Athletic Director.”
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When he’s not on campus, Coach Marshall enjoys traveling, watching movies, and cheering on the Tennessee Vols in any sport. He and his wife Kara are both dedicated supporters of Decatur County students and families.
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As Coach Marshall put it best: “I hope that the students, parents, and all staff are as enthusiastic about the upcoming school year as I am.” 💙💛


Our Cafeteria Teams Are Ready!
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Our amazing Decatur County Schools Nutrition Program staff has been hard at work this week with training and preparation to make sure everything is perfect for the start of school!
We are incredibly proud of our dedicated cafeteria staff—they care deeply about the health and well-being of our students, and it shows in everything they do. 💙 From preparing meals to serving with a smile, they play a vital role in our school community.
We’re excited to share that all Decatur County Schools students will once again receive breakfast and lunch free of charge for the 2025–26 school year! 🎉
Please encourage your students to stop by the cafeteria each day and enjoy a nutritious meal. Participation matters—it’s one of the key factors that helps us continue this important program.
In Decatur County Schools, everyone plays an important role—and we’re grateful for our nutrition team leading the way in fueling student success!
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Our amazing Decatur County Schools Nutrition Program staff has been hard at work this week with training and preparation to make sure everything is perfect for the start of school!
We are incredibly proud of our dedicated cafeteria staff—they care deeply about the health and well-being of our students, and it shows in everything they do. 💙 From preparing meals to serving with a smile, they play a vital role in our school community.
We’re excited to share that all Decatur County Schools students will once again receive breakfast and lunch free of charge for the 2025–26 school year! 🎉
Please encourage your students to stop by the cafeteria each day and enjoy a nutritious meal. Participation matters—it’s one of the key factors that helps us continue this important program.
In Decatur County Schools, everyone plays an important role—and we’re grateful for our nutrition team leading the way in fueling student success!


Welcome to the Panther Pack, Ms. Emily Keeton! 💙💛💙
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Decatur County Schools is proud to welcome Ms. Emily Keeton back to Decatur County Middle School, where she will serve as the 8th-grade science teacher this year. Ms. Keeton holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Education from UT Martin and a Master of Science in Agriculture and Extension Education from Mississippi State University. She previously taught ELA at DCMS for nearly six years and has been teaching Agricultural Leadership at UTM Parsons since 2017.
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As she steps into this new role, Ms. Keeton is excited to bring a fresh perspective to 8th Grade Science. With her background in agriculture and experience teaching ELA, she hopes to help students feel successful in ways that best suit their learning styles. She shared, “I am SO EXCITED to be back with the 8th-grade teaching team. They are such strong teachers, and I feel privileged to share every day with them.”
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Ms. Keeton says she’s looking forward to the daily routines that allow her to truly get to know her students. She’s eager to make science a relatable subject and to contribute to the positive environment at DCMS. Born and raised on a cattle farm in Bath Springs, TN, she now lives nearby with her parents, Tim and Janet, and her brother, John Lawson—who will soon be welcoming a new sister-in-law, Lucinda Carrington, in September.
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Outside of work, Ms. Keeton enjoys attending Life Fitness Dance (shout out to Heather Coleman!), writing, singing, thrifting, and working with her uncle at The News Leader. She’s always felt drawn to education, and her time at DCMS confirmed that middle schoolers are a truly special group to teach. “They are just starting to really question the world around them, and it’s an honor to be a part of their development,” she shared.
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DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Breeden shared, “We are elated to welcome Ms. Emily back to DCMS! She was an asset to our 8th grade team in prior years, and we believe she will continue to be an integral part of that team moving forward. Her dedication to helping students learn and meeting each child where they’re at really sets her apart. We are excited to have her join our Science department!”
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Ms. Keeton adds, “I am very happy and excited to be back at DCMS! It's going to be a great year!” Please join us in giving her a warm Panther Pack welcome as she begins this exciting new chapter. We can’t wait to see the amazing things she’ll accomplish! 🐾
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@abc
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Decatur County Schools is proud to welcome Ms. Emily Keeton back to Decatur County Middle School, where she will serve as the 8th-grade science teacher this year. Ms. Keeton holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Education from UT Martin and a Master of Science in Agriculture and Extension Education from Mississippi State University. She previously taught ELA at DCMS for nearly six years and has been teaching Agricultural Leadership at UTM Parsons since 2017.
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As she steps into this new role, Ms. Keeton is excited to bring a fresh perspective to 8th Grade Science. With her background in agriculture and experience teaching ELA, she hopes to help students feel successful in ways that best suit their learning styles. She shared, “I am SO EXCITED to be back with the 8th-grade teaching team. They are such strong teachers, and I feel privileged to share every day with them.”
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Ms. Keeton says she’s looking forward to the daily routines that allow her to truly get to know her students. She’s eager to make science a relatable subject and to contribute to the positive environment at DCMS. Born and raised on a cattle farm in Bath Springs, TN, she now lives nearby with her parents, Tim and Janet, and her brother, John Lawson—who will soon be welcoming a new sister-in-law, Lucinda Carrington, in September.
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Outside of work, Ms. Keeton enjoys attending Life Fitness Dance (shout out to Heather Coleman!), writing, singing, thrifting, and working with her uncle at The News Leader. She’s always felt drawn to education, and her time at DCMS confirmed that middle schoolers are a truly special group to teach. “They are just starting to really question the world around them, and it’s an honor to be a part of their development,” she shared.
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DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Breeden shared, “We are elated to welcome Ms. Emily back to DCMS! She was an asset to our 8th grade team in prior years, and we believe she will continue to be an integral part of that team moving forward. Her dedication to helping students learn and meeting each child where they’re at really sets her apart. We are excited to have her join our Science department!”
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Ms. Keeton adds, “I am very happy and excited to be back at DCMS! It's going to be a great year!” Please join us in giving her a warm Panther Pack welcome as she begins this exciting new chapter. We can’t wait to see the amazing things she’ll accomplish! 🐾
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@abc


Come join us for our Back to School Night at DCMS!
Location: DCMS Gym
Date: July 31, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM
We look forward to seeing you!
Location: DCMS Gym
Date: July 31, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM
We look forward to seeing you!


Parents/ Guardians of returning Decatur County School Students,
If you have not registered your child for the 2025-2026 school year, please do so.
If you have already registered, thank you! If you need help or have questions, please call 731 847-1750 or email dcattendance@decaturschools.org.
Click the link below to register for the 2025–26 school year.
👉 https://www.decaturcountyschools.com/.../student...
If you have not registered your child for the 2025-2026 school year, please do so.
If you have already registered, thank you! If you need help or have questions, please call 731 847-1750 or email dcattendance@decaturschools.org.
Click the link below to register for the 2025–26 school year.
👉 https://www.decaturcountyschools.com/.../student...


Decatur County Schools would like to announce Mrs. Gina Pratt as the new Assistant Principal of Decatur County Middle School.
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Mrs. Pratt brings 27 years of experience in education and a deep commitment to student success. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education from the University of Tennessee at Martin and is currently continuing her education at Bethel University, working toward her Master’s Plus in Administration to further grow as a school leader.
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Her teaching career began in Henderson County before she transitioned to Decatur County, where she has served across multiple grade levels—from Kindergarten through 10th grade. This broad experience has given her a unique understanding of students at every stage of their academic journey.
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“After working many years at DCMS,” Mrs. Pratt shares, “I’m honored to step into the assistant principal role. My goal is to support our students and staff by building strong relationships, staying present in classrooms, and working together to keep DCMS a place where everyone can learn and grow. What excites me most about this opportunity is the chance to give back to a school and community that has shaped me both personally and professionally.”
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Mrs. Pratt has been married to her husband, Chad, for 24 years. Together, they have three daughters—Baileigh, Ansley, and Whitlee. Their family continues to grow with the addition of their granddaughter, Parker, who brings joy and laughter to their lives. When not at school, Mrs. Pratt enjoys spending time with family, watching her daughters play golf, visiting college tournaments at Freed-Hardeman, and cheering on RHS. Summers are filled with swimming, s’mores, and sweet moments with Parker.
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Her message to the DCMS community is: “I’m thankful to be part of a school that feels like home, and I’m dedicated to working alongside each of you to create a safe, supportive, and successful year for every student. Together, we can continue building a positive culture where everyone feels valued and encouraged to grow.”
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DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Breeden shared, “Gina’s extensive experience in middle grades education, along with her dedication to student growth, makes her a huge asset to our administrative team at DCMS. Her work ethic is unmatched, and we couldn’t be more proud to have her leading with us.”
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Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Gina Pratt to her new role! We look forward to a great school year!.
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Mrs. Pratt brings 27 years of experience in education and a deep commitment to student success. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education from the University of Tennessee at Martin and is currently continuing her education at Bethel University, working toward her Master’s Plus in Administration to further grow as a school leader.
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Her teaching career began in Henderson County before she transitioned to Decatur County, where she has served across multiple grade levels—from Kindergarten through 10th grade. This broad experience has given her a unique understanding of students at every stage of their academic journey.
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“After working many years at DCMS,” Mrs. Pratt shares, “I’m honored to step into the assistant principal role. My goal is to support our students and staff by building strong relationships, staying present in classrooms, and working together to keep DCMS a place where everyone can learn and grow. What excites me most about this opportunity is the chance to give back to a school and community that has shaped me both personally and professionally.”
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Mrs. Pratt has been married to her husband, Chad, for 24 years. Together, they have three daughters—Baileigh, Ansley, and Whitlee. Their family continues to grow with the addition of their granddaughter, Parker, who brings joy and laughter to their lives. When not at school, Mrs. Pratt enjoys spending time with family, watching her daughters play golf, visiting college tournaments at Freed-Hardeman, and cheering on RHS. Summers are filled with swimming, s’mores, and sweet moments with Parker.
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Her message to the DCMS community is: “I’m thankful to be part of a school that feels like home, and I’m dedicated to working alongside each of you to create a safe, supportive, and successful year for every student. Together, we can continue building a positive culture where everyone feels valued and encouraged to grow.”
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DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Breeden shared, “Gina’s extensive experience in middle grades education, along with her dedication to student growth, makes her a huge asset to our administrative team at DCMS. Her work ethic is unmatched, and we couldn’t be more proud to have her leading with us.”
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Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Gina Pratt to her new role! We look forward to a great school year!.


Decatur County Schools is thrilled to announce that Ms. Kodi Breeden has been named the new Principal of Decatur County Middle School!
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Ms. Breeden brings a wealth of experience and passion for student success. She holds a Bachelor of Education from UT Martin, a Master of Education from Union University, and an Education Specialist degree from Union. Entering her 15th year of service to the students of Decatur County, she has taught math at Parsons Elementary, Decatur County Middle School, Riverside High School, and even at UT Martin-Parsons. She has also served as the district’s K–12 Math Coordinator and as Assistant Principal at Riverside High School.
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Reflecting on this next step, Ms. Kodi shared: “I’m so excited to be back at Decatur County Middle School — a place that already feels like home. Having taught here before and worked alongside so many of the amazing staff, I know firsthand the dedication and heart that lives in this building. I’m honored to step into the role of principal and lead a school full of hardworking educators who truly put students first.”
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She is the proud mom of her daughter, Kash, who will be starting second grade at Decaturville Elementary this fall. Outside of work, she loves spending time with family, reading a good book, and watching football on weekends.
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Director of Schools Mrs. Melinda Thompson shared: “Kodi has the knowledge, dedication, and drive to make Decatur County Middle School a place where both students and staff thrive. She puts students at the center of everything she does, and we are so excited to watch her grow into this new role. We all look forward to working with her and supporting her vision for success.”
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Please join us in congratulating Ms. Breeden on this opportunity and wish her the very best as she begins this new chapter. We know great things are ahead at DCMS!
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Ms. Breeden brings a wealth of experience and passion for student success. She holds a Bachelor of Education from UT Martin, a Master of Education from Union University, and an Education Specialist degree from Union. Entering her 15th year of service to the students of Decatur County, she has taught math at Parsons Elementary, Decatur County Middle School, Riverside High School, and even at UT Martin-Parsons. She has also served as the district’s K–12 Math Coordinator and as Assistant Principal at Riverside High School.
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Reflecting on this next step, Ms. Kodi shared: “I’m so excited to be back at Decatur County Middle School — a place that already feels like home. Having taught here before and worked alongside so many of the amazing staff, I know firsthand the dedication and heart that lives in this building. I’m honored to step into the role of principal and lead a school full of hardworking educators who truly put students first.”
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She is the proud mom of her daughter, Kash, who will be starting second grade at Decaturville Elementary this fall. Outside of work, she loves spending time with family, reading a good book, and watching football on weekends.
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Director of Schools Mrs. Melinda Thompson shared: “Kodi has the knowledge, dedication, and drive to make Decatur County Middle School a place where both students and staff thrive. She puts students at the center of everything she does, and we are so excited to watch her grow into this new role. We all look forward to working with her and supporting her vision for success.”
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Please join us in congratulating Ms. Breeden on this opportunity and wish her the very best as she begins this new chapter. We know great things are ahead at DCMS!


The Decatur County School System is seeking applicants for the position of Bus Mechanic for the 2025-2026 school year.
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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 here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
Applicants should have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, must complete a TBI fingerprint Background check, and have a Physician’s Certificate. This is a 12-month position. Salary commensurate with certification and experience.
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For more information, please contact the Decatur County Schools Transportation Department at (731) 852-3259.
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For additional information, please see the Job Description below:
DECATUR COUNTY SCHOOLS-BUS MECHANIC-JOB DESCRIPTION
TITLE: Bus Mechanic
REPORTS TO: Transportation Supervisor
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ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but not limited to:
1. The Bus Mechanic is responsible for inspecting all buses frequently to ensure that they are in excellent condition and safe to transport students to and from the Centers, on field trips and for other applicable events.
2. The Bus Mechanic provides preventative maintenance, safety inspections and annual Dept. of Transportation inspections for all buses.
3. This position diagnoses and performs all phases of vehicle and equipment repair, including brakes, suspensions, drive trains, transmissions, oil changes and tire rotations subcontracting repair work to outside service providers after review with Bus Transportation Coordinator.
4. The Bus Mechanic ensures work orders are completed accurately and timely.
5. This position assists with mobile emergency services.
6. This position is responsible for replacing parts, ordering new parts as needed and testing buses to ensure they are working properly before they return to service.
7. The Bus Mechanic maintains records of maintenance on repairs performed on each bus.
8. The Bus Mechanic communicates with drivers to identify and address any issues identified while driving buses.
9. This position will follow established safety protocols to ensure personal safety and the safety of others.
10. The Bus Mechanic will attend trainings to stay up-to-date on new technology and techniques pertaining to bus maintenance.
11. The Bus Mechanic will participate in all ongoing and required trainings to include but not limited to Tennessee Dept. of Transportation (TDOT), agency trainings, etc.
12. The Bus Mechanic maintains a positive relationship with the families and children enrolled in the program and Agency staff communicating all applicable bus department changes as needed.
13. This position will act as a substitute Bus Driver as needed.
14. The Bus Mechanic is required to follow all established county transportation policies and procedures
15. This position must maintain confidentiality of all information pertaining to children and families enrolled with the schools.
16. This position works collaboratively with co-workers to maintain and ensure a fully-functional fleet of buses.
17. The Bus Mechanic attends staff meetings, in-services, etc. as required.
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EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: High school diploma or equivalent is required. Valid driver’s license and current CDL Class B with P endorsement, and S endorsement required or to be obtained post hire. Three years of automotive or diesel maintenance and repair experience preferred. Auto Service Excellence (ASE) credential preferred. Experience with DOT guidelines and requirements preferred. Proficiency in computer skills to include Microsoft Office products preferred. Analytical skills, excellent communication skills, the ability to work independently and meet deadlines required. Operating and driving knowledge of school buses preferred. Must be able to provide their own transportation to and from work and throughout the work day.
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WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed in a setting with moderate safety issues. Travel to outside meetings, trainings, conferences, home visits, Agency sites, etc. This position requires sitting, standing, bending crouching, lying on back and moderate lifting. Work performed in the physical environment of a vehicle maintenance area.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by the employee assigned to this position. It does not imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the job. The employee maybe required to perform other job-related duties as requested by their direct Supervisor.
The deadline for applying is Thursday, July 31, 2025
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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 here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
Applicants should have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, must complete a TBI fingerprint Background check, and have a Physician’s Certificate. This is a 12-month position. Salary commensurate with certification and experience.
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For more information, please contact the Decatur County Schools Transportation Department at (731) 852-3259.
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For additional information, please see the Job Description below:
DECATUR COUNTY SCHOOLS-BUS MECHANIC-JOB DESCRIPTION
TITLE: Bus Mechanic
REPORTS TO: Transportation Supervisor
.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but not limited to:
1. The Bus Mechanic is responsible for inspecting all buses frequently to ensure that they are in excellent condition and safe to transport students to and from the Centers, on field trips and for other applicable events.
2. The Bus Mechanic provides preventative maintenance, safety inspections and annual Dept. of Transportation inspections for all buses.
3. This position diagnoses and performs all phases of vehicle and equipment repair, including brakes, suspensions, drive trains, transmissions, oil changes and tire rotations subcontracting repair work to outside service providers after review with Bus Transportation Coordinator.
4. The Bus Mechanic ensures work orders are completed accurately and timely.
5. This position assists with mobile emergency services.
6. This position is responsible for replacing parts, ordering new parts as needed and testing buses to ensure they are working properly before they return to service.
7. The Bus Mechanic maintains records of maintenance on repairs performed on each bus.
8. The Bus Mechanic communicates with drivers to identify and address any issues identified while driving buses.
9. This position will follow established safety protocols to ensure personal safety and the safety of others.
10. The Bus Mechanic will attend trainings to stay up-to-date on new technology and techniques pertaining to bus maintenance.
11. The Bus Mechanic will participate in all ongoing and required trainings to include but not limited to Tennessee Dept. of Transportation (TDOT), agency trainings, etc.
12. The Bus Mechanic maintains a positive relationship with the families and children enrolled in the program and Agency staff communicating all applicable bus department changes as needed.
13. This position will act as a substitute Bus Driver as needed.
14. The Bus Mechanic is required to follow all established county transportation policies and procedures
15. This position must maintain confidentiality of all information pertaining to children and families enrolled with the schools.
16. This position works collaboratively with co-workers to maintain and ensure a fully-functional fleet of buses.
17. The Bus Mechanic attends staff meetings, in-services, etc. as required.
.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: High school diploma or equivalent is required. Valid driver’s license and current CDL Class B with P endorsement, and S endorsement required or to be obtained post hire. Three years of automotive or diesel maintenance and repair experience preferred. Auto Service Excellence (ASE) credential preferred. Experience with DOT guidelines and requirements preferred. Proficiency in computer skills to include Microsoft Office products preferred. Analytical skills, excellent communication skills, the ability to work independently and meet deadlines required. Operating and driving knowledge of school buses preferred. Must be able to provide their own transportation to and from work and throughout the work day.
.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed in a setting with moderate safety issues. Travel to outside meetings, trainings, conferences, home visits, Agency sites, etc. This position requires sitting, standing, bending crouching, lying on back and moderate lifting. Work performed in the physical environment of a vehicle maintenance area.
.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by the employee assigned to this position. It does not imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the job. The employee maybe required to perform other job-related duties as requested by their direct Supervisor.
The deadline for applying is Thursday, July 31, 2025


DCMS / RHS Dress Code, 2025-26


WE NEED YOU!!!
Now Hiring: ASSISTANTS / PARAPROFESSIONAL
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The Decatur County Board of Education is accepting applications for Assistants.
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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 here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
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Qualifications:
* High school diploma or GED
* Must be 21 years old
* Must verify 2 years of college or pass the Parapro Assessment
* Must be able to pass a TBI Fingerprint Background Check
* Submit a physical by a Licensed Physician
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The deadline for applying is Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Now Hiring: ASSISTANTS / PARAPROFESSIONAL
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The Decatur County Board of Education is accepting applications for Assistants.
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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 here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
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Qualifications:
* High school diploma or GED
* Must be 21 years old
* Must verify 2 years of college or pass the Parapro Assessment
* Must be able to pass a TBI Fingerprint Background Check
* Submit a physical by a Licensed Physician
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The deadline for applying is Tuesday, July 15, 2025


Welcome to the Panther Pack, Mrs. Hannah Jenkins!
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Decatur County Schools is proud to welcome Mrs. Hannah Jenkins, who will be joining Decatur County Middle School as the 5th and 6th Grade Math Interventionist this year.
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Mrs. Jenkins holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Western Kentucky University and a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Education from the University of Tennessee at Martin. She brings a wealth of experience teaching first, third, and fifth grades, with a strong background providing intervention support in both math and language arts. Her prior experience working with a range of grade levels will be a tremendous asset in her new role.
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When asked about her goals for this position, Mrs. Jenkins shared: “My main goal stepping into the fifth and sixth grade math intervention role is to help students garner a newfound confidence in themselves and their math skills.”
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DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Beck said, “We are so excited to have Mrs. Jenkins join our team. Her passion for helping students feel confident and valued shines through in everything she does. Her experience and love for teaching math will make such a positive impact on our students and help them see that they can succeed.”
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Outside of school, Mrs. Jenkins enjoys playing music, reading, and spending time outdoors. She and her husband, Brandon, who serves as the youth pastor at Trinity Assembly, have one little boy and are excited to welcome their second child this holiday season!
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If there’s one thing Mrs. Jenkins hopes families will know about her, it’s this: “Everyone deserves a space to be loved, feel safe, and be seen. I truly believe that people thrive when they are met where they are with love and care.”
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Please help us give Mrs. Hannah Jenkins a warm Panther Pack welcome as she starts this exciting new chapter. We can’t wait to see all the wonderful things she will do! 💙💛💙
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Decatur County Schools is proud to welcome Mrs. Hannah Jenkins, who will be joining Decatur County Middle School as the 5th and 6th Grade Math Interventionist this year.
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Mrs. Jenkins holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Western Kentucky University and a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Education from the University of Tennessee at Martin. She brings a wealth of experience teaching first, third, and fifth grades, with a strong background providing intervention support in both math and language arts. Her prior experience working with a range of grade levels will be a tremendous asset in her new role.
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When asked about her goals for this position, Mrs. Jenkins shared: “My main goal stepping into the fifth and sixth grade math intervention role is to help students garner a newfound confidence in themselves and their math skills.”
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DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Beck said, “We are so excited to have Mrs. Jenkins join our team. Her passion for helping students feel confident and valued shines through in everything she does. Her experience and love for teaching math will make such a positive impact on our students and help them see that they can succeed.”
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Outside of school, Mrs. Jenkins enjoys playing music, reading, and spending time outdoors. She and her husband, Brandon, who serves as the youth pastor at Trinity Assembly, have one little boy and are excited to welcome their second child this holiday season!
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If there’s one thing Mrs. Jenkins hopes families will know about her, it’s this: “Everyone deserves a space to be loved, feel safe, and be seen. I truly believe that people thrive when they are met where they are with love and care.”
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Please help us give Mrs. Hannah Jenkins a warm Panther Pack welcome as she starts this exciting new chapter. We can’t wait to see all the wonderful things she will do! 💙💛💙


Happy July! We are excited about the start of the 2025-2026 school year. If you are new to Decatur County and would like to complete registration before August 1st, please call the number on the picture or email Dr. King.
Parents/ Guardians of returning students, please go ahead and register your child. If you have already done this, THANK YOU! I know that some of you just let it roll over; however, we have added some required forms that need to be signed by you. Please take a few minutes to complete this process. If you need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact Dr. King or your child's school.
Parents/ Guardians of returning students, please go ahead and register your child. If you have already done this, THANK YOU! I know that some of you just let it roll over; however, we have added some required forms that need to be signed by you. Please take a few minutes to complete this process. If you need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact Dr. King or your child's school.


DCMS Supply Lists 2025-26






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:
