🎶 Welcome to the Panther Pack!
Meet Andrew Swortzel – Riverside High School's New Band & Choir Teacher
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Decatur County Schools is proud to welcome Mr. Andrew Swortzel as the new Band and Choir Teacher at Riverside High School!
A graduate of Bolivar Central High School, Mr. Swortzel earned his Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Tennessee Technological University. Throughout his career, he has served students in Haywood County Schools, Hardeman County Schools, and Fayette County Public Schools, gaining valuable experience while building successful music programs and inspiring young musicians.
As he begins this exciting new chapter at Riverside High School, Mr. Swortzel's goal is to continue the tradition of excellence that has defined the Riverside High School Band for generations while building upon its rich history. He is eager to work alongside talented students, dedicated faculty, and a community that values and supports music education.
Mr. Swortzel's passion for teaching began while sitting in his 7th grade band class, where he realized he wanted to become a band director and help develop the next generation of musicians. Outside the classroom, he enjoys performing with his band, SmallShack, woodworking, and spending time with his wife, Haley, whom he married in November 2024.
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"I look forward to meeting all the faculty, staff, and students and creating lasting relationships with each and every one!"
— Andrew Swortzel
Riverside High School Principal Mrs. Amanda Keeton shared:
"We are thrilled to welcome Andrew to the Panther family. His passion for music education, commitment to students, and excitement for continuing Riverside's outstanding band tradition make him a wonderful addition to our school. I know our students will benefit greatly from his leadership, and I look forward to watching our music program continue to thrive under his direction."
Decatur County Schools HR Director Mr. Hugh Smith added:
"We are very excited to have Andrew join our Decatur County Schools family! His work ethic, experience, and enthusiasm for music education will be a tremendous asset to our school and community. We are looking forward to seeing our Riverside High School Band achieve excellence in the years to follow."
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Please join us in giving Mr. Andrew Swortzel a warm Panther welcome as he joins the Decatur County Schools family. We can't wait to see the incredible things ahead for our Riverside High School music program!
Meet Andrew Swortzel – Riverside High School's New Band & Choir Teacher
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Decatur County Schools is proud to welcome Mr. Andrew Swortzel as the new Band and Choir Teacher at Riverside High School!
A graduate of Bolivar Central High School, Mr. Swortzel earned his Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Tennessee Technological University. Throughout his career, he has served students in Haywood County Schools, Hardeman County Schools, and Fayette County Public Schools, gaining valuable experience while building successful music programs and inspiring young musicians.
As he begins this exciting new chapter at Riverside High School, Mr. Swortzel's goal is to continue the tradition of excellence that has defined the Riverside High School Band for generations while building upon its rich history. He is eager to work alongside talented students, dedicated faculty, and a community that values and supports music education.
Mr. Swortzel's passion for teaching began while sitting in his 7th grade band class, where he realized he wanted to become a band director and help develop the next generation of musicians. Outside the classroom, he enjoys performing with his band, SmallShack, woodworking, and spending time with his wife, Haley, whom he married in November 2024.
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"I look forward to meeting all the faculty, staff, and students and creating lasting relationships with each and every one!"
— Andrew Swortzel
Riverside High School Principal Mrs. Amanda Keeton shared:
"We are thrilled to welcome Andrew to the Panther family. His passion for music education, commitment to students, and excitement for continuing Riverside's outstanding band tradition make him a wonderful addition to our school. I know our students will benefit greatly from his leadership, and I look forward to watching our music program continue to thrive under his direction."
Decatur County Schools HR Director Mr. Hugh Smith added:
"We are very excited to have Andrew join our Decatur County Schools family! His work ethic, experience, and enthusiasm for music education will be a tremendous asset to our school and community. We are looking forward to seeing our Riverside High School Band achieve excellence in the years to follow."
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Please join us in giving Mr. Andrew Swortzel a warm Panther welcome as he joins the Decatur County Schools family. We can't wait to see the incredible things ahead for our Riverside High School music program!
ATTENTION PARENTS & GUARDIANS!
Please Download the NEW ParentVUE App
The ParentVUE app previously used by Decatur County School System is no longer supported.
Please:
* 🗑️ Delete the old ParentVUE app from your device.
* 📲 Download and install “ParentVUE (New)” from the App Store or Google Play.
* 🔑 Log in using your existing ParentVUE username and password.
If you need assistance downloading or signing in, please contact:
Dr. Scott King
scott.king@decaturschools.org
Thank you for helping us stay connected!
Teanna Odle and Ripken Williams joined Ms. Christina Barber, RHS Art Teacher, in creating a beautiful story themed mural at the middle school library at the request of Ms. Chasidee! They devoted their time and energy this June to make it happen and Riverside High School is so proud of wha they have done.
The Riverside High School Majorettes spent 4 days at UT Twirl Camp and recieved the Hardest Working Majorettes Award!
Congratulations to Ivey James and Georgia Stultz -- Riverside Majorettes
Congratulations to Ivey James and Georgia Stultz -- Riverside Majorettes
Congratulations to Riverside High School's own Lainie Holbert on being selected to the Tennessee Softball Coaches Association (TSCA) All-State Team!
Being named All-State is one of the highest honors a high school softball player can receive. This recognition is reserved for athletes who have demonstrated outstanding performance, dedication, leadership, and excellence throughout the season.
Lainie's selection reflects countless hours of hard work, commitment to her team, and a passion for the game that has made her one of the top players in the state of Tennessee. Her achievements on the field have brought pride to her teammates, coaches, school, and the entire Riverside community.
Congratulations, Lainie, on this incredible accomplishment! Your Panther family is proud of you and grateful for the way you represent Riverside High School both on and off the field.
💙💛🥎
Being named All-State is one of the highest honors a high school softball player can receive. This recognition is reserved for athletes who have demonstrated outstanding performance, dedication, leadership, and excellence throughout the season.
Lainie's selection reflects countless hours of hard work, commitment to her team, and a passion for the game that has made her one of the top players in the state of Tennessee. Her achievements on the field have brought pride to her teammates, coaches, school, and the entire Riverside community.
Congratulations, Lainie, on this incredible accomplishment! Your Panther family is proud of you and grateful for the way you represent Riverside High School both on and off the field.
💙💛🥎
Congratulations to Riverside High School's own Jase England on receiving two outstanding statewide baseball honors!
⚾ Tennessee Baseball Coaches Association (TBCA) Class AA All-State Team
⚾ Tennessee Baseball Report All 2-Way Team – Honorable Mention
These recognitions reflect Jase's hard work, dedication, and excellence on the baseball field. Being recognized among the top players in Tennessee is an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the impact he has made throughout the season.
Jase's ability to contribute at a high level in multiple aspects of the game has made him a tremendous asset to the Riverside Panthers and a player respected across the state.
Congratulations, Jase! Your coaches, teammates, school, and community are proud of you and all that you have accomplished.
💙💛⚾
⚾ Tennessee Baseball Coaches Association (TBCA) Class AA All-State Team
⚾ Tennessee Baseball Report All 2-Way Team – Honorable Mention
These recognitions reflect Jase's hard work, dedication, and excellence on the baseball field. Being recognized among the top players in Tennessee is an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the impact he has made throughout the season.
Jase's ability to contribute at a high level in multiple aspects of the game has made him a tremendous asset to the Riverside Panthers and a player respected across the state.
Congratulations, Jase! Your coaches, teammates, school, and community are proud of you and all that you have accomplished.
💙💛⚾
Congratulations to Riverside High School's own Landon Vaughan for being named to the Tennessee Baseball Report All-Region Team!
This prestigious recognition highlights Landon's hard work, dedication, and outstanding performance throughout the season. Being selected as one of the top players in the region is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the commitment he brings to the game every day.
Your teammates, coaches, school, and community are incredibly proud of you, Landon. Thank you for representing Riverside High School and Panther Nation with excellence both on and off the field.
Way to go, Landon!
💙💛⚾
This prestigious recognition highlights Landon's hard work, dedication, and outstanding performance throughout the season. Being selected as one of the top players in the region is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the commitment he brings to the game every day.
Your teammates, coaches, school, and community are incredibly proud of you, Landon. Thank you for representing Riverside High School and Panther Nation with excellence both on and off the field.
Way to go, Landon!
💙💛⚾
Great honor for not one, but two Riverside High School Baseball players!
Tennessee Baseball Report released its “Super Sophomore” Team, and Riverside is proud to have two Panthers recognized among the best sophomores in the state of Tennessee.
Congratulations to Colt Brooks and Ridge Thompson on this outstanding accomplishment. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence have earned you this well-deserved recognition.
Your teammates, coaches, school, and community are incredibly proud of you both!
Way to represent Riverside High School and Panther Nation!
💙⚾💛
Tennessee Baseball Report released its “Super Sophomore” Team, and Riverside is proud to have two Panthers recognized among the best sophomores in the state of Tennessee.
Congratulations to Colt Brooks and Ridge Thompson on this outstanding accomplishment. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence have earned you this well-deserved recognition.
Your teammates, coaches, school, and community are incredibly proud of you both!
Way to represent Riverside High School and Panther Nation!
💙⚾💛
🖥️ ONLINE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
Decatur County Schools - Returning Students ONLY
✅ Complete all required forms in ParentVUE
✅ Forms must be completed before school begins
✅ Review and submit forms even if information has not changed
✅ Enter 8/3/26 when a date is requested
✅ Important: Set Text Permission to YES in the phone number section.
💻 Students will not receive a Chromebook until forms are completed.
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Need Help?
Dr. Scott King
731-847-1750
scott.king@decaturschools.org
Please include your student's name and school when requesting help.
* Families wishing to complete online registration for new students should contact Dr. Scott King.
Thank you for helping us prepare for a smooth and successful 2026-2027 school year!
Decatur County Schools - Returning Students ONLY
✅ Complete all required forms in ParentVUE
✅ Forms must be completed before school begins
✅ Review and submit forms even if information has not changed
✅ Enter 8/3/26 when a date is requested
✅ Important: Set Text Permission to YES in the phone number section.
💻 Students will not receive a Chromebook until forms are completed.
.
Need Help?
Dr. Scott King
731-847-1750
scott.king@decaturschools.org
Please include your student's name and school when requesting help.
* Families wishing to complete online registration for new students should contact Dr. Scott King.
Thank you for helping us prepare for a smooth and successful 2026-2027 school year!
Now Hiring: SPECIAL EDUCATION ASSISTANT / PARAPROFESSIONAL
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The Decatur County Board of Education is accepting applications for a Special Education Assistant for Parsons Elementary.
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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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For more information, please contact Mrs. Michelle McElrath, Supervisor of Special Education Services (731)847-5908 or michelle.mcelrath@decaturschools.org
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The deadline for applying is Friday, June 12, 2026
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The Decatur County Board of Education is accepting applications for a Special Education Assistant for Parsons Elementary.
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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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For more information, please contact Mrs. Michelle McElrath, Supervisor of Special Education Services (731)847-5908 or michelle.mcelrath@decaturschools.org
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The deadline for applying is Friday, June 12, 2026
Now Hiring: RIVERSIDE HIGH SCHOOL CUSTODIAN
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
Qualifications:
* High school diploma or GED
* 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 Friday, June 5, 2026.
Attention: CLASS OF 2027
Flyers were given out today about Senior Portraits. Please see the attached picture for details. If you cannot attend July 13-16, makeup pictures will be done in October at school. To be in the yearbook and class composite, you must take photos with our school photographer on these dates or on the makeup date in October. If you have questions, please email michele.parrish@decaturschools.org.
Flyers were given out today about Senior Portraits. Please see the attached picture for details. If you cannot attend July 13-16, makeup pictures will be done in October at school. To be in the yearbook and class composite, you must take photos with our school photographer on these dates or on the makeup date in October. If you have questions, please email michele.parrish@decaturschools.org.
Signing Day!
🍎 Decatur County Schools Announces FREE Breakfast & Lunch for All Students in 2026–27 🍎
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Decatur County Schools is excited to announce that all students will receive breakfast and lunch at no cost during the 2026–27 school year.
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This opportunity is a tremendous blessing for our students, families, and community. Providing nutritious meals each day helps ensure students are prepared to learn, grow, and succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
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The district would like to extend a very special thank you to Mrs. Sherry Boroughs for her dedication, hard work, and commitment to staying on top of procedures, protocols, and program requirements that helped make this possible. Her attention to detail and persistence played a major role in securing this opportunity for Decatur County students.
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We also want to recognize our incredible cafeteria managers and cafeteria staff across the district. You all are truly superstars! Day after day, you go far beyond what is expected. You serve our students with kindness, care, and compassion, and it does not go unnoticed. The impact you make reaches far beyond the cafeteria line, and we are deeply thankful for each of you.
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Director of Schools Melinda Thompson shared:
“We are extremely excited to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students for the 2026–27 school year. We know proper nutrition plays a vital role in student success, and this will help support families across our county. We are incredibly thankful for Mrs. Sherry Boroughs and our cafeteria teams for the hard work they put in every single day to care for our students. Their dedication truly makes a difference.”
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At Decatur County Schools, we remain committed to supporting students academically, emotionally, and physically — because every student matters, every day.
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Decatur County Schools is excited to announce that all students will receive breakfast and lunch at no cost during the 2026–27 school year.
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This opportunity is a tremendous blessing for our students, families, and community. Providing nutritious meals each day helps ensure students are prepared to learn, grow, and succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
.
The district would like to extend a very special thank you to Mrs. Sherry Boroughs for her dedication, hard work, and commitment to staying on top of procedures, protocols, and program requirements that helped make this possible. Her attention to detail and persistence played a major role in securing this opportunity for Decatur County students.
.
We also want to recognize our incredible cafeteria managers and cafeteria staff across the district. You all are truly superstars! Day after day, you go far beyond what is expected. You serve our students with kindness, care, and compassion, and it does not go unnoticed. The impact you make reaches far beyond the cafeteria line, and we are deeply thankful for each of you.
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Director of Schools Melinda Thompson shared:
“We are extremely excited to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students for the 2026–27 school year. We know proper nutrition plays a vital role in student success, and this will help support families across our county. We are incredibly thankful for Mrs. Sherry Boroughs and our cafeteria teams for the hard work they put in every single day to care for our students. Their dedication truly makes a difference.”
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At Decatur County Schools, we remain committed to supporting students academically, emotionally, and physically — because every student matters, every day.
Reminder:
The Decatur County School System is seeking applicants for a Science Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year.
Only applicants with a current Tennessee teacher license with an endorsement in Secondary Science Grades 6-12 will be considered for the position.
Applications may be either:
- Filled out and submitted online here: https://forms.gle/8j4BhWxAVTGNBezDA
- Or picked up at the Board of Education Office and sent to Hugh Smith, Personnel Supervisor, at Decatur County Board of Education, 59 West Main Street, Decaturville, TN 38329, or emailed to hugh.smith@decaturschools.org.
The deadline for submitting an application is Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
Only applicants with a current Tennessee teacher license with an endorsement in Secondary Science Grades 6-12 will be considered for the position.
Applications may be either:
- Filled out and submitted online here: https://forms.gle/8j4BhWxAVTGNBezDA
- Or picked up at the Board of Education Office and sent to Hugh Smith, Personnel Supervisor, at Decatur County Board of Education, 59 West Main Street, Decaturville, TN 38329, or emailed to hugh.smith@decaturschools.org.
The deadline for submitting an application is Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
The Decatur County School System is seeking applicants for a Mathematics teacher for Grades 6-12 for the 2026-2027 school year.
Only applicants with a current Tennessee teacher license with an endorsement in Mathematics 6-12, 7-12, or 6-10 will be considered for the position.
Applications may be either:
- Filled out and submitted online here: https://forms.gle/8j4BhWxAVTGNBezDA
- Or picked up at the Board of Education Office and sent to Hugh Smith, Personnel Supervisor, at Decatur County Board of Education, 59 West Main Street, Decaturville, TN 38329, or emailed to hugh.smith@decaturschools.org.
The deadline for submitting an application is Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
Only applicants with a current Tennessee teacher license with an endorsement in Mathematics 6-12, 7-12, or 6-10 will be considered for the position.
Applications may be either:
- Filled out and submitted online here: https://forms.gle/8j4BhWxAVTGNBezDA
- Or picked up at the Board of Education Office and sent to Hugh Smith, Personnel Supervisor, at Decatur County Board of Education, 59 West Main Street, Decaturville, TN 38329, or emailed to hugh.smith@decaturschools.org.
The deadline for submitting an application is Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
From Decaturville to Washington, D.C.!
We are beyond thrilled to share some incredible news. Selena Ni has been named the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Tennessee’s 7th District!
Congressional staff visited RHS to officially collect Selena’s masterpiece. Her painting is now headed to Washington, D.C., where it will be professionally framed and displayed in the U.S. Capitol Complex for an entire year!!
This June, Selena and her parents will be flown to our nation's capital for a prestigious awards banquet to celebrate this achievement alongside winners from across the country.
Being selected for this is a massive honor, and we couldn’t be prouder to have Selena representing our school and our state on a national stage. Swipe to see the winning artwork and the moment it began its journey to D.C.! Congratulations, Selena!
We are beyond thrilled to share some incredible news. Selena Ni has been named the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Tennessee’s 7th District!
Congressional staff visited RHS to officially collect Selena’s masterpiece. Her painting is now headed to Washington, D.C., where it will be professionally framed and displayed in the U.S. Capitol Complex for an entire year!!
This June, Selena and her parents will be flown to our nation's capital for a prestigious awards banquet to celebrate this achievement alongside winners from across the country.
Being selected for this is a massive honor, and we couldn’t be prouder to have Selena representing our school and our state on a national stage. Swipe to see the winning artwork and the moment it began its journey to D.C.! Congratulations, Selena!
NOTICE RHS and DCMS:
Decatur County Schools Safety Update
Decatur County Schools is proud to announce the addition of OpenGate Weapons Detection Systems for the 2026–2027 school year as part of our ongoing commitment to safety.
OpenGate is a nationally recognized leader in school safety technology and is endorsed by both the U.S. Secret Service and the National Security Agency (NSA) for quality and reliability. These systems are already in use at Rutherford County Schools (Murfreesboro, TN), Lewis County Schools (Hohenwald, TN), Coffee County Schools (Manchester, TN), and Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
📅 Launching Friday, May 8
📍 Riverside High School & Decatur County Middle School
(Additional schools will be added at a later date.)
As we begin implementation, students and parents may notice slight delays during morning entry. To help ensure a smooth process, students may be asked to briefly hand items such as laptops, binders, or large tumblers to staff as they pass through the system.
Mr. Hugh Smith, Safety Supervisor, shared:
“We appreciate the leadership and vision of Mrs. Melinda Thompson, Director of Schools, and the Decatur County Board of Education for their investment in school safety. The OpenGate Weapons Detection System will provide an additional layer of protection, strengthening our overall security at each school. Students, parents, and staff can rest assured knowing that our School Leadership Team is committed to making school safety and learning our top priority.”
Our goal remains clear:
A safe and secure learning environment for every student, every day.
We appreciate your cooperation and continued support as we implement this important safety measure.
🔗 Learn more about OpenGate:
https://k12.ceia-usa.com/opengate/
Decatur County Schools Safety Update
Decatur County Schools is proud to announce the addition of OpenGate Weapons Detection Systems for the 2026–2027 school year as part of our ongoing commitment to safety.
OpenGate is a nationally recognized leader in school safety technology and is endorsed by both the U.S. Secret Service and the National Security Agency (NSA) for quality and reliability. These systems are already in use at Rutherford County Schools (Murfreesboro, TN), Lewis County Schools (Hohenwald, TN), Coffee County Schools (Manchester, TN), and Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
📅 Launching Friday, May 8
📍 Riverside High School & Decatur County Middle School
(Additional schools will be added at a later date.)
As we begin implementation, students and parents may notice slight delays during morning entry. To help ensure a smooth process, students may be asked to briefly hand items such as laptops, binders, or large tumblers to staff as they pass through the system.
Mr. Hugh Smith, Safety Supervisor, shared:
“We appreciate the leadership and vision of Mrs. Melinda Thompson, Director of Schools, and the Decatur County Board of Education for their investment in school safety. The OpenGate Weapons Detection System will provide an additional layer of protection, strengthening our overall security at each school. Students, parents, and staff can rest assured knowing that our School Leadership Team is committed to making school safety and learning our top priority.”
Our goal remains clear:
A safe and secure learning environment for every student, every day.
We appreciate your cooperation and continued support as we implement this important safety measure.
🔗 Learn more about OpenGate:
https://k12.ceia-usa.com/opengate/
💙💛 School Lunch Hero Day – May 1, 2026 💛💙
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Today, we proudly celebrate the incredible cafeteria teams across Decatur County Schools—our true School Lunch Heroes!
Each day, these amazing individuals do so much more than prepare meals. They work hard to make sure our students are served food that is not only nutritious, but yummy—meals that students look forward to and enjoy.
But what makes them truly special is the way they care for our children. From warm smiles and kind words to creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere in the cafeteria, they go above and beyond to make every student feel seen, valued, and cared for.
Across every school in our system, our cafeteria teams work together seamlessly—not just with one another, but alongside teachers, staff, and administrators—to ensure that every child is fed, supported, and ready to learn.
Their teamwork, dedication, and heart do not go unnoticed. They are a vital part of our schools and our community.
Thank you for serving with heart and making a difference every single day!
#SchoolLunchHeroDay #DecaturCountySchools #WhereEverybodyIsSomebody
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Today, we proudly celebrate the incredible cafeteria teams across Decatur County Schools—our true School Lunch Heroes!
Each day, these amazing individuals do so much more than prepare meals. They work hard to make sure our students are served food that is not only nutritious, but yummy—meals that students look forward to and enjoy.
But what makes them truly special is the way they care for our children. From warm smiles and kind words to creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere in the cafeteria, they go above and beyond to make every student feel seen, valued, and cared for.
Across every school in our system, our cafeteria teams work together seamlessly—not just with one another, but alongside teachers, staff, and administrators—to ensure that every child is fed, supported, and ready to learn.
Their teamwork, dedication, and heart do not go unnoticed. They are a vital part of our schools and our community.
Thank you for serving with heart and making a difference every single day!
#SchoolLunchHeroDay #DecaturCountySchools #WhereEverybodyIsSomebody
