Reporter’s Note
Hey parents, educators and students: FOUR MORE DAYS UNTIL SPRING BREAK! But first, we have to get through a couple of important school board meetings this week. Remember to follow me on Twitter @memangrum this Thursday, while I live-tweet the board’s first budget meeting. It’s at 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 14. If you can, head out to the Hamilton County Department of Education, at 3074 Hickory Valley Road, and watch it live!
– Meghan
THIS WEEK IN EDUCATION NEWS
It’s been a busy couple of weeks for Hamilton County officials.
Last week, Tennessee’s new Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn made her first stop in Hamilton County. She visited several Hamilton County schools, met with a teacher advisory council and top district leaders, including Superintendent Bryan Johnson.
Schwinn also attended the third public meeting of the State Partnership Network Advisory Board. Remember, the network was the solution to a possible state takeover of five of the district’s worst-performing schools and includes Brainerd High, Dalewood Middle, Orchard Knob Elementary, Orchard Knob Middle and Woodmore Elementary.
Schwinn confirmed her commitment to the network and urged the advisory board, which includes seven community members, the state and the district, to “redefine” expectations.
The new commissioner’s visit was pretty private – reporters only had access to her during specified media times and there was some confusion about the notice given out for the advisory board meeting. So don’t be stressed if you missed it – the commissioner will be back and the Times Free Press will always ensure coverage of her visits.
Other news from last week includes a big announcement by BlueCross BlueShield, a partnership between the new Howard Connect Academy and NASA and a teacher sentenced to jail for having sex with a student.
Keep scrolling to read these stories and more!