Charlie Scates: A Teacher’s Impact, A School’s History

Charles “Charlie” Scates has dedicated much of his life to education, both as a student and as a teacher. A native of Trezevant, he attended Webb High School, graduating in 1959. He continued his studies at Tennessee State University, earning his degree in English with distinction in 1963. His passion for education led him back to his alma mater, where he spent three years teaching before moving on to a long career in the Shelby County School System in Memphis.

Scates was honored for his contributions to Webb School during a ceremony on July 20, 2024. The event marked the school’s placement on the National Register of Historic Places, a testament to its lasting impact. It also featured his inclusion on the newly established Teacher’s Wall, a tribute to the educators who shaped generations of students.

Reflecting on his time at Webb, Scates recalls a school environment built on discipline and high expectations. “I went to high school at a time when discipline was one of the most important things in school. And believe me, we had that here,” he said. “We had a wonderful time. Students were always in line, and they prepared us well for college, a career, or the future.”

“The education we received was second to none. Our teachers cared about us and made sure we were prepared for whatever came next,” he said. Scates credits Webb’s rigorous academics and emphasis on respect for much of his later success.

After earning his degree, Scates returned to Webb High School as a teacher, where he embraced the opportunity to give back to the institution that shaped him. “It was one of the best experiences that I’ve ever had,” he said. “It was at a time when teaching was easy because there was so much discipline.”

“We were working at a time when students were getting more opportunities to go into different aspects of society. Webb did a wonderful job preparing students for the future.” During his tenure, Scates witnessed a period of great transition, as students began accessing broader opportunities in education and employment. “The discipline and values instilled in us at Webb gave students confidence to succeed beyond our small town,” he noted.

Although Scates has not been heavily involved with the Webb Alumni Association, he acknowledges the importance of their work. “They are doing a great job,” he said. “It’s interesting to know that so many years have passed since the school closed, and the organization is still functioning. That is something to be proud of.”

“The fact that people are still dedicated to honoring the legacy of Webb speaks volumes about what this school meant to its students,” he said. Throughout his life, Scates has remained a firm believer in Webb’s legacy of discipline, academic excellence, and life preparation.

“Almost everyone knows that Webb had a lot to do with the success of its students,” he said. “Going way back to the 1940s and 1950s, Webb prepared students in discipline, academics, and understanding what life is really about. Those of us who graduated from Webb are proud to say we attended this school.”

“It was a great place for me,” he said. “And I am proud to tell everyone that I graduated from Webb High School.”

“The friendships, the discipline, and the education we received made us who we are today,” he said. “It’s something that stays with you forever.”