MSSD Celebrates Teachers

McKENZIE (May 4) — The McKenzie Special School District (MSSD) celebrated its second annual Appreciation Banquet at the Tennessee National Guard Armory, honoring administrators, faculty, and staff for their outstanding service in education. The event served as an end-of-year celebration for the district, with attendees including administrators, members of the school board, faculty, staff, and other guests.

Dr. Justin Barden, Director of Schools, offered thanks for another successful year. The banquet, catered by Mallard’s Restaurant in Huntingdon, recognized key individuals across the district.

Teachers and Staff of the Year Recognized

Teachers of the Year honored were Chris Wall (McKenzie Elementary School), Megan Broyles (McKenzie Middle School), and Gina Pate (McKenzie High School). Support staff members recognized included Jessica Rhodes-Rogers (McKenzie Elementary School), Kevin Beck (McKenzie Middle School), and Jennifer Travis (McKenzie High School).

Retirees and Service Milestones

Retiring faculty and staff were also honored: Veda Haney (34 years of service), Kathy Barcroft (25 years), and Greg Jones (eight years).

Years-of-service pins were presented for milestone anniversaries, led by Paula Doster with 35 years and Malissa Anderson with 30 years. Other honorees included Tonya Brown (25 years); Amanda Oakley, Rebecca Jones, and Bess Toombs (20 years); Karlene Ellis-Brown, Amanda Morris, Kelly Simmons, Josephine Wright, and Frankie Brockman (15 years); and Josie Brown, Lauren Flannery, Alex Hayes, and Lori Robertson (10 years). Tracie Baker, Gale Edwards, Hunter Herrin, Daphne Jackson, Jordan Jowers, Kim Lowe, Megan Wortham, and Brittany Morgan were recognized for five years of service.

Academic Honors and Gifts

Teachers who earned Tennessee Value Added Assessment System (TVAAS) honors were recognized. Level 5 honorees included Paula Doster, Janet Esch, Mary Spivey, and Josephine Wright. Level 4 honors went to Courtney Kee and David Hochretier.

The event concluded with door prizes from area businesses, ensuring that every teacher and staff member received a gift selected through a random drawing.