West Carroll Recognizes SOAR Students
From the Nov 25, 2025 e-Edition
TREZEVANT — West Carroll Elementary School faculty continue their tradition of celebrating outstanding students through the SOAR Awards program. This program recognizes students who exemplify the school’s core values of Safety, Ownership, Achievement and Respect. Each week, students are honored for their academic effort, positive character and meaningful contributions to the school community.
The Week 11 SOAR Award was presented to Whitley White, a fourth grader who earned the highest number of dojo points for the week.
Mrs. Beth Hysmith said, “Whitley has been working really hard and always tries her best. She takes her time on assignments, checks her work and asks for help when she needs it. I’ve seen so much growth from her in the last few weeks, and this previous one was one of her best. While tackling division, she worked out problems carefully and made sure to ask for help when she needed it while still being independent.”
For Week 12, the award was given to Sapphire McMinn, also a fourth grader recognized for her impressive dojo points.
Mrs. Hysmith said, “Sapphire is always excited to learn each and every day. She tackles new concepts with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. She is kind and helpful to both her classmates and her teacher. During group work, you can always hear her facilitating good group discussion with her tablemates.”
In addition to the weekly winners, teachers and staff selected one student for recognition across both weeks. This honor went to Carly Willis, a fifth grader admired for her character and classroom engagement.
Fifth-grade teacher Mrs. Beth Bridges said, “Carly has the sweetest personality. She is kind to everyone, especially her teachers. In class, she is always paying attention and participating in discussions. She is a very special student to have in class, and we are blessed for it.”
Through its SOAR Awards, West Carroll Elementary School faculty proudly highlight the achievements and positive contributions of their students, inspiring them to serve as role models for their peers.
In the e-Edition
McKenzie Banner November 25, 2025
Nov 25, 2025 · Read the full issue →
Related Stories

Huntingdon Town Council to Consider Contract for Tennis/Pickleball Courts
HUNTINGDON — Huntingdon is set to significantly enhance its recreational offerings with the approval of a grant application for a new tennis and pickleball complex. In March, the town council authorized the submission of the 2026 Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF) grant…
Aug 25, 2026

Fun at the Sweet Tea Festival
McKENZIE (August 22) — The Sweet Tea Festival rocked downtown McKenzie over the weekend, with vendors and entertainers taking over Banner Row, Broadway Street and parts of Main Street and Cedar Street.
Aug 24, 2026
USPS Drafts Policy for Mail-in Ballots
WASHINGTON (August 2026) — A federal rule overhaul by the United States Postal Service could radically change how mail-in ballots are processed in federal elections, assuming it survives an ongoing firestorm in federal court.
Aug 24, 2026

Long Heights Baptist Church Pays Off Mortgage
McKENZIE (August 24) — Long Heights Baptist Church in McKenzie has paid off its mortgage. The church celebrated the occasion with a note-burning ceremony Sunday morning, concluded with four baptisms.
Aug 24, 2026
