West Carroll Educators Graduate from WestTeach

MARTIN (January 7) — Two educators from the West Carroll Special School District graduated from the University of Tennessee at Martin’s 2025 WestTeach Leadership Program on December 16. Leslie Booker, West Carroll Junior/Senior High School assistant principal, and Michelle Robinson, West Carroll Elementary School third and fourth grade visual arts teacher, were each members of WestTeach’s Class of 2025.

“Being selected for WestTeach is a tremendous honor, but more importantly, it serves as a bridge between our classrooms and the economic landscape of West Tennessee,” said Robinson. “The opportunity to collaborate with regional business leaders and educators provided a deeper understanding of the ‘soft skill’ gap, specifically in communication. By integrating these insights into my classes, I can connect student interests with real-world career trajectories. I am excited to serve as a conduit for these resources, bringing industry leaders and innovative programs directly to our students and families.”

WestTeach was created as a class project by the 2017 WestStar Leadership Program class to support teacher development. Annually, the program’s advisory council selects a new class following nominations by school superintendents and directors. West Tennessee teachers selected for the program learn about the region’s economic needs and opportunities and take this knowledge back to their classroom.

WestTeach participants are K-12 educators who aspire to remain in the classroom and are committed to serving as leaders within their schools and communities, and administrators whose job responsibilities involve direct classroom instruction. Participant selection is based on demonstrated leadership, professional achievements and potential to positively impact the region’s educational system.

Recruiting for the WestTeach 2026 cohort begins March 1, 2026, and classes begin in August.