West Carroll Approves New Budget

ATWOOD (September 4) — West Carroll Special School District has a new budget, and Preston Caldwell, director of schools, has an extension of his contract for 2.5 years following the September 4 meeting of the Board of Education.

The nearly $12 million budget is as follows: General Purpose Fund $9,876,654; Cafeteria $799,449; Debt Service $410,600; and $900,00 from federal funds.

The budget also includes $800,000 for ongoing renovations at West Carroll Primary School and another $800,000 for renovations at West Carroll Elementary School in Trezevant in the summer of 2026.

In the annual election of board officers, board members chose to retain the same office holders.

Chairman - William Robinson, Vice-Chairman - Jeremy Jackson, Secretary - Kelly Wagner, and legislative representative - Betty Wallace.

The Board also accepted the resignation of Brittany Fowler, the director of technology at the school. Fowler has accepted a position with the Jackson Energy Authority as the training and development specialist.

Mrs. Fowler started her career in 2007 at West Carroll as a teacher’s assistant, and over the years, she worked with students, families, and colleagues who all became ‘like family to me,’ said Fowler. She noted her love for education was founded by many of her own teachers - Mrs. Pam Joyner, Mrs. Betty Welch, Mrs. Rutha Williams, and Mrs. Pam Bryant, all of whom taught her the value of hard work, high expectations, and meaningful relationships.

“Although my path is taking me in a new direction, my love for this community and my commitment to supporting its young people will never change. I am deeply grateful for the encouragement, love, and support I have received and I look forward to the many ways I can continue to serve in the days ahead,” concluded Mrs. Fowler.

The board approved a field trip for the girls’ basketball team to travel to Panama City, Florida. FFA members were approved for a trip to Indianapolis, Indiana on the first of two readings. FFA instructor Noah Rogers said students would meet agribusiness leaders, tour industrial farms, and network with colleges that offer agricultural programs. The trip is October 28-31.

Chris Hayden, attorney for the board, said the Tennessee attorney general issued a memo that suppliers of textbooks had improperly charged some smaller school districts higher rates than the larger school districts. The costs are to be equal, regardless of the size of the order. West Carroll could possibly receive a refund for being overcharged for textbooks.

Each of the three principals gave updates of the schools and their students.

Dr. Adam Douglas, principal of West Carroll Junior/Senior High stated the school has made significant improvements in math. He noted the Teacher Academy to mentor new teachers is going well. Also, he announced the school will have a tailgate party ahead of the September 26 football game.