Stewart's Creek Middle School wins inaugural March Madness reading challenge trophy

During the recent Board of Education meeting held on April 24, 2025, Rutherford County Schools celebrated significant achievements in literacy and recognized outstanding educators and students within the district.

One of the highlights of the meeting was a heartfelt presentation by Chris Collins, a senior at Rockville High School, who shared his passion for reading and the impact of school libraries on students. Collins enthusiastically recommended popular series like "One Punch Man" and "Bleach," emphasizing how these books have engaged him and fostered a love for reading. His testimony underscored the vital role that libraries play in nurturing young readers and encouraging literacy among students.

The meeting also honored several educators for their exceptional contributions. Rachel Hibbs Hibden, librarian at Rocky Fork Middle School, received the Excellence in Computer Science Award from the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network. Carissa Benton from La Verne High School was recognized nationally for teaching excellence by the National Education Association, while Katie Raffes from Barfield Elementary was named Rutherford County's Elementary Level Teacher of the Year.

In a spirited celebration of reading, Stewart's Creek Middle School was awarded the inaugural March Madness Reading Challenge trophy after logging nearly 300,000 minutes of reading in March. The competition, designed to engage middle school students, saw impressive participation, with 140 students meeting or exceeding their reading goals. Librarian Stacy Whitlock highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of reading and literacy, noting that reading is essential across all subjects and contributes to academic success.

The meeting concluded with the recognition of Brad Decker, principal of Oakland Middle School, who was honored for his dedication to student welfare. A parent praised Decker for his proactive support during their child's transition to middle school, showcasing the compassionate leadership that characterizes the district's educators.

These discussions and recognitions reflect Rutherford County Schools' commitment to enhancing literacy, supporting educators, and fostering a nurturing environment for all students. The board's initiatives aim to strengthen community ties and ensure that every student has the resources and support they need to thrive academically.