Director of Schools shares school successes, honors longtime board member Rick Chadwick and announces seat vacancy

Director of Lenoir City Schools used the Feb. 12 meeting to share school news and to lead a tribute to the late longtime board member Rick Chadwick.

The director praised recent work in the district, noting progress on ELPA testing and crediting Rebecca Summers and Dr. Graves for developing an efficient schedule. The director also summarized upcoming events — STEM night, Valentine's dances, choir and band recognitions and a college and career expo attended by 42 community groups that yielded on-the-spot scholarships for students.

On the topic of staffing and scheduling the director said the district has used five snow days and has four remaining, and noted the legislature now allows up to five virtual days per semester. The director also recognized school counselors during School Counselors Week and led School Board Appreciation remarks.

The meeting included an extended tribute to Rick Chadwick. The director said Rick served the community for more than 30 years and welcomed "Miss Connie Chadwick" to the meeting, thanking her for being present. The director said the district plans to "celebrate Rick individually and his honor, his legacy in Lenoir City Schools," and that more information about those plans will be shared in the following week or two.

Board leadership announced the vacancy of Chadwick’s seat and said anyone interested in running will appear on the August and November ballots. Multiple speakers urged that prospective candidates be people who care about education and the school system rather than individuals seeking political advantage.

The director closed with multiple expressions of thanks to staff, teachers and the board for their work and support.