By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–Participating in the second-ever class of WestTeach was a win-win experience for Union City Middle School teacher Lindsay Walker.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my WestTeach experience and believe it will help me to better prepare my students for high school and after graduation,” said the computer applications instructor. “We are fortunate to have so many amazing industries that invest in the future of our students right here in West Tennessee, and I was able to see that firsthand.
“I made many lasting friendships through my experience, and I am excited to bring back the things I have learned to my classroom.”
Walker and her teacher classmates from 17 West Tennessee counties took part in a five-day development program that gave those involved an insight into area economic needs and opportunities and also was designed to build links with industry and community leaders.
The mission of WestTeach is to encourage and equip West Tennessee teachers with tools and leadership skills necessary for success in and outside the classroom. The program is a byproduct of WestStar.
Sessions included West Tennessee Agriculture, with two days spent in Obion and Weakley counties in August; The Humanity of Leadership in Jackson (Sept. 24); Education: Creating Partnerships for Economic Development (Oct. 29) in Dyersburg; and, to wrap it all up, a day (Nov. 26) in Brownsville where Industry Tours/Building Communities was on the agenda.
Guest speakers and tours made up each stop of the program.
Walker’s principal at UCMS, Lance Morgan, nominated her for the program based on her leadership achievements and potential to contribute to the region’s educational system. She is a 2002 graduate of Union City High School and is in her fifth year of teaching in the school system.
The program was open to West Tennessee teachers in Grades K-12 who aspire to be leaders in their schools and communities.
A graduation ceremony was held Tuesday in Jackson for the 22 teachers who participated. Dr. Charley Deal, executive director of Research, Outreach and Economic Development at UT Martin and Executive Director of WestStar Leadership, welcomed those in attendance before Dr. Keith Carver, chancellor at UTM, gave the keynote speech.
Class sponsors this year included Alexander, Thompson & Arnold, CPA; Love Worth Finding Ministries; Security Bank – Dyersburg; SIC Management; The TRANE Company; and West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation.