Rutherford County Schools

Warrior weather club the first in Tennessee Riverdale High School’s Warrior WX club the first in the State of Tennessee to be an official Pre-College Chapter of the American Meteorological Society March 26, 2026 By CORY ANN MICHEL Rutherford County Schools Since December 2024, Riverdale algebra II and statistics teacher, Justin McClain, has led Warrior WX Club, which seeks to educate and involve students in the science of weather and meteorology. By immersing students in a variety of activities, opportunities and organizations, the club not only provides students with a space to learn about meteorology, but it also encourages them in the importance of weather safety and preparedness. McClain describes having a passion and interest in meteorology since he was a child. Spending much of his free time watching The Weather Channel, he was deeply intrigued by forecasts and radar imagery. In 2023, he earned his teacher certification with the American Meteorological Society. Once completed, he spearheaded Riverdale opening its chapter of AMS. “The students love our club,” McClain said. “We have lots of fun learning and growing.” To learn more about the Warrior WX club, visit: rcschools.net/apps/news/arti…

School Board meeting livestreaming at 5:30 p.m. here: youtube.com/watch?v=DogM74…

♟️🏆️ Congratulations to the Oakland High School chess team on winning the fourth annual Rutherford County Chess Tournament! In addition to the team championship, OHS senior Henry Hathaway took home the individual title. Students from Central, LaVergne, Rockvale, Riverdale and Smyrna competed over three meets throughout the year, with some games taking more than an hour to complete. A total of six rounds were played at Oakland, Riverdale and Rockvale to determine the winners.

🚨Choice School applications due April 1🚨 Families interested in applying for a choice seat for the 2026-27 school year have until apply. A secondary lottery was opened for any remaining available seats following the original Jan. 31 deadline. Visit rcschools.net/choice for more details.

LaVergne High School’s logo to be featured on all police patrol vehicles in community-driven redesign Collaboration between school and city leaders highlights unified student commitment March 25, 2026 By BARTON HENLEY Rutherford County Schools La Vergne Police Department has unveiled a new patrol vehicle design that will feature the LaVergne High School “L” logo on every squad car moving forward, underscoring a citywide commitment to community partnership and student support. The redesign was led by La Vergne Police Department officers, whose vision helped bring the concept to life in collaboration with school and city leadership. LaVergne High School Principal Dr. Theowauna Hatchett, head football and track coach Christopher Johnson and Police Chief Christopher Moews were instrumental in advancing the effort from idea to implementation. District leaders said the initiative reflects the impact of strong partnerships between schools, local government and public safety. “Today’s ceremony reflected the partnership we aim to build with our schools and local community — grounded in shared ownership and commitment to strengthen the places we serve,” RCS Deputy Director Kay Martin said. The unveiling event drew strong student participation, with members of the cheerleading squad, band and dance team attending and performing in support of the new design. Mayor Jason Cole also spoke during the event, emphasizing the significance of the initiative as a reflection of La Vergne’s investment in its schools and its future. As the updated vehicles begin to roll out, the design will serve not only as a public safety presence, but also as a symbol of unity — reinforcing the connection between La Vergne Police Department, LaVergne High School and the broader community. @WlvnNews @LaVergne37086

Once a student, Dr. Jessica Supakhan returning to Holloway High School as principal Holloway graduate to lead Rutherford County Virtual School, alma mater simultaneously March 25, 2026 By MEALAND RAGLAND-HUDGINS Rutherford County Schools Dr. Jessica Supakhan, founding principal of Rutherford County Virtual School, has been named the next principal of Holloway High School, Director of Schools Dr. Jimmy Sullivan announced Wednesday.  Supakhan will continue her duties as principal of the Virtual School, which is also located on Holloway’s campus. “Dr. Supakhan has done an exceptional job leading one of the most successful virtual schools in the state. Virtual education is a unique landscape, and her leadership ensures RCVS continues to thrive and evolve,” Sullivan said. “In addition, Dr. Supakhan has strong ties to Holloway. With both schools sharing one campus, she is uniquely positioned to lead both. She is deeply committed to each school and will continue building a strong foundation for our virtual school while highlighting the opportunities Holloway provides.” She succeeds Sumatra Drayton, who will retire at the end of the current school year. Prior to RCVS opening in 2020, Supakhan taught business and marketing at Holloway for 11 years. She also taught at Central Middle School. She is a graduate of Holloway — a member of the class of 2000. Supakhan said being able to lead her alma mater is “incredibly special.” “(Holloway) has truly helped shape who I am. Being given the opportunity to return and serve as principal is both humbling and exciting,” she said. “It is also a unique privilege to lead two choice schools on one campus, where we are able to meet students in different ways while still building one strong, connected community. “I am thankful to Dr. Sullivan for trusting me with this responsibility, and I truly believe God has blessed me with the opportunity to lead and serve both of these schools,” Supakhan said. As a high school student, Holloway was the community Supakhan needed. While in elementary school, she moved to Tennessee from Michigan with her mother and older sister after her parents divorced. The transition was a difficult and busy one, as Supakhan’s mother began working and attending classes at Middle Tennessee State University. By the time high school came, attending a large comprehensive high school turned out not to be the best fit for Supakhan and her sister – also a Rutherford County Schools educator. While searching for a solution, they learned about Holloway. After meeting with then-principal Ivan Duggin, they decided it was home. “What I remember most about being at Holloway as a student is how deeply connected everyone was. It was a family and every student got personal attention. The teachers knew us all by name and learned all they could about us,” Supakhan said. --- Supakhan recognizes RCVS and Holloway each fill important and different needs for Rutherford County Schools community. Rutherford County Virtual School serves approximately 400 students in grades 3-12, with approximately 250 high school students and 130 middle school students. Plans for RCVS were in place prior to the COVID-19 pandemic as the district saw a need to provide flexible options for students to thrive in a non-traditional school setting. Holloway High has a rich history and legacy. The school was dedicated in December of 1929 in the heart of Murfreesboro’s Black community. Notable graduates include James Scott and Walter Swafford, who applied to attend MTSU following the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education 1954 ruling that prompted the Supreme Court to ban segregation. In 1962, Holloway grad Olivia Murray Woods was admitted to the university and became the university’s first Black graduate three years later. “Holloway is special to a lot of people in this community and being able to lead it is kind of surreal,” said Supakhan, who also served as the school’s dean of students before leading RCVS. “Having either learned from or worked alongside each of the last three Holloway principals, I carry a deep respect for the legacy they have built. It is important to me to continue that work in a way that would make them proud, while also honoring the traditions and sense of purpose that make Holloway so special,” she added. While teaching at Holloway, Supakhan coordinated day-long field trips for students, introducing them to places around the country they’d never visited or even knew existed, including Chicago, Boston and Washington, D.C. Similarly, RCVS offers Connection Fridays, allowing families to go on school-wide field trips. Activities have included ice skating and visiting farms. Middle school students have a spring dance and the high school prom is open to grades 9-12. “In each case, it’s all about giving them opportunities to do things they wouldn’t normally do. Many virtual schools don’t give students in-person opportunities,” she said. “It all goes back to being a family, making sure everyone belongs and feels valued.” Applications to attend Holloway High and the Rutherford County Virtual School are accepted year-round. Learn more at rcschools.net/choice.

🏥🩺 Calling future healthcare professionals! Smyrna High School will host Inside the Industry: Healthcare Spotlight for students and families interested in exploring healthcare careers. Coordinated by Rutherford Works, the event takes place from 4:30-7:45 p.m. Tuesday, April 7 at Smyrna High School, 100 Bulldog Drive. During the event, industry professionals will share insights about traditional and emerging career opportunities, while representatives from post-secondary institutions detail their programs. Families will also be able to visit Rutherford County Schools’ new, state-of-the-art Mobile Learning Lab focused on healthcare.

🥇💼 Students from Rutherford County Schools showcased their talent, leadership, and business acumen at the Tennessee DECA State Career Development Conference (SCDC) held from February 24-27, 2026, at the Chattanooga Convention Center. DECA, a premier career and technical student organization (CTSO), prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Students from Blackman, Central Magnet School, Eagleville, LaVergne, Oakland, Riverdale, Rockvale, Siegel, Smyrna, and Stewarts Creek High schools attended the conference, competing in various events, participating in leadership training, and serving as voting delegates. Their hard work and dedication earned them numerous awards and recognitions across multiple categories. Award winners will advance to the international competition next month.  Read more about this year's conference: rcschools.net/apps/news/arti…

‼️REGISTRATION ENDS FRIDAY‼️ Rutherford County Schools will offer summer camps in June for current students entering grades K-9. This is a free, fun opportunity for students to sharpen their skills and prepare for the year ahead. 📆 Registration ends Friday, March 27 📚️ Camp in session June 2-30 (Monday-Thursday only) 🍎 Breakfast and lunch provided daily 🚍️ Transportation available Contact your child's school to register. Space is limited, and parents will be notified by their school if their student has been accepted.  Details: rcschools.net/apps/pages/ind…

School Board work session livestreaming at 5:30 p.m. here: youtube.com/watch?v=rw1T4j…

Stewarts Creek High School served as Tennessee’s host site for the “History Rocks! Trail to Independence” tour, a nationwide initiative celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States through engaging, student-centered history experiences. As part of the tour, one high school in each state is selected to host an event featuring distinguished speakers and interactive activities designed to promote civic understanding. Today’s program included remarks from Katie Gorka, Senior Advisor for Civic Education at the U.S. Department of Education, and Jason Zajac, President and CEO of the Andrew Jackson Foundation. Students participated in a ceremony featuring interactive, American history-themed games. Using signs displaying the Tennessee and United States flags, students engaged in friendly competition as they responded to a series of history-based questions. Guests from the U.S. Department of Education also visited the school’s band, broadcasting and history classes, providing students with additional opportunities to engage with leaders in civic education.

Hundreds of 5th-12th grade Rutherford County School students presented STEM Research, Engineering, Technology, and Agricultural STEM projects during Monday night's 8th Annual RCS STEM Expo, held in the MTSU Student Union Ballroom. #MTSU @rucoschools

RCS hosts annual structured setting prom for students across the district Annual event brings together 200+ students and staff from all eight high schools, offering a fully funded, supported prom experience during the school day RCS Structured Setting Prom, a tradition for more than 15 years, continues to provide a supportive experience for students across Rutherford County. The event is held during the school day to ensure students have access to the assistance they need. This year’s prom welcomed about 215 attendees, including students, teachers and educational assistants from all eight high schools in the county. The event is fully funded through donations, so no student has to pay. Smyrna Ready Mix, John Jones Realty, Charlie Davidson, and Jackie Mills provided financial support, while Jo’s Custom Cakes donated cupcakes and RJ’s Party Animals contributed a large balloon arch. Street Tuxedo supplied 71 tuxedos, requiring only a cleaning fee, and a Mobile DJ donated professional services. Five Rutherford County Schools nurses were on-site to assist students who needed extra support. School resource officers ensured a safe environment while also joining students on the dance floor. Siegel High School’s Student Council also helped support this year’s event. The prom was started more than 15 years ago by a Siegel teacher, Amanda Turnbow, who wanted structured setting students to have a prom experience similar to their peers. Today, it remains a collaborative effort among RCS high schools, ensuring all students can celebrate together. More photos here: facebook.com/share/p/1J3RF7…

🎉🎯🏆️ On the Mark: RCS Archery captures 12 individual, team state championships Congratulations to Christiana Elementary, Rockvale Middle and Riverdale High for bringing home team titles in the bullseye and 3D contests at the National Archery in the Schools Program’s 18th Tennessee Championships! Rutherford County Schools’ archery programs combined for 12 team and individual titles championships. Held last week at MTSU's Miller Coliseum, the tournament field included more than 1,900 students from 88 schools across the state. The tournament is hosted by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, which has offered archery in schools since 2004. The top five teams/individuals will advance to the national championships in May, as will automatic bid qualifiers. A list of the top RCS finishers in each division is available at rcschools.net/apps/news/arti….

DON'T FORGET: RCS STEM Expo is tomorrow! Learn more here: trst.in/1g2Mi5

Congrats on an incredible season, Eagles! Eagleville boys basketball lost to Humboldt in Friday’s 1A matchup at The BlueCross Basketball Championships at MTSU’s Murphy Center. Humboldt hits a last second three pointer to end the Eagles historic run. Final score was 65-62. Head coach Davy McClaran coached the Eagles to a 32-1 season. Eagleville’s Camden Cole led the team to an undefeated regular season and also finished as a finalist for the Class 1A Mr. Basketball award. Cole finished with 24 points and fouled out late in the fourth quarter. Incredible run for the Eagles. #BlueCrossHoops

One of our favorite days of the year 👔🫶👗 Rutherford County Schools hosted its annual Structured Setting Prom during the school day at the Smyrna Event Center, giving students across the district the opportunity to come together and celebrate in a setting designed specifically for them. Thank you to our sponsors for making the event possible: Charlie Davidson Realtor, Jackie R. Mills the Veteran Realtor, Jo’s Custom Cakes & Catering, John Jones Real Estate, Mid South Mobile DJ’s, RJ’s Party Animals TN, SRM Concrete and WT Simple Furniture.

🦅🏀 GAME DAY: Eagleville boys basketball takes on Humboldt at 7:15 p.m. Friday in a Class 1A semifinal matchup at The BlueCross Basketball Championships at MTSU’s Murphy Center. Follow the game: trst.in/BKZydq #BlueCrossHoops

As a reminder, RCS will be hosting a Transition Fair on Saturday. This event is for families of students with disabilities where they are able to meet with local agencies, potential employers, and learn about special needs resources available. For more information contact morganc@rcschools.net or wiset@rcschools.net.

🦅🏀 On to the semis! Eagleville boys basketball (32-0) defeated Pickett County (30-5) 69-64 in Thursday’s Class 1A matchup at The BlueCross Basketball Championships at MTSU’s Murphy Center. Seniors Camden Cole and James Bega led the Eagles with 24 points each. NEXT GAME: 7:15 p.m. Friday vs the winner of Unaka-Humboldt. #BlueCrossHoops