Weakley County Schools honors October feature teachers
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
MARTIN, Tenn., (KBSI) — Weakley County Schools has announced its October 2025 Feature Teachers, recognizing two outstanding educators for their commitment to purpose, connection, and growth in the classroom.
This month’s honorees are Kristi Parsley from Sharon School, representing the Pre-K–5th grade band, and Natalie McConnell from Westview High School, representing grades 6–12. Both teachers were surprised by cheers from colleagues and students as they were presented with the district’s traveling six-foot “Feature Teacher” trophy — a symbol of teaching excellence passed to new recipients each month.
At Sharon School, Mrs. Parsley is celebrated for her creativity and ability to make learning engaging and meaningful. Her lessons emphasize collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world application. After reading Wangari Maathai: The Woman Who Planted Millions of Trees, Parsley purchased a tree for her students to plant — connecting literature to hands-on learning.
“Mrs. Kristi is consistently creating amazing lessons that allow students to take ownership of their learning while encouraging higher-level thinking and problem solving,” said Dr. Michelle Clements, principal of Sharon School. “She not only grows students academically but connects with them personally. Her care and compassion make an incredible impact on our school family.”
At Westview High School, Mrs. McConnell is being honored for her leadership and dedication to professional development. After attending ACT Instructional Mastery workshops this summer, she organized an after-school session to share strategies with other English teachers across the district.
“Mrs. McConnell identified a need and took it upon herself to fill it,” said Delana Smith, assistant principal at Westview. “She invested her own time to deepen her understanding and then went above and beyond by sharing her knowledge with others. That kind of initiative shows how deeply she cares—not just about her students but about helping all Weakley County students and teachers succeed.”
Betsi Foster, assistant director of schools, commended both educators for exemplifying the district’s values.
“Mrs. Parsley and Mrs. McConnell are shining examples of what makes Weakley County Schools special,” Foster said. “Mrs. Parsley’s creativity and compassion make learning joyful, and Mrs. McConnell’s leadership and collaboration lift everyone around her. Their work reflects the purpose, connection, and growth that drive our schools forward.”
The district will feature both educators in upcoming stories and on Weakley County Schools’ social media platforms.
Weakley County Schools celebrates teachers who inspire curiosity, kindness, and lifelong learning in their classrooms — proving that great teaching not only transforms education but strengthens communities.
For more information, visit Home | Weakley County Schools.
