Tate County Schools
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Independence High alumnae Amy Brownlee recently hosted Jamaya Jackson and A’niya Conard for an insightful job shadowing experience at Wright Counseling Group in Oxford. This opportunity allowed our students to explore the professional world of mental health and see the dedication required to support our community. We are grateful to Ms. Brownlee for mentoring the next generation of Wildcats and demonstrating the value of licensed professional counseling. These hands-on experiences are vital for students as they transition from the classroom to impactful careers. We are incredibly proud of Jamaya and A’niya for their commitment to exploring this essential field.
#WorkforceWednesday #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
#WorkforceWednesday #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Join us for Kindergarten Roundup, a special event designed to welcome our incoming students and their families. This is more than just paperwork—it’s the start of an amazing journey.
What to Expect:
• Meet the Teachers: Chat with our wonderful kindergarten team.
• Student "Show & Tell": Kids will have a chance to show off what they already know through fun, low-pressure activities.
• Easy Registration: Complete your student’s enrollment on the spot.
Event Details:
• When: Monday, April 27, 2026
• Time: 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
• Where: All Tate County Elementary Schools - East Tate Elementary, Coldwater Elementary, or Strayhorn Elementary
If you have a question about which school your child will attend, call 662-562-5861.
Please bring a copy of your child's birth certificate, immunization records, and proofs of residency to register. If you have any questions, contact your child’s school.
What to Expect:
• Meet the Teachers: Chat with our wonderful kindergarten team.
• Student "Show & Tell": Kids will have a chance to show off what they already know through fun, low-pressure activities.
• Easy Registration: Complete your student’s enrollment on the spot.
Event Details:
• When: Monday, April 27, 2026
• Time: 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
• Where: All Tate County Elementary Schools - East Tate Elementary, Coldwater Elementary, or Strayhorn Elementary
If you have a question about which school your child will attend, call 662-562-5861.
Please bring a copy of your child's birth certificate, immunization records, and proofs of residency to register. If you have any questions, contact your child’s school.
We are looking for the final key players to round out our roster for the upcoming school year! We are currently seeking dedicated, team-oriented professionals for the following positions:
📍 Open Positions:
• High School Social Studies Teacher
• High School Inclusion Teacher
📧 Have Questions? Reach out to Jaymee Jarrett or Stephen Beebe for more information.
📝 Ready to Apply? Submit your application here: https://activeapplicant.tcsdms.org/
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
📍 Open Positions:
• High School Social Studies Teacher
• High School Inclusion Teacher
📧 Have Questions? Reach out to Jaymee Jarrett or Stephen Beebe for more information.
📝 Ready to Apply? Submit your application here: https://activeapplicant.tcsdms.org/
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Meet David, an outstanding 4th grader at East Tate who shines as a positive role model. He consistently demonstrates respect, kindness, and responsibility while serving as a dependable and encouraging peer tutor for his classmates. By setting high goals and showing incredible perseverance, David proves that a strong work ethic leads to great success.
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Beginning on May 1, Students will no longer be able to charge for meals.
Funds can be added to the student accounts using check, cash, or myschoolbucks.com.
Funds can be added to the student accounts using check, cash, or myschoolbucks.com.
Senatobia Dental visited Coldwater Elementary to introduce our kindergarten students to the essential world of oral healthcare. Students explored the tools of the dental profession and learned how maintaining personal health is a foundational part of being a reliable professional. These early interactions help children understand the variety of career paths available within our local medical community. By connecting classroom lessons to real-world jobs, we empower our students to see themselves as future contributors to the workforce. We appreciate our local partners for investing time in the next generation of healthcare providers.
#workforcewednesday #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
#workforcewednesday #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Meet Sanaa Cummings. Sanaa is an exceptional student and an incredibly talented artist who lights up our hallways. Known for her kindness, she consistently treats every friend and teacher with genuine warmth and respect. Sanaa recently showcased her skills by placing 5th at State BETA in Hand-drawn Anime, and we are so proud that she will be competing at BETA Nationals this summer.
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
We had the opportunity to celebrate Strayhorn Elementary and their B Rating for the 2024-2025 school year!
To honor this milestone, our students and staff gathered for an Academic Pep Rally. This celebration highlighted the hard work, perseverance, and growth shown by our entire school community. We extend a sincere thank you to our educators and families for their unwavering support in reaching this goal.
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
To honor this milestone, our students and staff gathered for an Academic Pep Rally. This celebration highlighted the hard work, perseverance, and growth shown by our entire school community. We extend a sincere thank you to our educators and families for their unwavering support in reaching this goal.
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
We are looking for skilled, motivated individuals to join our district support staff. These vital roles keep our technology running and our students moving safely every day! We are currently hiring for the following positions:
📍 Open Positions:
• Information Technology Network & Systems Specialist
• Bus Shop Mechanic
Whether you are an expert behind a screen or under a hood, we want professionals who are dedicated to excellence and ready to support our schools. If you’re looking for a rewarding role in a collaborative environment, we want to hear from you!
📧 Have Questions? Reach out to Amy Williams for more information.
📝 Ready to Apply? Submit your application here: https://activeapplicant.tcsdms.org/
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
We welcomed Robert Black from Nashville Auto Diesel College to share valuable industry insights with our HVACR and Automotive students. He provided a comprehensive overview of admission requirements and available scholarship opportunities to help students fund their future education. Students explored the specific length of various programs and the diverse career paths waiting for them upon completion. These interactions are vital for bridging the gap between classroom learning and professional success in the trades. By connecting with experts, our students gain the clarity needed to become skilled and vital members of the local workforce.
#WorkforceWednesday #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
#WorkforceWednesday #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
It’s National Assistant Principal Appreciation Week! From elementary hallways to high school bleachers, these individuals are the backbone of our community. They handle the tough stuff with grace and cheer our students on to greatness!
A massive thank you to:
• British Conley – Coldwater Elementary
• Terrell Hayes – East Tate Elementary
• Selena Murphy – Strayhorn Elementary
• Paula Burnes – Independence High
• Jaymee Jarrett – Strayhorn High
To each of you: Thank you for keeping us safe, keeping us motivated, and keeping us laughing. You support our teachers and counselors behind the scenes and hype our students up in the spotlight. Our schools truly wouldn't be the same without you! #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
We are seeking compassionate and dedicated healthcare professionals to support the well-being of our students. We are currently hiring for the following positions:
📍 Open Positions:
• School Nurse – Strayhorn High School
• Nurse Assistant – Strayhorn Elementary
Our health staff plays a vital role in ensuring our students are healthy, safe, and ready to learn. If you are a motivated healthcare provider looking to make a difference in a school setting, we want to meet you!
📧 Have Questions? Reach out to Kristie Foster (kfoster@tcsdms.org) for more information.
📝 Ready to Apply? Submit your application here: https://activeapplicant.tcsdms.org/
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Meet Nathan, an exceptional student who consistently chooses to do the right thing every day. He is incredibly kind to everyone, stays focused on his tasks, and frequently helps his classmates master new skills. By sharing unique ways to solve math problems during class discussions, Nathan inspires his peers to think critically and succeed.
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Tate County Schools will be closed for Good Friday on April 3, 2026. School resumes on Monday, April 6, 2026.
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Strayhorn High School is seeking a dedicated educator to help lead our band and music program. We are looking for a team player who is passionate about student growth and musical excellence across all levels. Have Questions? Reach out to Jaymee Jarrett (jjarrett@tcsdms.org) at 662-562-9246 for more information.
📝 Ready to Apply? Submit your application here: https://activeapplicant.tcsdms.org/
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
📝 Ready to Apply? Submit your application here: https://activeapplicant.tcsdms.org/
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
We are looking for creative student designs to serve as the official postcards for the Tate County School District!
WINNERS WILL BE CHOSEN FROM 6 CATEGORIES:
• K-4 Hand drawn
• K-4 Digital
• 5-8 Hand drawn
• 5-8 Digital
• 9-12 Hand drawn
• 9-12 Digital
"OUR TATE COUNTY STORY"
What does being a student in Tate County mean to you?
Show us your school spirit, draw a favorite local landmark, depict what you love about your community, or show us why your school is special!
CONTEST GUIDELINES & RULES
To ensure your masterpiece can be printed professionally, please follow these rules strictly:
1. KEEP IT FLAT
Because these must be scanned flat for printing, please do not glue anything onto the paper.
• NO glitter, macaroni, cotton balls, or pop-up elements.
2. SIZE & SHAPE
• Use the official template for hand drawn submissions.
• Use 4x6 size if using Canva or other design programs.
• Landscape orientation (horizontal/sideways) is preferred!
3. ORIGINALITY
All work must be 100% original. Please do not include copyrighted characters (like Marvel, Disney, or cartoon characters).
HOW TO ENTER
IMPORTANT:
If hand drawn, clearly write:
• Student Full Name
• Grade Level
• School Name
If emailed, include the information in the body of the email.
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS:
April 2, 2026
Please turn your artwork into your school’s front office or email it to : rblackburn@tcsdms.org.
By submitting artwork, the student and guardian grant TCSD the rights to reproduce the image for district publications and social media. Original artwork will be returned after scanning.
WINNERS WILL BE CHOSEN FROM 6 CATEGORIES:
• K-4 Hand drawn
• K-4 Digital
• 5-8 Hand drawn
• 5-8 Digital
• 9-12 Hand drawn
• 9-12 Digital
"OUR TATE COUNTY STORY"
What does being a student in Tate County mean to you?
Show us your school spirit, draw a favorite local landmark, depict what you love about your community, or show us why your school is special!
CONTEST GUIDELINES & RULES
To ensure your masterpiece can be printed professionally, please follow these rules strictly:
1. KEEP IT FLAT
Because these must be scanned flat for printing, please do not glue anything onto the paper.
• NO glitter, macaroni, cotton balls, or pop-up elements.
2. SIZE & SHAPE
• Use the official template for hand drawn submissions.
• Use 4x6 size if using Canva or other design programs.
• Landscape orientation (horizontal/sideways) is preferred!
3. ORIGINALITY
All work must be 100% original. Please do not include copyrighted characters (like Marvel, Disney, or cartoon characters).
HOW TO ENTER
IMPORTANT:
If hand drawn, clearly write:
• Student Full Name
• Grade Level
• School Name
If emailed, include the information in the body of the email.
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS:
April 2, 2026
Please turn your artwork into your school’s front office or email it to : rblackburn@tcsdms.org.
By submitting artwork, the student and guardian grant TCSD the rights to reproduce the image for district publications and social media. Original artwork will be returned after scanning.
Providing K-12 students with hands-on experience is a vital step in preparing them for successful careers and community leadership. We are proud to highlight our partnership with Highland Hills Medical Center, where Strayhorn High School students recently explored the healthcare field. Emma Goodwin, Sarah Grace, Aeigha Whittle, and Shelby Rutledge gained valuable insights while shadowing in the Radiology Department. Additionally, Julia Cox, Emma Sartin, and Breeleigh Horne observed critical care firsthand in the ER and Med Surg departments. These opportunities allow our students to build professional foundations well before graduation.
#WorkforceWednesday #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
#WorkforceWednesday #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Big news, Mustangs!
We are thrilled to announce Melissa Shaw as the new Principal of Strayhorn Elementary School for the 26-27 school year!
With 25 years in education—including 14 years of leadership experience with DeSoto County Schools—Melissa is a proven leader dedicated to academic excellence. Through innovative educational strategies, she brings a passion for fostering a positive, inclusive environment. We are honored to have her vision and heart leading our youngest Mustangs into this next chapter!
#MustangPride #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
We are thrilled to announce Melissa Shaw as the new Principal of Strayhorn Elementary School for the 26-27 school year!
With 25 years in education—including 14 years of leadership experience with DeSoto County Schools—Melissa is a proven leader dedicated to academic excellence. Through innovative educational strategies, she brings a passion for fostering a positive, inclusive environment. We are honored to have her vision and heart leading our youngest Mustangs into this next chapter!
#MustangPride #TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
Good News! Fees and Tuition for our Pre-K class will be waived for 26-27 school year and 27-28 school year only!
We have a limited number of spots open for our new Pre-K class for the 26-27 school year! This class will serve all pre-k students in the Tate County School District.
Contact Kim Walls or Deborah Cobbs to apply at Coldwater Elementary at 662-622-5511.
You must have the following items to apply:
Birth Certificate
Immunization Form 121
2 Proofs of Residency
Applications will not be accepted without all listed items.
An application does not guarantee your spot. You will be contacted upon acceptance into the program.
Meet Rickey, a standout student at the Senatobia-Tate Career Technical Center! He is a very personable and respectful individual who makes a positive impact on everyone he meets through his great attitude. Rickey is incredibly dependable, attending his classes regularly and showing a true commitment to his future career goals. We are so impressed by his professional demeanor and the way he treats his instructors and peers with such high levels of respect and kindness.
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
#TogetherAchievingTeamExcellence
