Bradley County Schools celebrate new staff and state champion Walker Valley softball team

The Bradley County Schools Board of Education meeting on August 14, 2025, showcased significant developments and achievements within the district, highlighting the community's commitment to education and student success.

Director of Schools Dr. Linda Cash opened the meeting with exciting news about the new school year, which began on August 7, welcoming over 10,000 students. The district has welcomed a diverse group of new educators, including 16 elementary teachers, 22 secondary teachers, and two school counselors, enhancing the educational experience for students. Dr. Cash also announced that all students will receive free breakfast and lunch for the 2025-2026 school year, ensuring that nutrition is not a barrier to learning.

A notable highlight was the recognition of Lakeland Gates, an eighth-grade athlete from Lake Forest Middle School, who qualified for the AAU Junior Olympic All-American competition in high jump. This achievement reflects the district's commitment to fostering talent in various fields, including athletics.

The meeting also celebrated the academic progress of Bradley County Schools, with Dr. Cash reporting strong growth in achievement rates across subjects, particularly in elementary English Language Arts and high school English. This upward trend in performance is a positive indicator of the district's recovery and growth following the pandemic.

In a moment of pride for the community, the board recognized the Walker Valley High School girls' softball team, who recently won the 2025 state championship. State Representative Dan Howell presented a proclamation honoring the team's achievement, emphasizing the importance of their hard work and dedication. Coach Lindbergh praised the athletes not only for their skills on the field but also for their academic excellence, with the team maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.82.

The meeting concluded with the introduction of new staff members, including Liz Moffitt, the new executive administrative assistant, and Britton Sapp, a student member of the state board of education. Britton expressed her excitement about representing her peers and the district at the state level, further connecting the school community to broader educational discussions.

As the Bradley County Schools continue to evolve and adapt, the board's focus on student achievement, community involvement, and educational excellence remains a cornerstone of its mission, promising a bright future for the district and its students.