The Board of Education Thursday night voted unanimously to name the Theater at DeKalb County High School in honor of Ina Ruth Bess, who will be retiring at the end of this school year.
Ms. Bess has been an educator since 1948 and much of her career has been at DeKalb County High School, where she has taught and directed class plays over the years.
Meanwhile, DCHS Principal Kathy Hendrix has announced that Monday through Friday, March 19th-23rd will be “Ina Ruth Bess Week” at DeKalb County High School.
The administration, faculty and staff at the school are planning several special events in honor of Ms. Bess’ retirement and are asking for the public to participate.
School officials are planning to put together a book containing notes, cards, pictures, congratulations, etc. for Ms. Bess to enjoy after her retirement. If you would like to send something, please do so in advance and send it to: Mrs. Harriett Cantrell or Dixie Crook, DCHS, 1130 West Broad Street, Smithville, TN 37166. You may also leave it with Ms. Crook at Smithville Food Store, after school hours.
Monday, March 19?Former teachers/retired teachers are urged to visit with Ms. Bess from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Tuesday, March 20?Former Tigerette members are to visit with Ms. Bess from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, March 21?Former students can visit with her from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Thursday, March 22?A reception for DeKalb County teachers, staff, and central office staff will be held in the DCHS cafeteria from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday, March 23?An assembly program will be held in the DCHS gym at 9 a.m. and is open to all who would like to attend.
If your schedule will not allow you to visit on a specific day, you may stop by any day during the week to visit with Ms. Bess. When you enter the school, you must sign in at the office. There will be a signature book for you to sign and someone will be there to direct you.
The front row parking spaces near the sidewalk of the school will also be open to the general public next week.
In other school board news from Thursday night, the board approved the Licensure Advancement of Ashley Barnes, David Gash, and Amanda Rhoady and the Tenure status of Ashley Barnes, Tena Davidson, David Gash, Amanda Rhoady, and Melissa Ruch
Director Mark Willoughby presented his monthly report on personnel.
Those employed since last month include Penny Smitty, certified substitute teacher and Kenneth Allen, Rachel Church, Betty Fisk, Clayton Moore, Lori Page, Shaundra Smith, Tammy Vanatta, Susan West, Thomas Werling, and Julie Young as substitute teachers.
Those resigning are Deona Thomas, certified substitute teacher, Tracey Baker, educational assistant at Northside Elementary School, Vickey Atnip, educational assistant at Northside Elementary School, and Rachel Bandy, cafeteria worker at DCHS. Ina Ruth Bess, teacher at DCHS, has announced her retirement.
Martha Damon, teacher at DeKalb West School, has been granted a leave of absence as requested.
Those who have been transferred include Angela Lawson, transferred to a full time bus position, Jerry Lawson, transferred to a substitute bus position, Helen Lafever, transferred to a full time cafeteria position, and Cynthia Armour, transferred to a full time cafeteria position.
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