Denise Ray is Eagle Tire Pros teacher of the week

 By Charlotte Underwood 

CARYVILLE, TN (WLAF) – Teachers make a difference in their students lives each and every day. For many students, having a teacher, counselor or principal who cares and goes that extra mile can be the difference in a successful education and graduation. We’ve all had that educator who has inspired us or helped in some way. That’s why WLAF and Eagle Tire Pros salute all of our hard working educators with a weekly feature. This week’s featured educator is Denise Ray. She has been an educator for 32 years and currently teaches first grade at Caryville Elementary School.

Mrs. Ray was born and raised in LaFollette. She is married to Jerry Ray and has two “wonderful children.” She is also a “NeNe” to her first grand baby,  Caroline. Ray is a graduate from Lincoln Memorial University and received her Masters degree from the University of Tennessee.

As a young child Ray said she never thought of being anything but a teacher.

“I inspire to bring the joy of learning and positivity to all my students,” Ray said.

Her students are her favorite part of being an educator. 

“I love watching them grow and change. I love learning from them and watching them learn. Best of all, I love being a small part of so many wonderful young lives. I love my job.”

Every Thursday, WLAF’s Charlotte Underwood features the WLAF – Eagle Tire Pros teacher of the week. That educator also receives a free oil change from Eagle Tire Pros. To nominate a teacher for teacher of the week honors, please send your nomination to wlaf@1450wlaf.com (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 06/02/2022-6AM)