By Charlotte Underwood 

CAMPBELL COUNTY, TN. (WLAF)- We’ve all had that teacher who inspired us or helped in some way. That’s why WLAF and Eagle Tire Pros salute one of our hard working educators with a weekly feature. Teachers make a difference in their students lives each and every day. For many students, having a teacher who cares and goes that extra mile can be the difference in a successful education and graduation.

This week’s featured educator is Ashley Spade. She is the assistant principal at LaFollette Elementary School.

Spade and her husband James have “two wonderful boys, Owen and Harlan.”

“Being their mom is my favorite thing in the world. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending time with my family. We love to go to amusement parks, play with our dog, Ripp, and go fishing. We enjoy going on trips any chance we get,” Spade said.

Ashley Spade is Eagle Tire Pros Educator of the week. She is pictured with her husband James and their two boys, Owen and Harlan.

Spade graduated from Campbell County High School in 2006. After high school, she began her schooling to become an educator.

“I received my bachelor’s from Tennessee Tech University, my master’s from Union College, and my educational specialist degree from Lincoln Memorial University,” Spade said.

In 2010, Spade was “thrilled to begin” her teaching career at White Oak Elementary School as a fifth-grade teacher.

“I had some of the most amazing kids and supportive parents. It was an all-around wonderful experience!” Spade said.

After spending a year at White Oak Elementary, she transitioned to Jacksboro Elementary School, where she spent the next eight years of her “teaching journey.”

To nominate a teacher for teacher of the week honors, please send your nomination to wlaf@1450wlaf.com.

“Initially, I taught third grade for a year before finding my home in fifth grade for the following seven years. These years were filled with countless memories and lasting friendships with the people I worked with,” Spade said.

In 2016, Spade started a “new chapter in her career as she transitioned from the role of a classroom teacher to that of an assistant principal at LaFollette Elementary School.”

“This role has been very rewarding and demanding at the same time. There are great things happening at LES. I am proud to be part of this school and their accomplishments. The hard work and love the faculty and staff pour into the students is some special to see,” Spade said. 

Throughout her career in the Campbell County School System, Spade said she has “been fortunate to have mentors and administrators who have invested their time and guidance in her professional growth.”

“I am grateful for their influence,” Spade said.

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 2/22/2024- 6AM)

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