April Paul is Eagle Tire Pros Educator of the week

By Charlotte Underwood

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

April Paul is Eagle Tire Pros Educator of the week. Paul is currently the assistant principal at Valley View Elementary and has filled this position for the past five years.

Originally from Kentucky, Paul said Campbell County is now her home.

“Although Pineville, Kentucky, will always be where my story began, over the past 15 years, Campbell County has truly become my home.  I have been fortunate to serve in two wonderful schools, LaFollette Middle School and now Valley View Elementary, where I have had the privilege to work alongside some of the most dedicated educators and inspiring students,” Paul said.

She has been an educator now for two decades, a career which has helped her “grow” in many ways.

“As I begin my twentieth year in education and my fifth year as assistant principal at Valley View, I find myself reflecting with gratitude on this journey. This gratitude comes from the many moments, both big and small, that have shaped my career. I am grateful to the students who have taught me the importance of resilience, to the families who have entrusted me to guide their children, and to the colleagues who have supported and challenged me to grow as a leader. Each day has brought new lessons, whether it was witnessing a child’s breakthrough, collaborating with teachers to find creative solutions or celebrating the quiet victories that often go unnoticed. These experiences have not only made me a better educator but also a better person,” Paul said.

Her inspiration to become an educator began at home. She grew up watching her father, “a lifelong educator, dedicate himself to making a difference in the lives of his students and colleagues.”

“Seeing his passion for teaching and the positive impact he had on others inspired me to follow in his footsteps. I am proud to be part of a family of educators who have all devoted their lives to helping children learn and grow. Their example and encouragement continue to guide and motivate me every day,” Paul said.

Her favorite part about her job is also what keeps her motivated day in and day out.

“What keeps me excited about coming to work each day is the chance to build genuine, lasting relationships with students, families, and colleagues. Every student brings their own dreams, strengths, and challenges, and I feel blessed to walk alongside them as they grow and learn. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing how a caring adult can truly change the course of a child’s life. It is this possibility for meaningful connection and growth that inspires me to give my very best every single day,” Paul said.

The best part of being a school leader for her is “watching the sparks of confidence and curiosity ignite in the students at Valley View and supporting teachers as they bring out the best in each child.”

Paul said she was excited for the new school year.

“I am deeply grateful for the trust the Valley View community has placed in me. As the new school year approaches, I am excited to welcome our students back and to share in all the moments of growth, joy, and learning that await us as a Valley View family.”

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-07/10/2025-6AM)