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Wlaf1450
By Charlotte Underwood
JACSKBORO, 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.
Gracie Kirby is Eagle Tire Pros Educator of the Week. She teaches math at Jacksboro Elementary School and is in her very first year in the classroom!
She said she was “truly grateful and humbled to be nominated” as an educator of the week.
She shared a little bit about herself and her hobbies when she is not in the classroom.
“I am proud to be from Campbell County. I graduated from East Tennessee State University, where I earned my degree in Elementary Education. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, being involved in my church community and traveling!”
Kirby currently teaches 5th grade math at Jacksboro Elementary School. She said it had been an amazing experience so far and that she was blessed with wonderful co-workers and administrators.
“This is my first year in the classroom, and it has been such a rewarding and growth-filled experience. Every day brings new challenges and new opportunities to make a difference. Navigating the first year comes with many challenges, but I have been incredibly blessed with the most supportive team and principals. They have guided me, encouraged me, answered my countless questions, and helped me grow every single day. I truly would not be where I am without their leadership and belief in me,” Kirby said.
She found her inspiration to follow a career in education through her own teachers when she was young.
“I was inspired to become a teacher because of the educators who poured into me when I was a student. They made learning meaningful and made me feel seen, supported, and capable. Their influence stayed with me, and I knew I wanted to one day be that same steady, encouraging presence for students. Teaching gives me the opportunity to not only help students grow academically, but also to build their confidence and character. I am also deeply thankful for my friends, my family, and everyone who has supported me through this journey. Teaching requires heart, patience, and resilience, and I have been surrounded by people who constantly remind me why I started and who lift me up when days are hard. Their encouragement has carried me through more than they know,” Kirby said.
Her favorite part of teaching is seeing the “lightbulb moment” when a concept finally clicks.
“I also love building relationships with my students and creating a classroom environment where they feel safe, encouraged, and excited to learn. Watching their growth — both academically and personally — is incredibly rewarding.”
For Kirby, “teaching is more than a job to me; it’s a calling.”
She also had a special message for everyone who has supported her on her journey to become an educator and to receive this nomination.
“I am so thankful for this community, my school family, and every person who believed in me before I even fully believed in myself. This recognition is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who has supported me along the way.”
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-02/26/2026-6AM)