Gretchen Thomas is Eagle Tire Pros Teacher of the Week 

By Charlotte Underwood 

  CAMPBELL COUNTY, TN. (WLAF)-  Teachers make a difference in their students’ lives 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. We’ve all had that teacher who inspired us or helped in some way. That’s why WLAF and Eagle Tire Pros salute all our hard-working educators with a weekly feature.

This week’s featured educator is Gretchen Thomas. She is currently the principal at Jacksboro Middle School and has been in education for 25 years.

Thomas is originally from Ohio, but spent her formative years in Campbell County, attending Newcomb Elementary and graduating from Jellico High School.

 She continued her education journey at Valor Christian College in Columbus, Ohio earning a praise and worship degree. She also holds a degree from The University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Kentucky and a MA and Ed.S  from Tennessee Tech in Cookeville. 

“I have taught for 25 years, and I am currently the principal at Jacksboro Middle School where I have spent most of my career teaching English Language Arts. My favorite part of my job is engaging with the students. I also enjoy seeing my former students and hearing about how their lives have changed since I had them in class,” Thomas said. 

Her role as a principal began as assistant principal under Jennifer Fields. Thomas has held the principal position at JMS for four years.

“As a principal I have had the chance to impact students’ lives and foster a supportive and inclusive environment for teachers and students. This year I was honored to be voted Principal of the Year by my peers,” Thomas said.

When it came to choosing a career in education, it was her own kindergarten teacher, Ms. Cathy Vann, who inspired Thomas to become a teacher through her â€œunwavering kindness, creativity, and dedication to each student’s growth.”

“Her classroom was a vibrant and welcoming space where learning felt like an adventure. Her ability to make every child feel special and capable left a lasting impression on me, showing me the profound impact a passionate teacher can have on young lives. The early experience motivated me to pursue a career in education, hoping to inspire future generations as she inspired me,” Thomas said.

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

When she’s not working at Jacksboro Middle School, Thomas said her hobbies reflect her “love for a cozy and relaxing life.”

“I enjoy spending time at home with my two cats, Gus and Greyson, and my dog, Grace. Whether I am reading a book, singing to the top of my lungs, or simply relaxing, I find immense satisfaction in being in my own space,” Thomas said.

She added that being a homebody is incredibly fulfilling for her because it allows her to relax, recharge and pursue her passions.

“God and worship are most important in my life. I also enjoy my family. I have one sister, three nieces, two nephews, five great nieces, two great nephews, and two more on the way. I enjoy watching them grow and become their own personalities. Together, these activities create a balanced lifestyle that I cherish,” Thomas 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 5/30/2024- 6AM)