Jason Dotson 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.

This week’s featured educator is Valley View Principal Jason Dotson, who has been “blessed to serve for the past 12 years” as principal at the elementary school. He is in his 22nd year working in Campbell County Schools.

Dotson also said he is “blessed to have a wonderful family with his wife Brei and their four boys, Bryson, 19, Hunter, 16, Channing, 11 and Beckett, 9.”

He started his career at Jacksboro Elementary teaching 3rd grade and then went on to teach for nine years at LaFollette Middle School (LMS) as a technology teacher. Dotson also coached basketball for several years at LMS.

“I have been fortunate to have worked under so many amazing leaders in our schools during this time. I would have to say Donnie Poston was one of my role models growing up and is one of the reasons I wanted to serve my community as an educator,” Dotson said.

However, he didn’t realize he wanted to be a principal until Robbie Heatherly inspired him while Dotson worked in middle school under his leadership.

“There are many more great people in education that really helped inspire me and molded me into the leader I am today. I try to lead with the mindset compassion, caring and understanding that all kids can learn and when making hard decisions what is in the best interest of our students,” Dotson said.

His favorite part about being principal at Valley View is “greeting students and staff every morning -trying to just set a positive tone for the day for all.”

He also gave credit to all the staff and faculty at Valley View for all they do to create a successful learning atmosphere for students.

“I truly feel blessed to have a staff where every single person in our building cares so much for one another and our students. They make my job so much easier. We truly have a family-like atmosphere at Valley View. I just want to recognize and thank ALL of my staff for their daily investment in our culture and climate at Valley View. They are truly the ones that make it happen! I’m so thankful to be their leader,” Dotson 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-04/24/2025-6AM)