Kenny Chadwell is Eagle Tire Pros Educator of the week

By Charlotte Underwood

CAMPBELL COUNTY, 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 Kenny Chadwell. He serves as the principal at LaFollette Elementary School.

Chadwell graduated from Harriman High School and after graduation he attended Roane State Community College and Tennessee Tech University, earning his bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with a focus in history.

“I later got my masters in school leadership from Bethel University and am currently enrolled in Arkansas State University’s Superintendent Program to finish my Ed.S,” Chadwell said.

 He is married to his wife Felicia, and together they have two children, “Kendi who is 23 and Ian, who is 16.”

When not working at LaFollette Elementary School, Chadwell said his favorite thing to do is to be with his family.

“We love to travel on roundtrip adventures together as often as we can,” Chadwell said.

Chadwell did not start college by going into education, but criminal justice.

“I would have to credit my wife who after we met at RSCC encouraged me and gave me the confidence that I needed to change my major to education,” Chadwell said.

He currently serves as the principal at LaFollette Elementary School and is in his 24th year in education.

His favorite part about the job is “the students.”

“My favorite part of my job would be the students. I love building relationships with them and having a positive impact on their lives,” Chadwell said.

Another favorite part of his job is the work environment.

“LaFollette Elementary is an amazing place to work, but the best part is the culture. We get to go into a building every day were we generally care for one another and for the students and families we serve, which can be seen on the face of each child and teacher’s face that I have the pleasure of serving.”

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 3/13/2025-6AM)