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Wlaf1450
By Charlotte Underwood
LAFOLLETTE, 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 of our hard-working educators with a weekly feature.
This week’s featured teacher is Melanie Smith. She teaches Wellness and Physical Education at Jellico High school.
She is originally from Williamsburg, Kentucky, and went to Williamsburg High School. Smith graduated from Cumberland College in 2001.
“I am married to Tim Smith and have two sons, Bronson and Griffin Bates. My favorite things to do in my free time are hang out with my family and take care of animals on our small farm,” Smith said.
She teaches Wellness and PE at Jellico High school and is in her 22nd year teaching in Campbell County.
Her influence to go into education came at an early age as “teaching runs in her family.”
“Both of my parents were teachers, and I think that is what influenced me to become a teacher,” Smith said.
She gets to have fun teaching Physical Education and she said that “by far, her favorite part of teaching is her students.”
“I love them all and I enjoy building relationships with them. We have so many great kids and I love getting to be a part of their high school years and watching them grow and mature into young adults,” Smith said.
Another favorite part is where she works and who she works with.
“Jellico High School is a great place to work. We have an amazing administration and staff, and I feel really fortunate to be a member of our Jellico 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 9/26/2024-6AM)