Panther points 8/15/25.
Panther points 8/14/25.
Panther points 8/13/25.
Panther points 8/12/25
PAID for the week of 8/11/25.
4H Grilling Team members needed.
Panther points 8/11/25
Panther points 8/8/25
Dance this Friday 8/8/25 in the DCMS cafeteria.
DCMS football
DCMS softball
Panther points 8/7/25
JOIN OUR TEAM:
The Decatur County School System is seeking applications for a Substitute School Nurse.
Applicants must have an Active LPN or RN license with experience in Pediatric Nursing preferred.
Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office, 59 West Main Street, Decaturville, TN 38329 or picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
The Decatur County School System is seeking applications for a Substitute School Nurse.
Applicants must have an Active LPN or RN license with experience in Pediatric Nursing preferred.
Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office, 59 West Main Street, Decaturville, TN 38329 or picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
DCMS Pumpkin Palooza Craft Fair.
Welcome Back to DCMS, Coach Matt Marshall!
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Decatur County Middle School is excited to welcome Coach Matt Marshall back to campus as Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, and Behavioral Support Interventionist for the 2025–26 school year!
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A proud Decatur County native, Coach Marshall began his educational journey as a student in this very school system. After earning his Bachelor of Science from Lambuth University and a Master’s in Administration and Supervision from Tennessee State University, he was blessed to begin and build his 29-year career right here at home—serving the community he loves.
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Coach Marshall’s career began at Parsons Junior High, where he taught 8th grade Science and Health & PE while also coaching football. When DCMS was formed, he transitioned to the middle school, continuing his teaching and coaching duties while also becoming a school bus driver and later Assistant Principal. Most recently, he served as Assistant Principal at Parsons Elementary for the past three years.
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Now returning to DCMS, Coach Marshall brings a wealth of experience and a heart for students. “I am excited to return to DCMS as an Assistant Principal,” he shared. “My 26 years’ experience working with the middle school age group has given me the knowledge to be able to facilitate most, if not all, the situations that could occur at the middle school level.”
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This year, he’s adding a few more hats to his role—serving as both Athletic Director and Behavioral Support Interventionist. With 18 years of coaching football and a lifelong love for athletics, Coach Marshall is a natural fit to lead the school's athletic programs. He also looks forward to implementing positive behavioral strategies that support the whole child, not just their academic performance.
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DCMS Principal, Ms. Kodi Breeden, shared, “I look forward to Coach Marshall’s assistance with behavioral interventions, safety and security, along with being our Athletic Director.”
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When he’s not on campus, Coach Marshall enjoys traveling, watching movies, and cheering on the Tennessee Vols in any sport. He and his wife Kara are both dedicated supporters of Decatur County students and families.
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As Coach Marshall put it best: “I hope that the students, parents, and all staff are as enthusiastic about the upcoming school year as I am.” 💙💛
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Decatur County Middle School is excited to welcome Coach Matt Marshall back to campus as Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, and Behavioral Support Interventionist for the 2025–26 school year!
.
A proud Decatur County native, Coach Marshall began his educational journey as a student in this very school system. After earning his Bachelor of Science from Lambuth University and a Master’s in Administration and Supervision from Tennessee State University, he was blessed to begin and build his 29-year career right here at home—serving the community he loves.
.
Coach Marshall’s career began at Parsons Junior High, where he taught 8th grade Science and Health & PE while also coaching football. When DCMS was formed, he transitioned to the middle school, continuing his teaching and coaching duties while also becoming a school bus driver and later Assistant Principal. Most recently, he served as Assistant Principal at Parsons Elementary for the past three years.
.
Now returning to DCMS, Coach Marshall brings a wealth of experience and a heart for students. “I am excited to return to DCMS as an Assistant Principal,” he shared. “My 26 years’ experience working with the middle school age group has given me the knowledge to be able to facilitate most, if not all, the situations that could occur at the middle school level.”
.
This year, he’s adding a few more hats to his role—serving as both Athletic Director and Behavioral Support Interventionist. With 18 years of coaching football and a lifelong love for athletics, Coach Marshall is a natural fit to lead the school's athletic programs. He also looks forward to implementing positive behavioral strategies that support the whole child, not just their academic performance.
.
DCMS Principal, Ms. Kodi Breeden, shared, “I look forward to Coach Marshall’s assistance with behavioral interventions, safety and security, along with being our Athletic Director.”
.
When he’s not on campus, Coach Marshall enjoys traveling, watching movies, and cheering on the Tennessee Vols in any sport. He and his wife Kara are both dedicated supporters of Decatur County students and families.
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As Coach Marshall put it best: “I hope that the students, parents, and all staff are as enthusiastic about the upcoming school year as I am.” 💙💛
Our Cafeteria Teams Are Ready!
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Our amazing Decatur County Schools Nutrition Program staff has been hard at work this week with training and preparation to make sure everything is perfect for the start of school!
We are incredibly proud of our dedicated cafeteria staff—they care deeply about the health and well-being of our students, and it shows in everything they do. 💙 From preparing meals to serving with a smile, they play a vital role in our school community.
We’re excited to share that all Decatur County Schools students will once again receive breakfast and lunch free of charge for the 2025–26 school year! 🎉
Please encourage your students to stop by the cafeteria each day and enjoy a nutritious meal. Participation matters—it’s one of the key factors that helps us continue this important program.
In Decatur County Schools, everyone plays an important role—and we’re grateful for our nutrition team leading the way in fueling student success!
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Our amazing Decatur County Schools Nutrition Program staff has been hard at work this week with training and preparation to make sure everything is perfect for the start of school!
We are incredibly proud of our dedicated cafeteria staff—they care deeply about the health and well-being of our students, and it shows in everything they do. 💙 From preparing meals to serving with a smile, they play a vital role in our school community.
We’re excited to share that all Decatur County Schools students will once again receive breakfast and lunch free of charge for the 2025–26 school year! 🎉
Please encourage your students to stop by the cafeteria each day and enjoy a nutritious meal. Participation matters—it’s one of the key factors that helps us continue this important program.
In Decatur County Schools, everyone plays an important role—and we’re grateful for our nutrition team leading the way in fueling student success!
Welcome to the Panther Pack, Ms. Emily Keeton! 💙💛💙
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Decatur County Schools is proud to welcome Ms. Emily Keeton back to Decatur County Middle School, where she will serve as the 8th-grade science teacher this year. Ms. Keeton holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Education from UT Martin and a Master of Science in Agriculture and Extension Education from Mississippi State University. She previously taught ELA at DCMS for nearly six years and has been teaching Agricultural Leadership at UTM Parsons since 2017.
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As she steps into this new role, Ms. Keeton is excited to bring a fresh perspective to 8th Grade Science. With her background in agriculture and experience teaching ELA, she hopes to help students feel successful in ways that best suit their learning styles. She shared, “I am SO EXCITED to be back with the 8th-grade teaching team. They are such strong teachers, and I feel privileged to share every day with them.”
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Ms. Keeton says she’s looking forward to the daily routines that allow her to truly get to know her students. She’s eager to make science a relatable subject and to contribute to the positive environment at DCMS. Born and raised on a cattle farm in Bath Springs, TN, she now lives nearby with her parents, Tim and Janet, and her brother, John Lawson—who will soon be welcoming a new sister-in-law, Lucinda Carrington, in September.
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Outside of work, Ms. Keeton enjoys attending Life Fitness Dance (shout out to Heather Coleman!), writing, singing, thrifting, and working with her uncle at The News Leader. She’s always felt drawn to education, and her time at DCMS confirmed that middle schoolers are a truly special group to teach. “They are just starting to really question the world around them, and it’s an honor to be a part of their development,” she shared.
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DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Breeden shared, “We are elated to welcome Ms. Emily back to DCMS! She was an asset to our 8th grade team in prior years, and we believe she will continue to be an integral part of that team moving forward. Her dedication to helping students learn and meeting each child where they’re at really sets her apart. We are excited to have her join our Science department!”
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Ms. Keeton adds, “I am very happy and excited to be back at DCMS! It's going to be a great year!” Please join us in giving her a warm Panther Pack welcome as she begins this exciting new chapter. We can’t wait to see the amazing things she’ll accomplish! 🐾
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@abc
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Decatur County Schools is proud to welcome Ms. Emily Keeton back to Decatur County Middle School, where she will serve as the 8th-grade science teacher this year. Ms. Keeton holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Education from UT Martin and a Master of Science in Agriculture and Extension Education from Mississippi State University. She previously taught ELA at DCMS for nearly six years and has been teaching Agricultural Leadership at UTM Parsons since 2017.
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As she steps into this new role, Ms. Keeton is excited to bring a fresh perspective to 8th Grade Science. With her background in agriculture and experience teaching ELA, she hopes to help students feel successful in ways that best suit their learning styles. She shared, “I am SO EXCITED to be back with the 8th-grade teaching team. They are such strong teachers, and I feel privileged to share every day with them.”
.
Ms. Keeton says she’s looking forward to the daily routines that allow her to truly get to know her students. She’s eager to make science a relatable subject and to contribute to the positive environment at DCMS. Born and raised on a cattle farm in Bath Springs, TN, she now lives nearby with her parents, Tim and Janet, and her brother, John Lawson—who will soon be welcoming a new sister-in-law, Lucinda Carrington, in September.
.
Outside of work, Ms. Keeton enjoys attending Life Fitness Dance (shout out to Heather Coleman!), writing, singing, thrifting, and working with her uncle at The News Leader. She’s always felt drawn to education, and her time at DCMS confirmed that middle schoolers are a truly special group to teach. “They are just starting to really question the world around them, and it’s an honor to be a part of their development,” she shared.
.
DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Breeden shared, “We are elated to welcome Ms. Emily back to DCMS! She was an asset to our 8th grade team in prior years, and we believe she will continue to be an integral part of that team moving forward. Her dedication to helping students learn and meeting each child where they’re at really sets her apart. We are excited to have her join our Science department!”
.
Ms. Keeton adds, “I am very happy and excited to be back at DCMS! It's going to be a great year!” Please join us in giving her a warm Panther Pack welcome as she begins this exciting new chapter. We can’t wait to see the amazing things she’ll accomplish! 🐾
.
@abc
Come join us for our Back to School Night at DCMS!
Location: DCMS Gym
Date: July 31, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM
We look forward to seeing you!
Location: DCMS Gym
Date: July 31, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM
We look forward to seeing you!
Parents/ Guardians of returning Decatur County School Students,
If you have not registered your child for the 2025-2026 school year, please do so.
If you have already registered, thank you! If you need help or have questions, please call 731 847-1750 or email dcattendance@decaturschools.org.
Click the link below to register for the 2025–26 school year.
👉 https://www.decaturcountyschools.com/.../student...
If you have not registered your child for the 2025-2026 school year, please do so.
If you have already registered, thank you! If you need help or have questions, please call 731 847-1750 or email dcattendance@decaturschools.org.
Click the link below to register for the 2025–26 school year.
👉 https://www.decaturcountyschools.com/.../student...
Decatur County Schools would like to announce Mrs. Gina Pratt as the new Assistant Principal of Decatur County Middle School.
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Mrs. Pratt brings 27 years of experience in education and a deep commitment to student success. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education from the University of Tennessee at Martin and is currently continuing her education at Bethel University, working toward her Master’s Plus in Administration to further grow as a school leader.
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Her teaching career began in Henderson County before she transitioned to Decatur County, where she has served across multiple grade levels—from Kindergarten through 10th grade. This broad experience has given her a unique understanding of students at every stage of their academic journey.
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“After working many years at DCMS,” Mrs. Pratt shares, “I’m honored to step into the assistant principal role. My goal is to support our students and staff by building strong relationships, staying present in classrooms, and working together to keep DCMS a place where everyone can learn and grow. What excites me most about this opportunity is the chance to give back to a school and community that has shaped me both personally and professionally.”
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Mrs. Pratt has been married to her husband, Chad, for 24 years. Together, they have three daughters—Baileigh, Ansley, and Whitlee. Their family continues to grow with the addition of their granddaughter, Parker, who brings joy and laughter to their lives. When not at school, Mrs. Pratt enjoys spending time with family, watching her daughters play golf, visiting college tournaments at Freed-Hardeman, and cheering on RHS. Summers are filled with swimming, s’mores, and sweet moments with Parker.
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Her message to the DCMS community is: “I’m thankful to be part of a school that feels like home, and I’m dedicated to working alongside each of you to create a safe, supportive, and successful year for every student. Together, we can continue building a positive culture where everyone feels valued and encouraged to grow.”
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DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Breeden shared, “Gina’s extensive experience in middle grades education, along with her dedication to student growth, makes her a huge asset to our administrative team at DCMS. Her work ethic is unmatched, and we couldn’t be more proud to have her leading with us.”
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Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Gina Pratt to her new role! We look forward to a great school year!.
.
Mrs. Pratt brings 27 years of experience in education and a deep commitment to student success. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education from the University of Tennessee at Martin and is currently continuing her education at Bethel University, working toward her Master’s Plus in Administration to further grow as a school leader.
.
Her teaching career began in Henderson County before she transitioned to Decatur County, where she has served across multiple grade levels—from Kindergarten through 10th grade. This broad experience has given her a unique understanding of students at every stage of their academic journey.
.
“After working many years at DCMS,” Mrs. Pratt shares, “I’m honored to step into the assistant principal role. My goal is to support our students and staff by building strong relationships, staying present in classrooms, and working together to keep DCMS a place where everyone can learn and grow. What excites me most about this opportunity is the chance to give back to a school and community that has shaped me both personally and professionally.”
.
Mrs. Pratt has been married to her husband, Chad, for 24 years. Together, they have three daughters—Baileigh, Ansley, and Whitlee. Their family continues to grow with the addition of their granddaughter, Parker, who brings joy and laughter to their lives. When not at school, Mrs. Pratt enjoys spending time with family, watching her daughters play golf, visiting college tournaments at Freed-Hardeman, and cheering on RHS. Summers are filled with swimming, s’mores, and sweet moments with Parker.
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Her message to the DCMS community is: “I’m thankful to be part of a school that feels like home, and I’m dedicated to working alongside each of you to create a safe, supportive, and successful year for every student. Together, we can continue building a positive culture where everyone feels valued and encouraged to grow.”
.
DCMS Principal Ms. Kodi Breeden shared, “Gina’s extensive experience in middle grades education, along with her dedication to student growth, makes her a huge asset to our administrative team at DCMS. Her work ethic is unmatched, and we couldn’t be more proud to have her leading with us.”
.
Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Gina Pratt to her new role! We look forward to a great school year!.
