Kim Dillon And Jeremy Wendt On Leading Overton County Schools

Loading player...
Jeremy Wendt sits down with Kim Dillon, the new Director of Overton County Schools, to discuss her unexpected journey from classroom teacher to district leadership. Originally planning to become an attorney, Dillon switched paths after having children and has now been in education for 23 years. She shares her thoughts on how career pathways have evolved, the importance of secondary education, and the recent success of AP and dual enrollment programs — including record-high AP test scores and the enthusiastic support behind the AP Academy they are hoping to implement this coming school year. Dillon also addresses the district's new no-phone policy, acknowledging the challenges of implementation while emphasizing the need for focused learning environments. Despite the pressures of state-level decisions, she remains passionate about her work and reminds us that the professionalism of educators deserves far more recognition than it often receives.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today!
12 Aug 9AM English United States Society & Culture · Education

Other recent episodes

Dana Karlowski Joins Drs. Lee & Mabry To Shed Light On Sleep Apnea Awareness

In this informative episode, Dr. Lee sits down with Dana Karlowski, CEO of Dr. John’s Medical Solutions, to shed light on Sleep Apnea Awareness. Dana breaks down the difference between obstructive and central sleep apnea, explains how to recognize when snoring may signal a more serious issue, and outlines the…
4 Dec 9AM 31 min

Robbie & Daryl Jackson Join Tiffany Anton To Shed Light On Jackson Moving Company

Tiffany Anton talks with Robbie and Darrell Jackson of Jackson Moving, a Cookeville-based moving company serving the Upper Cumberland since 2006. Darrell shares how what started as helping a friend move grew into a thriving local business with repeat clients and a trusted reputation. They discuss their busiest times of…
3 Dec 9AM 33 min

Mel Presley Joins Jeremy Wendt To Talk On Journey Through Education

Jeremy Wendt talks with Mel Presley, principal of Park View Elementary, about her journey in education and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Mel shares how her passion for teaching and her dedication to students led her from the classroom to the principal’s office. She reflects on what makes…
2 Dec 9AM 33 min

Chuck Johnson Joins George Halford To Discuss History Of Johnson's Nursery

George Halford sits down with Chuck Johnson, lifelong Putnam County resident and owner of Johnson’s Nursery, to reflect on a legacy that began in 1918 when his grandfather purchased the family farm. Born in Cookeville in 1943 and raised in Baxter, Chuck shares stories of his upbringing alongside his two…
1 Dec 9AM 33 min