Dear Cumberland County Family,

Welcome to Cumberland County Schools Online! I am glad that you decided to visit us! Cumberland County is fortunate to have an excellent school system in a wonderful community. We have many dedicated individuals that do whatever is needed to ensure that our school system is successful. I am very proud to have been part of this system for more than three decades. I began my career in 1969 as a substitute teacher. I then worked as a cafeteria clerk and teachers assistant while pursuing my education career from Tennessee Tech where I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and a Masters of Arts degree in Supervision and Administration. I taught for several years before becoming principal at Homestead Elementary School. I feel that these experiences have given me valuable insight not only to the many faucets of the school system but also to you as an individual.

It has been my mission as an educator to develop the students skills to become good citizens and life long learners.

It is my vision as an educator to not only benefit the students of today, but also to influence our community's future by empowering our students with the confidence and skills necessary to become key contributors in the 21st century.

I believe the following elements are vital to accomplishing this vision:

• A school environment that is safe, orderly, motivating, and interesting.

• A school climate that is positive and reflects an atmosphere of cooperation.

• A dedicated and involved staff that promotes school culture of excellence in all areas of learning.

• A high degree of cooperation and communication among all stakeholders that ensures quality policy of decision-making.

• A reasonable student-teacher ratio that fosters student learning.

• A variety of opportunities for remediation and enrichment for all students based on the results of different assessment measurements.

• Staff development activities that will maintain a high standard of achievement and enhance teaching skills based on state benchmarks, standards, and policies.

I know that many of you share the same dreams and expectations for our children. I also want you to know that I am here to address any of your concerns. I understand what is like to be a parent. I have four children and eight grandchildren whom I thoroughly enjoy . I also enjoy reading, gardening and of course birds. So stop by or come back to visit this site and see what all we are doing in this excellent school system. Where ........Together We Can Make A Difference!

Sincerely

Mrs. Aarona VanWinkle
Director of Schools

avanwinkle@k12tn.net