For this month's #TeacherProud Tuesday we are spotlighting:

Dallas County R-1

Our winners for November #teacherproud Tuesday are:

Jana Simpson

Brandi Brunson

Caleb Hostetter

Dixie Brickley

Dexter R-XI

Dexter R-XI School District would like to recognize a teachers from each of our four buildings.

Jessica McFarlen, Southwest Elementary: Mrs. McFarlen is a dedicated teacher whose hard work makes a world of difference every single day! By designing hands-on learning centers that blend fun with skill-building, she creates an inclusive, welcoming classroom where every student can thrive. Always ready to lend a helping hand to her peers, her constant support strengthens our school culture and elevates everyone around her.

Christy Nichols, Central Elementary: As a veteran teacher and respected leader at Central Elementary, Mrs. Nichols is someone students and colleagues can always count on for guidance and encouragement. She is a dedicated student advocate who meets every child at their level, building their confidence while fostering a warm, collaborative environment where every student feels valued. Through her instructional experience, flexibility, and unwavering commitment to helping students reach their full potential, Mrs. Nichols truly exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding teacher and teammate!

Taryn Duncan, TS Hill Middle: Taryn goes far above and beyond the classroom walls, quietly putting in endless hours behind the scenes to ensure every student has what they need to succeed. She is a constant pillar of support for her colleagues, always stepping up to help and building a stronger, more positive school culture. Her quiet dedication, generosity, and unwavering commitment make a lasting impact on our entire building every single day. Taryn is definitely part of the glue that holds our school family together!

Kurt Lovelady, DHS: Mr. Lovelady goes above and beyond by dedicating countless hours before and after school to give his students the extra support they need. By challenging his students and holding them to high standards, he builds a foundation for long-term success - serving as a major reason why our students excel in college math. Thank you, Mr. Lovelady, for your exceptional commitment to student success!​

Fair Grove R-X

This month we would like to recognize Mrs. Katie Fender as our FGMS Teacher Proud Recipient. Mrs. Fender exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated teacher, coach, and teammate. She makes science exciting through hands-on learning while maintaining high expectations and creating a supportive classroom where students feel valued. Through her teaching, coaching middle school volleyball, and willingness to help wherever needed, Katie consistently goes above and beyond to make FGMS an awesome place. Her resilience, positivity, and heart for kids make her truly deserving of Teacher Proud Tuesday recognition.

This month, we’re celebrating Mrs. Catrina Gore, kindergarten teacher at Fair Grove Elementary! Mrs. Gore creates a welcoming classroom where our youngest Eagles can learn, grow, and feel cared for. Her kindness helps make kindergarten a special experience as students begin their school journey. As her nomination shared, “She has the kindest heart.” That heart shines through in the care she shows her students and the wonderful learning environment she creates. Thank you, Mrs. Gore, for all you bring to our school and the Fair Grove community. We’re proud to have you on our team!

Is there anything Mrs. Palomo can’t do—or teach herself to do? She skates, runs, sews, cross-stitches, bakes, and teaches. Her colleagues even consider her their unanimous choice to represent them on Survivor! At Fair Grove High School, Mrs. Palomo leads a growing music program and inspires a love of music and performance that stays with students long after graduation. Her creativity, positive attitude, and dedication help students find a place to belong. We’re proud to celebrate Mrs. Palomo and the lasting impact she makes on our school community. Thank you for sharing your talents and helping students discover theirs!

Join the Celebration

The purpose of the Teacher Proud Tuesday campaign is to lift up and celebrate the profession and those currently serving, to recruit and inspire candidates to consider teaching, and to inform communities, business leaders and policymakers on the importance of public education.

🌟 Check out the Teacher Proud Page and Toolkit to learn more.

🔦 If your District would like to be spotlighted by GOCSD please contact Janetta Garton.