TOSS is please to announce that our March Superintendent Spotlight is Dr. LaDonna McFall, who has served as the superintendent of Coffee County Schools for four years now. In her time at Coffee County, the district has seen immense growth. As reported in the SCORE State of Education in Tennessee, Dr. McFall's district has seen a 26.6% growth in 3-8 Math TCAP scores since 2011.
Dr. McFall shared that in her district, they believe in developing their students socially and emotionally, as well as academically. Therefore, they emphasize good citizenship and anti-bullying in several ways. Three years ago, they implemented the Olweus Anti Bullying Program across the district. She said that they believe that a well-rounded, empathetic, empowered student is the foundation for success in a changing world, so they continue to refine their practices to ensure their students become better equipped to handle the challenges they face.
When asked what her favorite part of her job is, Dr. McFall state, "I am a teacher and a coach at heart. I love working alongside my teammates to increase the level of instructional capacity of our administrators and teachers, and most importantly I love spending time with students. Whether it's reading with them, watching them participate in extracurricular activities, or helping them with homework, I feel fortunate that I have the opportunity to play a small roll in the lives of children."
Finally, we asked Dr. McFall to share one of her favorite memories from her time as superintendent in Coffee County so far. She told the following story: "I have so many wonderful memories, but one comes to mind. I was getting ready to sit down and read a book to some kindergarten students. One little fella tugged on my pants leg; I looked down at him and he said, 'I'm not sure who you are, but you smell good. Can I sit beside you?' That was one of the most genuine compliments I've ever received."
All of us at TOSS are so honored to work with incredible leaders and educators like Dr. McFall.
