🌿🌼 Our Greenhouse Management class had an amazing hands-on learning experience!
This trip combined touring two nurseries, picking out landscape plants, and purchasing plants that will soon brighten up the front of our Central Office. 🌸
Students visited Cedarwood, where they not only explored the nursery but also got to participate in the agritourism side of the business — learning how agriculture connects with tourism and the community. They also toured Lowe’s Garden Center to see plant management and retail operations in action. 🌱
What a great day of learning, exploring, and growing — in more ways than one! 🌻
#smallschoolbigopportunities 🦅#LandscapeClass #VBHS
This trip combined touring two nurseries, picking out landscape plants, and purchasing plants that will soon brighten up the front of our Central Office. 🌸
Students visited Cedarwood, where they not only explored the nursery but also got to participate in the agritourism side of the business — learning how agriculture connects with tourism and the community. They also toured Lowe’s Garden Center to see plant management and retail operations in action. 🌱
What a great day of learning, exploring, and growing — in more ways than one! 🌻
#smallschoolbigopportunities 🦅#LandscapeClass #VBHS
🌟 Celebrating Excellence in Van Buren County Schools! 🌟
At our October Board of Education meeting, we proudly recognized some of the outstanding individuals who make a difference in our schools and community every day! 💙💛
✨ Staff Honorees:
Our incredible Principals, Amanda Binkley and Drew Campbell, and Vice Principals, Brandon Myers and Amanda Cronin, from Spencer Elementary School and Van Buren County High School were honored for their dedication, leadership, and the positive impact they have on students and staff. Their commitment to creating welcoming, supportive learning environments truly sets the tone for success! 👏
🦅 Student Honorees:
Two exceptional elementary school students, Bailee Meyer and Charlee Everett, were also recognized for their selfless service and contributions to the community. These young leaders remind us that it’s never too early to make a difference and show kindness through action. 💫
We are so proud of all our honorees for their hard work, compassion, and commitment to making Van Buren County Schools a place where everyone can thrive! 🏫❤️
#VBCSchools #VBStrong #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #CommunityPride
🌟 Feature Friday: Ms. Kennedy’s SEL Class Builds Communication and Connection! 💬
Ms. Kennedy's 3rd grade SEL class recently explored the importance of understanding and following rules with a fun and meaningful lesson! We read “The Rule Does Not Apply to Me” by Julia Cook and then played a game of Picture Telephone.
In the game, the first student sees the original picture, and it’s passed down the line one drawing at a time. By the time it reaches the last person, the final drawing looks quite different from the original! 🎨
Afterward, we discussed how this connects to following rules:
“When we don’t have clear directions or don’t follow the same rules, what happens? Everyone ends up with a different idea of what to do—just like our drawings!”
Our goals for this lesson were to strengthen communication, listening, and perspective-taking skills—and of course, to have a little fun competition along the way! 🧠💛
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #SEL #Feature Friday
Ms. Kennedy's 3rd grade SEL class recently explored the importance of understanding and following rules with a fun and meaningful lesson! We read “The Rule Does Not Apply to Me” by Julia Cook and then played a game of Picture Telephone.
In the game, the first student sees the original picture, and it’s passed down the line one drawing at a time. By the time it reaches the last person, the final drawing looks quite different from the original! 🎨
Afterward, we discussed how this connects to following rules:
“When we don’t have clear directions or don’t follow the same rules, what happens? Everyone ends up with a different idea of what to do—just like our drawings!”
Our goals for this lesson were to strengthen communication, listening, and perspective-taking skills—and of course, to have a little fun competition along the way! 🧠💛
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #SEL #Feature Friday
🛑 National School Bus Safety Week Reminder! 🛑
Flashing red lights and extended stop arms on a school bus mean stop—it’s the law! ✋
During National School Bus Safety Week, we want to remind everyone that on an almost daily basis, drivers run our bus stop signs, putting students at serious risk. Whenever you see a school bus stopped with its stop sign out, you must come to a complete stop and remain stopped until the bus resumes motion and the stop arm is withdrawn.
Let’s all do our part to protect kids in our community—always stop for school buses! 💛💙
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #BusSafety #STOPmeansSTOP
Flashing red lights and extended stop arms on a school bus mean stop—it’s the law! ✋
During National School Bus Safety Week, we want to remind everyone that on an almost daily basis, drivers run our bus stop signs, putting students at serious risk. Whenever you see a school bus stopped with its stop sign out, you must come to a complete stop and remain stopped until the bus resumes motion and the stop arm is withdrawn.
Let’s all do our part to protect kids in our community—always stop for school buses! 💛💙
#SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #BusSafety #STOPmeansSTOP
Good afternoon! 🎄 Angel Tree applications are now open and available through October 29th. If you would like to receive an application to be considered for the Angel Tree program, please contact Jill Bouldin at (931) 304-1099. Thank you!
🚗👶 Child Passenger Safety Seat Check 👶🚗
Hosted by the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office
📍 Van Buren County High School Auxiliary Gym
📅 Thursday, November 13, 2025
🕑 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Is your child’s car seat properly installed? Certified technicians will be on-site to:
✔️ Inspect and install child safety seats
✔️ Ensure seats are age and size appropriate
✔️ Provide helpful safety tips for the road
Parents — you can even stop by during parent pick-up to have your child’s seat checked! 🚙
🎁 Door Prize Drawing!
Everyone who attends will be entered for a chance to win a special prize!
Presented by the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office —
Keeping our community’s children safe, one seat at a time. 💙
#VBCSheriff #CommunityPartner #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
Hosted by the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office
📍 Van Buren County High School Auxiliary Gym
📅 Thursday, November 13, 2025
🕑 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Is your child’s car seat properly installed? Certified technicians will be on-site to:
✔️ Inspect and install child safety seats
✔️ Ensure seats are age and size appropriate
✔️ Provide helpful safety tips for the road
Parents — you can even stop by during parent pick-up to have your child’s seat checked! 🚙
🎁 Door Prize Drawing!
Everyone who attends will be entered for a chance to win a special prize!
Presented by the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office —
Keeping our community’s children safe, one seat at a time. 💙
#VBCSheriff #CommunityPartner #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
🚍 National School Bus Safety Week 🛑
Let’s all do our part to keep our students safe on their way to and from school!
The School Bus Stop Law reminds drivers of their responsibility around school buses:
🔴 Meeting a School Bus:
If you’re approaching a school or church bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop arm, you must come to a complete stop. Stay stopped until the stop arm is pulled back and the bus moves again.
🚦 Overtaking a School Bus:
If you’re behind a stopped bus with flashing red lights—do not pass. Remain stopped until the stop arm retracts and the bus resumes motion.
⚠️ School Bus Warning Lights:
It’s illegal to pass a stopped school bus that’s loading or unloading students—especially on the right side where children enter and exit.
Drivers must remain stopped until:
• The bus begins moving,
• The driver signals you to proceed, or
• The red flashing lights and stop arm are no longer activated.
💰 Failure to stop is a Class A misdemeanor and can result in fines between $250 and $1,000.
Let’s protect our students by staying alert, stopping for school buses, and following the law—because their safety is in our hands. 💛
#NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #StopForTheBus #VanBurenCountySchools #SchoolBusSafety
Let’s all do our part to keep our students safe on their way to and from school!
The School Bus Stop Law reminds drivers of their responsibility around school buses:
🔴 Meeting a School Bus:
If you’re approaching a school or church bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop arm, you must come to a complete stop. Stay stopped until the stop arm is pulled back and the bus moves again.
🚦 Overtaking a School Bus:
If you’re behind a stopped bus with flashing red lights—do not pass. Remain stopped until the stop arm retracts and the bus resumes motion.
⚠️ School Bus Warning Lights:
It’s illegal to pass a stopped school bus that’s loading or unloading students—especially on the right side where children enter and exit.
Drivers must remain stopped until:
• The bus begins moving,
• The driver signals you to proceed, or
• The red flashing lights and stop arm are no longer activated.
💰 Failure to stop is a Class A misdemeanor and can result in fines between $250 and $1,000.
Let’s protect our students by staying alert, stopping for school buses, and following the law—because their safety is in our hands. 💛
#NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #StopForTheBus #VanBurenCountySchools #SchoolBusSafety
🚍 Thriving Thursday Spotlight!
In honor of National School Bus Safety Week, we’re proud to highlight Dr. Joseph (Jody) Hensley, a true example of dedication and service in Van Buren County Schools! 💛💙
A 2005 graduate of Van Buren County High School, Dr. Hensley continued his educational journey at Tennessee Technological University, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (2009) and Master’s degree (2012). He later earned his Ed.S. from Lincoln Memorial University (2014) and his Doctorate of Education from Tennessee State University (2019). 🎓
Dr. Hensley began his teaching career in Bledsoe County, where he taught for several years before returning home to Van Buren County to teach 6th grade math. Throughout his career, he has also served behind the wheel — driving a school bus both full-time and as a substitute driver, ensuring students arrived safely each day.
This school year, Dr. Hensley took the helm as Supervisor of Transportation and Safety, where his passion for education and commitment to student safety shine daily.
Thank you, Dr. Hensley, for your leadership, hard work, and dedication to keeping our students safe and learning! 🚌💛
#ThrivingThursday #NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #VanBurenCountySchools #LeadershipInEducation
In honor of National School Bus Safety Week, we’re proud to highlight Dr. Joseph (Jody) Hensley, a true example of dedication and service in Van Buren County Schools! 💛💙
A 2005 graduate of Van Buren County High School, Dr. Hensley continued his educational journey at Tennessee Technological University, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (2009) and Master’s degree (2012). He later earned his Ed.S. from Lincoln Memorial University (2014) and his Doctorate of Education from Tennessee State University (2019). 🎓
Dr. Hensley began his teaching career in Bledsoe County, where he taught for several years before returning home to Van Buren County to teach 6th grade math. Throughout his career, he has also served behind the wheel — driving a school bus both full-time and as a substitute driver, ensuring students arrived safely each day.
This school year, Dr. Hensley took the helm as Supervisor of Transportation and Safety, where his passion for education and commitment to student safety shine daily.
Thank you, Dr. Hensley, for your leadership, hard work, and dedication to keeping our students safe and learning! 🚌💛
#ThrivingThursday #NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #VanBurenCountySchools #LeadershipInEducation
📚 Report Cards Go Home This Friday! 🗓️
Just a friendly reminder that report cards will be sent home on Friday, October 24, 2025.
Be sure to ask your student to share their report card with you and take a moment to celebrate their hard work and progress this grading period! 🎉
#VanBurenCountySchools #ReportCardDay #StudentSuccess #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
Just a friendly reminder that report cards will be sent home on Friday, October 24, 2025.
Be sure to ask your student to share their report card with you and take a moment to celebrate their hard work and progress this grading period! 🎉
#VanBurenCountySchools #ReportCardDay #StudentSuccess #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
VBCYA basketball registration is OPEN NOW!! Registration is open through Nov. 1st. No late registrations accepted! Go to:
vbcya.com
💌 Wayback Wednesday!
We’re taking it back to Valentine’s Day 1995 at Spencer Elementary School! ❤️
Here’s a sweet snapshot from Ms. Kelly Calvert’s 5th grade classroom, where students celebrated friendship, fun, and lots of Valentine’s treats.
Who remembers making Valentine boxes and passing out cards with heart-shaped stickers? Share your memories if you were part of this class or remember those fun-filled 90s school Valentine’s parties! 💕
#WaybackWednesday #SpencerElementary #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #Throwback #ValentinesDay1995
We’re taking it back to Valentine’s Day 1995 at Spencer Elementary School! ❤️
Here’s a sweet snapshot from Ms. Kelly Calvert’s 5th grade classroom, where students celebrated friendship, fun, and lots of Valentine’s treats.
Who remembers making Valentine boxes and passing out cards with heart-shaped stickers? Share your memories if you were part of this class or remember those fun-filled 90s school Valentine’s parties! 💕
#WaybackWednesday #SpencerElementary #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #Throwback #ValentinesDay1995
🚍 The way to school shouldn’t be in harm’s way! 🚸
During National School Bus Safety Week (October 20–24), let’s all do our part to keep our students safe.
When you see a school bus stopped with its lights flashing and stop-arm extended—come to a complete stop. It’s not just courteous, it’s the law.
Together, we can make sure every child gets to and from school safely. 💛
#NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #StopForTheBus #VanBurenCountySchools #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
During National School Bus Safety Week (October 20–24), let’s all do our part to keep our students safe.
When you see a school bus stopped with its lights flashing and stop-arm extended—come to a complete stop. It’s not just courteous, it’s the law.
Together, we can make sure every child gets to and from school safely. 💛
#NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #StopForTheBus #VanBurenCountySchools #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
✋🛑 Always stop when the stop-arm is out for school buses — it’s the law!
When you see flashing red lights and the stop sign extended, it’s not just a suggestion — it’s a signal to keep our kids safe. Whether you’re on a neighborhood street, highway, or a rural road, stopping protects students as they get on and off the bus.
This week, October 20–24, is National School Bus Safety Week, the perfect time to stop when you see the lights flashing & the STOP sign out. 🛑
Let’s all do our part to make sure every child gets to school and home safely.
#StopForTheBus #NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #VBStrong #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
🎀 Red Ribbon Week 2025: “Life Is a Puzzle; Solve It Drug Free!” 🧩
Van Buren County Schools will be celebrating Red Ribbon Week October 27–31 with fun themed days and an important message — to live a healthy, drug-free life! ❤️
Here’s what’s happening each day:
🟢 Monday, 10/27 – Camo Day: Join the fight against bullying and drugs!
💤 Tuesday, 10/28 – Pajama Day: Dream big — stay drug free!
👯 Wednesday, 10/29 – Twin Day: Friends don’t let friends do drugs!
🎶 Thursday, 10/30 – Decades Day: Drugs are old news!
🎃 Friday, 10/31 – Halloween Costume Day: Drugs are scary — say BOO to bullying!
Remember! All dress up attire & costumes must comply with school dress code!
Let’s make this week full of school spirit and positive choices as we work together for a drug-free future! 💪
#VBStrong #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #RedRibbonWeek #DrugFreeLooksLikeMe
Van Buren County Schools will be celebrating Red Ribbon Week October 27–31 with fun themed days and an important message — to live a healthy, drug-free life! ❤️
Here’s what’s happening each day:
🟢 Monday, 10/27 – Camo Day: Join the fight against bullying and drugs!
💤 Tuesday, 10/28 – Pajama Day: Dream big — stay drug free!
👯 Wednesday, 10/29 – Twin Day: Friends don’t let friends do drugs!
🎶 Thursday, 10/30 – Decades Day: Drugs are old news!
🎃 Friday, 10/31 – Halloween Costume Day: Drugs are scary — say BOO to bullying!
Remember! All dress up attire & costumes must comply with school dress code!
Let’s make this week full of school spirit and positive choices as we work together for a drug-free future! 💪
#VBStrong #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #RedRibbonWeek #DrugFreeLooksLikeMe
🎃👻 Trunk or Treat 2025! 👻🎃
Get ready for a spooktacular evening of fun, candy, and community! 🕷️🕸️
📅 Date: October 25
⏰ Time: 4–6 PM
📍 Sponsored by SES and VBHS PTO
💧 Rain Out Date: October 31
✨ FREE entrance & FREE spot reservations!
🪙 Don’t forget to vote in the Pumpkin Penny Wars!
📞 To register for a spot, call 931-946-2171
Come out for a fang-tastic night—you won’t want to miss it! 🧛♂️🦇
#TrunkOrTreat #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
Get ready for a spooktacular evening of fun, candy, and community! 🕷️🕸️
📅 Date: October 25
⏰ Time: 4–6 PM
📍 Sponsored by SES and VBHS PTO
💧 Rain Out Date: October 31
✨ FREE entrance & FREE spot reservations!
🪙 Don’t forget to vote in the Pumpkin Penny Wars!
📞 To register for a spot, call 931-946-2171
Come out for a fang-tastic night—you won’t want to miss it! 🧛♂️🦇
#TrunkOrTreat #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
🚍💛 Let’s celebrate our amazing Van Buren County Schools bus drivers during National School Bus Safety Week!
Our drivers are caring, supportive, and dedicated to keeping our students safe every single day. They maintain clean driving records, stay attentive behind the wheel, and go above and beyond to do what’s right. They know our students and their families personally — greeting them with a smile each morning and ensuring they arrive at school and home safely.
This week, October 20–24, is National School Bus Safety Week, the perfect time to recognize their commitment to safety and excellence.
Thanks to their professionalism and care, Van Buren County Schools proudly reports zero bus accidents for the 2024–25 school year!
We are so thankful for our outstanding drivers — truly the best on the road! 🚌💙
#NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #VBStrong #ThankABusDriver #SchoolBusSafety #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
Our drivers are caring, supportive, and dedicated to keeping our students safe every single day. They maintain clean driving records, stay attentive behind the wheel, and go above and beyond to do what’s right. They know our students and their families personally — greeting them with a smile each morning and ensuring they arrive at school and home safely.
This week, October 20–24, is National School Bus Safety Week, the perfect time to recognize their commitment to safety and excellence.
Thanks to their professionalism and care, Van Buren County Schools proudly reports zero bus accidents for the 2024–25 school year!
We are so thankful for our outstanding drivers — truly the best on the road! 🚌💙
#NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #VBStrong #ThankABusDriver #SchoolBusSafety #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
🍁 Welcome Back, Van Buren County Schools! 🍂
We hope everyone enjoyed a fun and relaxing Fall Break! Classes start back today, Monday, October 20, 2025, and we’re ready to jump back into learning, laughter, and lots of fall fun! Let’s make the rest of this semester a great one together.
✨ Small School, Big Opportunities
📍 www.vanburenschools.org
#WelcomeBack #FallBreak #VanBurenCountySchools #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
We hope everyone enjoyed a fun and relaxing Fall Break! Classes start back today, Monday, October 20, 2025, and we’re ready to jump back into learning, laughter, and lots of fall fun! Let’s make the rest of this semester a great one together.
✨ Small School, Big Opportunities
📍 www.vanburenschools.org
#WelcomeBack #FallBreak #VanBurenCountySchools #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
🌟 Staff Spotlight Sunday 🌟
As we continue celebrating National Principals Month, we’re proud to spotlight Mr. Brandon Myers, Assistant Principal at Spencer Elementary School!
Mr. Brandon is a graduate of Van Buren County Schools who returned home to make a difference in the same halls where his own educational journey began. Before stepping into administration, he taught 4th grade math, where his passion for helping students grow and succeed shined every day.
Now in his second year as assistant principal, Mr. Brandon continues to lead with dedication, positivity, and a true heart for our students and staff.
Thank you, Mr. Brandon, for your commitment to Spencer Elementary and Van Buren County Schools! 🦅💛
#StaffSpotlightSunday #NationalPrincipalsMonth #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities
🍂 Fall Break Ideas — Day 5: Scavenger Hunt! 🍂
Get outside and enjoy the beauty of the season with a Fall Scavenger Hunt! 🍁
Whether you’re exploring your backyard, a local park, or one of Van Buren County’s scenic trails, see how many fall treasures you can find — colorful leaves, acorns, pinecones, or maybe even a squirrel or two! 🐿️
Make it a family challenge and see who can spot the most!
Share your finds with us in the comments below! 📸
#FallBreak #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #VanBurenCountySchools
Get outside and enjoy the beauty of the season with a Fall Scavenger Hunt! 🍁
Whether you’re exploring your backyard, a local park, or one of Van Buren County’s scenic trails, see how many fall treasures you can find — colorful leaves, acorns, pinecones, or maybe even a squirrel or two! 🐿️
Make it a family challenge and see who can spot the most!
Share your finds with us in the comments below! 📸
#FallBreak #SmallSchoolBigOpportunities #VanBurenCountySchools
🌸 Van Buren County FFA Plant Sale! 🌸
Brighten up your porch or garden with beautiful Winter Pansies and Super Petunias, grown right here by our FFA students! 🌼
💰 Prices:
Flats – $12
Hanging Baskets – $10
Pots – $6
Come support our hardworking students and add a pop of color to your fall season!
📍 Available through Van Buren County FFA
📞 Call us at (931) 946-2442 for more details or to place an order.
Let’s show our FFA students some community support! 💙💛
Brighten up your porch or garden with beautiful Winter Pansies and Super Petunias, grown right here by our FFA students! 🌼
💰 Prices:
Flats – $12
Hanging Baskets – $10
Pots – $6
Come support our hardworking students and add a pop of color to your fall season!
📍 Available through Van Buren County FFA
📞 Call us at (931) 946-2442 for more details or to place an order.
Let’s show our FFA students some community support! 💙💛
