News
DCHS Junior writes winning “Parent of the Month” essay for his Foster Dad
February 14, 2025
By: Dwayne Page
An 11th grader at DCHS prepared a winning essay in tribute to his foster dad for the honor of “Parent of the Month” for January.
Ray Patterson, Braxton Spears’ foster parent, received a certificate from the school and a gift card for a meal at Jude’s Traveling Food.
“I wrote this essay about him taking me into his home several months ago and how it has changed my life in and outside of school,” said Braxton.
Spears came to live with Patterson, his foster parent after a stay at New Frontiers boys’ home. He is originally from Kentucky but came here from Clay County.
Since enrolling at DCHS, Braxton said the experience has been a good one. “My high school experience has been entertaining. I have learned a lot of new things,” he said.
His favorite high school subject is math, and he hopes to one day become a marine biologist.
Patterson said he has been a foster parent since 2004. More recently Patterson has had five boys in his care including Braxton. He also has a daughter.
“He (Braxton) needed a home, and I had a placement for him. His case worker from New Frontiers knew of me because I had another kid who lived with me who also came from New Frontiers. She thought Braxton living with me would be a good fit for him. Its working out good. He has come a long way,” said Patterson.
As for Braxton’s essay about him, Patterson said he was surprised by it but that he is proud of Braxton for having written it.
“Percy” will steal your heart! (View Video Here)
February 14, 2025
By: Dwayne Page
Longing for a cute cuddly pet you can call your own? The DeKalb Animal Shelter has one just for you!
Come see “Percy”. You’ll find him hard to resist
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“Percy is an 8-month-old kitty we just got in recently,” said shelter employee Kota. “He is already vaccinated, and he is waiting to be neutered. If you are interested in meeting him, fill out an application on our website or come in and see us. His adoption fee is $120. He is a sweet, shy, and cuddly boy”.
Visit https://www.dekalbanimalsheltertn.com/ or call 615-597-3647.
The shelter is open Mondays-Fridays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Transfer Station Road off Highway 70 east behind Tenneco.
DCHS 9TH Grader Lilly Anderson Awarded “Student of the Month” for January
February 14, 2025
By: Dwayne Page
A 9th grader has been awarded “Student of the Month” for January at DeKalb County High School.
15-year-old Lilly Anderson, daughter of Caitlin and the late PFC Billy Gene Anderson, was surprised to learn Friday that she had been named the recipient of the honor which included a certificate and a gift card for a meal at Jude’s Traveling Food.
“She did not know she had won the award whatsoever. Lilly was nominated by one of the teachers because she is always willing to help someone no matter what and we really appreciate having her around,” said DCHS Assistant Principal Seth Willoughby.
Lilly said she enjoys being in high school and receiving this honor was amazing. Her plans are to one day become a veterinarian because of her love for animals.
