Full Breakdown
Rutherford County Schools: Recent Developments in School Choice and Teacher Incident
12/3/2025, 7:40:20 AM
School Choice Application Window Opens
Rutherford County Schools has opened the application window for School Choice programs for the 2026–2027 academic year. Parents can submit applications from December 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026. The options available include several academic magnet and open choice programs such as Central Magnet School, McFadden School of Excellence, Thurman Francis Arts Academy, Homer Pittard Campus School, and the International Baccalaureate program at Oakland High School. Additionally, applications for Holloway High School, the Rutherford County Virtual School, and local charter schools are open year-round. A special application window for the LaVergne High School Early College program runs from December 1, 2025, to March 15, 2026, to accommodate ACT score submissions. Each traditional school in the district will also accept ten open choice students, and a dual zone application is available for high school students rezoned during the 2025–2026 school year.
Teacher Charged with Assault
In a separate incident, Jill-Marie Haynes, a first-grade teacher at Stewarts Creek Elementary, has been charged with aggravated assault and false imprisonment following an altercation with a colleague on November 4, 2025. The Rutherford County Sheriff's Office reported that Haynes allegedly confronted another teacher for entering her classroom, followed her into another room, and blocked her exit while holding a paper cutter. The victim expressed fear for her safety, stating that Haynes threatened to "chop" her and send her to the emergency room. Haynes was placed on unpaid suspension on November 6, 2025, pending the outcome of the investigation. She was booked into the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center on the same day and later released on a $6,000 bond. A court hearing is scheduled for January 5, 2026.
Official Statements & Responses
Rutherford County Schools spokesman James Evans confirmed the suspension of Haynes and the ongoing investigation by the sheriff's office. In a statement, Haynes described her actions as a "very poor joke" regarding the use of the paper cutter. Attorney Ben Powers, representing Haynes, has not provided further comments at this time.
Criticism & Opposition
The incident at Stewarts Creek Elementary has raised concerns about the safety and environment within Rutherford County Schools, particularly in light of ongoing overcrowding issues at the school. Critics argue that such incidents highlight the need for better support and resources for teachers and students alike.
What's Next
The upcoming court hearing on January 5, 2026, will determine the next steps in the legal proceedings against Jill-Marie Haynes. Meanwhile, the School Choice application process will continue until the end of January, allowing families to explore various educational options for their children in the district.
