The Cheatham County School District is excited to announce its district-level Novice Teachers of the Year!
The Novice Teacher of the Year Award, introduced a few years ago by the Tennessee Department of Education as part of its Educator Recognition Program, aims to spotlight the exceptional commitment and innovative practices of new teachers across the state.
The award honors early-career teachers — those in their first three years — who demonstrate a passion for student learning, excellence in instruction, and a commitment to growth in the teaching profession.
• Elementary school: Deona Ray is a Pre-K teacher at East Cheatham Elementary School. She has worked in education for 12 years – nine as an assistant, one as a student teacher and two years as a teacher. A Grow Your Own graduate, she holds an associate degree from Nashville State Community College and bachelor’s degree from Austin Peay State University.
• Middle school: Carsen Moseley is a seventh-grade science and math teacher at Cheatham Middle School. She has worked in education for two years and has been at CMS since 2024. She served as a certified clinical medical assistant before becoming a teacher. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a master’s degree from Austin Peay State University.
• High school: Will Mattingly is an audio/visual teacher at Harpeth High School. He has worked in education for three years. He previously worked in youth ministry and as a digital project manager at a religious non-profit. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Ozark Christian College and master’s degree from Dallas Theological Seminary.