First Day of School

Williamson County Schools Superintendent Jason Golden talks to a bus driver at Independence High School on the first day of school.

 Nicolle S. Praino

The Williamson County School Board approved a ban on cell phones set to go into effect in August 2026 at its most recent meeting. 

While earlier discussions evaluated banning cell phones for all students in all schools, the final policy allows high schools to have access to their devices during lunch or recess periods, The Tennessean reported. Elementary and middle schools will operate under a “bell-to-bell” ban. However, the board did not decide where phones will be stored during the school day: in a car, a locker or a secure pouch. 

Those against the ban raised concerns about connectivity during emergency events such as school shootings. However, those for the ban sought to prevent porn viewing and online bullying during school hours. The policy passed with a vote of 11 to 1, with Eric Welch the sole board member to vote against the ban. 

The ban is in response to a law passed earlier this year at the Tennessee General Assembly that requires restrictions on cell phones, tablets or other wireless communication during instructional time. 

In addition, a record number of 35 Williamson County Schools were named Reward Schools for the 2024-25 school year, recognizing the highest performing schools in the state. 

Jersey Mike’s Slated for Nolensville 

Jersey Mike’s, a fast-casual grilled sub restaurant, is set to open in Nolensville on Wednesday. The franchise is set for 7344 Nolensville Road, and managed by owner William Chris Brown. 

During the first days of business from Dec. 3-7, the restaurant will be raising money for Sunset Middle School. Those who receive a coupon from the school can get a sub in exchange for a minimum $2 contribution to the school. Sunset Middle School named former teacher Alyson Hennecke to the role of principal this summer. 

Jersey Mike’s is set to be open seven days per week from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m., with ordering available in-store, online and through the Jersey Mike’s app. The Nolensville location is hiring, according to a press release. 

Jersey Mike’s has 3,000 locations nationally, with the closest at 205 Franklin Road in Brentwood.  

Ravenwood Robotics Team Earns High Honors  

A student-led robotics team at Ravenwood High School recently earned the highest judged award at a robotics competition.

The Raptor Robotics-JOKR team was the highest-ranked team out of 100 schools at the VEX V5 Robotics Smoky Mountain Forge Signature Event. Their scores were based on tournament matches, a skills competition and judged interviews. This makes Raptor Robotics the first team of its kind in Tennessee to qualify for the world championship this season. 

The Raptor Robotics Club has 27 students who compete on four teams. Students must design, build and code robots based on a new competition goal each year. 

“Signature events bring together the top robotics teams from across North America to compete at the highest level,” said Brennen Price, co-president of the Raptor Robotics Club and co-captain of Raptor Robotics-JOKR. “Earning the Excellence Award is an incredible honor, especially given the exceptional talent across Williamson County and the Southeast. We're grateful for this opportunity to represent Brentwood and Tennessee on the global stage, and we're committed to continuing our growth.”