My name is DeWayne Howard, and I am a life -long resident of the TN Upper Cumberland.
I was born and reared in White County, TN. I was blessed to be raised by hard-working parents in a farming community of Bear Cove. We raised pigs, cattle, chickens, & horses. My parents instilled in me the importance of family dinners, and a work ethic that has never left my side.
I am so grateful for the upbringing I had which was filled with a Godly lessons, learning, and love.
Their values that they taught me were a set of guiding principles that I follow today. Guiding me with a purpose, and a sense of urgency with every step you take is a decision you make daily.
Thus, my blueprint is to get up and face every day, with a driving since of purpose, to accomplish today’s goals.
After graduating from Sparta High School, I obtained my bachelor's degree from the Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville, TN. Following my time at TN Tech, I was blessed with the marriage of my wonderful wife, Jackie. I am so proud of Jackie, as she has served our education community as a Teacher for over 3 decades in White County Schools. We were gifted with three wonderful children; Dr, Kristen Howard Clark, Doctor of Osteopathic Dentistry, Kade Howard, Mechanical Engineer, and Kolter Howard, Commercial Pilot.
I retired from USPS after 30 years with a great organization. Having deep roots in District 43, White & Warren Counties, I had the desire to continue serving.
I served 3 terms as a White County Commissioner. During these terms, I was proud to be a part of the team that were successful in:
A New County Jail
A New Sports Complex
A New Solid Waste Convenience Center
A New Animal Shelter
A New Library
A New EMS Building
Purchased a New Industrial Park
Developed a Whte County Museum
I was also honored to serve on the White County School Board. During my tenure, I championed the following items:
Direct focus on the Rights of the Parents, Students, Teachers & Citizens
Needed updates on the Elementary School in my District
HS FFA Program Innovative School Grant
Teachers Pay Increase
Leader on Roberts Rules of Order in Board Meetings
Citizens public right to speak at Board Meetings
I Supported:
Total Transparency in School Board Meetings
Committee Reform
Continuance of Baccalaureate Ceremony
Returning to Voters Electing TN Directors of Schools
Reformed Bidding Process for School Projects
New Elementary School in the Cherry Creek Community
Time period of 10 days between the School Board Work Session and School Board Meeting to provide ample time for the citizens to review