She’s a long-time Nashvillian who’s been at WEMS for more than a decade. She loves her immediate family and her WEMS family, and she’s a super-friendly face that greeting students, teachers and visitors to the school. Today, we’re thrilled to get to know Mrs. Ketchum a bit better!
Are you from Nashville, and if not, where are you from and how did you arrive here?
I was born in Waverly, TN, but moved to Nashville when I was 5 years old. I have lived in Nashville since then except for 1972-1977, when I lived in Murfreesboro while my husband finished at MTSU.
Tell us about your family — human, furry or otherwise.
I have been married to my husband Jerry for 43 years. We have two sons, Jeremy, who is 39, and Jeffrey, who is 25. Jeremy is married to Bridgette, and they have two children, Emma Grace (6 years) and James (23 months).
How long have you been working at West End, what is your position and what is your favorite part of the job?
I have been at West End since 2003. I started out as a secretary/clerk and became the secretary/bookkeeper about four years ago. It’s hard to say what my favorite part is because I really enjoy my job. I enjoy all the people I work with and the interaction with staff, students and parents.
Tell us about the most memorable student you can recall.
There have been several, but one student who stands out and keeps in touch with me is Nicki Bowers. She played basketball for West End and Hillsboro. She was a great role model for other students. She is playing basketball this year for Cumberland University.
If you weren’t at WEMS, what would you be doing?
Gosh, I really don’t know. I hope to be at West End until I retire.
How do you enjoy spending your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family. I also enjoy reading, working on crafts and going to Predators games when I get a chance.
What is your #1 goal for the school year?
To be a positive role model for the students and be there for them in any way that I can.
Mrs. Ketchum, thanks so much for all that you do! Wanna get in touch with Mrs. Ketchum? Email her at Patricia.Ketchum@mnps.org.
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