AAPN Directory
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Dr. Kelly Alves
Leadership Experience
As the former director of a K-12 private school specializing in autism spectrum disorders, I led comprehensive educational programs for nearly eight years. Currently, I serve as an adjunct instructor in the AAPN program at Austin Peay State University, where I continue to shape the next generation of educators.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Liberty University - Master of Science in Special Education
Liberty University - Master of Science in Developmental Psychology
Liberty University - Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Tennessee Technological University
Additional Information
Originally from Tennessee, I now reside in eastern North Carolina with my husband, Robert, and our two German shepherds, Rayah and Phoebe. My diverse background in education, combined with hands-on leadership experience, allows me to bring a unique perspective to educational development and instruction.
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Lisa Baker
Leadership Experience
I have served with CMCSS for nearly 30 years, including 12 years as an elementary and middle school teacher, 3 years as an elementary and middle assistant principal, and 12 years as a middle school principal. For the last 2 years, I have provided oversight for our district's phenomenal Teacher Residency Program. My passion lies in supporting and growing teachers and instructional leaders to best serve their students.
Academic Background
Not provided.
Additional Information
A lifelong resident of Clarksville, I consider myself a life-long learner. I am excited to work with the AAPN program for my fourth year, bringing my diverse educational experience and passion for helping others learn and grow. I see how truly important it is for students to have great teachers who are led by strong administrators. Education is critical, and our students deserve the best.
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Laura Boss
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as the founding principal of Kirkwood Middle School in the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (CMCSS). With 14 years in administrative roles, I've had the privilege of leading educational initiatives and fostering academic excellence. As the inaugural principal of Kirkwood Middle School, I'm dedicated to establishing a culture of innovation and student success.
My career in public education spans over two decades, beginning in 1998. I've had the opportunity to teach grades 3-8 across two states, New Jersey and Tennessee, providing me with comprehensive insight into diverse educational environments and student needs. This varied classroom experience informs my approach to school leadership and curriculum development.
Academic Background
- Doctoral Candidate
Currently completing dissertation
Additional Information
When not leading at Kirkwood, I enjoy spending time with my husband and three children, supporting their school activities. I remain actively involved in community initiatives and educational advancement through my doctoral studies.
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Dr. Riley Braem
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as Assistant Principal at Rossview High School (CMCSS), where I oversee the Fine Arts, Special Education, and Science Departments, as well as the Academy of Media Arts & Technology. My administrative role allows me to combine my passion for arts education with strategic academic leadership. My career in education began as a theatre teaching artist, working with institutions including Middle Tennessee State University and Nashville Children's Theatre.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education
Austin Peay State University - Master of Fine Arts in Theatre for Youth
Arizona State University - Mast of Arts in Teaching, Secondary Education and Teaching
- Bachelor of Science in Communication Arts, Theatre Performance and Theatre Design
Austin Peay State University - Certificate in Theatre for Young Audiences for Youth with Complex Disabilities
Rose Buford College of Theatre & Performance, London
Additional Information
Growing up in a family of six on Chicago's south side, I witnessed firsthand how education could break the cycle of poverty. As the first person in my family to graduate high school and earn a college degree, I understand the transformative power of education. My parents' struggles, stemming not from a lack of work ethic but from limited educational opportunities, inspired my commitment to education. Today, I dedicate myself to showing students that education can be their pathway to new opportunities and breaking intergenerational cycles of poverty.
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Dr. Benita Bruster
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as a professor in the College of Education at Austin Peay State University, where I have been shaping future educators for 18 years. My administrative experience includes serving as:
- Principal at Caldwell Elementary, McKinney, TX
- Assistant Principal at Villavosa Elementary, Tracy, CA
- Middle School Assistant Principal, McKinney, TX
With over three decades in education, I have built a comprehensive career spanning multiple roles and educational levels. My experience includes elementary and middle school teaching, school administration, and higher education, providing me with a unique perspective on the full spectrum of educational development.
Academic Background
- Ph.D. in Literacy and Research Methodology
Texas Woman's University - Master's Degree in Reading
North Texas State University - Bachelor of Science in K - 8 Elementary Education
Cameron University
Additional Information
As the wife of a retired United States Navy serviceman, I've had the opportunity to experience education across different communities throughout our 43 years of marriage. My family, including our son and three grandchildren, continues to inspire my dedication to educational excellence.
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Dr. Chris Causey
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as Chief of Staff for Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools, bringing 29 years of comprehensive educational leadership experience. My career journey includes roles as:
- Director of Schools
- District Supervisor
- School Principal
- Assistant Principal
- Middle School Teacher and Basketball Coach (boys and girls)
My approach to educational leadership rests on three fundamental pillars:
- Relationships
- Positivity
- Professionalism
I firmly believe in Nelson Mandela's words that "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." This belief drives my commitment to being a catalyst for change in education. My passion for educational leadership was inspired by my own 6th-grade teacher, who showed me the transformative power of education. Now, as an educational leader, I work to multiply that impact across generations of students.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Leadership and Professional Practice
Trevecca Nazarene University - Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Trevecca Nazarene University - Bachelor of Science
Western Kentucky University
Additional Information
I share my life with my wife Stacy of 24 years and our two children: Madison (23) and Jackson (20), who is currently a Senior at Austin Peay State University. Our family's commitment to education extends beyond my professional role and into our personal lives.
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Dr. Christine Cheesman
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as Assistant Principal in Anne Arundel County Public Schools, Maryland, where I focus on creating an inclusive and safe environment for our entire school community. My leadership philosophy centers on building a welcoming atmosphere where every member of our school family can thrive.
With nearly three decades in elementary education, my career has encompassed diverse roles including:
- Assistant Principal
- Gifted and Talented Resource Teacher
- Classroom Teacher
Each role has enhanced my understanding of how to create comprehensive educational environments that serve all students' needs.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education, Mind, Brain, and Teaching
Johns Hopkins University - Master's Degree, School Improvement Leadership
Goucher College
Additional Information
Education serves as the cornerstone for our future's foundation. We need all children to feel empowered and successful to become the leaders we need in our world. Every child needs an equal opportunity to grow into the best possible version of themselves.
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Dr. Tonya Cunningham
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as a part-time instructor in the Department of Education Specialties at Austin Peay State University, following a distinguished 34-year career in public education. My leadership roles include:
- 19 years as principal of a rural Title I school
- 7 years as lead principal, mentoring six school leaders
- Extensive experience in developing professional support networks
Academic Background
Not provided.
Additional Information
Education is important to me because it influences every facet of life. A genuinely educated individual continues to learn and grow, contributing to a better world for everyone.
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Dr. Sarah Dugger
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as a teacher at Rossview Middle School in Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (CMCSS), with an extraordinary educational career spanning nearly four decades. My teaching experience is comprehensive, having instructed students from 6th grade through graduate-level courses, with a special passion for middle school education.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Austin Peay State University - Education Specialist, Secondary Curriculum and Instruction, Instructional Technology
Austin Peay State University - Master's Degree, Reading Teacher Education
Austin Peay State University - Bachelor's Degree, English
University of Texas at Arlington
Additional Information
I love data, and I am a statistics nerd. Education empowers me to make informed decisions, pursue my goals, and contribute to society in meaningful ways.
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Bryan Feldman
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as Director of High Schools for Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (CMCSS), with 27 years of comprehensive educational leadership. My professional journey includes:
- Director of High Schools, CMCSS
- Principal of Clarksville High School
- Principal of West Creek Middle School
- Assistant Principal at Kenwood High School
- 10-year veteran teacher of 8th Grade U.S. History at Kings Mountain Middle School, North Carolina
Academic Background
- Master of Education in School Administration
Gardner-Webb University - Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Education
Purdue University.
Additional Information
It has always been my joy and passion to see students achieve and succeed in life. Education is the single greatest vehicle for a young person to overcome the obstacles of life.
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Dr. Mandy Frost
Leadership Experience
I have worked in education for 23 years, including:
- 9 years as a high school assistant principal
- 8 years as a high school math teacher
- 6 years as middle school math teacher
This is my fourth year working with the AAPN program at Austin Peay.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
- Education Specialist in Educational Leadership
- Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus in Mathematics
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
Additional Information
Both my husband and I work in education. We have two children — a college freshman and a high school freshman.
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Dr. Rachel Funderburk
Leadership Experience
I currently serve as the principal of Cumberland Heights Elementary. Previously, I worked in these other school leadership roles:
- Interim Principal at Burt Elementary
- Assistant Principal at Burt Elementary
Additionally, I have worked as an adjunct professor of education at Austin Peay State University, teaching courses in special education, teaching, and school leadership with the AAPN program.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Austin Peay State University - Education Specialist in Elementary Reading Education
Austin Peay State University - Master of Arts in Education in Special Education Curriculum and Instruction
Austin Peay State University - Bachelor of Science in Special Education
Austin Peay State University
Additional Information
Since beginning my career with CMCSS in 2014, I have also worked in these teaching positions:
- Primary Modified Teacher
- Resource Teacher
- Special Populations Elementary Consulting Teacher
I am married with four children ranging in age from 7 to 20. I enjoy spending time making memories traveling with her family and friends!
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Docia Generette-Walker
Leadership Experience
I currently serve as the Chief of Schools for Gestalt Community Schools. Previously, during a 17-year tenure with Memphis-Shelby County Schools, I served as:
- Assistant Superintendent of High Schools
- Director of College, Career and Technical Education (CCTE)
- High School Principal
- Resident Principal
- Academic Coordinator
As a principal, my school was named a National Blue Ribbon school in 2014 and was a TN Department of Education Reward School for both Growth and Proficiency three years in a row. I was named Principal of the Year for the state of Tennessee in 2017
Before coming to Memphis-Shelby County Schools, I was an Einstein Fellow at the National Science Foundation.
Academic Background
Not provided.
Additional Information
I continue to be motivated to do the heart work for students, families, and staff of our state because of my belief that every child deserves a quality education. Providing opportunities for students to have choice-filled lives, broadening their expectations for a successful future, and inspiring caring adults to champion academic and behavioral supports to help students reach their potential is why I do this work every single day.
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Dr. Robert Gordon
Leadership Experience
With 26 years in education, I have built an impressive career serving the Memphis-Shelby County community for over 17 years. My leadership roles include serving as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal. As a middle school principal, my leadership led to remarkable achievements, including the school being named "MEA School of the Year" and improving from TVAAS 1 to 5, achieving "Level 5" performance in Reading/Language Arts, Math, and Overall. I have also served as an adjunct faculty member at Southwest Tennessee Community College.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in K-12 Educational Leadership
University of Mississippi - Education Specialist in K-12 Educational Leadership
University of Mississippi - Master of Education in Elementary Education
University of Mississippi - Bachelor of Science in Music Education
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Additional Information
A native Memphian and public school graduate, I am committed to forging strong relationships with businesses, community leaders, parents, and teachers to empower scholars for success. I am an alumnus of New Leaders for New Schools, Leadership Millington, and the Memphis Police Department's Clergy Academy.
My mission centers on serving students and families while providing post-secondary opportunities and workplace readiness for all scholars. Recently, I received the Chair's Award of Excellence from the Department of Educational Specialties at Austin Peay State University. I has been married to my wife Kimberly, a fellow educator, for 28 years. We have three children and a god-granddaughter.
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Linda Haberman
Leadership Experience
I served as a school administrator for over 20 years at the elementary and middle school levels. During my 40-year career as a special educator, interventionist, assistant principal, and principal, I have worked with children and families in:
- Florida
- North Carolina
- Department of Defense Schools in various locations
I was awarded the Regional Principal of the Year Award for the Southeastern United
States in the Department of Defense Schools in the 2018-2019 school year. I was previously
awarded the Assistant Principal of the Year Award for the Department of Defense Schools
of the United States.
Academic Background
- Rank I Post-Master's Program
Murray State University - Master of Arts in Education in Educational Leadership and Curriculum and Instruction
Florida Atlantic University - Bachelor of Arts in Exceptional Child Education
University of South Florida
Additional Information
I am a published author, writing for Mosby and addressing Specific Developmental Disorders.
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Dr. Crystal Harden-Lindsey
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as Vice President of Community Investment at the Baltimore Community Foundation (BCF), bringing 24 years of diverse educational leadership experience. Key roles include:
- Leadership Coach for educational sector executives
- CEO and Principal of Green Street Academy
- Multiple leadership positions within Baltimore City Public School District
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Completed August 2019 - Master's Degree in Elementary Education
Johns Hopkins University - Bachelor of Science in Social Work and Mental Health
Morgan State University
Additional Information
My mission is to contribute to social progress and economic growth by equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for an interconnected, sustainable world. Through strategic leadership and community engagement, I strive to create educational opportunities that empower individuals and promote systemic change.
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Dr. Kim Herndon
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as Assistant Principal at Rossview High School in Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (CMCSS) and adjunct professor at Austin Peay State University. My professional journey spans 21 years of dedicated education service, including:
- 9 years as Assistant Principal
- 12 years as High School Mathematics Teacher
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Austin Peay State University - Master's Degree in Administration and Supervision
Middle Tennessee State University - Administrative Licensure
Trevecca Nazarene University - Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
Austin Peay State University
Additional Information
My passion for education is driven by a profound commitment to student growth and potential. As an educator, I believe in:
- Reaching every student individually
- Supporting teachers and administrators
- Creating opportunities for continuous personal and academic development
- Addressing the diverse academic and personal needs of students
Beyond my professional roles, I am a dedicated wife to Daniel, mother to Ella, an active church member, and an avid reader with a love for cats. These personal experiences enrich my approach to education and leadership.
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Dr. Andrea Rakushin Lee
Leadership Experience
As an assistant professor in the Department of Educational Specialties at Austin Peay State University, I serve as the Ed.D. program coordinator, shaping the future of educational leadership. My international experience includes positions at several universities in South Korea, bringing a global perspective to educational development.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Liberty University - Master of Science in Education, English as a Second Language
Fort Hays State University - Master of Arts in History
American Military University - Master of Public Administration
University of North Carolina at Pembroke - Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Western Carolina University
Additional Information
Based in Clarksville, TN, I am passionate about refugee education, international education, applied linguistics, and intercultural communication. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, learning about other cultures, reading, and exploring historic sites. I believe education is a powerful tool for empowerment, fostering cross-cultural understanding, critical thinking, and global innovation.
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Dr. Christi Maldonado
Leadership Experience
With over 20 years of experience in public education, I have served as both a teacher and assistant principal. Currently, I am an assistant professor and assistant graduate coordinator for the MAED ELS program at Austin Peay State University. I serve as a Faculty Fellow with the TN Grow Your Own Center and an AOQF peer reviewer for APSU, while also volunteering as a surrogate parent in the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Philosophy
Trevecca Nazarene University - Master of Arts in Education
Austin Peay State University - Bachelor of Science
Austin Peay State University
Additional Information
As a Clarksville native, I live here with my husband, Julio, and my second-grade niece. My four adult children also call Clarksville home. When not working to advance educational opportunities, I enjoy traveling with my family, particularly to beaches along the Gulf and Caribbean. I am deeply committed to public school education, believing that every child deserves to achieve success and develop positive, supportive relationships. My mission, both professionally and personally, is to make decisions and consider outcomes that help children find their path.
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Kim Masters
Leadership Experience
With 31 years in the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System, I have served in various leadership roles, including 14.5 years as a principal and 4 years as an assistant principal. My teaching experience spans 11.5 years in grades K-2. Currently, I serve as a leadership coach at Austin Peay State University and an adjunct professor at Nashville State Community College.
Academic Background
- Master's Degree, Educational Leadership
Treveca Nazarene University - Bachelor's Degree, Early Childhood Education and Teaching
Trevecca Nazarene University
Additional Information
My husband and I have been married for 31 years, and our twin sons have both chosen careers in education.
I want to share your learning journey as you explore school leadership and coach you to examine potential issues ahead of time. It is my desire you learn to problem solve before you are in the school leadership role. Along the way, we will discuss ways to build a strong culture in a school, have a phenomenal time, and ultimately provide a life-changing experience to our students.
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Maribeth Mathis
Leadership Experience
With 29 years in education, including 22 years in school leadership, I currently serve as the principal of St. Bethlehem Early Learning Center, the first Pre-K hub in the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System. As a leadership coach in the AAPN program, I bring extensive experience in early childhood education and school administration to support aspiring educational leaders.
Academic Background
- Master's Degree, Educational Leadership and Administration
Trevecca Nazarene University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education and Teaching
Murray State University
Additional Information
Education provides the foundation for personal growth and self-improvement. It opens doors to opportunities, and it is essential for achieving personal goals. Through education, you gain the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the world, make informed decisions, and contribute positively and effectively in society.
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Dr. Gereon Methner
Leadership Experience
With 11 years of experience as a building administrator, I currently serve as a middle school principal and director of secondary curriculum and instruction in Freedom, Wisconsin. My educational career began as a middle and high school French and technology education teacher.
Academic Background
- Bowling Green State University
Additional Information
My journey in education began as a summer camp counselor and canoe trip leader in Blind River, Ontario, where I discovered my passion for developing youth leadership and positive self-esteem. My international experience includes studying and working in France, Martinique, and Québec, bringing a global perspective to education. The decision to transition into educational administration was driven by a desire to influence student success on a broader scale. Middle school education remains my true passion, and I am excited to share my experiences with APSU students while continuing to work with families, teachers, and students in my current role.
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Dr. Tim Mulrain
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as an associate principal at an elementary school in the Eau Claire Area School District, I bring diverse administrative experience to education. My leadership journey includes roles as a director of special education, director of curriculum and instruction, and assistant principal at a K-12 school, providing me with comprehensive insight into educational administration at multiple levels.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education, Mind, Brain, and Teaching
Johns Hopkins University - Master's Certificate, Director of Pupil Services
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire - Master's Certificate, School Law
University of Connecticut - Master of Science, Educational Leadership and Administration
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh - Bachelor of Arts, English Education
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Additional Information
My professional interests center on brain-targeted teaching, systems design, and school law. I am deeply committed to education as a catalyst for social change, believing it plays a crucial role in interrupting cycles of generational disenfranchisement.
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Dr. Becky Padgett
Leadership Experience
Currently serving as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for Grades 9-12 in the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System, I bring diverse educational experience to this role. My career journey includes positions as a high school administrator, academic coach, high school basketball coach, and classroom teacher.
Academic Background
- Doctorate in Learning Organizations and Strategic Change
Lipscomb University - Master of Science in Health and Human Performance
Austin Peay State University - Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Broadcast Journalism
University of Tennessee at Martin
Additional Information
I am passionate about creating positive school environments where teachers, students, and families feel welcomed and valued. As an educator, I firmly believe our role is to inspire, encourage, and provide hope to our students each day to be the best at whatever they aspire beyond high school.
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Dr. Sherri K. Prosser
Leadership Experience
Since joining APSU in 2019, I have been instrumental in preparing future educational leaders, serving as the principal investigator for the AAPN grant project that has funded aspiring assistant principals' education since 2020. My career spans multiple educational roles, including seven years as a special education teacher in high-need elementary schools and seven years as a middle school mathematics teacher in Volusia County, Florida. I have also served as a mentor for novice teachers, conducting formative and summative evaluations, and worked as a consultant developing online teacher professional development.
Academic Background
- Ph.D., Curriculum and Instruction
University of Florida - Master of Education, Special Education
University of Florida - Bachelor's Degree, Special Education
University of Florida - Associate's Degree
Edison State Community College
Additional Information
Based in Gainesville, Florida, I currently teach core courses in the AAPN program, including Research-Based Leadership for School Improvement, School Program Administration and Leadership, and School Law, Policy, and Ethics. My passion lies in preparing educational leaders, having witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that effective principals and assistant principals can have on both students and teachers. I am committed to helping aspiring administrators develop their leadership skills while gaining new perspectives on educational administration.
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Dr. LaVetta Radford
Leadership Experience
With nearly two decades in education, I have served in various capacities at the elementary level before taking on my current role as Educator Pipeline Facilitator at CMCSS Central Services South. Throughout my career, I have focused on providing support and inspiration for fellow educators, helping to shape the future of education in our community.
Academic Background
- Western Kentucky University
- Trevecca Nazarene University
Additional Information
A native of Cadiz, Kentucky, I take my greatest pride in being a wife and mother to three teenagers. My passion for education is deeply rooted, as I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors who were not afforded educational opportunities. I believe in the transformative power of education to transcend generations and circumstances, embracing BB King's wisdom that "The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you."
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Dr. Sherleta M. Sanders
Leadership Experience
My journey in education spans over two decades, including nine years as a classroom teacher in Lavergne, where I was honored as Teacher of the Year and Rutherford Education Association Representative of the Year. After transitioning to administration, I served as an assistant principal in Nashville.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Strategic Change
Lipscomb University - Education Specialist in Administration and Supervision
Middle Tennessee State University - Master's Degree in Curriculum Instructional Design
Cumberland University - Bachelor's Degree
Belmont University
Additional Information
I am passionate about ensuring that my students receive equitable opportunities and resources. This passion has inspired me to join boards and organizations that align with my goal of elevating the voices and resources of those I serve.
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Dr. Kenan Sener
Leadership Experience
With 19 years in school administration and seven years in teaching, I currently serve as Executive Director at Fulton Science Academy in Atlanta and CEO of Premier School Management and Education Services. As an adjunct faculty member at Austin Peay State University, I continue to shape future educational leaders. My leadership has been recognized with the 2023 Value Driven Award from Cognia and the 2023 Best Boss Award.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Johns Hopkins University - Certificate in School Management and Leadership
Harvard Graduate School of Education - Certificate in Leadership and Innovation
Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Master of Education, Educational Leadership
Kennesaw State University - Bachelor of Science, Management Information Systems
Alliant International University
Additional Information
Based in Atlanta, where I live with my wife, three children, and our cat, I view education like crafting a masterpiece—whether through painting a picture or composing a song, it requires dedication, creativity, and care. The knowledge that each effort contributes to something greater and more beautiful brings me immense joy and fulfillment in my journey of service.
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Selina T. Sparkman
Leadership Experience
Throughout my 34-year career in education, I have:
- Led Bledsoe County to achieve Exemplary District status (one of twelve in the state) and Level 5 district designation;
- Transformed four out of five schools to Reward School status, including one that moved from third-lowest performing in the state;
- Served as a turnaround principal for 11 years in Memphis Shelby County Schools and Millington Municipal Schools;
- Managed Career and Technical Education Programs for Shelby County Schools;
- Served as a state Administrator's TEAM & Standards Coach;
- Held leadership positions on the Tennessee Principals' Association board and as Chairperson of the Southwest Principals' Study Council.
Academic Background
Additional Information
As a native Memphian, I began my career as a teacher in Memphis City Schools and received
valuable training through New Leaders for New Schools.
I bring extensive experience as a presenter and trainer on various educational topics.
On a personal note, I have been married to my husband, Danny, for 33 years, and we
have three daughters.
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Jenette Spurbeck
Leadership Experience
With 19 years in education, I hav e spent the last nine years serving as Assistant Principal at Clarksville High School. I taught 6th-8th grade English and social studies, providing me with comprehensive middle school classroom expertise that informs my administrative approach.
Academic Background
- Education Specialist, Educational Leadership and Administration
Lipscomb University - Master of Arts in Education
Cumberland University - Bachelor of Arts
Angelo State University
Additional Information
Education is important to me because I know that it is an opportunity for students to become successful throughout the rest of their lives. It provides our future leaders with the background and knowledge to truly become prepared for their career.
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Dr. Shari Tharpe
Leadership Experience
With 15 years in public education within the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System, I served as a high school assistant principal for 10 years before transitioning to my current role as principal at a private school. Since August 2023, I have expanded my impact through positions as both an adjunct and visiting professor in the MAED ELS program at Austin Peay State University.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education, Organizational Leadership
Trevecca Nazaren University
Additional Information
Together with my husband Josh, who has served as a pastor for over 20 years, and our daughter Kaylee, we maintain an active presence in our church community. Our family values quality time together, whether through vacations, board games, or movie nights.
I believe strong, visionary leaders are essential for creating schools where every student can thrive. By focusing on student needs, ethical practices, collaboration, and continuous learning, I want to inspire and equip aspiring administrators to champion equity, drive positive changes, and ensure every student has a chance to succeed.
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Dr. Tesia Wilson
Leadership Experience
As a 21-year veteran of Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools (MNPS), I have served in multiple leadership roles including executive principal, assistant principal, teacher mentor, and literacy coach. My comprehensive experience has shaped my understanding of how different roles contribute to building successful school cultures. As executive principal at Jones Elementary School, I focus on creating an environment of excellence that promotes equity, growth, creativity, and innovation for all students.
Academic Background
- Doctor of Education, Organizational Leadership and Strategic Change
Lipscomb University - Education Specialist, Educational Administration and Supervision
Middle Tennessee State University - Master's Degree in Educational Leadership, Educational Administration
Tennessee State University - Bachelor's Degree, Elementary Education and Teaching
Tennessee State University
Additional Information
As a proud MNPS graduate, I have experienced firsthand the transformative power of education. Education is important to me because it holds the power to break down systemic barriers and dismantle historical injustices that have been perpetuated against communities in our own country. Education has the potential to empower us with knowledge, skills, and confidence to challenge and overcome the lingering effects of racism, discrimination, and oppression.