By JAMES EVANS

Rutherford County Schools

Christy Brown has been named principal of John Colemon Elementary School in Smyrna, Director of Schools-Elect Bill Spurlock announced Monday (6/25/18).

Brown is a veteran educator of 18 years and most recently served as the assistant principal at David Youree Elementary School.

"Ms. Brown is a past Teacher of the Year recipient, and she has served as an administrator, an interventionist and has taught multiple subjects," Director of Schools-elect Bill Spurlock said. "She has a heart for students, and with her accomplished background, she will serve the John Colemon community well."

Brown has taught math, English language arts, science and served as an intervention coach. She has worked at Christiana Elementary School, Rockvale Elementary School and in Bedford County.

She was named Teacher of the Year while at Christiana Elementary in 2010, and completed the school district's Aspiring Administrators Academy two years ago. In addition, she has a master's degree in administration and supervision from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville.

"I would like to thank Mr. Odom and Mr. Spurlock for this wonderful opportunity," said Brown, referring to retiring Director Schools Don Odom and Director-Elect Spurlock, who will officially become director July 1.

"It is a blessing and a privilege to be able to work with children every day," Brown continued. "My plan moving forward as the principal of John Colemon Elementary is to continue building on the strong foundation that Mrs. Ann Haley, the faculty and staff have already established. Continuing to set high expectations and providing the support needed to help every child from every background achieve success will be our goal."

Brown added, "At JCE, we will work hard to ensure every child sees himself or herself as a masterpiece in the making."

Brown succeeds Ann Haley, who was recently named the elementary education coordinator for Rutherford County Schools.