Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tammy Garrett announced the promotion of Dr. Chantel Stewart for the role of principal at Harris Middle School. Dr. Stewart replaces Patrick Hasty, who is transferring to the principal role at Cascade Middle School. Dr. Stewart has been serving as assistant principal at Harris Middle School for three years.
“We’re excited to have Dr. Stewart on board at Harris Middle after gaining experience as assistant principal,” commented Garrett. “She has extensive experience in the classroom in both math and science. Her roles as athletic director and as an administrator have proven her to be an extremely effective leader, working well with students and staff alike. She is open to trying new strategies, and we are looking forward to seeing all that she and her team will accomplish for the benefit of our students. We are proud, too, that she is a Bedford County native!”
Prior to Harris Middle, Stewart was in the classroom at Shelbyville Central High School for 20 years where she also served as a director of athletics. After earning her bachelor’s degree from Tennessee State University, Stewart earned her Master of Education in Administration and Supervision also from TSU. Two years ago, she obtained her doctorate from Carson-Newman University in administrative leadership.
Stewart says she has found her passion in education even though she didn’t plan to enter the field initially.“I stumbled upon it when a job transition occurred in my life because I was influenced and guided by many great educators. I want to leave a legacy, too, that positively impacts and empowers those I encounter,” comments Stewart.
She reports seeing a lot of changes over her 23 years in education, but Bedford County will always be her home. Stewart says gone are the days where instruction is geared toward one learner; stepping out and trying new strategies that support all learners is imperative.
“If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn,” explains Stewart. “My goal for the upcoming school year is to equip teachers with instructional knowledge and strategies geared towards making learning challenging but also fun.”
Stewart expanded on the transition to her new role saying, “So many great things are happening at Harris Middle; Mr. Hasty set the foundation for our admin team, and I want to continue expanding on that vision of moving our school in a positive direction. With the continuation of Mr. Waggoner and Dr. Arroyo by my side as assistant principals, I anticipate a smooth transition, and we are excited to be able to continue letting our work speak for itself.”
When not busy with school life, Stewart enjoys spending time with her three grandchildren and is excited about the arrival of a fourth in October.
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