ESL and Instructional Support Coordinator Announced

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tammy Garrett recently announced the new role of English as a Second Language (ESL) and Instructional Support Coordinator, a position that will address the increasing enrollment of English language learners within the district and replace the former Director of Curriculum and Instruction position, to previous Eakin Elementary School Principal Kathy Reed. She has been in the classroom and administration with Bedford County Schools for over 37 years.
“We are excited to welcome Mrs. Reed to this vital role,” commented Garrett. “Her years of experience within our district, coupled with her deep understanding of the needs of our English as a Second Language learners, makes her the perfect advocate to ensure every student receives the support they need to succeed. We are proud, too, that she is a Bedford County native!”
Prior to Eakin Elementary, Reed was also the principal at Learning Way Elementary School, assistant principal at Community Middle School and taught in the classroom at East Side Elementary School and Thomas Magnet School. She has a master’s degree and an education specialist degree (Ed.S.) in School Administration from Trevecca Nazarene University and Middle Tennessee State University.
Reed says teaching is her calling and the reward is truly great.
“Teaching is my calling. There is no greater career than teaching. Helping students learn, grow and become the best version of themselves is the most rewarding profession. I feel so blessed to have been a teacher and principal for all these years,” comments Reed.
She expresses her excitement and goals for the new support role.
“I appreciate the trust that has been placed in me, and I will do my best to serve the students, families and teachers of students who speak English as a second language. One of my goals is to build stronger connections between schools and families while being an advocate for students. I can’t wait to get started serving Bedford County in this new capacity.”
Reed expands on her appreciation for the district and the benefits of a small community.
“Bedford County is family and a great place to work. Everyone is so helpful and willing to go above and beyond to help each other out. Being a small community has given me the opportunity to get to know people and develop lifelong relationships.”
When not busy with school life, Reed enjoys sewing, crafting, needleworking, reading, watching movies and anything involving water. She is married to her lifelong partner of 40 years Johnny Reed and has two adult children, Ashley and Tripp.