Alumni

PreK Teacher

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
I started out as an assistant earlier in my career, but wanted to further my education so I went back to school to achieve my master's degree in early childhood to become a PreK classroom teacher. I know a lot people steer clear of this age group, but there is no greater joy to me than teaching PreK!!

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
This district is home to me. I love that I can use the knowledge that was once taught to me and bestow it on my students year after year.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
It's great working with all the familiar faces and family members. I love the PreK/CES work family we have established! Just like Mark Twain said, "Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never work a day in your life." I also love that I get the privilege of teaching the children of old classmates. It's truly a joy!

What is your advice for current students?
Always seek to go the extra mile. There will be hard days. Push through it! Be the person who is willing to step up and lend a helping hand. It doesn't cost a thing to be kind. When you're young, you think you have all the time in the world. Be intentional. Make each day count!

Teacher and Head Baseball Coach 

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Finishing my master's degree in administration

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
My teachers at CHS made me the student and person I am today, and I wanted to continue on that tradition of working to impact young people through education. I've always been proud to be a Warrior, and I want to help instill that Warrior Pride in others.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
Getting to help instill the same time-tested principles that have made our school great for many years while also helping meet our current students where they are in an ever-evolving educational landscape.

What is your advice for current students?
CHS provides many opportunities to build relationships and develop skills that will last a lifetime. Don't waste a single day. Invest in your peers and your teachers, work tirelessly to meet the standards, and embrace the wonderful traditions.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
I played football and baseball in high school. I was a member of various clubs throughout my time at CHS.

Who at CSD inspired you?
I had the luxury of being taught by some incredible teachers: Barbara Trapp, Gloria Cartwright, Chuck Carpenter, Vickie Shirley, Ann Wood, and Debbie Madjlesi as well as several other teachers and faculty members of whose classes I was never a part. I also had great coaches that inspired strong character and work ethic.  
 

5th Grade Teacher

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Achieving my master’s degree while being a first year teacher.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
It felt like coming home!

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
I know a lot of teachers and admin and have been able to create very unique relationships with them as a peer.

What is your advice for current students?
Do the things that make you happy regardless of what opinions you are given from others! Always be kind to those around you, your classmates, school staff, and teachers because you never know who you may need to call in the future or who you might be working with!

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
Musicals, competition play, NHS, and various school clubs.

Who at CSD inspired you?
Kelly Treadway

First Grade Stem Teacher

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Getting my license to be a teacher.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
Because I love my school district and wanted to help other students learn and grow.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
Being able to watch all the student learn and grow.

What is your advice for current students?
To always show respect to everyone.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
Basketball and track

Who at CSD inspired you?
All the teachers that taught me in school and all the ones I have worked with at CES and at church.
 

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Going back to school at age 38 to complete my bachelor’s degree in order to further my career. Without that, I wouldn't have been able to apply for the career coaching position which now I feel like is my ultimate career accomplishment!

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I feel like our community is a great big family. My children are a part of CSD and having the opportunity to help someone else's child every day is a mission and a gift.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
Seeing old school friends! John Frame and I walked around the wings when I started this job and we reminisced about the teachers and what classes we had growing up. I have very fond memories of this campus, mostly the band hall and the football field!

What is your advice for current students?
Tell yourself "I am wonderfully made." Because you are. You have gifts that others do not possess. Harness it. No matter what you pursue post high school--whether it is a traditional college experience, going straight into the workforce or joining a branch of military, if you hustle, you'll be successful. No matter what. And when you become successful, consider giving back to your community as a thank you for those in your community who helped you along the way.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
Band and cheer were my jam. Band more so because I started at an early age. I played the flute. Was I ever first chair? Not so much, but I had a love for directing. I had the opportunity to lead our Corinth band during my 6th, 11th and 12th grade year! I was also a part of various clubs throughout high school. I wasn't voted on for many things, however, I did get "wittiest girl." So... there's that, ha!

Who at CSD inspired you?
Hands down--Ronnie Smith, “Smitty.” He is still today someone who I consider a great mentor. He taught me how to play the flute and how to be a part of a team. “There is no I in team,” he would say. He taught me how to have pride but also how to be humble toward others. He taught me how to direct a group of peers. He was loving and patient but he would also really get you if you messed up. And because of that, I have so much respect for him.
 

Current Job: Pediatrician

Favorite Career Accomplishment? 
Teaching. The word doctor is derived from the Latin verb “docere,” meaning to teach. It is a privilege to educate parents, patients, and the next generation of doctors and nurses. Getting to work with a team of others to provide care for children is my greatest career accomplishment.

How did the Corinth School District prepare you for your career?
Communication. Learning to communicate confidently and correctly through written and spoken word is a superpower in the real world. One can certainly acquire these skills in college or career, but the head start I was provided through our curriculum was immediately evident following graduation.

Why did you choose to come home to Corinth to practice?
Family. The opportunity to serve not only my immediate family but also the family of cousins, friends, neighbors, and mentors who shaped the person I am is incredibly humbling and the highest honor.

What is your advice for current students?
Explore. This is a unique time to change course, make mistakes, and take chances. I certainly had a direction in mind, but I would not have predicted the obstacles along the way. By remaining curious, being kind to others, and not being afraid to fail, I learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.

What CHS activities were you involved?
Student Council, Academic Team, soccer, cross country, track, competition plays, Spring musicals, and (as hilarious as this sounds) I was part of football and basketball broadcasts on early internet radio.

What is your favorite CHS memory?
People. How I was encouraged and supported is a direct reflection of my teachers, staff, and classmates. I may not remember every fact I was taught or the exact score of games, but I remember how the people made me feel during those formative years. I felt loved and appreciated. I hope every student at CHS has that overall feeling when they reflect on their time there.

Who at CSD inspired you?
Debbie Madjlesi, Bobby Purvis, and Myra Byrnes
 

Current Job: General Surgeon

Why did you pick general surgery?
I do all sorts of surgery like appendix and gallbladder removal, hernia repairs, colon cancer surgery, and other gastrointestinal tract surgeries. I also do trauma surgery, skin lesions, and vascular surgery related to dialysis access. This wide array of surgeries attracted me to general surgery. My work day is always different. I see patients as young as 6 and as old as 100.

Favorite Career Accomplishment? 
My biggest accomplishment so far is finishing surgical training in Memphis. Hands down,  
those 6 years were the most demanding years of my life. I was able to see and learn so much during my time at UT, and it is an honor to bring all of that experience back to my hometown.

How did the Corinth School District prepare you for your career?
Corinth School District helped form a solid foundation on which I was able to build on throughout college. I initially became a medical technologist and became interested in pursuing career in medicine after working at UMC in Jackson, MS. The lessons learned in high school carried me throughout my training.

Why did you choose to come home to Corinth to practice?
I chose to come back to Corinth because it’s a great place to raise a family. My parents and grandmother still live here. My wife and I have four children, and we want them to grow up in a safe, smaller town. It has been really exciting moving back home and taking care of friends we’ve known our entire lives. 

My partner Dr. Johnson kept telling me to come see what Corinth and MRHC had to offer. After one trip back to meet the surgeons, we knew we were coming back home to practice.  MRHC gave me the opportunity to do everything I want to do professionally.  

What is your advice for current students?
There are so many children and teenagers wasting time on phones and tablets scrolling through videos, apps, and programs.  It’s mind-numbing. Don’t waste your time worrying about what everyone else is wearing, where they shop, what their status is, etc.  Instead, read a book, watch a historical documentary, or spend your time on activities that make you healthier and smarter.  Students have a unique opportunity where their only job is to learn as much as possible. Work hard and don’t waste this opportunity! 

Secondly, don’t give up on your dreams. I cannot tell you how many times I was told no. If you believe in something, keep chasing it. How you respond to adversity often sets you apart from your peers. Invite criticism, seek mentorship, and work hard. Get there early and stay late. If you are excelling in a class, find someone who is not and help them!

What CHS activities were you involved?
I moved back to Corinth during my senior year, so many of my activities were at my previous school, but I played several sports and stayed involved in math and science programs.

What is your favorite CHS memory?
My favorite memory is graduation. I just remember all of us finally being done with that part of our lives. Everyone was filled with both excitement and apprehension about the next phase of our lives. For many of us it was college, and the camaraderie we developed in high school continued into college.

Who at CSD inspired you?
Mrs. Trapp and Mrs. Cartwright inspired me. They both had a wealth of knowledge and a passion for teaching. They instilled in us a work ethic and thirst for knowledge which prepared us for the next level. They were fair and kind, and they genuinely cared. Many in my class went on to become doctors, lawyers, dentists, accountants, business owners, realtors, coaches, teachers, and a host of other jobs. All of us were ready and prepared, and I think we owe much of it to these ladies.
 

Current Job: Pediatrician

Favorite Career Accomplishment? 
Coming home to take care of friends and family I've known forever

How did the Corinth School District prepare you for your career?
I was constantly challenged, encouraged, and supported by all the teachers and staff.  There were so many opportunities, even then, to be involved in clubs, organizations, honors courses, and more that helped push me to my full potential and prepare for my future challenges that I would have in my education and career.  

Why did you choose to come home to Corinth to practice?
I was lucky enough to marry my high school sweetheart, now married right at 20 years.  Both of our families still live here as well. We knew we wanted to be closer to home and our family as we grew our own family and careers. We knew Corinth was a wonderful placed to be raised and to now raise our own children. The closeness of this community is unlike any other.

What is your advice for current students?
Always apply yourself and get involved in as many activities as you can balance, but be sure to keep a balance. It's ok to be a kid. Adulting is HARD, don't rush it. You may not always be able to do it all, and that is ok. It is better to do your best in a few things, than to just give half effort to too many things. Be passionate about everything you do. The things that seem SOOOOO big really aren't. Give yourself grace. Be kind to everyone you can.  

What CHS activities were you involved?
National Honor Society, Hall of Fame, Mu Alpha Theta, Student Council, Thespian Society (drama club), FCA, newspaper staff, C-Club, Pep Club, Foreign Language Club, Interact Club, Key Club, Science Club, Tennis team

I was WAHOO the WARRIOR in 1998 and 1999. It was the most fun thing ever, acting a fool and getting school spirit going. I was NOT graceful, so cheerleading and other sports weren't in my abilities.

What is your favorite CHS memory?
So many great memories, but I guess to narrow down would be getting to be the Junior maid for the homecoming parade, decorating the float and riding in the parade.  We had just brought back the mascot "Wahoo the Warrior" and I was selected. I got to dress up and do that as my theme on the float.  

Who at CSD inspired you?
So many amazing teachers, but the most inspiring would be my mom, Judy Atkins. She taught 11th grade English. Although I did not have the honor of her teaching me personally, it was her influence that always pushed me to do my best. She has impacted most of Corinth with her teaching and love for people.  I would have to say Ann Thompson, Coach Lynn Wood, and Darla Nash probably had the most influence of my initial love of science and labs. I also could not have made it without my mom's "B-wing" buddies--Barbara Trapp, Myra Burns, Bonnie Dalton and Gloria Cartwright. Also her buddies Judy Miskelly and Cheryl Hurley.
 

Current Job: Optometrist

Favorite Career Accomplishment?
I’ve had the privilege of providing quality eye care for the community I love, all while working alongside my family.

How did the Corinth School District prepare you for your career?
Corinth has always provided the absolute best education available. The transition to college was a very smooth transition thanks to the preparation from Corinth’s excellent education.

Why did you choose to come home to Corinth to practice?
My goal was to always work with my dad. That dream started in early childhood. Corinth is a great place to live and raise a family.

What is your advice for current students?
AND.THEN.SOME. 

Do what is asked/expected of you…and then some. Go the extra mile. Give the extra effort. Separate yourself from those who are simply trying to get by with the bare minimum. 

Treat people well. You’ll never regret being kind to people.

What CHS activities were you involved?
Basketball, track, football, golf, tennis, Student Council, various clubs 

What is your favorite CHS memory?
CHS Basketball and the journey of being a starter for the 2000 State Basketball Team my senior year

Who at CSD inspired you?
There are too many individuals that come to mind. The phrase, “It takes a village…” is true. All those from the Corinth schools were my “village.” Principals, teachers, secretaries, lunch ladies, janitors, etc. They ALL had an influence on me.
 

Current Job: Emergency Medicine Physician and Medical Director at Express Care

Favorite Career Accomplishment?
I love having the opportunity to teach younger residents at Magnolia. It challenges me to continually learn and hopefully do my part in educating a younger generation of physicians.

How did the Corinth School District prepare you for your career?
CHS helped give me the foundation I needed in the classroom to be successful in college and later medical school.

Why did you choose to come home to Corinth to practice?
It is a privilege to care for people in your community. My husband and I also wanted to raise our children here.

What is your advice for current students?
Push yourself to take advanced science and math courses. Consider a part-time job working for the public while in high school. It will help you no matter your career path. When able, consider a part-time job in a hospital, clinic, or nursing home. Jobs are available that do not require previous training. Seeing firsthand what patients experience and the barriers they face to obtain health care will serve you well in your career.

What CHS activities were you involved?
Student Council and various clubs

What is your favorite CHS memory?
Following our basketball team to state for several years is a fond memory. If you lived here in that time, you remember it was a community event. Students and fans followed the team to ALL away games and tournaments. Alcorn Central also had an amazing team so the rivalry was intense. It seemed as though the city moved to Jackson during the state playoffs.

Who at CSD inspired you?
Many people but Dean Pearce and Vicki Shirley immediately come to mind.
 

Teacher Assistant, Assistant Football and Basketball Coach at Corinth Middle School

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Graduating college

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
To encourage our kids that education is the key to success in life.   

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
My favorite part is coaching kids and giving them the knowledge I have.

What is your advice for current students?
First, be yourself. Also, pursue activities that truly interest you. Make the most of high school academics.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
Football and Basketball 

Who at CSD inspired you?
The kids because they're our future.

Current Job: Dentist

Favorite Career Accomplishment? 
Establishing Dental Arts of Corinth with Dr. Edward Knight in 2008

How did the Corinth School District prepare you for your career?
The rigor of the class assignments at CHS prepared me for all of the studying it would take to succeed in undergraduate and graduate school.

Why did you choose to come home to Corinth to practice?
I love Corinth. Coming home gave me the opportunity to use the gifts and talents that I have been blessed with to help those in my community.

What is your advice for current students?
Find your passion and pursue it. Even when adversity or setbacks occur, if you feel led into a certain profession or field, stick with it. Your hard work will pay off and you’ll enjoy the successes allowed to you even more.

What CHS activities were you involved?
Soccer, baseball, and numerous clubs/organizations.

What is your favorite CHS memory?
Playing sports (soccer and baseball) with all my friends and performing in Guys and Dolls my senior year.

Who at CSD inspired you?
Goodness, I don’t think I could pick out just one. Truly, every individual and teacher had some form of an impact on me and where I am today. From the administrative staff to the faculty, all of them inspired me in one way or another throughout my 4 years at CHS.
 

Here is a partial list of where some of our graduates have continued their educational journeys at the collegiate level:

Blue Mountain College
Freed-Hardeman University 
Furman University
Harvard University
Louisiana State University
Louisiana Tech
Millsaps College
Mississippi State 
Murray State
North Carolina State
Samford University 
Tougaloo College
Tulane University 
Union University
University of Alabama
University of Kentucky 
University of Memphis
University of Mississippi
University of Missouri
University of Richmond
University of Tennessee
University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
University of Tennessee-Martin
Vanderbilt University
William Carey University
Wofford College  

Bookkeeper at Corinth Elementary School

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Finding a job that I truly love!

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
Once a warrior, always a warrior!

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
I love that I can spend time with many of my own former teachers!

What is your advice for current students?
Never give up.  Take a breath and start over!

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
NHS, band, color guard, and pep club!

Who at CSD inspired you?
Mrs. Gibbs

High School Assistant Principal and Cambridge Coordinator

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Earning my Ed.D. in Educational Leadership while working as Cambridge Coordinator

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I was looking for a job in administration and one was available in Corinth. I was excited to have an opportunity to work for the school which I graduated. I was equally as excited to be back home and close to my parents.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
Working with some of the teachers that taught me when I was in school.

What is your advice for current students?
ALWAYS...ALWAYS.... communicate with your teachers and administrators.  They are here to help you!  Communication is key!

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
Cheerleading, Band, and lots of clubs

Who at CSD inspired you?
Mr. E and Mr. Smith, Carol Smith, Vicki Shirley, Coach Shirley, Joy Nanney, Dean Pearce....too many to name!
 

7th Grade English Teacher

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
I am happiest when my students feel taken care of, confident, and ready to learn.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
Corinth has always been home.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
It's been really interesting to see our district from this side. I love working in the community where I was raised.

What is your advice for current students?
Take every opportunity you can to learn all you can. You're going to need it.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
I was involved in several clubs. I performed in the musical each year, and I was on the dance team junior and senior year. I was also one of the first Cambridge graduates.

Who at CSD inspired you?
My fourth grade teacher Mrs. McDonald inspired me because she taught me to be proud of myself as a writer. We worked so hard in her classroom, but she truly set us up for success in the years that followed. I had Dana Bullard and Barbara Trapp for senior English. What a combo! The amount of knowledge they had was truly inspiring, and they were always fair.
 

Career Coach

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
My favorite career accomplishments this year include participating and planning Future Forward Academy, conducting mock interviews for the Lucky Day Scholarship finalists, and assisting a student and her parent (the mother only speaks Spanish) with completing their FAFSA.  All of these events have a direct impact on the future plans of these students and I am honored to have the opportunity to work with them.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I chose to come back to the school district to work because I love our community and want to expose our students to all opportunities available. Career Coaching allows me to expose, prepare, and connect students to career paths and set expectation on how to achieve their goals.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
My favorite part about working in the school district I graduated from is experiencing how the students and district have evolved over time. The core values remain but technology and resources are more abundant and have influenced all aspects of education. These tools can be used to keep students engaged and connected.

What is your advice for current students?
I encourage students to utilize all of their available resources-like Career Coaches. Schedule a one-on-one and let us help you explore career pathways. We can set up job shadows for Juniors and Seniors to gain observational experience of different careers prior to them committing their time, money, and resources. Our goal is to enroll, enlist, and employ all students.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
Cheerleading, Track, Show Choir, Girl Scout Gold Award recipient, Best School Spirit, Football Sweetheart, Art, Student Council, and numerous clubs

Who at CSD inspired you?
Many of the CHS faculty inspired me, but Mrs. Shirley and Mrs. Nanney stand out as my mentors. Mrs. Shirley taught me to question what I don't understand and gave me the confidence to ask questions in a safe environment. She prepared me for continuing my education at the next level. Mrs. Nanney inspired me not only in the classroom, but especially outside. As the cheer coach, she set rigorous standards and always held us accountable. She acted as surrogate mom that through love and caring pushed us to do our best. I am grateful for their influence in my life.
 

3rd Grade Teacher

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
My husband and I moved back to the area for his job, and I was excited to apply to CSD!

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
Once a Warrior, always a Warrior! My grandmother had a lot of school pride as a Corinth Warrior and instilled that in her family as well. It's fun to still be a Warrior!

What is your advice for current students?
Students should take advantage of all opportunities CSD provides its students.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
I was in many clubs, musicals, and honors classes.

Who at CSD inspired you?
I had many great teachers: Mrs. Lana Moss, Mrs. Frances Calvary, Mrs. Vicky Shirley, Mrs. Barbara Trapp
 

Principal at Corinth Middle School

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Being named principal at a school in my hometown.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I wanted to give back to my community and serve as an advocate and role model for underrepresented populations as well as all other stakeholders in our community and school system.  

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
I get to mentor and guide young people in their quest to discover their place and purpose in the world. I also enjoy working with the children of many of my former classmates. It is also pretty neat to work in school buildings in which I was a student so many years ago.  

What is your advice for current students?
Take nothing for granted. Believe in yourself and take on challenges that may make you uncomfortable. Self-doubt is one of the greatest obstacles you'll face in your life. If you have a true passion for something, go for it with all that you have. There is no shame in failure, only shame in having regrets. We are all blessed with unique gifts and talents. Discover yours and spend the rest of your life developing them and living in your purpose.  

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
I lettered in football, basketball, and baseball at Corinth High and Corinth Jr. High. I was also a member of the CJHS band. I was vice president of FCA and members of FHA, C-Club, and the Foreign Language Club. I was Mr. Warrior in 1998.  

Who at CSD inspired you?
I was inspired by Mr. Eric Powell who was one of my Jr. High football coaches. He set a standard for me and my teammates and served as a role model for us all. I was also inspired to be intellectually competitive by Ms. Ernastine Hollins, my 8th grade history teacher. She would not accept anything but my best work. I was also inspired by Coach David Robbins, my high school basketball coach. He taught me the value of preparation and resiliency. I had many wonderful educators during my experience in the Corinth School District.
 

ISS Instructor

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Completed my Master of Science in Education: Teaching Students with Special Needs

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I love working with students.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
Helping the students with their work in ISS, Zero Period, Extended Day, and Intercession.

What is your advice for current students?
To listen and learn.

Who at CSD inspired you?
Everybody who works for CSD
 

Special Education Teacher

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Earning my Education Specialist Degree (Ed.S) in Instructional Leadership/Administration and being a Special Education Lead Teacher with the Collierville School District before retiring from the state of Tennessee with 30 plus years teaching experience.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I have always wanted to move back to my hometown and give back to my community.  I retired from Collierville Schools at the end of June 2022 and was hired to work at Corinth Elementary School as the K-1 Self-Contained Teacher starting July 2022.  Once a Warrior always a Warrior.  

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
My favorite part about working in the school district from which I graduated from would be teaching students to always do their best no matter what their exceptionality. I had former Corinth teachers that taught me to always do my best and never give up on my education.

What is your advice for current students?
Do not let someone tell you that you cannot learn because of your diagnosis.  You just learn differently and in your own time.  

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
While attending CSD, I was in the CHS Warrior Band all four years.  I played the clarinet.

Who at CSD inspired you?
There were three teachers that inspired me to become a teacher. Mrs. Labas was an amazing history teacher and she is the reason I wanted to become a social studies teacher. I earned my undergraduate degree from UNA in Social Sciences with emphasis in political science grades 7-12th. Then my two band directors taught me to never give up, always practice, and be on time to all rehearsals. I am very blessed to have had Mr. Ellington (Mr. E as we students called him) and Mr. Smith to guide me all four years of my CHS Warrior Band experience.
 

Teacher

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Being a part of the team when we were first designated a District of Innovation! And starting the Weekly Warrior 😉

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I was working in the community and had the opportunity to partner with the school several times and learned a lot about the great things going on in CSD! I was excited to join the team in 2015 and help spread the good word of what was going on in CSD!

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
Corinth School District pride is something we all hold on to in Corinth. I’m very lucky to be able to be in a place to help give back to the school that taught me so much! I grew up in Corinth and I’m so thankful the community demands excellence from our schools and I love being a part of that. Our traditions are things we all treasure. Being the director of Follies, I love to spend the last month and a half with seniors before they graduate and create memories that they’ll treasure forever.  

What is your advice for current students?
Talk to your teachers.   I still talk to some of my teachers from high school regularly! We are proud of you and want you to do your best always. If there’s any way we can help you grow, we are here for you!

Who at CSD inspired you?
Dr. Childress. Dr. Childress was my superintendent when I was in school and I am so lucky that I got to work with and learn from him daily when I worked in the district office. When I was a senior, my senior honors project was quite a doozy. I got to sit down with him and talk about fundraising and event planning. From those early talks to his encouragement throughout the years, I’m so thankful for everything he’s ever done for Corinth. Not just the school — our entire community. He is constantly looking forward to benefit the community and cares more about Corinth students than could ever be put into words.  
 

2nd Grade Reading Interventionist

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
My favorite career accomplishment is becoming a National Board Certified Teacher.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I love Corinth and loved going to school in this district.  I loved teaching at East Corinth Elementary School when I first started my teaching career.  The classroom that I taught in at East was next door to the classroom where I was a student of Mrs. Patty Harrison.  It brought back many fond memories!

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
I am a Warrior at heart and plan to retire here as a Warrior!

What is your advice for current students?
Always try your hardest in everything you do.  Never give up on your dreams!

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
Foreign Language Club, Mu Alpha Theta, Pep Club

Who at CSD inspired you?
Judy Atkins, Barbara Trapp, Gloria Cartwright, Vickie Shirley, Scottie Riddell, Anita Kealy Martin, Jennie & Dean Pearce, and Frances & Jim Calvery
 

Mathematics Teacher at CHS/Bowling Coach

My favorite career accomplishment, other than winning the 2023 State Bowling Championships, is earning my Master of Science in Educational Leadership.  My master’s degree allows me the opportunity to advance my career in the future.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
CSD is at the forefront of technological advances in the classroom, athletic success, and academic rigor. I had a great educational experience, and I knew I wanted that same experience for my own children.  

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
There is an added sense of pride that comes from teaching in the same classroom that I sat in as a student. It allows me to relate to my students on a different level. I've been teaching long enough that I now have several students whose parents went to school with me. That connection to our community is special.

What is your advice for current students?
Make your years memorable for the right reasons. Your time here will be over in the blink of an eye, so it's important to stay true to yourself. Surround yourself with friends who support you for who you are, and remember that the relationships you build now are the ones that will get you where you are going.  Moving on in life is inevitable, so to have wonderful memories that include your time in the CSD is important.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
SGA Freshman Class President, Sophomore Class Representative
Fast-Pitch Softball
Academic Team
National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta (Homecoming Sweetheart), Science Club, C Club, Pep Club, Key Club, Interact, Foreign Language Club

Who inspired you?
I had so many teachers and influential advisors, so it's hard to name only a couple. Mrs. Betty Pitner was my kindergarten teacher. She recognized my love for school and learning early on. Mrs. Vicki Shirley is the most wonderful math teacher. I think she always knew I would eventually be on A hall again. Without their support and encouragement, I wouldn't have carved the path I'm currently on.
 

2nd Grade Teacher

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
For now receiving my master’s degree, but I have so many more years ahead that I can’t wait to see what comes my way.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
Corinth is my home. When returning to Corinth after college, there was no other place I wanted to start my career than at Corinth. It has been such a pleasure and honor to give back to the same district that poured so much into me growing up.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
I have really loved being able to see a different side of the Corinth School District. You don’t realize all the “extras” that your teachers, coaches, and principals do on the student side.  So, it has been humbling to see and realize what all they did just because they cared.  

What is your advice for current students?
Always try to invest in your home community. Serve and be present in the younger generation. They are looking up to you more than you can realize.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
I was a cheerleader from 7th grade through senior year. I played tennis sophomore through senior year. I was active in many social clubs and represented Interact Sweetheart in my senior year Homecoming Parade.

Who at CSD inspired you?
I had many inspiring teachers while at CSD. A few that stand out are: kindergarten Katie Draper, 6th grade Shelly Philips, and high school Darla Nash and Alesha Knight.
 

Director of the Alcorn County Juvenile Detention Center and teacher at the Detention Center

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
Being a Memphis Police Officer and teaching D.A.R.E. for the Corinth Police Department

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I wanted to work in the area where I grew up.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
Being able to watch and keep up with the softball and girls basketball team that I loved being a part of in high school.

What is your advice for current students?
Look into the careers you are interested in and what they involve and never let anyone tell you can't accomplish your goals.

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
Basketball, Softball, and Tennis

Who at CSD inspired you?
Coach Kay Strickland, Coach John Smillie, Ms. Denise Webb
 

1st Grade Teacher

What's your favorite career accomplishment?
My favorite career accomplishment so far is teaching through the pandemic. It was challenging, and required me to be innovative with reaching my students and maintaining relationships with them while we were forced out of the classroom. Although it was a difficult time, I am thankful for the ability to connect with my students, fill in the educational gaps where I could, and am glad I was able to be a reminder of something familiar when everything seemed so confusing (especially through the eyes of 6-year-olds). I have been fearless when entering unfamiliar educational territory ever since.

Why did you choose to come back to the school district to work?
I chose to come back to the Corinth School District to work because I wanted to provide the same love, encouragement, and educational empowerment I received here as a student. So many of my teachers poured into me, and I wanted to do the same.

What's your favorite part about working in the school district you graduated from?
My favorite part about working in the district is continuing the traditions I got to experience as a student. I love being a part of that for my students, and making sure that I do what I can to make sure all students get the same exposure to our traditions and develop a sense of Warrior Pride!

What is your advice for current students?
My advice for current students is the same from Elementary to Secondary--Always make sure your classmates "have someone to play with on the playground." What I mean is this: Our community is small enough that everyone should befriend, encourage, love and support one another. No one should ever feel alone, or like they are not "part of the group."

What activities were you involved in at CSD?
I was involved in the Corinth School District band, served as color guard captain, and was active in every club I could sign up for!

Who at CSD inspired you?
So many of my amazing teachers in the district inspired me. If I had to choose one, it would be Ms. Ernestine Hollins. She was the first teacher who really challenged me to be the best student I could be, and to work hard so that when I walked into any room, I could hold my own academically. She taught me that it didn't matter who you were, but how hard you worked.