Tullahoma City Schools Director of Schools Dr. Catherine Stephens received exciting news last week, as she was named the Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents (TOSS) South Central Superintendent of the Year.

The South Central Core of School Superintendents is comprised of 16 school districts from 13 counties. Stephens is now one of eight regional finalists for the TOSS State Superintendent of the Year award, which will be determined later this fall.

“I am beyond honored and humbled to be selected as the South Central Superintendent of the Year,” Stephens said. “The South Central Core of School Superintendents includes some of the finest leaders, not only in this region but across the state of Tennessee. This award is reflective of the great things happening throughout Tullahoma City Schools. Our district has the finest students, teachers, staff members and families, and I am incredibly proud to be the Director of Schools at TCS.”

Dr. Stephens began her tenure as Tullahoma City Schools Director of Schools on June 1, 2020. She concluded her fourth school year in May 2024, and during that month’s meeting, the TCS Board of Education voted unanimously to extend her contract to the maximum number of four years allowable by Tennessee law.

“On behalf of the TCS Board of Education, we want to congratulate Dr. Stephens on a recognition so well deserved,” said Board Chairman Kim Uselton. “We are so very proud to get to work with an exceptional leader who has an unwavering dedication to students, staff and our community. She is most definitely our Superintendent of the Year this year and every year.”

As she prepares to move forward in the state competition, Dr. Stephens again expressed her appreciation to the South Central Core of Superintendents for selecting her as the Superintendent of the Year. It is such an honor to be recognized by one’s peers.

“This career has been a true calling for me. I have dedicated my life to serving students for the last 36 years, whether as a public school teacher or leader. I love it as much today as the first day I stepped into the classroom where I would welcome a class of 5th graders in 1989,” Dr. Stephens said. “I am incredibly thankful for my husband, who has supported and encouraged me throughout my career, the highlight of which is right here in Tullahoma, where I have had the honor to serve as the superintendent of TCS these last five years. Great things are happening here for our students academically, artistically, athletically and beyond, as we continue to challenge our students today for a limitless tomorrow.”