Congratulations to Arlington Middle’s Tabetha Banks for being named Principal of the Year! It’s almost unbelievable that it’s only her second year serving as the school’s leader. She took on the position during the height of the pandemic and gracefully led her school’s reopening, and this year, she helped build upon the school’s successes.

“In a very short time, Ms. Banks has established a clear vision for the future of Arlington Middle,” said Superintendent Jeff Mayo. “She’s innovative in her practices, and she’s strategic in implementing new ideas and methods. But what makes her most effective is the rapport she has with her faculty and staff. She sets high expectations, but she’s not afraid to get into the trenches with employees to guide and nurture them. She’s the model for positive leadership.”

During her first year as principal, AMS improved its academic standing in Tennessee, despite state-wide declines brought on by COVID-19. Some notable marks include being ranked 4th in the state in Social Studies, first in Math for Grades 3-8 and third in ELA and Science for Grades 3-8. Ms. Banks has also been a champion of unique learning opportunities by advocating for additional STEM opportunities and supporting students in their quest to build an outdoor classroom.

“Ms. Banks leads by example with her positive attitude, hard work ethic, and care for everyone around her,” said Leslie Northam, 6th Grade Language Arts. “She has high standards, and we’re happy to meet her there because she’s on the journey with us. She wouldn’t ask us to do anything she wouldn’t do herself. She has a quiet and generous spirit, and she truly cares about us. We’re not just employees to her; she cares about us individually.”

In addition to representing ACS as the district’s Principal of the Year, Banks will also be submitted for the TN Principal of the Year competition.