FEW NAMES appear in resolutions adopted by the Tennessee House of Representatives, but it’s a recognition claimed by Julie Haynes and Layne Draper-Talbott. Haynes, Bedford County Schools’ Supervisor of the Year, and Draper-Talbott, Bedford County Schools’ Principal of the Year, were among nine educator finalists in their divisions for a statewide award. Their greatest honor comes not from the floor of the state Capitol, however, but from the votes of their local peers.
Julie Haynes
Now in her sixth year as supervisor of special education, Haynes works with students, teachers, administrators, and parents to provide services for students ages 3 through 22. Providing support to others is at the heart of everything she does and has been a prominent part of her personality from an early age.
“When I was little, I loved playing school with my older sister and cousins. One year for Christmas, my parents bought my sister and me a chalkboard. I remember toting that to the backyard, dressing up in my mother’s high-heeled shoes so that I could teach my ‘class.’ I was always the student in school wanting to help, so I guess you can say that when I grew up, I wanted to be a teacher, which aligns with my current career,” said Haynes.
Haynes redefined her idea of success, and it’s not measured by awards.
She said, “I am a perfectionist and want everything to be completed by the end of the day. Unfortunately, that’s not possible in my current position. There is never enough time in the day for me to accomplish everything I would like to complete. My main goal each day is to support my students, teachers, and families. And I love being able to visit schools and work with students. There’s something special about seeing a sweet smile, getting a hug, or seeing a student experience success for the first time. If I can do that, then it is a successful day.”
Haynes believes none of it is possible without others.
“Being a finalist and being recognized by the Tennessee State Department of Education was an honor for me. Being a finalist wasn’t just about me; it was also about my work family. It’s impossible for me to do what I do without them. My teachers, therapists, and support staff work hard each day and give 110% to our students. I have one of the best teams and appreciate everything they do each day for our students and families!”
In a previous report by the Shelbyville Times-Gazette announcing the awards, School Superintendent Dr. Tammy Garrett said, “Julie Haynes is a true advocate for students with disabilities. She is a wealth of knowledge and an essential member of our leadership team. Many parents have witnessed how she works with them to design the best educational plan possible for our students.”
Layne Draper-Talbott
Education is in Draper-Talbott’s DNA. With both her mother and grandmother teaching at Shelbyville Central High School for over 30 years, she could have diverged and chosen another career path. However, the desire to follow in their footsteps stirred at a young age.
“I believe teaching is a calling, and I’m so proud of my profession. I always wanted to be a kindergarten teacher. In my first year, I taught kindergarten, then moved to first grade. Later, I taught third grade prior to becoming an assistant principal, and then principal,” said Draper-Talbott.
As principal of East Side Elementary School, managing the multiple layers and supporting her administration is a balancing act where staying mindful of self-care is essential.
She said, “Being a principal is a difficult but rewarding career. Each day is different, some more challenging than others. Some days, you feel like you are juggling 50 different tasks, and you just pray you don’t drop one. The single most challenging thing is just getting it all done. In education, there is never really a finish line — job complete, time to go home. Reminding myself that tomorrow is a new day, my family needs me at home, and I must take care of myself so I can take care of my teachers and students continues to be my biggest challenge.”
She’s quick to add that she could never do it alone.
“I am not a solo leader; I have a great team. My assistant principal, Jennifer Simons, and I work side by side. And from my front office staff to my teachers to my support staff, we all work together to lead this school. I am so very proud of my team!”
The award is a career milestone.
“I still vividly remember Dr. Garrett and Mr. Harwell walking into the East Side gym to announce that I was named Bedford County Principal of the Year this time last year. I can honestly say that I have never been more surprised in my life. The feeling was a bit overwhelming, thinking that my peers voted and selected me. This job is not glamorous, and there aren’t many accolades associated with it. However, being selected is my greatest career honor to date,” she remembered fondly.
In a Times-Gazette article, Garrett said, “Layne-Talbott is a phenomenal principal. The school culture she creates through her leadership is one of the best, and teachers and students love to be at East Side. She is a great manager as well as instructional leader.”
Haynes and Draper-Talbott are more than award-winners. They’re the faces behind countless student triumphs. They’re tireless advocates who are the beating hearts of Bedford County’s school system. Their passion resonates beyond commendations, leaving an indelible mark on every life they touch. GN
