Smith County Insider’s “Educator Spotlight” series is our way of celebrating the incredible educators in Smith County who go above and beyond for their students, both inside and outside of the classroom!
Today’s “Educator Spotlight” features Mrs. Tia Medley. She is originally from Carthage, Tennessee and has taught high school for 11 years. She previously taught in Warren County but has recently returned home where she teaches 10th grade ELA at SCHS.
Smith County Insider interviewed Tia about her experiences as an educator, and this is what she had to say.
SCI: When did you realize that you wanted to be a teacher?
TM: “My junior year of high school- I had amazing teachers like Candy Smith, Martha Moore, Denise Hackett, and Karen Hackett who were/are my inspiration!”
SCI: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
TM: “Building relationships with my students and watching them grow throughout high school.”
SCI: What inspires you?
TM: “As cheesy as this sounds, my students inspire me! I do this job not just to teach ELA standards, but to be there for my students as someone they can trust, and as a person who truly cares about their well-being.”
SCI: What’s the best piece of advice you have for your students?
TM: “Always be kind- You never know what a person is going through!”
SCI: What do you like to do in your free time?
TM: “If I’m not running my two boys around to every sporting practice imaginable, I love to run and work out!”
SCI: Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers of Smith County Insider?
TM: “After being away from Smith County for 10 years (I previously taught and lived in Warren County), it feels so good to be home!”
Thank you for your dedication to your students, Tia! We are glad to have you in Smith County.
Don’t miss Smith County Insider’s next “Educator Spotlight”!
