Bedford County Schools (BCS) Superintendent Tammy Garrett made the official announcement Thursday during the Bedford County Board of Education meeting that upon the completion of her contract in June, she will retire.
Garrett was initially appointed under a 3-year contract in March 2021, which was later extended by the school board for an additional 2 years.
After more than three decades of service to public education, and 5 years leading Bedford County schools, she said Thursday the decision comes after “careful reflection” and with deep pride in the work accomplished alongside the district’s educators, staff and community.
“It has been the honor of my career to serve the students, families, staff and community of Bedford County Schools,” she said. “Over the last 30 years, as a teacher, principal, supervisor and superintendent, I have been privileged to work alongside dedicated educators and leaders who care deeply about the success of every child. Serving as superintendent has truly been the highlight of my professional life.”
During the school board meeting, chair Michael Cook said Garrett has had “5 years of excellence.” He asked all in the room, including the board, to stand in appreciation. A nice round of applause was given, with Garrett seeming to be greatly moved.
With the help of a great team of community leaders and educators, BCS experienced significant growth, improvement and investment in both student achievement and school facilities over the last 5 years.
Under Garrett’s leadership, the district earned its first-ever federal designation of “advancing district,” an accomplishment maintained for 2 consecutive years. In prior years, the system had experienced “needs improvement” status.
According to Bedford County communications, academic progress also strengthened substantially under Garrett’s tenure, with districtwide success rates improving across all grade bands from 2021 to 2025:
 Grades 3–5: 30.5% → 41.2%
 Grades 6–8: 19.5% → 27.7%
 Grades 9–12: 18.7% → 33.1%
Major capital and operational accomplishments since 2021 include:
 Opening Cartwright Elementary School
 Construction of new wings at Community High School, Liberty and Thomas
 Strategic increases to both certified and classified pay scales
“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together: strengthening instruction, expanding opportunities for students, supporting our staff and working collectively to build a school system that reflects the values, hopes and future of this community,” Garrett said. “Our district is strong because of the commitment and heart of the people who serve in it each day.”
As the district prepares for this leadership transition, she emphasized her continued support for Bedford County Schools. And Garrett said she will remain a resident of Bedford County.
“Although I am stepping into a new chapter, my dedication to public education and to Bedford County will remain. In the months ahead, I will work closely with the Board and district leadership to ensure a smooth and steady transition.”
She extended heartfelt thanks to educators, staff, families, community partners and students for their trust and partnership throughout her tenure. “It has been a true privilege to lead Bedford County Schools, and I will forever be grateful to have been part of this remarkable district.”
Bedford County Board of Education will share information about next steps in the transition process as plans develop. Chairman Cook said more acknowledgements of the superintendent’s achievements will be highlighted soon.
During the school board meeting Thursday, Garrett hinted that her suggested predecessor was sitting right in the very room with them. She complimented “him” for his excellence and said working alongside “him” had been a pleasure. [Tim Harwell has served as assistant superintendent under Garrett’s tenure and was present for Thursday’s meeting.]
Garrett offered no discussion about her future plans. Garrett wished everyone a Merry Christmas.