With schools opening Monday for an abbreviated day, it seemed only appropriate for Director of Schools Tammy Garrett to address thousands of teachers and other personnel during a kickoff conference Tuesday at Shelbyville Central High School Gym.

Garrett’s talk followed a rally of cheers and waves for the excited band of teachers and others (see video on T-G Facebook page and on Bedford County School System Facebook page.)

“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why,” said Garrett, quoting famous author Mark Twain.

She said this phrase just recently spoke to her. “As an educator, many times (like last year), we have situations where we ask ourselves, ‘why?’ But, we also find times that we discover our why. These are the times that inspire us.”

The superintendent said she’s had many opportunities recently to “rediscover her why.”

“Moving to BCS has definitely reminded me of my why. Over the last four months, I have met the most incredible people, including talented teachers, staff and administrators, community members who have been so supportive and county officials who are committed to our schools. All of these have an extraordinary passion to see Bedford County succeed.”

Garrett said her “why” right now is to provide educators with the support and leadership they need to be the best they can be.

“Today, I make that commitment to you.”

Garrett said she was recently privy to hear how a former parent felt about her helping her child through a tough situation—one experience a few years ago. “My memory of the situation has begun to fade, but the parent and child had vivid memories of that day, how I helped, and how I made them feel.”

She was referred to as a “hero” she said.

“I never saw myself as a hero. I was doing what all of us do everyday—pouring ourselves into our students.”

She said hearing the story last week did give her a reminder of her “why” and a renewed determination and motivation to live her “why” and change lives of students.

“Educating students, teachers and principals is my why. What is your why?” she asked the sea of educators filled the stands.

She added, “There is a reason you are here in Bedford County at this moment. Your why will walk in your doors on Aug. 2. You are their hero. We don’t always know at the moment what impact we have. We may not know for 5 to 6 years or longer, but when we see our students’ success, we remember our why.”

The superintendent assured the educators they are going to be successful. “We are going to change the world. Vince Lombardi said that ‘winning isn’t everything, but want to is.’”

Garrett told the teachers that they’re all on the path to being recognized as one of the best areas in the state and Bedford County School System is planning to lead that charge.

“I look forward to the day that we have people from across the state knocking on our door asking, how? I have seen your heart . . . your willingness to learn and grow. I have seen your drive, determination and your want to.

She said the school system will not digress to “what’s wrong.” She said rather, she will be leading teams who look at what makes them strong.”

“We can do this, BCS. Together, we can do this. Together, we are better!”

The sea of educators which encompassed the entire gym cheered and gave a large ovation for their new superintendent.

Also in attendance at this gathering were several Bedford County Board of Education members and Bedford County Mayor Chad Graham.