Over 8,800 students and hundreds of teachers are about to shift gears in preparation for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration break, which runs Monday Aug. 29 through Labor Day, Sept 5. Shelbyville Central and the Bedford County Learning Academy each have new principals who will be responsible for leading up a smooth transition.

Michael Hickman has been named SCHS Principal. Janolyn King has been hired to lead BCLA.

Most recently, Hickman served for 2 years as Maury County superintendent of schools and is credited for helping move the district from a “needs improvement” to a “satisfactory” district and received several state recognitions and awards.

Prior to that, Hickman served 8 years in the classroom in Rutherford County before advancing to assistant principal and finally principal at Rock Springs Elementary. While under his leadership, the school was awarded the National Blue Ribbon. Hickman also has experience as a “turn-around principal” in three Wilson County schools.

He earned his bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, a master’s from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville and an educational specialist degree from MTSU. Hickman is currently pursuing an educational doctorate with an emphasis in educational leadership.  

A nationally certified principal mentor for the National Association of Elementary School Principals, Hickman also serves as an instructor in the Tennessee Army National Guard. He and his wife, Cynthia, an occupational therapist assistant professor and academic fieldwork coordinator at Belmont University, have 4 children, 2 sons and 2 daughters.

“I am excited to come to such an exceptional school as SCHS,” Hickman said. “SCHS is a storied school with a long-standing tradition and a cornerstone of the community. I am honored that Dr. Garrett has given me her trust to lead such a great school. I know that the faculty and staff are dedicated to Bedford County students, families and the community. I look forward to being a part of this school community.”

When asked about his philosophy on teaching and learning, Hickman said he has always believed that all learners can and will learn at high levels. He added that he believes teaching to be the noblest of professions, and regardless of a student’s ambitions or career choices, it all begins with a teacher.

“Our society must invest deeply in the next generation of teachers,” said Hickman. “With the traditional education of teachers changing, it is crucial to produce and train future educators with powerful pedagogy, inspiring strategies and a love of the profession.”

King has served at SCHS as an assistant principal for one year and prior to that, as an assistant principal at Cascade Middle for 8 years. King taught for 19 years in grades 1-8 in several settings – urban, suburban, rural and with the U.S. Department of Defense in Louisiana, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Guam and Tennessee.

King earned her bachelor’s degree from Dillard University in elementary education, a master’s in elementary curriculum and a master’s in language and literacy from Wheelock College and her PhD in Leadership in educational administration from Capella University.

King has one son who recently graduated with his degree in mechanical engineering from Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville.

“For the 2022-23 school year, I’m excited about working and learning with all stakeholders at the Bedford County Learning Academy,” King said.“The possibilities are endless! I’ve had the opportunity to work in many areas across the United States, and Bedford County is a great place to work because of the relationships I have cultivated over the years. I’m excited for this position because the opportunity to lead a school has been a professional goal. I am humbled and deeply grateful for this chance.”

When asked about her philosophy on education, King stated she believes every child should have the opportunity to receive a quality education.

Superintendent Garrett commented, “We are proud to have these talented individuals leading their respective schools. Their experience and unique skills and perspectives will no doubt be a great asset for Bedford County Schools.”