Secondary Faculty

Brandon Bassham e-mail

Coach Bassham received his Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education from Freed-Hardeman University in 2000. This is his 8th year at MTCS teaching elementary Physical Education to our kindergarten through 6th graders. He is also the head coach of our high school baseball team and assistant coach of our football team. He and his wife, Keyta, are the proud parents of two beautiful little boys. This delightful young family attends the Bethlehem church of Christ, where Coach Bassham works with the youth program. His favorite things about MTCS are the Christian atmosphere and the bond between the teachers, families, and students.

Eddie Bassham e-mail

Coach Eddie Bassham received his A.S. degree from Columbia State Community College in 1973, his B.S. degree from Middle Tennessee State University in 1976, and his Master's from Trevecca in 1993. He taught 29 years in the Maury County school system, before retiring to become head football coach, assistant baseball coach, and driver's education teacher/wellness teacher at MTCS. He and his wife, Lynn, have been married 37 years, and are the proud parents of Brandon and Brooke and grandparents of Keydon and Koltt. Eddie and Lynn attend the Sandy Hook church of Christ. Coach Bassham stated that he felt lucky yet proud to be part of the MTCS family.

Margaret Bryson e-mail

Mrs. Bryson received her Bachelor of Science degree from UT @ Martin in Animal Science and a Master of Science in Animal Nutrition from the University of Tennessee . Before coming to MTCS, she worked doing research at the university level and public sector. She has spent the last few years raising her 2 sons and has substitute taught for six years in Rutherford County . She and her husband, Dale and her sons attend Smyrna Church of Christ. She is excited to teach 7^th grade Science at MTCS and have the privilege to teach from a Christian perspective.

Rick Chambless e-mail

Our 7th grade Bible teacher, Mr. Chambless lives in Smyrna with his wife Laura, and young son. Rick serves as associate minister at Smyrna Church of Christ, where works with the College Ministry, LIFE Groups, and missions. Rick holds a Bachelor of Science in social studies from Middle Tennessee State University, a Master of Science in Biblical and related studies from Abilene Christian University, and is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Lipscomb University . Rick loves to study the Bible and talk about faith with Christians and non-Christians alike. He enjoys spending time with his family, playing soccer, running, and catching fish.

Adam Coggin e-mail

Mr. Coggin is an alumnus of MTCS and graduated from Lipscomb University in 1998 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Bible and Youth Ministry. This is his eighth year at MTCS where he is our Director of Development. Prior to joining our staff, he worked at Short Mountain Bible Camp. He and his wife, Holly, are the proud parents of a beautiful little boy and attend North Boulevard Church of Christ. He says his favorite thing about MTCS is "the state of the art gymnasium…not really…it would have to be the smiles on the faces of the students here that show me what God looks like."

David Dunn e-mail

Mr. Dunn is a native of Murfreesboro and a graduate of Central High School. He received his Associate Arts degree from Freed-Hardeman University in 1972 and graduated cum laude from Lipscomb University in 1974 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He went on to receive his Master of Arts degree from Pepperdine University in 1977 and obtained his Teaching Certification from California State University Long Beach in 1985. Mr. Dunn teaches high school Bible and Speech and has taught at MTCS for over 20 years. Prior to teaching at MTCS, he taught at Orange County Christian School in California. He and his wife, Trisha Jenkins Dunn, have 2 daughters. In addition to his duties here at MTCS, he is the minister for the Auburntown Church of Christ. In his spare time, he enjoys golfing and reading, and is a Vols, Titans, and Dodgers fan. He states that his favorite thing about MTCS is the students.

Mariana Eddy e-mail

Mrs. Eddy received her Bachelor of Arts degree from David Lipscomb College and her Master's degree from Vanderbilt University. She has been at MTCS for 9 years and teaches elementary Spanish to our 1st through 6th graders and high school Spanish IV. Prior to joining the MTCS staff, she taught 1 year at Park Gardens Academy in Puerto Rico and taught junior high and high school at Ezell Harding Christian School. In addition, she taught 1 semester each as an adjunct professor at Travecca Nazarene College and David Lipscomb University. She and her husband, Nelson, have 3 children and attend the North Boulevard Church of Christ. Her favorite things about MTCS are the relationships among faculty, staff, administration and student families, and the spiritual potential of the student body.

Jason Faulkner e-mail

Mr. Faulkner received his Bachelor of Science in Social Studies from Freed-Hardeman University in 1989, and continued his education at Middle Tennessee State University where he earned his Masters of Arts degree in European History. He has been at MTCS for 15 years and teaches 12th grade A.P. European History, American Government, and Economics, and 11th grade American History. In addition to his many responsibilities, he is an adjunct professor of the Middle Tennessee State University Department of History, a member of the Murfreesboro Lions Club, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Historic Springfield Foundation. He is a member of the East Main Church of Christ.

Cathewryn Forrister e-mail

Mrs. Forrister is new to MTCS. She attended David Lipscomb University and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in English and a minor in theater and speech. She is currently working on a Master’s degree in history from Middle Tennessee State University . She is an experienced teacher of fourteen years and has previously taught at Goodpasture High School , David Lipscomb High School , Woodland Middle School , and Ravenwood High School . She attends Otter Creek Church of Christ and has one son and one daughter. She wants to thank everyone for being so supportive and welcoming.

Katie Frazier e-mail

Mrs. Frazier received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from Harding University . She is certified for K-12 music education, with specialization in instrumental instruction. Before joining the staff at MTCS she taught one year in Bradford , AR. This is her first year at MTCS. She currently teaches PK3, TK, and K general music, in addition to the 5^th-12^th grade Bands. Mrs. Frazier and her husband, Shawn, attend the North Boulevard Church of Christ.

Shawn Frazier e-mail

Mr. Frazier received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from Harding University . He is certified for K-12 music education, specializing in vocal instruction. This is his first year at MTCS. Mr. Frazier currently teaches 3^rd grade music, 4^th grade music and recorders, JH General Music, JH Chorus, HS Chorus, and assists the 5^th and 6^th grade bands and chorus. Mr. Frazier and his wife, Mrs. Frazier, attend North Boulevard Church of Christ.

Lawrence Goodwyn e-mail

Mr. Goodwyn holds a Master's degree in Bible, an undergraduate French/Education degree from David Lipscomb University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Abilene Christian University. This is Mr. Goodwyn's fourth year at MTCS where he teaches Bible and French, and coaches tennis as well as soccer. Before coming to MTCS, he taught at Kennedy Middle School in Nashville, and prior to that taught at Friendship Christian School in Lebanon for 5 years. He has taught Bible, French, and English at all secondary grade levels. He and his wife, Linda, attend the College Hills Church of Christ in Lebanon and are the proud parents of four children. Mr. Goodwyn says that his favorite thing about MTCS is the "lunch bunch."

Anne Harper e-mail

Mrs. Harper teaches Biology, Anatomy, and Chemistry, and is assistant tennis coach. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Plant Science from the University of Florida in 1976 and a Master Degree in Secondary Education from Eastern Michigan University in 1992. She has 19 years of teaching experience, most of it overseas in international schools. She has lived in a variety of cultures that include: Latin America, North Africa, the Mideast, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Upon her return to the U.S., she taught at Currey Ingram Academy in Brentwood. She, her husband Robert, and their son are active members at Minerva Drive Church of Christ. Her favorite activities include golf, tennis, and gardening.

Mary Hibdon e-mail

Mrs. Hibdon holds a Master's degree from Middle Tennessee State University. She is in her 16th year at MTCS and teaches Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, and Skill Enhancement Math. Before joining the MTCS staff, she taught at Smyrna High School. She and her husband, Dan, recently celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary. They have two grown daughters and have attended the Kingwood Heights Church of Christ for the past 25 years. She enjoys photography, traveling, and celebrating her students' birthdays. When asked about MTCS, she responded, "My favorite things about MTCS are the faculty, students, and parents. It's family! We're caring, loving, and sincere. I enjoy the smiles and hugs I receive everyday!"

Shannon Kennedy e-mail

Ms. Kennedy received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Harding University in 2005. She graduated from MTCS in 2002, and currently teaches Jr. High Art, Art I, Art II, Art II, and Study Skills while helping out in volleyball and basketball and being a sponsor for the Junior Class and the Fine Arts Club. Shannon was able to study abroad in Florence, Italy in 2005 where she saw works from masters such as Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Da Vinci. While there, her own art was exhibited in a local gallery. She was also able to travel to Paris, Spain, and throughout Europe to see works of masters. She has a passion for art and for how a Christian artist can use art to glorify God. Shannon attends the Kingwood Heights congregation. She states that her favorite thing about M.T.C.S. is the sense of family that comes through our bond in Christ.

Debbie Mankin e-mail

Mrs. Mankin graduated from Lipscomb University with a degree in Elementary Education. She completed her Master’s in counseling from Liberty University in 2006 and has taken graduate courses at MTSU. She taught sixth grade at MTCS for five years and taught one year as the junior high English and Pre-Algebra teacher. This is her sixth year to serve as the secondary guidance counselor, a job she says she truly enjoys. Before coming to MTCS, she taught sixth grade in Smyrna for four years and owned a custom framing business for 13 years while her children were growing up. She and her husband, Joe, have 2 sons, both of whom are MTCS graduates. Her oldest son, Joseph, graduated from Lipscomb University and her youngest son, Aaron, will be a freshman there this fall. The Mankin family attends Kingwood Heights Church of Christ. "My favorite thing about working at MTCS is that I work with people who know the power of prayer and love the Lord. The students, faculty, and staff are family here."

Rob Mathis e-mail

Mr. Mathis received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Tennessee Technological University. This is his fourth year at MTCS. He teaches Physical Science, Physics, and Computer Technology (Programming) classes and is coach of the golf team. He has also taught Algebra II and Pre-Algebra, but has focused his attention the last few years on the expanded Computer Technology program. He has been married to Candace Mathis for 13 years, and they have 3 children. He and his family attend the Milton Church of Christ. He states that his favorite thing about MTCS is the great God-fearing staff, faculty, students, and parents.

Lynne Maxwell e-mail

Mrs. Maxwell received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Speech from Freed-Hardeman College. She has been at MTCS since 1992 and currently teaches 10th, 11th, and Advanced Placement English. In past years, she has also taught 7th through 12th grade English, as well as Drama. Kingwood Heights Church of Christ has been the church home for the Maxwell family since 1983. Mrs. Maxwell's husband, Jerry, serves as elder, and both are involved in the education and library ministries. They have 2 children. She expressed her feelings about MTCS by saying, "My favorite thing about MTCS is the people -- I love my students and I love the people I work with. I like working in a place where Christ is the center of our day."

Kimberly McKnight e-mail

Miss McKnight is a graduate of Freed-Hardeman University . This is in her fourth year at MTCS. She teaches 8th grade U.S. History, 7th grade Social Studies, and girls Bible. In addition, she is the faculty sponsor of the Junior Beta Club and coach of the high school girls' softball team. Kim is a member of Bellwood Church of Christ in Murfreesboro . She says that her favorite thing about MTCS is the support she receives from the other teachers and parents.

Todd Miller e-mail

Mr. Miller is a graduate of Ezell Harding Christian School, Belmont University and Middle Tennessee State University. This is his third year at MTCS as our secondary principal, although he has been part of our school family as a parent for several years. He spent the previous five years as assistant principal at Holloway High School and has also taught and coached at Ezell Harding Christian School, Goodpasture Christian School, and Smyrna High School. He and his wife, Phyllis, have 3 children -- one of whom is an MTCS student and 2 who are graduates of MTCS. They attend North Boulevard Church of Christ. We feel very fortunate that Mr. Miller has come our way.

Cindy Patton e-mail

Mrs. Patton graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with both a Bachelors degree and a Masters Degree in Education. She is in her 6^th year at MTCS and teaches 7^th grade Pre-Algebra and 8^th grade Science. She and her husband Peter have four children, one son-in-law, and a grandbaby due in February 2008. They attend Auburntown church of Christ. She enjoys painting, acting (at the Arts Center of Cannon County!), and spending time with her family. She says her favorite thing about MTCS is the opportunity to work with Christians who not only are her colleagues but also her dear friends. She says she is energized by the students, and loves that her children can have values reinforced at school that are taught at home and church.

Jason Piercey e-mail

Mr. Piercey received his BA degree in History and Political Science in 1997 from Lipscomb University. He teaches World History and coaches both our junior high and high school boys basketball teams. Before joining the MTCS faculty, he taught for 10 years at Ezell-Harding and Friendship Christian. He and his wife, Ashlee, have one child and attend the Smyrna Church of Christ. "I feel honored to be a part of the MTCS family."

Tena Starling e-mail

Mrs. Starling is native of Lincoln County, Kentucky and has lived in the Nashville area for the past 32 years. She attended David Lipscomb High School and college. She earned a B.S. from DLC and a masters in Educational Administration at TSU. She taught 6 years in 7th grade English at Ezell-Harding Christian School and 2 years at Creive Hall preschool. She is currently teaching 7th and 8th grade English and 8th grade Girls Bible. She and her husband, John, have 4 children, and have worshipped with the Granny White congregation for 17 years. "I think it is an exciting time to be a part of MTCS!"

Cole Turney e-mail

Jennifer Vice e-mail

Mrs. Vice received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication/Public Relations from Harding University in 1990. She added a Master's of Education degree in 1994 from Harding as well. She is in her 11th year as our Learning Enrichment Coordinator, working specifically with our gifted and talented kids and our students with special needs. Prior to joining the staff at MTCS, she taught 2 years in Searcy , AR , and 1 year in Columbia , TN. Mrs. Vice attends Auburntown Church of Christ with her husband, Mike, and her step-children, Lauren and David. She says her favorite thing about teaching at MTCS is the freedom to integrate her faith into her teaching.

Darrick Ware e-mail

Mr. Ware is a recent graduate of Harding University . While at Harding, he played receiver for the Bison football team and majored in English education. He has put both these skills to use, coaching football and teaching ninth and twelfth grade English. Prior to coming to MTCS, Mr. Ware was assistant coach of defensive backs at Harding University . He enjoys sports, movies, reading, and writing. His family resides in Bedford , Texas and includes mother, Jeri, father, Greg, brothers Nathan, Joe, Josh, James, Jon, Ben, and sister, Christina. In January, he will marry his college sweetheart, Brittany Henderson. He attends North Boulevard Church of Christ.

Dan Wilkerson e-mail

Mr. Dan received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish (with a minor in Biology and History) from Samford University and his Master of Arts degree in Administration from Lipscomb University. He is in his 7th year at MTCS and teaches high school Spanish, and coaches our junior and high school girls basketball team. He also serves as our Athletic Director and Director of the James C. Haile State Tournament. Before coming to MTCS, he taught English in Guangzhou, China. He and his beautiful wife, Sarah are the proud new parents of a beautiful baby boy. They attend the Auburntown Church of Christ, where he serves as Youth Minister. When asked about MTCS, he replied, "It's all about relationships!"

Marvene Woodruff e-mail

Mrs. Woodruff received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics and Business from David Lipscomb University in 1981. She is currently working on her Master's Degree in Instructional Leadership and should be finished by the spring of 2008. She currently teaches Computer Applications, Keyboarding, Introduction to Computers, and is the Advisor for the Visions Yearbook. She has been at MTCS for 8 years, and has 12 years experience as a Systems Analyst with the Tennessee Farm Bureau and Textron Aerostructures. She and her husband, Carter, along with their 2 daughters, are active members at the Fosterville Church of Christ, where Mr. Woodruff is a deacon and treasurer. Mr. Woodruff also teaches the teenage Bible class, and Mrs. Woodruff teaches cradle roll. When speaking of MTCS, she says she loves the Christian environment, singing in chapel, and especially the students.

Bonnie Wright e-mail

Mrs. Wright received her Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics Education from Lipscomb University and holds a Master's degree in Mathematics from Middle Tennessee State University. She is in her 21st year at MTCS and teaches Geometry, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus at the high school level and is the head of our math department. She taught Elementary Algebra at MTSU as a graduate assistant, and for the past six years has taught College Algebra at MTSU as an adjunct professor. She and her family attend Minerva Drive Church of Christ. Her favorite thing about MTCS is the Christian atmosphere.