Dr. Susan Farris, Director of Secondary and Career Technical Education for Lauderdale County Schools, has been selected as a finalist for the Tennessee Supervisor of the Year. After a career in laboratory medicine, Farris transitioned into the classroom as a science teacher for 17 years. Later, she served as a high school assistant principal before becoming an instructional supervisor in 2013. Farris earned her Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Memphis in 2018.
As the Secondary/CTE Director, Farris has played an integral role in several initiatives to improve education within the district and across the state. She orchestrates a CTE Advisory Council that connects area business and industry leaders with local CTE programs, educators and students. The group has worked with other West Tennessee districts to adopt a Work Ethic Certificate that identifies skills needed to increase the likelihood of success in the workplace. Also, Farris has been a presenter during numerous conferences and events sharing her expertise and best practices with fellow colleagues and educators.
Farris considers her most significant accomplishment to be assisting students in being Ready Graduates. She has helped strengthen higher education partnerships and increase postsecondary opportunities for high school students, including dual enrollment courses and programs. Farris believes her responsibility is to ensure that students have access to a rigorous high school education that will prepare them for success in postsecondary education and the workforce. Further, Farris says, “It’s a collaborative effort and part of the district’s vision.”
Supervisor of the Year finalists will be recognized during a banquet in Nashville on November 5th and the winner will be announced at that time.