New Director of Elementary Education

By Breanna Franklin 

DICKSON, Tenn. — Ms. Melinda Sullivan Fortner has been named the new Director of Elementary Education for Dickson County Schools, bringing over two decades of experience to her new role.

A native of Dickson County, Fortner’s journey in education began after she graduated from Dickson County High School in 1996. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Austin Peay State University and started teaching at Stuart-Burns Elementary in 2001. Over the next decade, she dedicated herself to teaching third and fifth graders.

In 2011, Fortner transitioned to an instructional coach role within the Elementary Division, where she served Charlotte Elementary, Vanleer Elementary, and White Bluff Elementary schools. Her career path took her to Charlotte Middle School in 2012 as an instructional coach. During that time, she earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Austin Peay State University in 2014.

Fortner returned to her alma mater, Dickson County High School, in 2015 to serve as an Assistant Principal. After five years, she was appointed Principal of Stuart-Burns Elementary in 2020, where she has successfully promoted academic achievement, behavioral development, and student wellness.

As the new Director of Elementary Education, Fortner is committed to enhancing student success, staff development, and family engagement across all elementary schools in the district. She aims to foster a culture of excellence, equity, and innovation, ensuring every student receives a high-quality education that prepares them for lifelong success.

Ms. Fortner will officially join the District Level Leadership Team on Monday, July 1, 2024.