Shayna Alonso serves as the Math Intervention teacher for Kindergarten through 3rd grade at Tharptown Elementary School. She began her teaching career in 2010 and joined the TES family in 2013. Mrs. Alonso earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Athens State University. Before transitioning into her current role, she taught 4th grade math for 12 years, gaining valuable experience that helps her support students who need additional help building strong mathematical foundations. Mrs. Alonso was inspired to pursue a career in education after struggling with math as a child herself. That experience drives her passion for helping students gain confidence and succeed in mathematics. Through her work in intervention and leadership roles, she is committed to providing the encouragement and support students need to grow academically. A graduate of Russellville High School, Mrs. Alonso is proud to serve students in the Franklin County community and enjoys helping young learners build the skills they need for future success.

Larry Gilmer serves as the Math Intervention teacher for grades 4–6 at Tharptown Elementary School and also supports students through ISS. He began his teaching career in 1990 and joined the TES family in 2021 after retiring with more than three decades of experience in education. Coach Gilmer earned his Bachelor of Science in Education, Master of Arts in Education, and Administration Certification after attending Northwest Junior College, the University of North Alabama, and Alabama A&M University. Throughout his career, he spent 27 years working as a Special Education teacher supporting students with specific learning disabilities. In addition to his work in the classroom, Coach Gilmer has an extensive background in athletics and leadership. He coached for 31 years, including 25 years as the head football coach at Russellville Middle School, where he also served as Athletic Director. His passion for working with young people and love of athletics inspired him to pursue a career in education. Coach Gilmer believes that every child can learn when teachers use the right strategies, remain fair but firm, and most importantly, show genuine care for their students. A longtime resident of Russellville for over 30 years, he appreciates the close-knit community and strong support for the school at Tharptown Elementary. Coach Gilmer has been married for 41 years and has two sons, two daughters-in-law, and three grandchildren. Outside of school, he enjoys following Alabama football, basketball, and baseball and spending time with his family.

Meredith Hill serves as an Intervention Teacher at Tharptown Elementary School, where she joined the TES family in 2024. Having begun her teaching career in 2001, she brings decades of valuable classroom experience working with elementary students across various grade levels. Meredith holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and is a graduate of Athens State University and the University of West Alabama. She is also LETRS certified, which directly supports her work in building strong literacy foundations and targeted instructional support for young learners. Inspired by her mother, who was also a teacher, Meredith chose a career in education after seeing firsthand the positive impact an educator can have on a child's life. She believes that building caring, individual relationships with students is essential to effective learning. Meredith appreciates the strong commitment at Tharptown Elementary to doing what is best for students, even when it requires extra dedication. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband John, their son Reed, and their two golden doodles.

Amanda Murray serves as the Reading Intervention teacher for grades 4–6 at Tharptown Elementary School. She began her teaching career in 2003 and joined the TES family in 2015. Mrs. Murray earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in School Counseling after attending Northwest Shoals Community College, Athens State University, and the University of West Alabama. Before transitioning into her current role, she spent 17 years teaching in grades 4–6 and later worked as a counselor for six years. For the past five years, she has focused on reading intervention, helping students strengthen their literacy skills and build confidence as learners. Mrs. Murray’s teaching philosophy centers on equity, evidence-based practice, high expectations, and compassion. She strives to empower students not only to improve their reading abilities but also to develop a lasting belief in their capacity to learn and succeed. She appreciates the strong sense of connection within the Tharptown school community and values working alongside colleagues who share a commitment to supporting every student’s growth. Mrs. Murray has been married to her husband, Richard, for 35 years. Together they have two adult children, Mason and Kylie, and two grandchildren, Carter and Hadley Kate Black.