Angie Garrison teaches 6th Grade English Language Arts and Social Studies at Tharptown Elementary School. She began her teaching career in 2004 and has served the students of TES since that time. Mrs. Garrison holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and studied at Athens State University and the University of West Alabama. Over the years, she has remained dedicated to helping students develop strong academic skills while encouraging curiosity and growth in the classroom. Mrs. Garrison was inspired to pursue education by several outstanding teachers who influenced her life as a student. Their empathy, love of learning, and ability to create engaging classrooms shaped the educator she strives to be today. She believes schools are more than places for academic instruction; they are communities where students learn to care for one another and contribute positively to society. Her goal is to teach with empathy, extend grace, and create a classroom where every student feels seen and valued while developing a lifelong love of learning. A lifelong resident of Franklin County, Mrs. Garrison values the family-like atmosphere at Tharptown Elementary and also supports students through the school’s after-school program. She is the proud mother of her daughter, Makenna, who attends Tharptown High School, and considers it a privilege to teach at TES.

Kristy Smith teaches 6th Grade Science and Social Studies at Tharptown Elementary School. She began her teaching career in 2001 and joined the TES family in 2006. Mrs. Smith holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and studied at the University of North Alabama and the University of West Alabama. Throughout her career, she has worked with students in a variety of settings, experiences that have strengthened her classroom management skills and deepened her understanding of students’ individual needs. She values building meaningful relationships with her students and guiding them with confidence, compassion, and care. Mrs. Smith has wanted to be a teacher since she was a child playing school in her bedroom. Inspired by teachers who made learning exciting and meaningful, she developed a passion for encouraging and supporting students during such an important stage of their lives. Her teaching philosophy centers on curiosity, exploration, and hands-on discovery. She strives to create a classroom environment where questions are welcomed and students are encouraged to think critically and explore the world around them. Mrs. Smith values the close-knit and supportive nature of the Tharptown community, where students and families truly care for one another. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Johnny, and they have two daughters, Savannah and Elizabeth. Teaching runs in the family, as Savannah is also a teacher and Elizabeth is currently studying education in college. They also enjoy life with their two energetic dogs, Saban and Miss Terry.

Mathinee Spencer teaches 6th Grade Math at Tharptown Elementary School and joined the TES family in 2024. She began her teaching career in 1996 and brings many years of experience to the classroom, including 27 years of teaching in Mississippi before retiring and continuing her work in education. Mrs. Spencer earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Mississippi University for Women and her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher, demonstrating her commitment to excellence in the teaching profession. Mrs. Spencer chose a career in education because she wanted to make a positive impact on the lives of children. Her teaching philosophy centers on caring for others and creating a supportive classroom environment where students feel valued and encouraged. She especially appreciates the humble hearts of the students at Tharptown and the strong support she receives from the administration and her fellow teachers. Mrs. Spencer has been married to her husband for 34 years, and together they have been blessed with four children and two grandchildren. She considers Tharptown Elementary a truly special place and is grateful to be part of such a caring school community.