Jean Gordon
Wednesday, March 12, 2025 10:24 am
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Three Rutherford County women were inducted into the Rutherford County Schools Education Foundation (RCSEF) Hall of Fame during an impressive ceremony Saturday, March 1 at the Foundation, Isothermal Community College.
Friends and family of the three women were joined at the ceremony by Rutherford County Schools (RCS) personnel, educators, administrators, family and friends.
Inducted into the 2025 Hall of Fame were Robyn Elliott, Gail Parton and Betty Smith.
Elliott was a dedicated teacher in the RCS district, having spent 31 years teaching at Green Hill, Sunshine Cool Springs and Mount Vernon. She passed away in 2019.
Robyn Elliott's family attended and accepted the honor on her behalf. In addition to her work as a teacher in elementary, middle and high schools, she was also an AIG specialist on the county level.
During her more than three decades in the school system, she was celebrated as the 2011-2012 Teacher of the Year. As a teacher she was known and celebrated for her ability to think outside the box.
She was widely known for the impact in the classroom as well as being a dedicated mentor to younger educators.
Elliott's "unwavering commitment to fostering a love of learning and supporting her colleagues leaves an enduring legacy of innovation, mentorship and a lifelong dedication to education."
Parton was described as a student-centered leader and a public servant.
She was described as a lifelong advocate and visionary leader who dedicated her life to improving the lives of children and families in Rutherford County.
She served on the Rutherford County Board of Education from 1996-2008 (two terms as chairperson). She helped guide construction of numerous school in the district fostering better learning environments for generations of students and played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Rutherford Early College High School (REaCH).
She has also made an impact on the community through her work with Family Resources of Rutherford County where she advocated for programs that strengthened families and supported children in need.
Smith, an employee of the RCS and described as a "role model" was also honored inducted into the Hall of Fame. Smith spent her 51-year career at East Rutherford High school as the school's bookkeeper.
She was known for her meticulous attention to detail and steadfast commitment, playing a vital role in the daily operations of the school, enduring the financial systems ran smoothly and efficiently.
Smith's service at East Rutherford was marked by her deep connection to the school community, her ability to navigate countless changes with grace and her genuine care for the staff and students.
The event was sponsored by the Rutherford County Schools Education Foundation with its Executive Director Ritchie Garland sharing master of ceremonies duties with Brad Teague.
Of the three new inductees, Garland said, "these individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication and innovation in their efforts to improve the lives of the students in Rutherford County."
"We are proud to recognize their accomplishments and celebrate their contributions to our community. Their work has inspired numerous students and set a benchmark of excellence that will continue to benefit our community for years to come," Garland said.
He also thanked all sponsors, donor and volunteers for the supporter of the foundation.
Dr. David M. Sutton, superintendent of RCS, praised the work and dedication of the inductees, thanking them for their work.
Sutton, in his opening remarks during the induction ceremony, said the new Hall of Fame class, "...stands on the shoulders of giants and visionaries."
He described the new inductees as "...gifted, creative, devoted servant leaders."
Other RCSEF Hall of Fame inductees are:
2024- Dr. John Mark Bennett, Sally Blanton and Charles Z. Flack, Jr.
2023- Sgt. Major Don Barrett, Pat Keeter, Dr. Janet Harmon Mason, Dr. John L. Kinlaw;
2019- Major Russ Armentrout, Susan Hendrick, Benny Hendrix, Marty Hopper, Phillip White;
2018- Doris Francis, Larry Francis, Grady Franklin, Carolyn Keever;
2017- Tinnie M.Dawkins, Greg Lovelace, Margaret G. Miller, Nancy M. Nichols, Johnnie G. Street;
2016- Frances G. Bailey, John Condrey, Betty Hutchins, Janice Paris, Ron Paris
2015- Pearl G. Barnette, Chivous O. Bradley, Joan E. King, Stacy L. Lail, Jr., Shirley Powell;
2014- Dr. Lucille H. Daniel, Jackie S. Hampton, Inez R. Padgett, Thomas L. Porter, Rev. Rob Roy Staley;
2013- Albert B. Bushong, Dee C. Cole, Dr. Bobby England, Jane S. Flack, Forrest W. Hunt, Robert & Janice McNair, Roger T. Petty, J.J. Tarlton, Henrietta C. Tiwtty.