Newby's no 'newbie'

Warren County Schools announced Friday afternoon the appointment of Sadie Newby as the next principal of Bobby Ray Memorial Elementary School, effective July 1, 2026.

Newby brings more than 20 years of experience in education, all of which have been dedicated to serving students at Bobby Ray Memorial Elementary. Over the course of her career, she has built a strong reputation as a passionate educator, collaborative leader, and advocate for student success.

"I have had the honor to work [at Bobby Ray] for 20 years in different capacities and both my children attended school there,” Newby said in a statement. “I understand our challenges but I also believe strongly in the potential of our students, staff, and school community. Over the years I have been given opportunities to lead in different ways, and those experiences have helped me realize that I want to have an even greater impact on the direction of the school. I am inspired by the legacy of David Robert 'Bobby' Ray, whose vision and dedication continue to guide this school, and I want to honor that legacy while helping our students and staff grow, thrive, and achieve even more in the years to come."

Her career began as a classroom teacher at Bobby Ray Memorial Elementary, where she spent more than a decade helping students build strong academic foundations. She later transitioned into the role of school librarian, continuing to support both students and teachers while fostering a culture of literacy and curiosity throughout the school community. Most recently, she has served as the school’s Instructional Coach, where she works closely with teachers to strengthen instructional practices, support standards-aligned lesson planning, and provide job-embedded coaching across grade levels.

Newby’s leadership experience extends beyond the classroom as well. She has served as site coordinator for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers afterschool program, helped lead the district’s Acceleration Academy summer learning program, and coordinated several schoolwide initiatives designed to promote literacy, student engagement, and positive school culture. These efforts include programs such as Read Across America, Random Acts of Kindness Week, and One Book, One School, all of which help create a welcoming school environment where students feel valued and connected.

Newby holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Learning (K-8) from Tennessee Technological University, a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Tennessee Technological University, and is currently completing a Doctor of Education in Administration and Supervision from Liberty University, where she will graduate with High Distinction.

Her dedication to students and excellence in teaching has earned the respect of her peers throughout the school community. She has been named Bobby Ray Memorial Elementary Teacher of the Year four times: in 2016-17, 2020-21, 2021-22, and 2024-25.

Director of Schools Dr. Grant Swallows praised her leadership and commitment to the school.

“Mrs. Newby has risen through the ranks at Bobby Ray Memorial Elementary as a teacher, librarian, and now instructional coach, where she has helped lead and support instructional efforts across the school,” Swallows said. “She is a four-time Teacher of the Year at Bobby Ray, which speaks volumes about the respect she has earned from her colleagues and the impact she has made on students. Her experience, leadership, and deep connection to the school community make her an outstanding choice to lead Bobby Ray Memorial Elementary.”

Newby will officially assume the role of principal of Bobby Ray Memorial Elementary School on July 1, 2026, leading the school into its next chapter of growth and success.