The doctor is in

Warren County Schools announced Friday the appointment of Dr. Lori Riley as the new principal of Morrison Elementary School, effective July 1, 2026.

Riley brings 17 years of experience in education, all within Warren County Schools, where she has built a strong reputation as a dedicated educator and leader committed to student success. Her career began in the classroom as a social studies teacher at Warren County Middle School, where she served from 2009 to 2017. She later served as the school’s Instructional and Building Testing Coordinator before being named Assistant Principal in 2021, a role she currently holds.

“Morrison already has a strong foundation built on positive relationships, dedicated teachers, and strong support from families and the community. My first step [will] be to listen and learn from the staff and community so I understand what has helped make Morrison successful. It is important to recognize and maintain the traditions, expectations, and relationships that have created such a positive culture at the school,” said Riley.

Throughout her career, Riley has played a key role in supporting school operations, instructional leadership, and student success initiatives. Her responsibilities have included supervising student attendance monitoring, coordinating federal programs, supporting teacher licensure processes, managing student scheduling and curriculum development, along with serving as both 504 Coordinator and LEA for special education services. She has also been an active member of the school’s RTI and RTI²-B committees, led professional learning communities, and facilitated professional development for teachers.

In addition to her work in K-12 education, Riley has served as an instructor at Motlow State Community College since 2022, where she teaches course content, develops curriculum, and provides academic support for students.

Riley holds an impressive academic background, including a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University, a Master of Education in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee State University, a Specialist in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Tennessee Technological University, and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education/History from Tennessee Technological University.

Her professional achievements include being named Teacher of the Year for the 2015-2016 school year and Warren County Schools District Certified Employee of the Month in December 2025.

Director of Schools Dr. Grant Swallows expressed confidence in the selection.

“Dr. Riley has been a successful and highly respected team member at Warren County Middle School, where she has spent her entire career growing from the classroom to the assistant principalship,” Swallows said. “She understands our students, our families, and our community. Her leadership, experience, and heart for education make her the right person to lead Morrison Elementary into its next chapter. We are excited to see the impact she will make on students, staff, and families.”

Effective July 1, Riley will assume the role as principal and focus on fostering a positive learning environment, supporting teachers, and continuing the strong tradition of academic excellence and community engagement at Morrison Elementary.