The Jackson-Madison County School System added a veteran educator to its roster of allies this week as Scott Gatlin was sworn in Monday by Judge Christy Little to serve on the school board, according to a Thursday morning news release from the school system.
“I am anxious to help. That’s been my only goal since this first crossed my mind. Everyone I’ve met on the administrative and leadership teams just make me feel very hopeful for the district,” Gatlin said.
Gatlin has worked in education since 1982. He’s been a classroom teacher, principal, and an independent school superintendent. He has also served on the TSSAA Board of Control. Gatlin was appointed by the County Commission to fill the unexpired term of Shannon Stewart. Stewart resigned from the Board in December as her family relocated to East Tennessee.
“I’m a big believer in watching for the doors that God opens and walking through them. He opened the door for us to come to Jackson in an unmistakable way in 1997, and we did. He opened this door. I tend to not over think it and listen to His leading,” Gatlin said.
Gatlin is currently employed by Youth Town of Tennessee and serves as the principal of George Thomas Junior Academy, the campus school for Youth Town residents. After watching the public school system from the outside for more than two decades, Gatlin is familiar with the successes and the challenges JMCSS has experienced.
“I would love to see an atmosphere and culture of unity with the board; not only working as a group, but a culture of unity as it relates to the board and the leadership team and especially Dr. King. That’s one of the things I’m so pleased with because that appears to be a reality right now,” Gatlin said.
Mr. Gatlin and his wife (Jamie) have two married sons and three grandchildren. He enjoys float camping, fishing, and grilling on his patio with friends and family.