Herron Named Principal at Avery Trace

Cane Creek assistant principal returning to middle school administration

PUTNAM COUNTY, TENN. - The Putnam County School System is pleased to announce Lesley Herron as the new principal at Avery Trace Middle School.

Herron replaces Alma Anderson, who recently announced her retirement.

Herron, who returns to middle school administration after a successful tenure as assistant principal at Cane Creek Elementary, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to educational excellence.

"I am beyond excited to come back to the middle school world. It’s where my heart is," said Herron. "It’s all that I have known until this year. I’m excited about the progress we are going to make."

Herron's career in education spans over 20 years, including 16 years teaching sixth and eighth-grade math and fifth-grade science at Cornerstone Middle School, where she developed a passion for middle school education.

"There is something special about middle school kids," Herron remarked. "To see them grow and come into their own and set goals for themselves and see them thrive."

Before her role at Cane Creek Elementary, Herron was assistant principal at Upperman Middle School, gaining valuable leadership experience and a deep understanding of school administration.

Reflecting on her recent experience at Cane Creek Elementary, Herron stated, "Jumping into the elementary world has been the best year. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made to see the elementary side of it. These teachers and the way they pour into the kids are phenomenal. Cane Creek has an amazing faculty and staff. I will miss them."

As she transitions to Avery Trace Middle School, Herron is eager to engage with the school community and build upon its rich legacy.

"I want the community to see Avery Trace as a beacon," Herron expressed. "You pass it when you come into Cookeville, and it is a beautiful school. It’s a beautiful campus. I want the community to see it as a source of pride. I want the teachers to know what they are doing is impactful and that what they are pouring into the kids is making a difference. I want the teachers and the community to have that sense of pride."

Herron has a B.S. in Middle School Education 5-8 and a M.Ed. in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Tech University. Her family includes her husband, Ben, the principal at White Plains Academy, son Drew, a sophomore at Cumberland University, daughters Zoe, a senior at Upperman High, and Mylie, a sophomore at UHS.