Felicia James joined Smyrna Primary School in 2017.  She has served as an educator for sixteen years with fifteen being in Rutherford County.  Her career began at Stewartsboro where she taught 2^nd grade.  Mrs. James has also taught 6^th grade, served as a technology coach, and assistant principal. 

Mrs. James grew up and attended school in Bedford County graduating from Community High School. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Middle Tennessee State University.  Mrs. James resides in Murfreesboro with her husband, Russ, and two children, Kenzie and Gavin. 

Mrs. James believes that clear communication, relationships, and high expectations are key components to creating successful teachers and students.  Her favorite quote is by Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t, you’re right.”  What we believe and think is powerful and determines our success or failures.

During her free time, Mrs. James enjoys spending time with family, being involved at church, and doing anything crafty.

Dr. Gonyea joined Smyrna Primary School in 2017.  He has served as an educator for 22 years in Rutherford County.  He started his career at Smyrna Middle School as a 7^th grade teacher.  From Smyrna Middle, Dr. Gonyea moved to Smyrna High School where he taught Mathematics and Computer Programming.  For the last four years, Dr. Gonyea served as Mathematics Department Chair at Stewarts Creek High School.

Dr. Gonyea was born in Michigan, but claims Tennessee as his true home.  He received his Bachelors in Mathematics from MTSU as well as his masters in Early Childhood Literacy from the same school.  Dr. Gonyea received both his Ed. S. and Doctorate in educational leadership from Carson Newman University.

Dr. Gonyea lives in Murfreesboro with his wife Tammy.  He has three adult children, Blake, Kaleb and Mallory.

Education is Dr. Gonyea’s passion and he believes in the power of positive thought to make a difference in people’s lives.

During his free time, Dr. Gonyea enjoys reading, anything technology, photography and spending time with his wife and family.