Dawn Kelley Slifer
4-8 Assistant Principal
Bachelor of Science Degree in Interpersonal & Public Communication, Central Michigan University; Master of Arts Degree in English Composition & Communication, Central Michigan University; Education Specialist Degree in Education Policy & Administration, University of Tennessee
Dawn Kelley Slifer started working at Tennessee Connections Academy in 2019, where she currently serves as the assistant principal for grades 4-8.
Why I Became an Educator
I became an educator organically. From childhood, I always knew I had two career paths: writing and teaching. I was drawn to the magic of books as a child, and to storytelling as a teenager. My passion for literacy became interwoven with a passion for teaching as I realized there was such joy in inspiring others to learn and enjoy stories as well. I didn’t pursue a traditional path to education, but first became a novelist and later a teacher.
Message for Families Considering Online School
Many of our students enroll at Tennessee Connections Academy because traditional, brick-and-mortar public schools have been unable to meet their needs in some way. This school is often able to meet those needs—and when we do, it’s powerful and gives us reason for optimism about what else we can accomplish in the years to come.
Like our students, I enjoy the flexibility that comes from an online school. Being an educator and working from home is a unique opportunity that allows me to be supportive of my family.
“Many of our students enroll here because traditional, brick-and-mortar public schools have been unable to meet their needs in some way.”
— Ms. Kelley Slifer