About Us

Beth Spence

Mrs. Spence is a passionate and enthusiastic educational leader with over 15 years of experience in education. She began her journey in 2010 as a kindergarten teacher at Gibbs Elementary School, where she developed a strong foundation in early childhood education and student development. Her leadership path began in 2019 when she became the Assistant Principal at Amherst Elementary. In 2024, Mrs. Spence was named Executive Principal of East Knox County Elementary.

As principal, Mrs. Spence leads with a deep commitment to academic excellence and a strong belief in supporting the whole child. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing, high-achieving environment where students thrive, teachers are empowered, and families feel connected. “Through education and communication, we can change the world,” she believes — and she works every day to put that vision into action.

Mrs. Spence holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She also earned an Educational Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Administration from Lincoln Memorial University. Currently, she is pursuing her doctorate at the University of the Cumberlands.

Email MRS. Spence

Cyndee Casselman

With over 35 years of experience in education, Ms. Casselman brings a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and heart to her role. Throughout her career, she has taught 3rd through 5th grade in multi-grade classrooms, supporting both behavioral needs and gifted students. Her passion for education and leadership has also led her to serve as an Assistant Administrator at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.

For more than 23 years, Ms. Casselman has worked as an assistant principal in both middle and elementary schools, spending the last six years at East Knox County Elementary. Her leadership is grounded in the belief that schools are more than buildings — they are communities.

“At East Knox County Elementary, we’re more than just a school — we’re a family,” she says. Ms. Casselman is committed to fostering a safe, positive environment where every child can grow, every teacher feels supported, and every family feels connected.

“Education isn’t just what I do — it’s who I am,” she shares. Her dedication to students, staff, and the wider community is evident in everything she does. She listens. She cares. And she continues to make a difference — yesterday, today, and for the future.

Email Ms. Casselman

Julie Whited

Ms. Whited brings 19 years of experience in education and a deep passion for supporting students and families. She began her career teaching art at Sweetwater Junior High, where she served for 14 years. In 2019, she joined Knox County Schools as the art teacher at A.L. Lotts Elementary, before transitioning to her current role as Behavior Coach at East Knox County Elementary in December 2021.

Ms. Whited holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Ecology with a concentration in Housing and Design from Tennessee Technological University, a master’s degree in Education from Tusculum College, and an Educational Specialist degree in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Technological University. She also holds an administrative license and serves as the administrative representative at East Knox County Elementary in the absence of the principal and assistant principal.

Ms. Whited is deeply committed to looking at the whole child and identifying the best supports to meet each student’s individual needs. Whether guiding students through challenges, partnering with families, or encouraging staff, Ms. Whited is a consistent source of support, compassion, and strength within the school community.

Email Ms. Whited