Administration
Dr. Mark J. Gonyea has dedicated over 30 years to education, with a career that spans teaching, administration, and leadership. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science and a Master of Education, both from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU). Dr. Gonyea furthered his expertise with an Education Specialist (EdS) in Educational Administration and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Carson-Newman University.
For 22 years, Dr. Gonyea served as a high school mathematics and computer science teacher in the Smyrna community, shaping the minds of countless students and contributing to the academic success of his community. In 2016, he transitioned into educational administration, bringing his passion for student success and a strong commitment to community involvement. After serving in various administrative roles, Dr. Gonyea became the principal of Thurman Francis Arts Academy in November 2023.
As an educator and leader, Dr. Gonyea believes that developing well-rounded students requires the collaboration of a strong, connected community. By maintaining open lines of communication between schools, parents, community partners, and other educational institutions, he works to create a comprehensive support system for students, ensuring they have the resources and encouragement they need to thrive.
Dr. Gonyea is proud to lead Thurman Francis Arts Academy and is committed to fostering a culture of excellence. Under his leadership, TFAA continues to embrace its mission of Academic Excellence Enriched by the Arts. TFAA is driven by #theHeARTofExcellence, where students are inspired to grow academically, artistically, and personally. |
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Mrs. Janelle Gehrke has spent 28 years in the field of education. She is a three-time graduate of Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) with a Bachelor of Science degree (B.S) in Interdisciplinary Studies and a minor in math, a Master of Education degree (M.Ed.) in Curriculum and Instruction, and an Education Specialist degree (Ed.S.) in Administration and Supervision. She also completed the Rutherford County Schools Aspiring Administrator Academy in 2019.
Mrs. Gehrke has spent her entire teaching career at Thurman Francis Arts Academy. For 27 years, she taught middle school math, designing engaging and intentional learning experiences for her students. She did this by promoting a discussion-rich environment and creating an atmosphere that builds and encourages the growth mindset. During that time, she also served in many leadership positions at the school including grade level team leader, Math Curriculum Lead, Dean of Students, Assistant Building Testing Coordinator, and Principal Designee. One of her passions has been to guide and nurture the next generation of teachers, and as such, she has mentored numerous preservice teachers who are now serving in the profession as teachers and administrators. Two of her proudest accomplishments include being a part of the design team when the magnet program began at Thurman Francis in 2000 and representing TFAA at the National Blue Ribbon Schools Recognition Ceremony in Washington, DC, in 2022.
For the 2024-2025 school year, Mrs. Gehrke has transitioned into the role of assistant principal at Thurman Francis Arts Academy. Her professional goal is to use her expertise to make a greater impact on student learning by collaborating with the principal to foster relationships and systems that will allow students to learn and teachers to grow. Mrs. Gehrke is dedicated to supporting the Heart of Excellence at TFAA by cultivating an environment where rigorous academics are complemented by a strong, thriving arts program. She wants every student to have the opportunity to excel intellectually and creatively, preparing them for success in all areas of life.
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