Biography
I’m Cassie Sanders, a proud native of Tellico Plains, Tennessee, where my passion for education took root early on. As a young person, I felt a deep calling to teach, spending countless hours leading Sunday school, vacation Bible school, and youth activities at my church. Those moments shaped my commitment to nurturing young minds and building community.
After graduating from Tellico Plains High School in 2002, I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Human Learning with K-8 certification at Tennessee Wesleyan College, graduating in December 2006. My teaching journey began at Coker Creek School, where I served as an assistant for a year and a half before joining Rural Vale School in August 2008. There, I taught 1st through 4th grades, often in multi-age classrooms, fostering a love of learning in a tight-knit environment.
In May 2012, I earned my Master’s Degree in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Technological University, equipping me to take on greater responsibilities. In August 2018, I stepped into the role of Assistant Principal at Rural Vale, deepening my connections with our families and community while supporting student growth.
In the 2025-2026 school year, I proudly transitioned to Principal of Rural Vale School—a role that feels like a true homecoming. Our vibrant students, dedicated faculty, and supportive staff make Rural Vale the heartbeat of our community. It’s an honor to lead such an extraordinary school, fostering a warm, inclusive environment where every child feels valued and inspired.
My husband, Joshua, and I live in the Ballplay community with our son, Will, a student at Tellico Plains High School and the absolute light of our lives. We’re a sports-loving family, often cheering at Will’s golf matches and baseball games. When we’re not at the ballfield, you’ll find us camping at Indian Boundary, fishing along the river, or spending time with our church family at Epperson Church in Coker Creek. Rural Vale has my heart, and I’m endlessly grateful for the chance to serve its students and community.
