Principal: Ms. Debbie Ritter
Assistant Principal: Ms. Tammie Anderson
Assistant Principal: Ms. Lori Smith
Dear Knox Elementary STEM Academy Families,
It is with great excitement and heartfelt enthusiasm that I introduce myself as the new principal of Knox Elementary STEM Academy. My name is Debbie Ritter, and I am truly honored to join this wonderful school community. I look forward to getting to know each of you and working together to ensure that every student feels valued, inspired, and successful. I bring to this role 27 years of experience in education, having served as a general education teacher, special education teacher, district leader and principal. Throughout my career, I have remained deeply committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and academically enriching environment where children not only grow in knowledge but also in character. As I step into this role, my top priority is to listen and learn. I believe that strong relationships are the foundation of a thriving school. I’m eager to connect with students, families, teachers, and staff to celebrate what’s working well and explore opportunities to grow together. I am so proud to be joining the Knights family and can’t wait for the exciting journey ahead.
Mrs. Lori Smith is excited to serve as Assistant Principal, bringing over 21 years of experience in education. Her background spans Pre-K through 4th grade, where she has served as a classroom teacher, Literacy Coach, and Instructional Lead Strategist. She holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Michigan (Go Blue!), a master's degree in Reading from Walden University, and an Education Specialist Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Kennesaw State University.
As an educator, Mrs. Smith believes in empowering both teachers and students to reach their fullest potential. She is passionate about fostering a supportive learning environment where growth, collaboration, and a love of learning thrive.
Outside of school, Mrs. Smith loves spending time with her husband and their two children, both CHS Warriors. Their family enjoys traveling—especially to the beach and Disney—cheering on their son at baseball games, supporting their daughter in cheer, and watching Michigan football together.
Tammie Anderson is a Cherokee County native and grew up and lives in the Clayton community. She received her bachelor’s degree from Shorter College in Middle Grades Education, Master’s Degree from Kennesaw State University in Middle Grades Education, Specialist’s Degree from Lincoln Memorial in Curriculum and Instruction, and Educational Leadership certificate from the University of Georgia.
She joined the Cherokee County School District in 1998. She is beginning her 26th year in education where she has served as a teacher, Instructional Technology Specialist, and Assistant Principal. Ms. Anderson was appointed as an Assistant Principal at Knox ES STEM Academy in 2017. She treasures the time that she gets to spend with the Knox family everyday as her passion is making a positive impact in the life of every child.
Ms. Anderson married her husband, Jason, in 2000. They have one son, Will, who attends Teasley Middle School. They have one donkey named LeRoy. As a family, they love supporting the Georgia Bulldogs, spending time with family, and traveling.