Amid the familiar hustle and bustle of Tupelo High School’s hallways, a fresh face stands out. Mrs. Briana George, with a welcoming smile and a stack of innovative lesson plans under her arm, is the latest addition to the school’s esteemed faculty. As a seasoned educator with a passion for interactive learning, Mrs. George brings a new spark to the English department, already leaving an indelible mark on both her students and fellow teachers. But what is it about Tupelo High that drew her here, and how does she plan to ignite a love for learning in her students?

“My name is Briana George. I have been married to my husband, David, for almost 22 years. We have 6 children:  Marlee (19), Reagan (17), Ava (14), Davis Rhett (11), Hayes (8), and Nora (6). I’m in my 10th year as an educator, and I started working at THS this January as an English II inclusion teacher and girl’s track and cross country assistant coach. I was born into a family of educators, and I always felt that I would be a teacher as well.” George explained.

Embracing a rich family tradition of education, Briana George steps into the halls of THS with a decade of teaching experience and a personal understanding of the educator’s role. George reflects on her journey not just as a career choice but as a continuation of a cherished legacy.

“I was chosen as a Mississippi STAR teacher in back-to-back years (2022 & 2023).  This was a huge honor for me because the STAR students are told to choose the teacher that has most influenced them. However, I believe that the little things that happen every day are often more meaningful and memorable than statewide recognition. Recently, I received my first hug and then my first drawing from students here at THS. Those might seem like small things, but I will never forget them because those small gestures made me feel like I was a true part of the Tupelo culture.” George said.

Beyond her academic achievements, Briana George cherishes the everyday interactions that deepen her connection with her students. ‘I was chosen as a Mississippi STAR teacher in back-to-back years (2022 & 2023). This was a huge honor for me because the STAR students are told to choose the teacher that has most influenced them,’ George states, her pride evident. She quickly adds, ‘However, I believe that the little things that happen every day are often more meaningful and memorable than statewide recognition.’ The joy she finds in simple acts of kindness—a hug, a drawing—speaks volumes to her dedication and the impact of her presence at THS.

“Honestly, the fact that the job was English 2 and XC assistant coach is what drew me here. I knew I would like the job because I have experience in both of those areas, but after meeting with Dr. Thomas and Dr. Garth, I knew I would love the job! Both of those ladies are amazing at what they do and have such a calming presence about them that I knew I wanted to work for them. What I hope to accomplish during my time here: I want our girl’s XC and track teams to win state championships (lots of them), I want my students to perform well in both academics and life, and I want to make a positive impact on those around me.” George expressed. 

Briana George’s decision to join the THS team was influenced by more than just the job description. Her experience in both English education and athletics was a perfect match for the roles offered. Reflecting on her choice, George shares, ‘Honestly, the fact that the job was English 2 and XC assistant coach is what drew me here. I knew I would like the job because I have experience in both of those areas, but after meeting with Dr. Thomas and Dr. Garth, I knew I would love the job!’ Her enthusiasm is palpable as she speaks of her goals: ‘I want our girls XC and track teams to win state championships (lots of them), I want my students to perform well in both academics and life, and I want to make a positive impact on those around me

“I know that we are the biggest high school in the state, but I can honestly say that it feels like a family. One of the first things I noticed was the atmosphere. Everyone has been so welcoming and very helpful during my transition. I hope to reciprocate the kindness I have received and extend the gracious welcome to new teachers for many years to come!” George said 

Size doesn’t always dictate the warmth of a community, something Briana George realized upon her arrival at THS. Despite being the largest high school in the state, George found a sense of belonging that resonated deeply with her. ‘I know that we are the biggest high school in the state, but I can honestly say that it feels like a family,’ she explains. George describes the welcoming environment that greeted her, ‘One of the first things I noticed was the atmosphere. Everyone has been so welcoming and very helpful during my transition.’ With a hopeful outlook, she adds, ‘I hope to reciprocate the kindness I have received and extend the gracious welcome to new teachers for many years to come!

“Mrs. George is such a friendly, respectful, and compassionate teacher who benefits our students and the school community.  She makes an effort to get to know people and shows that she sincerely cares for them.” Blackmon said. 

The impact of Mrs. George on the THS community extends far beyond her academic duties. Colleagues and students alike speak highly of her approachable and caring nature. One fellow educator, Akena Blackmon, remarks ‘Mrs. George is such a friendly, respectful, and compassionate teacher who benefits our students and the school community.’ It’s not just her teaching style that makes a difference, but also her personal touch: ‘She makes an effort to get to know people and shows that she sincerely cares for them.’ This testament to her character reflects the deep connections she forges within the school’s walls.

“Mrs. George has made a positive impact in the short time that she has been here by simply doing whatever has been asked of her without any hesitation.  She is very resourceful with the content, being that she is a previous English teacher, which allows her input to enhance the instruction.” Blackmon added. 

In the brief period since her arrival, Mrs. George’s willingness to contribute wherever needed has not gone unnoticed. A colleague observes, ‘Mrs. George has made a positive impact in the short time that she has been here by simply doing whatever that has been asked of her without any hesitation.’ Her background as an English teacher brings additional depth to her role, as noted by her peers: ‘She is very resourceful with the content, being that she is a previous English teacher, which allows her input to enhance the instruction.’ Mrs. George’s resourcefulness and readiness to assist are evidently key assets to her team at THS.