A LIFETIME OF LEARNING — A LIFETIME OF SERVICE
by Christi Sayles & Jim Kirk
Who are they?
The future of Blount County will be shaped, in large part, by the strength of its public schools and the leadership we choose to support them.
Our schools are not just part of this community. They are a driving force behind it.
They prepare our workforce, attract families, support property values, and influence whether businesses choose to invest here. Strong schools and a strong local economy rise together. When one is strengthened, the other follows. When one is neglected, the consequences ripple across the entire county.
We are fortunate to have three public school systems with proud traditions and strong outcomes. Those results are driven by outstanding teachers, administrators, and staff, supported by families, alumni, retired educators, and community partners who invest in their success every day.
Strong schools do not happen by accident. They require leadership, discipline, and a sustained commitment to doing the work well.
That is what makes this election so important.
Brett Coulter brings more than four decades of experience in public education. A 1980 graduate of Maryville High School, he earned his degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and holds both a Master’s degree and an Education Specialist degree in Administration and Supervision. He has devoted more than 41 years to Maryville City Schools as both an educator and an administrator.
He has led teams, managed budgets, met deadlines, and been accountable for results that matter to students and families.
I have seen firsthand the professionalism, discipline, and leadership Brett brings to his work. He understands how to run an organization, support people, and deliver results. As past Chair of the Maryville City School Board, I can say with confidence that his leadership is proven, his judgment is sound, and his experience is exactly what this role demands.
— Christi Sayles
As a former Tennessee Teacher of the Year and 2003 Tennessee Principal of the Year, I have spent my career in education and leadership. Managing people, budgets, and outcomes is not theoretical. It is the core responsibility of an executive. Brett has spent his career doing exactly that, and it translates directly to the role of County Mayor.
— Jim Kirk
That matters because the office of County Mayor is an executive role.
It requires someone who can manage operations, oversee budgets, coordinate across systems, and deliver results for the entire county.
Blount County has a strong history of leaders in this role who came from education. Former County Executives Asher Howard, Clyde McMahan, Bill Crisp, and Bob Davis understood that this job demands execution, accountability, and service. Brett Coulter stands firmly in that tradition.
His career reflects hands-on leadership. He has managed complex organizations, made real-time decisions, and been accountable for outcomes that affect families every day.
Just as important, he understands the direct connection between strong schools and a strong economy. Employers look at school quality when deciding where to locate. Families do the same when choosing where to live. Supporting public education is not just about schools. It is about the future of the entire county.
When voters take a close look at experience, leadership, and record of service, the choice is clear.
Brett Coulter brings the executive experience to lead, the discipline to manage responsibly, and the lifelong commitment to public education that this moment demands.
Blount County’s future will be shaped by the strength of its schools and the quality of its leadership.
We believe Brett Coulter is the candidate best prepared to deliver both.
Make your plan to vote. Early voting is underway now through April 30. Election Day is May 5. In the Republican Primary, vote for Brett Coulter for Blount County Mayor.
If you believe strong schools are essential to a strong Blount County, then this is the moment to act. Vote.