Garth Garris of Blanche School has been honored as the 2025 Principal of the Year. Mr. Garris joined Lincoln County Schools in 2016 and has served at both Highland Rim School and Lincoln County High School before being named as Principal of Blanche School in 2022.
A native of Elkmont, Alabama, Mr. Garris has served as a teacher, coach, and Administrator in both Madison and Limestone Counties in Alabama and has over 30 years of teaching and leadership experience. He is a 1986 Graduate of Elkmont High School and achieved his B.S. in Education from Athens State College and his M.A. in Educational Administration from the University of North Alabama in 1998.
Mr. Garris is a dedicated and driven leader who is willing to take on any challenge. Most of all, he is present. He can routinely be found in a classroom, in the hallways, at a ballgame, cooking for his staff, or even sweeping and cleaning if needed. Fellow educators describe him as one who is supportive at all times and all levels. Further, Mr. Garris, “...creates a positive environment and thinks about everyone in the school.” Garris and his wife reside in Athens.