Mrs. Blackburn has been Principal of Byars Dowdy for 4 years.  She first became assistant principal at Byars Dowdy in 2004.

Mrs. Blackburn has been a part of the Lebanon Special School District since 1984. She received her bachelor of science in education degree at Middle Tennessee State University, her masters degree at Cumberland University and her administrative endorsement at MTSU. She has been married for 32 years and has two daughters. Mrs. Blackburn believes that relationships are the key to a successful education. She believes no significant learning occurs without a significant relationship.

Mrs. Allison is in her fourth year as the assistant principal at Byars Dowdy.  She was a 6th grade teacher at Castle Heights Upper Elementary for 7 years before coming to BD.  She even attended Byars Dowdy for elementary school.

Mrs. Allison attended Cumberland University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. In 2007, she earned her masters degree in Educational Leadership from Middle Tennessee State University.  Mrs. Allison is married to Jon Allison, they have 2 sons and are expecting their third child in the spring.