Bates is currently the assistant principal at Cheatham County Central High School.
Bates has been with the district for nearly 30 years and much of that time was at Harpeth High School as a teacher and academic director. She was named the CCCHS assistant principal in 2015.
Throughout her career, she has developed instructional strategies to help students improve attendance, test scores and discipline.
Bates has also served as a mentor to other teachers, helping them to analyze data and develop effective lesson plans.
“It’s been 30 years, and I am fortunate to be back where I started. No matter where I go, it is all about caring and educating children. I am grateful for the incredible educators and students that I have learned from along the way. Thank you,” Bates said.