June 2, 2026
By JAMES EVANS
Rutherford County Schools
Ashley Toombs, a longtime member of the RCS ESL department, has been named the new ESL coordinator.
The ESL coordinator oversees instructional strategies, compliance and works with schools to provide instruction to those students who are learning the English language.
“Ms. Toombs brings extensive experience, deep knowledge of our district's structures and systems, and a unique ability to analyze and communicate data that will help strengthen the work already in place,” said Chief Academic Officer Dr. Kelly Chastain.
The ability to work and apply data is essential to the position because it is used to increase student achievement and ensure every student receives appropriate services and instruction, Chastain explained.
Toombs succeeds Dr. Meagan Turnbow, who was recently named principal of Rockvale High School.
During her educator career, Toombs has worked with all facets of ESL, including instruction, funding, compliance, and coaching administrators and teachers.
“My desire to move into the coordinator role came from a genuine investment in the program that we've built and a deep commitment to continuing to grow it,” Toombs said. “Dr. Turnbow has done an amazing job at bringing our department to where it is, and I want to continue that momentum.”