Bedford County Schools is proud to announce that Lee Ann Butts has been selected to serve on the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation (GELF) 2025-2026 Educator Advisory Council. Lee Ann is one of only 22 educators chosen to help guide the early literacy initiatives and resource selection for the Early Literacy’s Foundation’s Statewide Program.

Currently in her fourth year serving on the council, Lee Ann brings more than 30 years of educational experience to the table. With a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction, she plays an active role in shaping literacy instruction across the district as part of Bedford County Schools’ ELA Leadership Team.

“I am honored to continue serving on the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation Educator Advisory Council,” said Butts. “Promoting literacy in Tennessee is a mission I hold close to my heart. Supporting my district in this capacity allows me to make a meaningful impact in our community.”

The Educator Advisory Council helps guide the selection of books and literacy resources for GELF’s K-3 Home Library program, which has delivered more than 5.8 million books to both Tennessee students and their teachers, supporting learning in classrooms and at home. In summer 2025 alone, the program mailed 1.4 million books to 240,000 students and educators to help combat summer learning loss and nurture a love of reading at home.

Bedford County Schools celebrates Lee Ann Butts for her continued leadership and dedication to early literacy—both locally and statewide.

Lee Ann Butts Named to Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation’s 2025-2026 Educator Advisory Council