• Heather Tinch
    Heather Tinch

    Dear Burks Elementary Families,

    Welcome to Panther Country! The administration, faculty, and staff welcome you to Burks Elementary School. BES is a friendly and safe place, which provides students with many opportunities to develop academic skills, acquire fundamental knowledge, and determine interests and special talents. You will learn, grow, and have fun with people your own age while moving toward greater independence. Students will learn and develop with the understanding and support of professional educators who recognize and respond to their individual needs.

    Burks Elementary School will be an exciting experience. Take advantage of every opportunity provided for you at BES by getting involved in the many school activities that are offered. Catch the PANTHER EXCITEMENT!

    My name is Heather Tinch, and I’m excited to be the Principal at Burks Elementary School. I am truly honored to have been selected to join the Monterey community and lead this wonderful school. I have been an educator for over 22 years. I spent the first four years of my teaching career in Fentress County, and the last 18 at Prescott South Middle School, where I served as an assistant principal from 2013 until 2021.
    I have been married for 23 years to my husband, Jason, who works at Automation Tool Company in Cookeville. We have one daughter, Lexi, who attends Tennessee Technological University. Jason and I both grew up in neighboring Fentress County, where my parents ran the weekly newspaper until last year. When we aren’t working, my family loves to travel, do home projects, and watch sports. We also love spending time with our sweet doggies, Albert and Diesel!
    I am thankful to have the opportunity to be Principal at Burks Elementary School, and I am super excited to see all of the wonderful things that are going to happen!

    Sincerely,
    Heather Tinch
    Principal
    Burks Elementary