Demand accountability for Dr. Sherri Southerland

Recent signers:
N Holman and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Smyrna High School has long prided itself on academic excellence, student safety, and ethical leadership. Unfortunately, recent events involving Sherri Southland have shaken the confidence of our school community. Her actions have created unnecessary turmoil, damaged trust among students and parents, and cast a shadow over the reputation of our school.
We, the concerned members of the Smyrna community, believe that it is no longer appropriate for Ms. Southland to continue representing Smyrna High School. The recent scandal demonstrates a serious failure of judgment inconsistent with the responsibilities of her position.
We request that Rutherford County Schools and the Superintendent act immediately to:
• Launch a transparent and thorough investigation into the incident.
• Place Sherri Southland on administrative leave during the review process.
• Pursue her removal or reassignment to protect students, preserve integrity, and rebuild community trust.
Smyrna High students and families deserve leadership that reflects the values of fairness, accountability, and respect. Please stand with us in demanding change and restoring integrity to our school.
Sign this petition to call for the removal of Sherri Southland from Smyrna High School and help ensure our community holds every educator to the ethical standards our students deserve.

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Recent signers:
N Holman and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Smyrna High School has long prided itself on academic excellence, student safety, and ethical leadership. Unfortunately, recent events involving Sherri Southland have shaken the confidence of our school community. Her actions have created unnecessary turmoil, damaged trust among students and parents, and cast a shadow over the reputation of our school.
We, the concerned members of the Smyrna community, believe that it is no longer appropriate for Ms. Southland to continue representing Smyrna High School. The recent scandal demonstrates a serious failure of judgment inconsistent with the responsibilities of her position.
We request that Rutherford County Schools and the Superintendent act immediately to:
• Launch a transparent and thorough investigation into the incident.
• Place Sherri Southland on administrative leave during the review process.
• Pursue her removal or reassignment to protect students, preserve integrity, and rebuild community trust.
Smyrna High students and families deserve leadership that reflects the values of fairness, accountability, and respect. Please stand with us in demanding change and restoring integrity to our school.
Sign this petition to call for the removal of Sherri Southland from Smyrna High School and help ensure our community holds every educator to the ethical standards our students deserve.

The Decision Makers

Rutherford County School Board
3 Members
Tammy Sharp
Rutherford County School Board - Zone 1
Frances Rosales
Rutherford County School Board - Zone 7
Claire Maxwell
Rutherford County School Board - Zone 5
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Petition created on October 21, 2025