| Sources |
- [S84] E-Mail, Carrie Ogle [carrieogle@gmail.com], 3 Jan 2009.
- [S106] The Mountain Press, 16 Jun 2011.
Ogle returns to old stomping grounds at GPHS
by RACHEL OSBORN
Tony Ogle
This is the first in a five-part series on new principals at Sevier County High Schools.
The Sevier County School System has always held a special place in Tony Ogle’s heart. Over the years he’s attended Catons Chapel Elementary and Gatlinburg-Pittman High School. He’s taught English at Pigeon Forge High School, was an assistant principal at Seymour Middle and principal at Jones Cove Elementary. This fall he’ll take on a new role in the system—GPHS principal.
“I love Sevier County,” Ogle said. “We’ve got some good folks in the community. They really support us. The school system is a close-knit group. We’re like a family.”
After graduating from GPHS in 1996, Ogle attended Tennessee Tech University. Though he was away at college, Sevier County was never far from his mind.
“I drove home every weekend,” Ogle said. “I worked for Food City in Pigeon Forge.”
Upon completion of his Secondary Education degree in 2000, Ogle accepted a position at PFHS.
“I taught mostly freshmen English,” he said. “At one time, I taught all incoming freshmen. I had every kid that went through there.”
In 2005 Ogle graduated from University of Tennessee with a Masters in Supervision and Administration. Currently he’s finishing up his Ed.S. at Lincoln Memorial University.
Although Ogle is sad to be leaving Jones Cove, he’s excited about his new job at GPHS.
“In a way it’s like going home,” he said. “I know many faculty members. I’ll already know some students (incoming freshmen who were eighth-graders at Jones Cove). That makes the transition easier and anxiety free.”
But, he admits that it’s reassuring to know that former principal Curtis Henry will be close by at central office.
“He’s been good at answering my questions,” Ogle said. “That makes me feel better.”
Even though he’ll be responsible for three-times as many students at GPHS, Ogle plans to use the same leadership philosophy that he had at Jones Cove.
“The students always have to be first,” he said. “Any decisions made have to be for them. We have to be good stewards of what the community has given us. The best way, is to make sure students are number one in the decision making process.”
He also thinks communication is a vital part of a a well-functioning school.
“Communication is key,” Ogle said. “Frequent and quality communication between school and home is important.”
For Ogle this communication focuses on all aspects of school life: academics, discipline, sports and extra curricular activities.
“When parents are informed, they have a better understanding of what’s going on at school,” he said. “It’s important for teachers and administrators to communicate well with parents. It’s letting parents know things are taking place. The more information parents have, they more they are able to participate. Parents are essential in the learning process.”
Ogle understands that this communication has to occur from both sides.
“Communication is a two-way street,” he said. “It’s not only speaking, but listening. It’s about listening to teachers, students, parents and community members. That’s a benefit for the students. We work together for them. It’s better for the kids when the adults get along.”
In addition to discussions with parents and community members, Ogle looks forward to helping students make important life decisions like college choices and coursework options.
“In (high school) they make choices that will impact their life,” he said. “Being involved in a young man or young woman’s life, that appeals to me. That’s special.”
Outside of school, Ogle enjoys spending time with his family: wife, Carrie; and sons Dylan, Atticus and Elijah. He also likes to collect comic books and read.
“I like to read anything,” he said. “I’ve read a lot of history and biography lately.”
Overall, Ogle looks forward to this new adventure.
“It’s really an excellent school,” he said. “I’m honored to have been considered and humbled to have been picked.”
- [S58] Marriage Certificate.
Groom's Name Bride's First Name Bride's Maiden Name County Date of Marriage File #
OGLE JOHN A CARRIE D HENRY SEVIER 07-09-2005 37358
- [S58] Marriage Certificate.
577312 JOHN ANTHONY OGLE CARRIE DIONE HENRY
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