FSD Director of Schools Dr. David Snowden presents Dr. Alicia Barker with a memento in recognition of her years of service at her last school board meeting, September 14, 2026

FRANKLIN, Tenn.– Franklin Special District is accepting letters of interest from qualified residents who wish to be considered for appointment to the FSD Board of Education. The vacancy follows the resignation of longtime Board member Dr. Alicia Barker on September 14.

“Dr. Barker served on the Board for 14 years, giving generously of her time while providing thoughtful leadership and guidance to the district,” said FSD Director of Schools Dr. David Snowden. “We are grateful for the time and commitment she has shown our students and schools throughout her service, and we wish her the very best.”

The individual appointed to the vacancy will serve the remainder of Dr. Barker’s term, which ends in August 2028.

Application Process

Interested individuals must submit a letter of interest by October 2, 2026, to:

Carol Riordan
Executive Administrative Assistant
Franklin Special District
205 Eddy Lane
Franklin, TN 37064
riordancar@fssd.org

In accordance with FSD Board Policy 1.102, applicants must:

  • Be at least 21 years old;
  • Reside within the Franklin Special District; and
  • Be citizens of integrity, intelligence, and ability who can fulfill the duties of the office.

Applicants must also provide documentation showing that they:

  • Graduated from high school or received a high school equivalency credential approved by the Tennessee State Board of Education; and
  • Are qualified voters who have resided within the Franklin Special District for at least one year before the candidate qualifying deadline.

FSD will review all submitted materials to determine whether applicants meet the established qualifications.

All qualified applicants will be invited to interview with the Board during a public work session. The date and time will be determined based on the number of qualified applicants. Each applicant will be asked the same primary questions, and Board members may ask appropriate follow-up questions.

Following the interviews, the Board will vote to appoint a new member during its October 19, 2026, meeting. The appointed member may seek election to the Board during the 2028 election cycle, subject to applicable state law and election requirements.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the Tennessee School Boards Association’s resources for school board members at https://tsba.net/resources/.

Questions about the selection process or the responsibilities of a Board member may be directed to Dr. David Snowden, Director of Schools, at dsnowden@fssd.org.

Franklin Special District is a prekindergarten through eighth-grade public school district serving the families of historic Franklin, Tennessee, across eight schools.

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