Ellen Watson, Director of Development

B.S. — University of Tennessee, Knoxville
M.S. — University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Ellen is a graduate of Farragut High School in Knoxville, Tennessee, and earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Tennessee through the Dean’s Program. Following graduation, she spent a term teaching abroad in Wales before relocating to Chattanooga, where she taught third grade at Big Ridge Elementary School. In total, Ellen dedicated seven years to the classroom before joining Brainerd Baptist School in 2012.

Ellen and her husband, Clay, are the proud parents of two sets of twin daughters. Kate and Lydia are graduates of Brainerd Baptist School and Baylor School and currently attend Wofford College and Samford University, respectively. Clayton and Kennedy are graduates of Girls Preparatory School and recently earned their degrees from Texas Christian University.

Outside of school, Ellen enjoys reading, hiking, and traveling with family and friends.

Ellen is deeply committed to the mission and ministry of Brainerd Baptist School. She believes the school provides an exceptional educational experience that uniquely integrates academic excellence, Christian faith, and character development, making it unlike any other school community.