Murfreesboro City Schools Announces 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees
Murfreesboro City Schools has announced the selection of four distinguished educators as inductees into the third Murfreesboro City Schools Hall of Fame. The 2026 honorees are Dr. Linda Arms Gilbert, Becci Bookner, Cindy Jones, and Susan Gendrich. Together, they represent decades of exceptional service, innovation, and dedication to students, families, and the Murfreesboro community.
The Murfreesboro City Schools Hall of Fame recognizes retired teachers, administrators, and support staff whose extraordinary contributions have made a lasting impact on the district. Inductees are selected based on their leadership, instructional excellence, and commitment to serving children.
“These four individuals represent the history, heart, and excellence of Murfreesboro City Schools,” said Dr. Trey Duke, Director of Schools for MCS. “Their collective impact spans decades and emphasizes forward-thinking leadership and innovation, from the creation of our Extended School Program to influencing the work we do with high-achieving and gifted students. We are honored to recognize their service through induction into the Hall of Fame.”
Dr. Linda Arms Gilbert devoted her career to Murfreesboro City Schools with a strong belief in educating the whole child. She began as a classroom music and band teacher, earning recognition as Tennessee Teacher of the Year. She later moved into higher education and district leadership before returning to MCS as Director of Schools in 2010. As superintendent, she championed a holistic approach to education that prioritized academic achievement, social-emotional development, and student well-being. Her leadership helped guide the district’s growth, strengthen its culture, and expand student support systems. She was later named Tennessee Superintendent of the Year, making her one of the few educators in the state to earn both honors.
Becci Bookner is recognized for her visionary leadership and commitment to supporting students and families beyond the traditional school day. She played a key role in creating the Murfreesboro City Schools Extended School Program, which became a nationally recognized model for extended-day learning. The program offers tutoring, homework assistance, and enrichment opportunities in areas such as music, writing, and art. Its success gained national attention, including features on Good Morning America and in U.S. News and World Report, and earned Bookner the Quality of Life Award from the U.S. House of Representatives’ Small Business Committee. Her work continues to benefit thousands of students and families.
Cindy Jones dedicated 36 years to Murfreesboro City Schools, building a career defined by instructional excellence and leadership. As a classroom teacher, she engaged students through project-based learning that fostered critical thinking, collaboration, and curiosity. She also served as a mentor to fellow educators, led professional development efforts, and contributed to education initiatives at the local, state, and national levels. Jones played a role in developing several key programs within MCS, including gifted education initiatives, curriculum resources, international partnerships, and Discovery School. Her achievements include induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame, recognition as a Fulbright Scholar, and numerous teaching honors.
Susan Gendrich served Murfreesboro City Schools from 1974 to 2005, leaving a legacy of compassionate leadership and innovation. She is best known for her work at Cason Lane Academy, where she helped establish a year-round Paideia school focused on creative thinking and collaborative learning. Gendrich believed strongly in shared leadership and created a school culture where staff members were empowered as leaders. She also introduced initiatives such as Celebrations of Learning to recognize student growth and achievement. Earlier in her career, she helped pioneer support for English Learners by developing curriculum and instructional strategies before formal ESL programs were in place. Her work extended beyond the district through partnerships with Middle Tennessee State University, where she contributed to teacher preparation and mentorship.
“This year’s selection process included many outstanding nominations, reflecting the depth of talent, leadership, and lasting impact of individuals who have served Murfreesboro City Schools with distinction,” said Sheri Arnette, Assistant Superintendent.
Details about the 2026 Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be announced at a later date. For more information about the Murfreesboro City Schools Hall of Fame, visit cityschools.net or contact the MCS Communications Office.
