Director of Schools

David Snowden in classroom

David L. Snowden, Ph. D.
Director of Schools

The Franklin Special District includes a broad program of educational services designed to meet the needs of all of our children. We are committed to providing our students learning opportunities that recognize individual differences in an environment that affirms self-worth. Each individual is valued and respected. Our goal is to challenge every child to achieve excellence.

Good schools are central to strong communities. We believe it is very important to maintain strong ties with our business community, build strong relationships within our school-community, and actively engage our parents in the education of our children.

As a district, we are committed to excellence in teaching and learning for all. As a community of learners, we invite you to visit our site often and look forward to sharing the Franklin Special District story with you.

FSD Administrators

The FSD administration is organized in a highly productive manner, with the Director of Schools assisted in his leadership of the district by two Associate Directors – one who oversees Teaching and Learning and the other who supervises Finance and Administration.
woman with long blonde hair standing in front of brick background smiling

Dr. Mary Decker serves as the FSD Associate Director of Schools for Teaching and Learning. The Teaching and Learning Department serves all district needs as it relates to student learning and employee professional development through the following departments:

  • Attendance
  • Communications
  • Curriculum
  • Federal Programs (Title I, II, III, Homeless, Migrant)
  • Instructional Technology
  • Performing Arts Center
  • Professional Learning
  • Reading Coordinator
  • Response to Intervention (RTI) Facilitator (Academic and Behavioral Support)
  • Special Populations (Special Education, Gifted Education, Section 504)
  • Student Performance (Assessments and Outcomes)
  • Student Support Services (Early Childhood, English Learners, Counselors, Social Workers)
  • Technology
image of David Esslinger

Dr. David Esslinger is the FSD Associate Director for Finance and Administration. The Finance and Administration area serves all needs related to district personnel, facilities, equipment and resources. development. The Finance and Administration Departments include:

  • Accounting and Payroll
  • Coordinated School Health
  • Extended Care (MAC and WeeMAC)
  • Food Services
  • Human Resources
  • Maintenance
  • Health Services (Nursing)
  • Safety
  • Transportation

Office of the Director of Schools
David L. Snowden, PhD
Director of Schools
Carol Riordan
Executive Administrative Assistant
Lisa Clouse
Administrative Assistant

507 New Highway 96 West
Franklin, TN 37064
615-794-6624

FSD Organizational Chart: A visual representation of the organizational leadership system, with students and families at the top and all district staff in various roles to support students.