Meet the Principal

Shiyo!

My name is Brianna Bynum, and I am honored to serve as the Principal of Cherokee Middle School.

As an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians from the Kolanvyi (Big Cove) Community and a proud Cherokee High School Class of 2013 graduate, serving the community that helped shape me is both a privilege and a responsibility. Returning home to Cherokee Central Schools as a school leader is more than a career—it is an opportunity to give back to the place that invested in me.

After graduating from Cherokee High School, I attended Haskell Indian Nations University, where I proudly played collegiate softball for four years as a member of the Fighting Lady Indians. During my time at Haskell, I earned an Associate of Arts in Para-Professional Education before completing my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and earning my North Carolina K–6 teaching license. I later earned a Master of School Administration with principal licensure from Western Carolina University and am currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership at Western Carolina University, where I am also working toward superintendent licensure for PreK–12 schools.

My career has allowed me to serve students in many different roles, including five years as an elementary teacher, three years in school administration at Cherokee High School, and now as Principal of Cherokee Middle School. Every step of that journey has reinforced my belief that relationships are at the heart of education and that every child deserves to be known, supported, challenged, and encouraged.

Outside of school, my greatest joy is my family. My husband, Chris, and I are blessed with three wonderful children who keep us busy with school, family adventures, and the traditional Cherokee game of Anitsodi when they're in the mood to play. While our children are still young, we also consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to be part of the lives of so many Cherokee Central Schools students. Whether we're attending athletic events, concerts, performances, academic competitions, or other school activities, we believe one of the most meaningful things we can do is simply show up. The students we serve hold a special place in our hearts, and we want them to know there are adults who believe in them, support them, and are cheering them on every step of the way.

That same philosophy guides my leadership. I believe the most important work we do is helping students know they belong. When students feel seen, heard, and valued, they are more likely to find their voice, believe in themselves, and recognize they have a place in shaping both their future and the future of our community. I strive to be the kind of leader who shows up consistently, builds meaningful relationships, celebrates successes, navigates challenges alongside students and families, and never gives up on a child.

My commitment is to create a school where every student is empowered to succeed while honoring the language, culture, values, and traditions of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Together, we are building a school where students are known by name, by story, and by their strengths—a place where belonging, relational accountability, and high expectations prepare every child for high school and beyond.

Thank you for trusting Cherokee Middle School with your child. I look forward to getting to know your family, celebrating your child's successes, supporting them through challenges, and partnering with you as we continue building a school where every student is known, valued, and prepared for high school, college, careers, and life.

Empower our students. Preserve our nation. Ensure our future.