Administration
Breckon Pennell – Principal
It brings my heart joy to serve as the principal of Riverside Elementary School, as our teachers, families, and community come together to provide an exemplary educational experience for every child. Riverside is incredibly special, as our student body represents diverse populations both ethnically and economically and are surrounded by a community of business owners, local organizations, community volunteers, and faith institutions who readily support and invest in our school. Our families take pride in their children’s education, and we work together as we endeavor toward each child’s successes both academically and in personal well-being. We offer core academics, as well as enrichment and intervention opportunities for students. Music, art, library, physical education, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) are all exploratory classes that students are involved in weekly. Students participate in morning meetings first thing in the morning each day to build their classroom community and learn more about how to be a person of character and integrity.
This school year marks my 25th year in public education with 15 years in elementary and middle school administration and 10 years in middle school teaching of language arts and math. My Bachelor’s degree is in Elementary Education and my Master’s degree is in School Administration – both degrees were earned from Middle Tennessee State University. My Doctoral degree is in Leadership and Professional Practices from Trevecca Nazarene University, and my research is in children’s empathy and prosocial behavior development in the school setting.
Assistant Principal – Brianna Coogan
Over the past few years, Riverside has become more than just a school—it’s become home. I’ve loved being part of this incredible community and have focused my efforts on strengthening family engagement and creating connections in academics that support every child's success. I believe deeply in encouraging, uplifting, and valuing both students and their families, and I’m excited to continue building on that foundation in this new role.
With a strong foundation in leadership and a passion for education, I bring a unique blend of experience- Before entering the field of education, I gained valuable management experience that shaped my ability to lead with empathy, organization, and a focus on results. My background includes a deep commitment to early childhood education, particularly in early literacy, and I’ve had the privilege of working across both elementary and middle school settings.
At Riverside, every student matters, every family counts, and I’m honored to walk alongside them in their educational journey. Together we fly.