I am honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to serve as principal at Copper Basin High School. I share a passion for students and their education with an incredible and supportive faculty and staff. We strive to foster a school culture that will connect students to their community and support personal success for each of them.  

Copper Basin High School is where I started my educational journey graduating the Class of 1995. This place is dear to me and holds fond memories of teachers and friends who offered support and encouragement for me to be successful and I want to see this carry on to students today. I want to instill in students that they can accomplish their goals and dreams and being a part of that is very special.  I continued my education at Lee University where I earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education. I then received a master’s degree in Library Science at East Tennessee State University and an Educational Specialist degree in Instructional Leadership at Lincoln Memorial University.

My husband and I have grown up in this community and are proud to be able to raise our children Riley (17) and Talon (13) on the family farm. We are rooted in this community and that is one of the many reasons I am so excited to continue to be a part of Copper Basin High School and the students that make it so special. It is truly a blessing to be part of such a great group of people.

As we begin a new year, we have experienced many changes and differences not only in our small community but in the United States due to the pandemic.  We have all been affected in some way and have had to make the best of situations. Many things are unsure and unknown, but one thing that I do know is that students at Copper Basin High School will be educated, cared for, loved, encouraged, and rewarded. They will be given an equal opportunity to set goals and see success. Seeing students grow and achieve is of utmost importance and why I chose the educational field. I look forward to seeing the students and hearing their voices. It has been a long break and I am ready to get back to school! As we prepare for the upcoming year, we are taking several precautions to keep our students, school, and faculty and staff safe and healthy.  I look forward to communicating and collaborating with parents/guardians over the next year. I appreciate the support from all and want to assure you that I will work to the best of my ability to provide students with high academic expectations, positive caring relationships, and meaningful student engagement.

Mrs. Holly Smith, Principal

If at any time you have questions or concerns, please contact me at:

Copper Basin High School

423-496-3291