McMinn County Schools Close Friday After Director Julie Goodin Dies Unexpectedly

Dr. Julie Goodin, the McMinn County Director of Schools, passed away unexpectedly in October 2025, just months after taking on the role in July. She had a long history with McMinn County Schools, rising from substitute teacher and bus driver to school director, and was deeply admired for her dedication to students, staff, and the community. In response to her death, all McMinn County schools and the district office were closed on October 24 to allow students and staff time to grieve and access counseling services. The district designated the closure as an optional professional development day for faculty and staff to come together for grief counseling and mutual support. Dr. Goodin was 43 years old, a former student athlete at McMinn Central, and is survived by her husband and two sons. Community members and officials have expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended thoughts and prayers to her family and the school community.