Tharald (TJ) Elliott is an Earth & Environmental Science teacher at Rocky River High School in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS), where he is entering his fifth year as an educator. A native of Charlotte and proud CMS graduate, TJ is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for students and strengthening the schools and communities that shaped him.
During his time in CMS, TJ has taught Biology and Earth & Environmental Science, served on his school’s School Improvement Team, mentored an early-career teacher, coached football, and interned with the CMS Office of Compliance and Ethics, where he gained insight into district policy and decision-making. TJ began his teaching career through Teach For America, driven by a commitment to serving students in his hometown.
TJ holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Davidson College and a Master of Science in Education Policy from the University of Pennsylvania. He is also a participant in the North Carolina Principal Fellows program, where he is developing his leadership skills and exploring how policy and school leadership can work together to improve educational outcomes across CMS.
Outside of education, TJ enjoys watching and playing sports, particularly basketball and football, as well as bowling.