Talley Middle School
Administrative Team
My name is Dr. Eryn Smith, and I am honored and privileged to serve as the principal at Talley Middle School. I have worked in education in Maryland and in Delaware for the past 20 years. I served as an elementary school teacher for many years, and I have extensive experience working with diverse student populations. As a teacher-leader, I served as a staff development teacher, focusing on providing instructional support and professional development for staff. I continued to support students and families as a Dean of Students and then as Assistant Principal at P.S. duPont and Talley Middle Schools, with my most recent tenure serving as principal for two years at Claymont Elementary School. These experiences have equipped me with a profound understanding of how to best support and educate students in today’s educational environment. Simply put, I love working with all students, and I firmly believe that when we maximize learning opportunities for ALL children, we encourage and promote the overall growth and development of each and every child.
My educational philosophy centers on fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where students feel safe, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. I strongly believe in the importance of collaboration and open communication among all stakeholders—parents, teachers, staff members, and students—to create a strong educational community that centers itself around rich academics and even stronger community connections.
Family is one of the things that keeps me grounded. I not only work in the Brandywine School District community, but I am also a parent of twin high school students and a Talley Tiger. What my amazing husband, children, and I value most as a family is quality time. We use our time to go on adventures and make memories. Besides spending time with my family and traveling, I also enjoy cooking and exploring new restaurants.
I remember being a student at Burnett middle school and the impact both teachers and administrators had on my life as a student. Before attending middle school, I had never given any thought to being an educator. I honestly thought I would be a Wilmington fireman like my father. Once relationships and supports were established with former teachers and administrators is when I realized education is where I wanted to be. The opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of students is an honor.
I have been with the Brandywine School District for over 20 years and I am excited about being here at Talley. As one of the administrators, I look forward to supporting our families and staff members as we encourage and prepare our students for both high school and life.
I am a proud husband, a father of three children, and a happy grandfather.
I was born and raised in Claymont. My early years of education were spent in the Brandywine School District. My time in Brandywine made such an impression that once I graduated from college I wanted to return to BSD as an educator. I have been a special education teacher at the elementary and middle levels, but my heart lives with Talley. I believe that schools should be at the center of the community, forming relationships with families and community members. I am excited about working with the students in a capacity as the Assistant Principal. My goal is to help them grow developmentally and academically so they are prepared to reach their future goals.
I can be found in the community with my husband and two children. I am extremely close to her family, who all reside in the Claymont community. I am a board member of the Ladies Auxiliary at the Claymont Fire Company, was an active volleyball and softball coach for many years, and can be found on stage and behind for anything musical that happens at Talley.
Other Interests:
Skiing, Snowboarding, and Being on the water
My name is Jim Fedena, and I am proud to be one of the Assistant Principals at Talley Middle School! I am a Delaware native and received a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Wilmington University. My Master’s degree was also earned at Wilmington in the area of Supervisory Leadership. The 2024-25 school year begins my 26th year working in the First State. I taught social studies for 17 years, seven of which right here at wonderful Talley. This is my 9th year in administration and I feel very blessed to be a Tiger!
I have a true passion for working with young people. Helping each child progress in all areas of their development—academic, social, emotional and language —is a challenge that I am honored to accept daily. I strive to create a community of learners that nurtures this growth in a positive, fun environment.
Personally, I have been married to my wife Courtney for 7 exciting years and have two awesome children who are 4 and 2. Carly and Nick sure keep me feeling young and on my toes. I love watching sports, especially Lions Football and Brewers Baseball! Also, I enjoy coaching, cleaning, working in my yard, going to the shore and playing wiffle ball.
I look forward to working together with you as partners in your child’s growth and development!!
GO TIGERS!
Dr. Abernethy was raised in Hockessin, Delaware. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in English Education at University of Delaware and a Master’s degree in School Leadership at Wilmington University. In 2021, Dr. Abernethy earned her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, with a concentration in Building Leadership.
Before becoming a Dean at Talley Middle School in 2023, Dr. Abernethy taught high school English for fourteen years. She’s proud to be a part of the Talley Middle School family. Go TIGERS!
Administrative Assistants
- Tanya Bourne, Building / Principal's Administrative Assistant
- Kathy Ruello, Main Office / Attendance Administrative Assistant
- Kiana Green, Main Office / Administrative Assistant