Hello! My name is Kamiya Thorne-Waddle, but at school I just go by "Coach Thorne". I am starting my 19th year in education, but my 1st year here at Cherokee High School. I will be teaching Computer Science & Computer Science Discoveries for grades 7 -12. I am also the new head girls basketball coach. I am so excited to meet all my new students and athletes!

Originally from Mississippi, I am a graduate of Belmont High School in Belmont, MS. I played collegiate basketball at Northeast Mississippi College and MUW in Columbus, MS. I am a 2006 graduate from the University of North Alabama where I received my masters degree in education.

I was previously a teacher and coach in the Lauderdale County School System where I taught for 6 years at Central High School, and I taught in the Sheffield City School System at Sheffield High School for 12 years. I have coached basketball, volleyball, track & field, and dance team.

I currently reside in Cherokee, Alabama, and I am married to Mr. Wayne Waddle. We have two children, Kason who will be starting 4th grade at Cherokee Elementary School, and Kenzie, who is a 2024 honors graduate from the University of Alabama. Outside of school, I enjoy gardening, farming, watching basketball, and camping.