Hamilton County Schools is gearing up for an exciting new chapter with a fresh wave of leadership appointments for the 2026-2027 school year. This announcement highlights the district's commitment to fostering excellence and creating meaningful opportunities for students, staff, and the community. Let's delve into the key appointments and explore the implications and potential impact of these leadership changes.
A New Era of Leadership
The newly appointed leaders bring a wealth of experience and a diverse skill set to their respective roles. From principals to directors, each individual has a unique background that positions them to make a significant impact on their schools and the district as a whole.
Dr. Christin Carlisle: Cultivating Lifelong Scholars
Dr. Carlisle's appointment as the new principal of Chattanooga School for the Arts & Sciences (CSAS) Upper is a testament to her dedication to student-centered leadership and continuous growth. With a decade of experience in Hamilton County Schools, she has contributed to significant student achievements, including CSAS Upper's Reward School designation and impressive TVAAS growth. Personally, I believe her commitment to mentoring educators and fostering strong community partnerships will be instrumental in shaping the future of CSAS.
Dr. Francisco Carrillo: Building Collaborative Teams
Dr. Carrillo's record of building collaborative teams and advancing student outcomes makes him an excellent fit for the principal role at East Lake Academy. His experience in instructional leadership and academic support, coupled with his background in both school leadership and instructional coaching, positions him to drive academic excellence and foster a sense of belonging among students. I'm particularly intrigued by his focus on continuous improvement and his commitment to ensuring every student feels seen and supported.
Dr. LeAngela Rogers: Leading with Innovation
Dr. Rogers' appointment as the new principal of Hixson High School brings a wealth of academic leadership and educational expertise to the role. Her 12-year tenure as principal of Hixson Middle School, during which she spearheaded innovative initiatives and strengthened community engagement, showcases her ability to lead with purpose. I'm excited to see how she continues to innovate and create an environment where students thrive and teachers feel valued.
Charhonda Gardner: Advancing Student Achievement
As the new executive principal of The Howard School, Ms. Gardner brings a proven track record of advancing student achievement and supporting educators. Her nearly 30-year career in education, coupled with her dedication to collaborative leadership and creating opportunities for students, positions her to carry forward The Howard School's historic legacy while shaping its future.
Strengthening Support Systems
In addition to the principal appointments, Hamilton County Schools has announced new directors for key support roles within the district.
Rachel Gordon: Ensuring Compliance and Support
Ms. Gordon's appointment as Director of Compliance for Children with Exceptionalities is a significant step towards ensuring district-wide adherence to special education requirements. With over twenty years of experience in education, her expertise in IDEA compliance, PBIS, and restorative practices will be instrumental in creating inclusive environments where students with exceptionalities thrive.
Gail Huffstutler and Jennifer Newberg: Exceptional Education Support
The appointments of Ms. Huffstutler and Ms. Newberg as Directors of Exceptional Education School Support highlight the district's commitment to building robust systems of support for students with exceptionalities. Their experience in instructional leadership, school support, and collaboration will be crucial in ensuring access to high-quality instruction and expanding opportunities for these students.
Dr. Danielle Leffler: Behavioral Supports for Exceptional Students
Dr. Leffler's role as Director of Behavioral Supports for Children with Exceptionalities is a critical position in ensuring effective behavioral support systems. Her extensive expertise in behavioral support, special education, and trauma-informed practices will guide the district's vision for reducing barriers to learning and improving student outcomes.
Dr. Fannie Moore and Mike Griffith: Access and Safety
Dr. Moore's appointment as Director of Access and School Choice reflects her experience in school leadership and stakeholder engagement. Her focus on data-driven instruction and mission-driven school improvement will be key in continuing to offer unique academic curricula and theme-based programs. Meanwhile, Mr. Griffith's extensive experience in public safety and school safety roles positions him well to lead the district's efforts in ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.
A Shared Commitment to Excellence
As Hamilton County Schools welcomes these leaders into their new roles, it's evident that the district is dedicated to creating strong schools, providing student support, and offering meaningful opportunities for every learner. The diverse skill sets and experiences of these leaders will undoubtedly contribute to the district's continued growth and success. I'm excited to see the impact they will have on the community and the positive changes they bring to Hamilton County Schools.
What makes this leadership announcement particularly fascinating is the emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and a student-centered approach. By fostering strong partnerships and creating inclusive environments, these leaders have the potential to shape a brighter future for Hamilton County's students.
