April 8, 2026 – Arielle Hayes is the principal of University High, but she prefers a more personal title. “I call myself the princiPAL,” she said. That mindset shapes everything she does. Hayes focuses on relationships first, making sure students feel comfortable, supported, and ready to grow both in and out of the classroom. From the moment you meet her, it is clear she loves what she does and the students she serves.

Hayes has been in education for over 15 years. She started as a 7th grade social studies teacher and worked her way through many roles, including assistant principal, principal, and district leader. Along the way, she learned from strong mentors who helped guide her path. “They gave me these little pieces of nuggets,” Hayes shared. “Just the affirmation and encouragement that we needed, that we’re doing the right thing.”

Her journey was not always easy. Early in her career, she lost her teaching job during staff cuts. But she did not give up. She reached out to schools, knocked on doors, and kept going until someone gave her a chance. “The only person who gave me an interview officially was Dr. Levine,” she said. “And so, she hired me.” That opportunity helped shape the rest of her career. She would go on to later serve as an assistant principal under Dr. Levine.

Today, Hayes leads University High with a focus on relationships, confidence, and real-world experiences.

She even calls herself the “principal pal” because she wants students and families to feel comfortable coming to her. “I don’t ever want it to be a barrier of fear or authority,” she explained.

At University High, students learn directly on a college campus and attend college classes, integrating seamlessly with the other students at UTC. Hayes loves giving them those opportunities. “We’re all about experiences and exposure,” she said. Whether it is attending college events, networking with professionals, or exploring different career paths, students are encouraged to try new things and discover what they enjoy.

One of her biggest goals is helping students believe in themselves. “I want them to feel empowered that they can do anything,” Hayes said. She reminds them often, “You are not the seat, you are the table in every room that you walk in. You belong there”

Hayes also focuses on helping students build confidence and independence. She wants them to learn how to manage their time, communicate clearly, and solve problems on their own. “If I can’t communicate well, I can’t lead well,” she tells them.

Her favorite part of the job is watching students grow. She sees big changes in a short amount of time. “Parents call me and say, ‘Who is this kid?’” Hayes said. “They love school. Their confidence is through the roof.” Moments like that remind her why she does this work.

Even with a small staff and a busy schedule, Hayes stays focused on what matters most. She thinks about one key piece of advice: “What can you do that will have the biggest effect on student achievement? Those are the things you have to do first.”

Outside of school, Hayes enjoys spending time with her family, playing video games, and connecting with the community. She serves on several boards and looks for ways to support others. “I just love people,” she said.

As she looks ahead, Hayes is excited about celebrating her students, especially at graduation. “I don’t take it lightly that they choose to be with us,” she said. She wants students to know their journey does not end when they leave. “I want you to invite me to your wedding,” she tells them with a smile. “We still want to be a part of your journey.”

At the heart of everything she does is a simple message she hopes every student carries with them: “Everyone belongs,” Hayes said. “Give yourself grace.”

Arielle Hayes is the kind of leader every school hopes for. Her care for students, belief in their potential, and commitment to meaningful learning experiences set the tone for everything happening at University High. We are truly fortunate to have leaders like her as part of our district.

Chattanooga, TN —Hamilton County Schools (HCS) proudly hosted a ribbon cutting for the new Career and Technical Education (CTE) Construction Building at Sale Creek Middle High School (SCMHS). The event celebrated the hard work of students and staff over the last few years in transforming the school’s pavilion into a fully functioning, hands-on learning environment for the school’s Structural Systems Future Ready Institute.

“This facility represents the power of hands-on learning and the commitment of our students, staff, and our community,” said Dr. LeAnn Welch.

The new building, which the school started working towards in 2020, will serve as a learning space where students gain hands-on experience in structural systems. Students contributed to the building by completing the framing, insulation, drywall, painting, and more. Led by their teacher Mr. Ron Cox, who will now use the building as his primary classroom. This building will provide space for students to tackle projects indoors, where previously they were dependent on weather conditions. 

In addition to celebrating student achievement, district leaders recognized the partnerships and support that made the project possible. Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson expressed appreciation for the Innovative Schools Model (ISM) grant, community partners, the Future Ready Students team, and the HCS maintenance team for their role in bringing the project to life. 

“These students took on a project that meant as much to them as it will to this community. Their dedication to this project is shown in their attention to the little details. The CTE Construction Building exemplifies the opportunities we want for our students across the district,” said Dr. Justin Robertson. “I’m grateful to our team members, including Sale Creek Middle High leadership and educators, our Future Ready Students department, and our Maintenance team, for helping make this happen. From the school level to the district level, our staff is committed to continuing to work together to remove barriers to learning and create opportunities for all students.”

March 26, 2026 – Hamilton County Schools (HCS) values putting students at the center, leading to positive student learning outcomes on state assessments. The latest data release from the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) recognized twenty district schools with Level 5 designation.

Middle Valley Elementary was presented with a banner recognizing its Level 5 distinction.

Accomplishment

Level 5 schools are those with significant evidence that their students exceeded the state growth standard. Located in the North River Learning Community, Middle Valley Elementary commemorated their recognition with Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson and Learning Community Superintendent Dr. Lee Ziegler.

Historic Achievement

The Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) evaluates academic growth for districts and schools on a scale from Level 1 to Level 5. In the 2024–2025 school year, twenty Hamilton County schools achieved the highest Level 5 distinction. Together, the growth and achievement data demonstrate the district’s ongoing progress toward ensuring all students thrive and are prepared for a future without limits. As Hamilton County Schools continues to pursue the ambitious goals of Opportunity 2030, the district remains dedicated to its mission of Every Student Learning.

Hamilton County Level 5 Schools for 2024-2025

• Bess T. Sheppard
• Brown Middle
• Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy
• Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts
• Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts
• Clifton Hills 
• Daisy Elementary
• East Hamilton High 
• East Lake Elementary
• East Ridge Elementary
• East Side Elementary 
• Hamilton County Collegiate High at Chattanooga State
• Hixson Elementary
• Hixson High
• McConnell Elementary
• Middle Valley Elementary
• Orchard Knob Elementary
• Sale Creek
• Thrasher Elementary
• Tyner Academy

Chattanooga, TN — Hamilton County Schools (HCS) welcomed over 350 staff, community members, and local leaders to the annual State of the System address held at Red Bank High School. Attendees included Mayor Weston Wamp, members of the Hamilton County Board of Education, HCS Staff, and community partners, all gathered to celebrate a year of progress and student success.

Students from the Superintendent’s Student Leadership Council hosted the event, leading the audience through celebrations of the district from the past year. The program focused on major highlights, including Advancing District Designation, the highest graduation rate in district history, strong retention of effective educators, and a continued commitment to student connection and belonging.

Throughout the presentation, students introduced each segment, joined by district leaders, teachers, and classmates who shared real examples of how this work is showing up every day across the district.

During the Advancing District section, Clifton Hills Elementary Principal Lindsay Starnes and fifth-grade math teacher Alicia Young joined Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson to discuss the district’s focus on coherence and flexibility. The conversation emphasized how clear instructional guardrails are driving consistent academic growth while empowering schools to meet the unique needs of their students.

The graduation rate segment featured three soon-to-be graduates sharing their journeys. Ooltewah High School senior Layla Romak will attend Johns Hopkins University on a full scholarship to study biomedical engineering, crediting her JROTC experience with building confidence. Sequoyah Technical High School (North River Future Ready Center) senior Paxton Hoskins highlighted how hands-on learning in the automotive institute connected his passion for racing to a future career. Brainerd

High School senior Makeleb Roshelle shared how his experiences at school, such as the cosmetology program, and support from staff helped him realize his potential as he looks ahead to his next step studying either computer science or psychology. While their paths look different, each story pointed to the same idea: earning a diploma opens doors.

The district’s commitment to educator support was highlighted through a discussion with teachers from The Howard School. Chandler Brooks-Davis shared her experience in the HCS mentorship program, highlighting how early support helped her grow into a teacher leader and mentor for others. She was joined by Kassidy Simmons and Griffen Zemek, who are Brooks-Davis’ current mentees. The segment underscored the district’s focus on professional growth, leadership pathways, and sustained classroom support.

The event concluded with a focus on student belonging. Dr. Robertson emphasized that while strong academics and outcomes are essential, connection is what makes the work possible. Red Bank High School senior Trae Cohens and Chattanooga Center for Creative Arts senior Lucy Finch shared personal stories of how relationships and school communities shaped their experiences, showcasing the impact of support systems inside and outside the classroom. 

“I believe student belonging is what we do differently, and better, than other districts,” said Dr. Robertson.

Dr. Robertson closed by thanking staff, families, and community partners for their continued commitment to students and called on the community to help share thestories of progress across the district.

“Ultimately, the future of Hamilton County starts here with public education,” said Dr.Robertson. “It’s more important than ever that our community continues to boldly support our students, educators, and schools. Great work is happening in Hamilton County Schools, and that starts with excellent educators and dedicated students, but it moves forward through the support of our entire community.”

Hamilton County Schools remains focused on making sure every student feels supported, connected, and ready for what comes next.

March 20, 2026 – Hamilton County Schools (HCS) values putting students at the center, leading to positive student learning outcomes on state assessments. The latest data release from the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) recognized twenty district schools with Level 5 designation.

Bess T. Shepherd Elementary was presented with a banner recognizing its Level 5 distinction.

Accomplishment

Level 5 schools are those with significant evidence that their students exceeded the state growth standard. Located in the Missionary Ridge Learning Community, Bess T. Shepherd Elementary commemorated their recognition with Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson and Learning Community Superintendent Dr. Marques Stewart.

Historic Achievement

The Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) evaluates academic growth for districts and schools on a scale from Level 1 to Level 5. In the 2024–2025 school year, twenty Hamilton County schools achieved the highest Level 5 distinction. Together, the growth and achievement data demonstrate the district’s ongoing progress toward ensuring all students thrive and are prepared for a future without limits. As Hamilton County Schools continues to pursue the ambitious goals of Opportunity 2030, the district remains dedicated to its mission of Every Student Learning.

Hamilton County Level 5 Schools for 2024-2025

• Bess T. Sheppard
• Brown Middle
• Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy
• Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts
• Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts
• Clifton Hills 
• Daisy Elementary
• East Hamilton High 
• East Lake Elementary
• East Ridge Elementary
• East Side Elementary 
• Hamilton County Collegiate High at Chattanooga State
• Hixson Elementary
• Hixson High
• McConnell Elementary
• Middle Valley Elementary
• Orchard Knob Elementary
• Sale Creek
• Thrasher Elementary
• Tyner Academy

March 20, 2026 – Hamilton County Schools (HCS) values putting students at the center, leading to positive student learning outcomes on state assessments. The latest data release from the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) recognized twenty district schools with Level 5 designation.

East Hamilton High was presented with a banner recognizing its Level 5 distinction.

Accomplishment

Level 5 schools are those with significant evidence that their students exceeded the state growth standard. Located in the Harrison Bay Learning Community, East Hamilton High School commemorated their recognition with Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson and School Board Member Jodi Schaffer.

Historic Achievement

The Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) evaluates academic growth for districts and schools on a scale from Level 1 to Level 5. In the 2024–2025 school year, twenty Hamilton County schools achieved the highest Level 5 distinction. Together, the growth and achievement data demonstrate the district’s ongoing progress toward ensuring all students thrive and are prepared for a future without limits. As Hamilton County Schools continues to pursue the ambitious goals of Opportunity 2030, the district remains dedicated to its mission of Every Student Learning.

Hamilton County Level 5 Schools for 2024-2025

• Bess T. Sheppard
• Brown Middle
• Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy
• Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts
• Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts
• Clifton Hills 
• Daisy Elementary
• East Hamilton High 
• East Lake Elementary
• East Ridge Elementary
• East Side Elementary 
• Hamilton County Collegiate High at Chattanooga State
• Hixson Elementary
• Hixson High
• McConnell Elementary
• Middle Valley Elementary
• Orchard Knob Elementary
• Sale Creek
• Thrasher Elementary
• Tyner Academy

March 17, 2026 – Hamilton County Schools (HCS) values putting students at the center, leading to positive student learning outcomes on state assessments. The latest data release from the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) recognized twenty district schools with Level 5 designation.

Daisy Elementary was presented with a banner recognizing its Level 5 distinction.

Accomplishment

Level 5 schools are those with significant evidence that their students exceeded the state growth standard. Located in the North River Learning Community, Daisy Elementary School commemorated their recognition with Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson and School Board Member Steve Slater.

Historic Achievement

The Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) evaluates academic growth for districts and schools on a scale from Level 1 to Level 5. In the 2024–2025 school year, twenty Hamilton County schools achieved the highest Level 5 distinction. Together, the growth and achievement data demonstrate the district’s ongoing progress toward ensuring all students thrive and are prepared for a future without limits. As Hamilton County Schools continues to pursue the ambitious goals of Opportunity 2030, the district remains dedicated to its mission of Every Student Learning.

Hamilton County Level 5 Schools for 2024-2025

• Bess T. Sheppard
• Brown Middle
• Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy
• Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts
• Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts
• Clifton Hills 
• Daisy Elementary
• East Hamilton High 
• East Lake Elementary
• East Ridge Elementary
• East Side Elementary 
• Hamilton County Collegiate High at Chattanooga State
• Hixson Elementary
• Hixson High
• McConnell Elementary
• Middle Valley Elementary
• Orchard Knob Elementary
• Sale Creek
• Thrasher Elementary
• Tyner Academy

March 16, 2026 – Hamilton County Schools (HCS) values putting students at the center, leading to positive student learning outcomes on state assessments. The latest data release from the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) recognized twenty district schools with Level 5 designation.

Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy was presented with a banner recognizing its Level 5 distinction.

Accomplishment

Level 5 schools are those with significant evidence that their students exceeded the state growth standard. One of our Charter School, Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy commemorated its recognition with Director of School Choice Jim Boles and Fannie Moore. 

Historic Achievement

The Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) evaluates academic growth for districts and schools on a scale from Level 1 to Level 5. In the 2024–2025 school year, twenty Hamilton County schools achieved the highest Level 5 distinction. Together, the growth and achievement data demonstrate the district’s ongoing progress toward ensuring all students thrive and are prepared for a future without limits. As Hamilton County Schools continues to pursue the ambitious goals of Opportunity 2030, the district remains dedicated to its mission of Every Student Learning.

Hamilton County Level 5 Schools for 2024-2025

• Bess T. Sheppard
• Brown Middle
• Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy
• Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts
• Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts
• Clifton Hills 
• Daisy Elementary
• East Hamilton High 
• East Lake Elementary
• East Ridge Elementary
• East Side Elementary 
• Hamilton County Collegiate High at Chattanooga State
• Hixson Elementary
• Hixson High
• McConnell Elementary
• Middle Valley Elementary
• Orchard Knob Elementary
• Sale Creek
• Thrasher Elementary
• Tyner Academy

March 13, 2026 – What happens when public school leaders step into the role of nonprofit founders—identifying needs, building partnerships, and pitching bold ideas to community funders?

That’s exactly what took place at the School Resource Development Institute (SRDI) Cohort 2 Pitch Event on March 6 at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center. School teams from across the district presented strategic funding proposals to a panel of community leaders, businesses, and elected officials in the culmination of a year-long program focused on expanding opportunities for students.

The School Resource Development Institute is a professional development program that challenges schools to think creatively about meeting student needs while equipping educators with the tools to secure the resources to make those ideas a reality. Throughout the year, teams of five to six staff members—including assistant principals—participate in seven full-day sessions focused on grant writing, fundraising strategy, corporate partnerships, and sustainable resource development.

This year’s cohort highlighted a wide range of ideas designed to support students in meaningful ways. Clifton Hills Elementary pitched a Community Hub project aimed at strengthening connections between families, students, and local resources. Hixson High School proposed expanding classroom technology to enhance learning and collaboration. Lookout Valley Middle/High School presented plans for a theatre renovation that would support arts education and student performances.

Programs like SRDI are already making a measurable impact. After participating in last year’s cohort, Woodmore Elementary raised nearly $20,000 in one year—more than six times their previous four-year average. The funding allowed fifth-grade students to travel to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, the Negro Southern League Museum, and Alabama A&M University—providing many students with their first overnight academic travel experience and exposure to STEM, civil rights history, and college pathways.

At Red Bank Middle School, participation in SRDI helped launch a schoolwide Conservancy Project focused on environmental stewardship and career exploration. The initiative connected students with organizations including the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Zoo, and the Tennessee Valley Authority, bringing real-world learning opportunities into the classroom.

Events like the SRDI Pitch Event showcase educators as innovators and leaders while highlighting the role businesses and community partners play in supporting student success. Rather than relying on one-time donations, the program helps schools build long-term fundraising strategies that can continue benefiting students for years to come.

Together, these efforts demonstrate how collaboration between schools and the community can help ensure that opportunities for students are not determined by their zip code.

If you or your organization are interested in supporting these specific visions, here is what our local leaders are building:

• Clifton Hills Elementary School: Developing a Community Hub project to bridge the gap between school resources and neighborhood needs.
• Hixson High School: Modernizing the student experience with a focus on cutting-edge  Classroom Technology.
• Lookout Valley Middle/High School: Revitalizing the arts through a much-needed Theatre Renovation project.

You can also reach out to grant@hcde.org with further questions. 

March 10, 2026 – Hamilton County Schools (HCS) values putting students at the center, leading to positive student learning outcomes on state assessments. The latest data release from the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) recognized twenty district schools with Level 5 designation.

East Lake Elementary was presented with a banner recognizing its Level 5 distinction.

Accomplishment

Level 5 schools are those with significant evidence that their students exceeded the state growth standard. Located in the Missionary Ridge Learning Community, East Lake Elementary commemorated its recognition with HCS Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson, Community Superintendent Dr. Marques Stewart, and District 11 Jill Black.

Historic Achievement

The Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) evaluates academic growth for districts and schools on a scale from Level 1 to Level 5. In the 2024–2025 school year, twenty Hamilton County schools achieved the highest Level 5 distinction. Together, the growth and achievement data demonstrate the district’s ongoing progress toward ensuring all students thrive and are prepared for a future without limits. As Hamilton County Schools continues to pursue the ambitious goals of Opportunity 2030, the district remains dedicated to its mission of Every Student Learning.

Hamilton County Level 5 Schools for 2024-2025

• Bess T. Sheppard
• Brown Middle
• Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy
• Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts
• Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts
• Clifton Hills 
• Daisy Elementary
• East Hamilton High 
• East Lake Elementary
• East Ridge Elementary
• East Side Elementary 
• Hamilton County Collegiate High at Chattanooga State
• Hixson Elementary
• Hixson High
• McConnell Elementary
• Middle Valley Elementary
• Orchard Knob Elementary
• Sale Creek
• Thrasher Elementary
• Tyner Academy