Cleveland City Schools is excited to welcome back Dr. Alicia Kahrs as Assistant Principal at Arnold Memorial Elementary School, effective July 1, 2025. With over 15 years of educational experience and a heart deeply rooted in the Arnold community, Dr. Kahrs brings a strong blend of instructional leadership, student advocacy, and relationship-building to her new role.
“Returning to Arnold feels like coming home,” said Dr. Kahrs. “I’m honored to be re-rooted in a community that has always meant so much to me, and I’m excited to support the incredible work of our students, staff, and families in this next chapter.”
Dr. Kahrs previously served as Assistant Principal at both Arnold and Stuart Elementary Schools from 2017 to 2022. She began her Cleveland City Schools journey at Cleveland High School, where she taught science, and later served as the K–5 Instructional Coach at Stuart Elementary. Most recently, she served as the District Well-Being Specialist for Cleveland City Schools and as a Special Education Consultant for the Tennessee Department of Education.
Principal Michael Chai expressed his excitement about her return to Arnold:
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Kahrs returning to Arnold in the Assistant Principal position. She has a passion for Arnold students. Both students and teachers will benefit from all she will bring to our school. Welcome back, Dr. Kahrs!”
Dr. Kahrs holds a doctorate in Community Care and Counseling with a focus in Traumatology from Liberty University, along with multiple degrees in school leadership, curriculum, and secondary science education. Her work in trauma-informed practices has been published and presented across the state.
She is passionate about creating school environments where students feel safe, valued, and challenged to grow—and where teachers feel supported and empowered. Her background in both elementary and secondary education gives her a unique perspective on what students need to succeed at every level.
Arnold Memorial Elementary, a K–5 school in the heart of Cleveland, continues to focus on academic excellence, inclusion, and building strong partnerships with families. With Dr. Kahrs returning to the team, the school is entering the new year with confidence and momentum.