Dr. Joel Barnes Named Supervisor of Special Populations for Cleveland City Schools
 Cleveland City Schools is pleased to announce that Dr. Joel Barnes will return to the district office to serve as Supervisor of Special Populations. At the end of this school year, Dr. Barnes will transition from his current role as Principal of Blythe-Bower Elementary School to begin this new chapter of leadership at the system level. Dr. Barnes has served Blythe-Bower with dedication, vision, and heart. Under his leadership, the school has continued to foster a positive culture centered on academic growth, student support, and strong family partnerships. His commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every child feels valued has left a lasting impact on students, staff, and the broader school community. Prior to leading Blythe-Bower, Dr. Barnes served Cleveland City Schools as Supervisor of Federal Projects and Professional Development. He also previously served as an assistant principal at both Cleveland High School and Cleveland Middle School, bringing a broad understanding of the district’s K-12 system to every role he holds. In his new position as Supervisor of Special Populations, Dr. Barnes will oversee programs designed to support students with diverse learning needs, ensuring equitable access to high-quality instruction and services across the district. His experience as a school leader, combined with his passion for student success, uniquely positions him to strengthen support systems that help every learner thrive. “Dr. Barnes has consistently demonstrated a heart for students and a strong commitment to excellence,” said Dr. Jeff Elliott, Director of Schools. “His leadership at Blythe-Bower has made a meaningful difference, and we are confident he will continue to serve our district well as Supervisor of Special Populations.” Dr. Barnes shared that while leaving Blythe-Bower is bittersweet, he is excited about the opportunity to once again serve students and educators across the entire district. “I am incredibly grateful for the time I’ve spent at Blythe-Bower and for the relationships built with our students, staff, and families,” Dr. Barnes said. “I look forward to continuing to serve Cleveland City Schools in a new capacity and working to ensure that every student receives the support they need to succeed.” Cleveland City Schools will announce plans for leadership at Blythe-Bower Elementary School in the coming weeks.

Dr. Joel Barnes Named Supervisor of Special Populations for Cleveland City Schools

February 17, 2026
Cleveland City Schools is pleased to announce that Dr. Joel Barnes will return to the district office to serve as Supervisor of Special Populations. At the end of this school ...
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CMS spelling bee winner

From English Learner to Spelling Bee Champion: Alberto Palomino Salgado’s Inspiring Journey

February 13, 2026
The room was filled with anticipation as students took the stage for the 52nd Mildred Maupin Spelling Bee. After an incredible 54 rounds and 177 words, one student stood tall as c...
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tango flight program

Cleveland High School Receives $10,000 Grant to Enhance Tango Flight Program

February 11, 2026
Cleveland High School is grateful to receive a $10,000 grant from the Bradley Cleveland Public Education Foundation to enhance the school’s Tango Flight Program and expand learnin...
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Cleveland City Schools Names Mike Chai as New Director of Student Services

Cleveland City Schools Names Mike Chai as New Director of Student Services

January 22, 2026
Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce the selection of Mr. Mike Chai as the district’s new Director of Student Services. Mr. Chai currently serves as principal of Arnold Mem...
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Cleveland City Schools and CPD launch BusPatrol program

Cleveland City Schools and CPD Launch BusPatrol Program

January 22, 2026
Cleveland City Schools has partnered with Cleveland Police Department to launch Tennessee’s first school bus safety enforcement program with BusPatrol to tackle the pervasive issu...
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Jeffrey Garrett

Cleveland High School’s Aviation Instructor Jeffrey Garrett Selected for Prestigious Able Flight Class of 2026

January 21, 2026
Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce that Cleveland High School aviation instructor Jeffrey Garrett has been selected as a member of the national Able Flight Class of 2026....
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Cleveland City Schools shares the upcoming retirement of Dr. David Stone, Director of Special Populations, effective at the conclusion of the current school year. Dr. Stone is completing a 30 year career in public education marked by compassion, thoughtful leadership, and a deep belief that every child deserves to be supported and valued. Throughout his time with Cleveland City Schools, Dr. Stone worked alongside educators, families, and school leaders to strengthen services for students with diverse needs. His steady presence and student first approach helped shape systems of care that will continue to serve families for years to come. His impact is reflected not only in programs and processes, but in the many lives he has touched along the way. The district also shares upcoming leadership transitions at Ross Elementary School. Dr. Stephanie Stone, Principal of Ross Elementary, will be joining her husband, Dr. David Stone, as she concludes her service with Cleveland City Schools at the end of the 2026 school year. She will continue leading Ross Elementary through that time, providing consistency, care, and strong leadership for students, staff, and families while thoughtful transition planning takes place. Dr. Stephanie Stone has been a trusted and well loved leader at Ross Elementary, known for building strong relationships and fostering a school community where students feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow. Her leadership has left a lasting imprint on the school and on the families and staff who call Ross home. Additionally, Zach Riggins, Assistant Principal at Ross Elementary, will be retiring at the conclusion of the 2026 school year. Mr. Riggins has been a familiar and steady presence within Cleveland City Schools, known for his care for students, his support of teachers, and his deep connection to the Cleveland community. Together, the leadership team at Ross Elementary has helped create a culture grounded in connection, growth, and a shared commitment to students. These planned timelines allow Cleveland City Schools to work closely with the Ross community to ensure a smooth and well supported transition for everyone involved. “Dr. David Stone, Dr. Stephanie Stone, and Mr. Riggins have each served our district with heart and purpose,” said Dr. Jeff Elliott, Director of Schools. “Their dedication has made a meaningful difference in the lives of students, families, and staff. We are grateful for their service and for the care they continue to show as these transitions take shape.”

Cleveland City Schools Shares Retirements and Leadership Transitions for Special Populations and Ross Elementary School

January 6, 2026
Cleveland City Schools shares the upcoming retirement of Dr. David Stone, Director of Special Populations, effective at the conclusion of the current school year. Dr. Stone is...
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CCS Staff of the Year Awards

Cleveland City Schools Announces 2025-2026 Employees of the Year, Principal of the Year, and Supervisor of the Year

December 9, 2025
Cleveland City Schools is proud to celebrate the district’s 2025 to 2026 Employees of the Year, along with this year’s Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year. These hono...
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Cleveland City Schools Recognized as a Reward District

Two Cleveland City Schools Earn Tennessee Reward Status

December 8, 2025
Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce that E.L. Ross Elementary and Candy’s Creek Cherokee Elementary have earned the state’s highest distinction as Tennessee Reward Schools...
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Randall Stephens, CTE Supervisor

Randall Stephens Named Cleveland City Schools Supervisor of the Year

November 19, 2025
Cleveland City Schools is proud to recognize Randall Stephens, Supervisor of Career Technical Education, as the District Supervisor of the Year. Mr. Stephens has played a key rol...
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CCS Healthy Schools Award

Cleveland City Schools Recognized in the Tennessee Healthier Schools Challenge

November 17, 2025
Cleveland City Schools has been recognized as a Silver Level recipient in the Tennessee School Boards Association (TSBA) Healthier Schools Challenge, earning a $5,000 award for ad...
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Mrs. Kim Bradford is our Principal of the Year

Stuart Elementary’s Kim Bradford Named Cleveland City Schools Principal of the Year

November 12, 2025
Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce Mrs. Kim Bradford, Principal of Stuart Elementary School, as the 2025 Principal of the Year. Mrs. Bradford is known for her studen...
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CCS Award

Cleveland City Schools Recognized with the 2024–2025 Change Makers Award

November 3, 2025
Cleveland City Schools has been named a 2024–2025 RTI²-A+B Change Makers Award recipient by the Tennessee Tiered Supports Center (TSC) and the Tennessee Department of Education. ...
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Nissan Donation Drives Hands-On Learning at Cleveland High School Cleveland High School’s Automotive Technology program just received a big boost thanks to a generous donation from Nissan Motor Corporation. The program is now the proud recipient of a 2022 Nissan Pathfinder and a luxury 2022 Infiniti QX60, giving students valuable access to late-model vehicles for real-world learning. “These late model vehicles will allow our students to build a variety of skills around vehicle maintenance and repair using the latest in car manufacturing technology,” said Randall Stephens, Supervisor of Career Technical Education for Cleveland City Schools. “We are grateful to Nissan Motor Corporation for this generous donation, which strengthens our commitment to preparing students for the workforce.” Nissan’s salvage donation program is designed to support STEM education and create hands-on CTE experiences for students across the country. At Cleveland High School, this gift means that students will be able to practice on vehicles with advanced systems and technology, better preparing them for the automotive careers of tomorrow. “Hands-on learning is the heartbeat of our program,” said Cleveland High School Principal Bob Pritchard. “Thanks to Nissan, our students have an incredible opportunity to learn on the kinds of vehicles they’ll see out in the industry. This partnership empowers them to grow their skills and confidence as they prepare for what’s next.” Dr. Jeff Elliott, Director of Schools for Cleveland City Schools, added, “We believe in giving our students every opportunity to succeed, and partnerships like this help us do just that. Nissan’s investment in our automotive program not only strengthens our classrooms but also helps shape the future workforce right here in Cleveland. We deeply appreciate their commitment to education and to our community.” Cleveland City Schools is thankful for Nissan’s investment in students and proud of the lasting impact partnerships like this have on the future workforce.

Nissan Donation Drives Hands-On Learning at Cleveland High School

October 2, 2025
Cleveland High School’s Automotive Technology program just received a big boost thanks to a generous donation from Nissan Motor Corporation. The program is now the proud recipient...
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Cleveland City Schools’ Laura Stilltrotter Honored as 2025–26 Tennessee Novice Teacher of the Year

Cleveland City Schools’ Laura Stilltrotter Honored as 2025–26 Tennessee Novice Teacher of the Year

August 27, 2025
Cleveland City Schools is proud to share that Blythe-Bower Elementary teacher Laura Stilltrotter has been recognized by the Tennessee Department of Education as the 2025–26 Tennes...
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CHS mascot

Rowdy Raider Set to Debut at Cleveland High School

August 21, 2025
Raider Nation will meet its newest member tonight as Rowdy Raider, Cleveland High School’s newly designed mascot, makes his first official appearance. Rowdy Raider is more than a...
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CCS Book Bus

Cleveland City Schools Partners with Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation to Bring Book Bus to Community

July 31, 2025
Cleveland City Schools, in partnership with Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation (GELF), proudly announces the launch of its first-ever Book Bus, a mobile library designed to deli...
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Stuart Elementary Mascot Gets Makeover Thanks to Mars Wrigley Volunteer At Stuart Elementary School, one beloved member of the campus has been quietly cheering on students for years—George, the school’s faithful mascot statue. Though George has seen better days, he’s always stood tall as a symbol of school pride. But recently, time had taken its toll on him. Faded paint, cracks, and wear made it clear: George needed a little help. That help came in the most unexpected—and heartwarming—way. This summer, employees from Mars Wrigley volunteered their time as part of their community service hours to help spruce up the school. They painted, cleaned, and helped beautify the campus. But one volunteer noticed something more—George. Worn but still full of character, the mascot caught the eye of someone who saw more than just an old statue. They saw potential. That employee, Pete Nicodemus (right), took it upon himself to give George the TLC he deserved. With care and craftsmanship, George was patched up, given a fresh coat of paint, and proudly fitted with a brand-new collar bearing his name. Today, he stands gleaming and proud once more—ready to greet students, staff, and families for the new school year. “It was truly a joy to help bring George back to life,” said Nicodemus, a Cleveland Mars Wrigley employee whose son attended Cleveland High School. “I kept thinking about how many students and families walk past him every day. I wanted them to feel pride in their school and smile when they saw him standing there.” Pete is no stranger to giving new life to beloved figures. At the Cleveland Mars Wrigley facility, he’s also the one who cares for the iconic red and yellow M&M character statues that greet visitors. He patches them up from time to time, making sure they stay bright, welcoming, and full of personality—just like George. For Principal Kim Bradford, these acts of kindness meant everything. “I’ve always wanted Stuart to feel like a true community school,” she said. “And this—someone from the community seeing a need and stepping up to help—it’s exactly what that means.” George’s makeover is more than just a fresh look. It’s a reminder of the power of partnership, pride, and what can happen when people come together to make a difference.

Stuart Elementary Mascot Gets Makeover Thanks to Mars Wrigley Volunteer

July 30, 2025
At Stuart Elementary School, one beloved member of the campus has been quietly cheering on students for years—George, the school’s faithful mascot statue. Though George has seen b...
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Cleveland City Schools Celebrates Historic Academic Growth and Looks Ahead Cleveland City Schools is proud to share historic student achievement as reflected in the 2025 Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) results. Students across the district reached five-year highs in multiple subject areas, including math, science, English language arts (ELA), and social studies—a clear sign that the district’s long-term academic strategies are working. “This is more than a moment to celebrate—it’s a foundation to build on,” said Dr. Jeff Elliott, Director of Schools. “We’ve seen what our students are capable of, and now we’re focused on creating even more opportunities for them to grow. The future is bright in Cleveland City Schools.” Central to this success is the district’s strategic emphasis on STEM and STEAM learning. This includes expanding access to science, technology, engineering, and math opportunities for all students, while also integrating creativity and the arts to foster innovation and deeper learning. In 2025, districtwide math and science scores reached their highest levels in five years, while achieving STEM designation in multiple schools. These outcomes reflect the district’s investment in high-quality resources, professional development, and hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom instruction to real-world challenges. “We’ve been intentional in designing a future-ready learning environment,” said Dr. Leneda Laing, Supervisor of Secondary Education. “These scores show that our students are not just learning content—they’re learning how to think critically, collaborate, and solve problems that matter.” Alongside STEM success, the district continues to see growth in foundational academic areas. Both ELA and math scores hit five-year highs at the elementary level, evidence of the district’s core focus on literacy and numeracy. “This kind of growth doesn’t happen overnight,” said Kellye Bender, Supervisor of Elementary Education and School Counseling. “It takes years of dedication to early literacy, foundational math skills, and ensuring our teachers have the tools and support what they need. We’re seeing the payoff now—and we’re not done.” The 2025 TCAP results are not the finish line—they’re a launching point. Cleveland City Schools is using this momentum to guide the next phase of its work: expanding STEAM programming, deepening academic interventions, investing in teacher development, and preparing students for success in college, career, and life. “This is why we say we’re building champions,” said Dr. Elliott. “Not just champions in academics, but champions in character, leadership, and resilience. We’re building a school system where every child can thrive—not just this year, but every year that follows. This would not be possible without the expertise of our teachers.” With a strong foundation in place and a clear vision for the future, Cleveland City Schools is more committed than ever to student growth, innovation, and opportunity.

Cleveland City Schools Celebrates Historic Academic Growth and Looks Ahead

July 25, 2025
Cleveland City Schools is proud to share historic student achievement as reflected in the 2025 Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) results. Students across the distr...
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Cleveland High School Awarded $49,932 Welding Workforce Grant from AWS Foundation Cleveland High School is proud to announce it has been awarded a $49,932.53 Welding Workforce Grant from the American Welding Society (AWS) Foundation. This significant grant will support the continued growth and success of the school’s Welding Technology program, which is led by instructor Michael Ritchie and prepares students for high-demand careers in skilled trades. The funding will be used to enhance training equipment, expand certification opportunities, and improve student access to real-world welding experiences — all of which contribute to workforce readiness. “We are so excited about the possibilities this grant affords our students,” said Randall Stephens, Career Technical Education Supervisor for Cleveland City Schools. “Mr. Ritchie has built a top-tier program, and this award supports our shared vision to prepare students for career success right here in our community.” The AWS Foundation’s Welding Workforce Grant is designed to strengthen secondary and post-secondary welding education programs across the country to help close the growing skills gap in the trades. For more information about the Cleveland High School Welding Program, please contact Michael Ritchie at mritchie@clevelandschools.org.

Cleveland High School Awarded $49,932 Welding Workforce Grant from AWS Foundation

July 22, 2025
Cleveland High School is proud to announce it has been awarded a $49,932.53 Welding Workforce Grant from the American Welding Society (AWS) Foundation. This significant grant will...
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