Named principal of Cochran Elementary
By Mark Hebert and Juliann Morris
August 8, 2023—Thomas Jefferson Middle School (TJMS) is losing one of its long-standing staff members to a promotion. Melissa Cheatham has been named the new principal at Cochran Elementary School.
“I am completely humbled and excited to take on the principal role at Cochran Elementary, where there is an undeniable culture for kids and strong connections to the community,” Cheatham said. “I want to honor the work that the leadership team, staff, parents, and community have done that has led to the continued success of the Cochran Cats!”
For the past 13 years, Cheatham has been a teacher, counselor, and assistant principal at TJMS, developing deep relationships with students and other staff.
“Ms. Cheatham is an equity-focused leader with a commitment to creating relationships with families, students, staff, and the community,” said Dr. Paige Hartstern, assistant superintendent for elementary schools, Zone 2. “We are thrilled that she will be leading Cochran Elementary.”
Cheatham has a Bachelor of Science in Early Elementary Education (K-5) and Learning Behavior Disorders (K-12) from the University of Louisville. She also earned a Master of Science in School Counseling from Indiana University and an Education Specialist degree in instructional leadership and administration from the University of the Cumberlands.
As an equity-focused leader, Cheatham said she will build on existing systems to ensure continued growth and improved outcomes for all students, specifically for students who have been historically marginalized.
“I will work to ensure ALL students have access and opportunity for success,” Cheatham said. “It is imperative to me that our school is a place where students feel valued and connected while experiencing high-quality learning and teaching.”
Cheatham begins her new role on August 14.