About

Vision

We endeavor to work collaboratively to educate and empower all students to become innovative and resilient learners. We further aspire to ensure all students are critical thinkers who are prepared, compassionate global citizens.

Mission

We will provide high-quality inclusive instruction to all students in a caring, supportive environment.

Gavin H. Cochran Elementary School is located in the heart of Old Louisville. This location opened in 1991. The former Cochran Elementary School building still stands at the southeast corner of Second and Hill Streets and is now a part of the Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS). The original building was built in 1900 and was an elite school for the children of wealthy shipbuilders in kindergarten through eighth grade. Children living outside of the city limits even paid tuition to attend Cochran. The second street building was Cochran Elementary from 1900 to 1991. It was named after Gavin H. Cochran, president of the Louisville School Board. In 1991, the school relocated to its address at 500 West Gaulbert Avenue to make room for a computer lab and media arts center.

Today, Cochran benefits from its Old Louisville partnerships. U of L faculty and students are welcomed into Cochran as part of the PDS initiative. This professional development is provided through the PDS model by professors of education who are experts in their fields. Cochran hosts student teachers each semester and houses a classroom exclusively for U of L students and faculty. Cochran has focused heavily on community involvement and using the resources these relationships afford. For example, Cochran partners annually with the St. James Art Show to provide parking for the event. All proceeds are given to the classroom teachers who donate their time to the cause. This money is spent on field trips, extensions to the classroom, and other activities which enhance student achievement. Cochran Elementary promotes its expectations for all stakeholders: “C-A-T-S = Care for yourself and others, Achieve at high levels, Try your best, Stay positive.” The school prides itself on its motto, “Where children come first.” As long as it has high expectations for all stakeholders, the students will continue to grow and learn.

Melissa Cheatham headshot

Message from the Principal

Welcome to our cool little school! I am honored and humbled to be the Principal at Cochran Elementary, where we are committed to excellence with our 4 Cs: Culture and Climate, Classroom, Collaboration, and Community. #CTheSuccess 

Our mission is to provide high-quality, inclusive instruction to ALL students in a caring and supportive environment. At Cochran, our students strive to demonstrate CATS behavior: We Care for ourselves and others, Achieve at high levels, Try our best, and Stay positive. 

I believe in creating a positive school environment where ALL students have access and opportunities. It is my goal to lead our school in improving student outcomes. I will work in collaboration with all stakeholders to make decisions that are student-centered and focused on growth. It is important to me that our Cochran students, families, staff, and community feel proud to be a Cochran Cat! 

Humbly Yours,

Melissa Cheatham
Principal