Principal Spotlight: Dr. Jasmine Farrow

Chattanooga, TN-- In celebration of Principals Appreciation Month, we proudly recognize Dr. Jasmine Farrow, principal of East Lake Elementary School. Since joining East Lake in 2021, Dr. Farrow has fostered a thriving community rooted in care, growth, and fun.

Dr. Farrow earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and Ed.S. degrees from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and later completed her doctorate at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville. She began her journey with Hamilton County Schools at Woodmore Elementary, then went on to teach at East Brainerd Elementary. She later served as assistant principal at East Side Elementary before stepping into her current role at East Lake.

“When I was a kid, I thought I wanted to be a pediatrician,” Dr. Farrow said. But as she got older, she realized her heart wanted to serve children in a different way. “I've always loved this age. They're so willing to learn. They value relationships. They're like little sponges. It's really easy to connect with them. Dr. Robertson and Dr. Stewart have placed value on and emphasized personalization. I have found so much joy and value in doing that with our students here at East Lake.”

Dr. Farrow takes immense pride in her school and the vibrant East Lake community. “A lot of people don't know about many of the awesome things we have to offer, from music, to art, to the Sculpture Fields, murals, and celebrations. The community is awesome,” she said. “And the parents really value education. They want their kids here; they want them to learn. They love coming into the school building and participating with us.” Since 2021, Dr. Farrow has focused on elevating her students and staff. This year, her focus is on fostering interdependence. “We want to focus on elevating each other's strengths but also thinking about how we can all connect with those strengths. My goal for the end of the year is for our teachers to understand who they are in the building with and the resources and relationships that are available right here in our school.”

Known for her energetic and joyful leadership, Dr. Farrow is a firm believer in combining fun with education. “The biggest part of my day is spent with instructional leadership. I'm very present with collaborative planning, classroom observations, and love to lead professional development. But beyond that, I’m also a mom, counselor, nurse, friend, and anything else that is needed,” she said. “I try my best to be myself and choose laughter.” Farrow values the hard work of her students and staff, and she prioritizes creating an environment where everyone feels supported and enriched. One event that particularly embodies this approach is their Multicultural Night. Here, East Lake celebrates the diversity within its community. “We really pride ourselves on recognizing the cultures within our school,” she said. “We have lots of teachers from all over. They'll bring their parents, cook food, everything. All of our teachers love to represent their culture.” The night, full of pride and appreciation, is an example of Dr. Farrow’s commitment to creating a loving, joyful environment.

Dr. Farrow brings compassion, understanding, and a contagious sense of joy to East Lake Elementary. Under her leadership, the school continually upholds her motto #CommunityCaringGrowth. As we honor her during Principals Appreciation Month, we are reminded of the importance of embracing our differences and remembering to have fun. Thank you, Dr. Farrow, for your unwavering dedication to our students and staff and for leading with both heart and humor.