In celebration of Principals Appreciation Month, Hamilton County Schools is recognizing Dr. Jasmine Farrow. The principal of East Lake Elementary School has been transforming her school community since 2021 through a philosophy of care, growth and joy.
A Chattanooga native and graduate of 21st Century Academy, Dr. Farrow’s journey in education has deep local roots. Her impressive academic career includes multiple degrees from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned her bachelors in Human Ecology, masters in Teaching Leadership, and Ed.S. in School Leadership and Administration. She later completed her doctorate at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville.
“When I was a kid, I thought I wanted to be a pediatrician,” Dr. Farrow reflected.
But as she got older, she realized her heart wanted to serve children in a different way.
“I’ve always loved this age,” she explained. “They’re so willing to learn. They value relationships. They’re like little sponges. It’s really easy to connect with them.”
Dr. Farrow’s career in Hamilton County Schools began at Woodmore Elementary, followed by teaching positions at East Brainerd Elementary. Before assuming her current role at East Lake, she served as assistant principal at East Side Elementary.
Her leadership journey includes participation in several development programs, including the 2021 Aspiring Principal L.E.A.D. program, the Principal Leadership Academy (2018-2019), and Leadership Fellows (2011-2012).
Dr. Farrow takes immense pride in her school and the 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,” she pointed out. “The community is awesome.”
Dr. Farrow has dedicated herself to creating a positive and supportive learning environment for both students and staff. This year, her priority is fostering a culture of collaboration and interdependence.
“We want to focus on elevating each other’s strengths, but also thinking about how we can all connect with those strengths,” she explained. “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 approach, Dr. Farrow combines educational excellence with genuine enjoyment.
“The biggest part of my day is spent with instructional leadership,” she noted. “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. I try my best to be myself and choose laughter.”
One of the school’s standout events is its Multicultural Night, which exemplifies Dr. Farrow’s commitment to celebrating diversity.
“We really pride ourselves on recognizing the cultures within our school,” she shared. “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.”
Dr. Farrow’s leadership at East Lake Elementary continues to uphold her motto #CommunityCaringGrowth. As we celebrate National Principals Month this October, Dr. Farrow’s work reminds us that principals are indeed the cornerstone of educational success, working tirelessly to create positive, enriching environments where learning flourishes and communities grow stronger.