At the work session on August 1, 2019, the Clarke County Board of Education approved the hiring of Nikki Hittle as Chase Street Elementary School's new principal.  This position was filled through a collaboration between district staff and the school hiring committee comprised of the LSGT, community members and school staff.

"Ms. Hittle's experience in diverse environments, coupled with her commitment to student engagement makes her a perfect fit for Chase Street Elementary," said Demond Means, Superintendent of Clarke County Schools. "She will no doubt infuse the Chase community with energy and optimism while improving learning and support for all students."

Ms. Hittle has been an educator since 2001, having served as principal of Harbor Heights Elementary School in Gig Harbor, WA, and Wellpinit Elementary School, in Wellpinit, WA.  During her time at Harbor Heights, Ms. Hittle worked with staff to significantly improve the school culture and climate score with an average positive turnaround of 30+ percentage points.   While she was the principal of Wellpinit Elementary, students saw significant gains in test scores. She also created and established the district's first Highly Capable Program for grades K-12.   Ms. Hittle has a Bachelor of Arts from The University of Montana, a Master of Social Work from Eastern Washington University, a School Administrator Certificate and a Principal Certificate from Washington State University.        

Alps Road Elementary School and Fowler Drive Elementary School are still seeking principals at this time, all other vacancies have been filled.  Both of these schools will begin the year with strong interim leadership as the hiring process for these positions continues.