As Breast Cancer Awareness Month concludes, Cleveland City Schools celebrates the strength, dedication, and inspiring journey of Amy Geren McGowan. Serving as a counselor at Cleveland Middle School and head coach for the Cleveland Blue Raiders girls volleyball team at Cleveland High School, McGowan has become a pillar of support, hope, and resilience in her community. Her remarkable story as a breast cancer survivor continues to encourage students, athletes, and families alike to embrace life’s challenges with courage and compassion. At Cleveland Middle School, McGowan is known for her supportive and empathetic approach, guiding students through both academic and personal growth. In addition, her role as head coach of the Cleveland Blue Raiders girls volleyball team has allowed her to foster teamwork, resilience, and character among young athletes. Her coaching philosophy goes beyond the court, encouraging her players to lead with integrity, perseverance, and kindness. McGowan’s life took an unexpected turn in 2017 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The diagnosis brought her family closer together, shifting their focus from achievements and school sports to cherishing time together. Reflecting on the journey, McGowan shares, β€œBreast cancer showed us what truly matters. It’s not about winning games or achieving milestones but about embracing life with gratitude and prioritizing our loved ones.” Her strength throughout treatment and recovery became a source of inspiration not only for her family but also for her students and players. Through this journey, McGowan watched her children grow into compassionate, resilient young adults who prioritize serving others. β€œWitnessing their growth has been one of the greatest gifts,” McGowan says. β€œMy diagnosis changed their lives, teaching them that success lies in character, service, and kindness. I’m incredibly proud of the people they are becoming.” Cleveland City Schools is honored to celebrate Amy Geren McGowan’s story of survival, strength, and selflessness. Her influence, both as a cancer survivor and a dedicated educator and coach, serves as a beacon of hope for the Cleveland community, reminding us all of the power of resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
Hal Taylor is awarded for his work with CCS.
Cleveland High School’s Pearson Waller Achieves World Champion Status
Cleveland Rallies for Pediatric Cancer Awareness and Celebrates Blue Raiders' 5-0 Start
Novice Teacher of the Year
Board of Education
Cleveland Board of Education
In Memory of Barbara Ector
ESC Ribbon Cutting
Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce Dr. Joe Parker as Blythe-Bower’s Assistant Principal. Dr. Parker, who has served as a 5th grade teacher since 2017, will assume his new role starting this upcoming academic year.  Dr. Parker brings a wealth of experience and a strong educational background to his new position. He was honored as Teacher of the Year in 2020 and was recognized with the Above and Beyond Medallion in 2019. His achievements also include an Educational Doctorate with a focus on Professional Practice from Lee University.  In his role at Black Fox Elementary School, Dr. Parker served on the Junior Achievement Programming team as part of the PIE Hub Inspiration Committee, and was instrumental in the development, creation and implementation of programming. Dr. Parker was also a Beta Club sponsor and the site director for summer school in 2023. He has demonstrated remarkable leadership as a Math Teacher Leader and 2022-2023 Cohort for LEAD Leadership Fellowship.  Reflecting on his new role, Dr. Parker stated, "I cannot express how excited I am to join the Blythe-Bower family, alongside a passionate staff."  Director of Schools, Dr. Jeff Elliott expressed his confidence in Dr. Parker, saying, "Dr. Parker’s dedication to education and commitment to fostering a positive learning environment makes him an invaluable addition to our school community. We look forward to the positive impact Dr. Parker will have on our students and staff at Blythe-Bower!"
Cleveland City Schools is excited to announce the appointment of Jay Garcia as the new Assistant Principal of Mayfield Elementary School. Mr. Garcia brings a great deal of experience and a passionate commitment to fostering and enriching the lives of students within our district.  An Educational Leadership graduate of Austin Peay State University, Mr. Garcia also holds a Masters degree from Concordia University and a Bachelor’s degree from Lee University.   Mr. Garcia joins Mayfield Elementary School after serving as Music Specialist at Stuart Elementary School since 2016. Prior to that role he was the Music Director for Dwelling Place Church in Cleveland, as well as Morris Innovative High School in Dalton, Georgia. One of his largest educational accolades include being a member of the 2023-2024 BCPEF LEAD Fellowship.   Mr. Garcia shared, "I’m excited to be joining the Mayfield family and kicking off a great school year with our students and staff." Director of Schools, Dr. Jeff Elliott welcomed Mr. Garcia to his new role, saying, "We are thrilled to name Mr. Garcia as Assistant Principal of Mayfield Elementary School. I am confident he will provide an outstanding educational experience for our students. We look forward to seeing the energy and enthusiasm Mr. Garcia will bring to the Mayfield community."
ccs
CCS
ccs
ccs
ccs
ccs
Students giving a presentation on Blind, Deaf, and Mute Cooking
ccc
ccs