Hamilton County Schools announces five new principal appointments

New principal appointees Melanie Commander (upper left), Yolanda Williams (upper center), Melissa Coffelt (upper right), Bethanie Reynolds (lower left), and Brittany Randolph (lower right) (Photos by Hamilton County Schools)

Hamilton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson announced five new principal appointments Wednesday afternoon for the 2025/26 school year, including three for elementary schools and another two for middle schools.

In a news release sent to the Tennessee Firefly, the district said each leader represents its ongoing commitment to student success, strong instructional leadership, and inclusive school environments that support student growth.

"The future of Hamilton County Schools is shaped by the people who lead in our buildings each day,” said Robertson. “These new principals hold a strong belief in high-quality instruction and a sense of purpose and heart for their communities. I’m confident they will lead with integrity, inspire excellence, and build school cultures that reflect the best of our district.”

The three elementary school appointments include new Rivermont Elementary School Principal Melanie Commander, new Springs Creek Elementary Principal Dr. Yolanda Williams, and new Thrasher Elementary School Principal Melissa Coffelt.

Commander currently serves as the associate principal at Harrison Elementary and spent five years as assistant principal at East Ridge Elementary. The district says Commander played a pivotal role in designing and implementing schoolwide eLabs that promote “hands-on exploration, collaboration, and digital literacy.”

“I am deeply honored and truly grateful for the opportunity to serve the Rivermont Elementary community,” said Commander. “It is a privilege to join a school community that values its students, families, and dedicated staff. I am committed to cultivating a school culture rooted in collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity—where every child feels supported and inspired to thrive. Together, I look forward to growing alongside this incredible community as we nurture well-rounded, lifelong learners.”

Dr. Williams serves as the Chief of Staff for two Chattanooga public charter schools, Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy and Montessori Elementary at Highland Park. The district says Dr. Williams has led efforts to embed Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) curriculum into instruction, creating “measurable growth.”

"I am excited to serve alongside the phenomenal teachers, families, and partners of the Spring Creek Elementary community. Together, we will create a safe place where everyone is valued, seen, and heard,” said Dr. Williams. "I am looking forward to working with all stakeholders as we build a firm academic foundation that ensures all learners are equipped with the tools needed to build their own legacy and hopes for their diverse futures. "

Coffelt currently serves as the assistant principal at East Lake Elementary. The district says she’s widely recognized for her work building relationships between the school and its broader communities, including local businesses and community partners.

“I am thrilled to join Thrasher Elementary—a school rich in tradition, achievement, and community,” said Coffelt. “I can’t wait to show my Panther Pride as students, staff, and families work together to build on a foundation of success.”

Ooltewah-based education leaders move to middle school positions

Both new middle school leaders come from schools in Chattanooga’s Ooltewah community.

Oolteway Elementary School principal Bethanie Reynolds will assume the role of principal at Loftis Middle School. The district says Reynolds is known for her collaborative leadership style and her commitment to building “strong academic foundations and a positive school culture.

“It is with tremendous gratitude and great enthusiasm that I step into the role of principal at Loftis Middle School,” said Reynolds. “Returning to middle school feels like coming home—my time at Hunter Middle was deeply impactful, and I’m eager to rejoin the vibrant energy and important work happening at this stage of students’ lives. Loftis already has a strong foundation of academic excellence, dedicated educators, and a deeply engaged community. I’m honored to serve alongside this exceptional team and excited to lead with care, collaboration, and high expectations for every student.”

Ooltewah High School assistant principal Brittany Randolph will be moving to be the new principal of Brown Middle School. The district says Randolph has led strategic work to increase student achievement in math and personalize student support structures.

"I am honored and excited to join the Brown Middle School community as principal,” said Randolph. “Supporting teachers and building strong relationships with students and families is at the heart of who I am. I have deep respect for the dedication this team has shown in driving academic growth and reaching a Level 5 TVAAS (Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System) status. I am committed to building on that success—elevating our students, empowering our teachers, and continuing to grow together as a school community."