Welcome Back Cherokee Families,

Welcome to the 2021 - 2022 school year! I am thrilled to welcome you back to school. It is truly an honor for me to be the Principal of Cherokee Elementary School. I am privileged to work with an outstanding staff to make it a smooth transition for our students during this uncertain time.

We have been working hard all summer to plan for a safe opening of school and to implement best practices to mitigate the risks associated with Covid-19. Our classrooms have been modified to increase social distancing, signage has been installed throughout the building to guide students, and we require masks, hand washing, and opportunities to access outdoor learning spaces throughout the course of our day. A stronger emphasis will be placed on social emotional learning and providing the students with the best education Shelby County School has to offer.

We have school pride and high expectations for each and every student. Our students are kind, compassionate, and inquisitive. Together with our dedicated staff, we strive to make connections with students to help them feel valued, accepted, and safe. Our motto reads “At Cherokee, every student matters and every moment counts” and this will continue to guide our mission to provide a rigorous and joyful school environment.

Partnering with families will be crucial this year as we face many obstacles due to the global pandemic. We appreciate your support as you work with students at home to practice safety protocols such as wearing a mask and washing hands. We encourage families to stay connected and informed by following our school website for important updates and information regarding Cherokee Elementary.

Again, I thank you and look forward to a “New” experience at Cherokee Elementary with students’ success and family involvement at the forefront of all our endeavors.

Warm Regards,

TINA L SMITH

Principal