Carmel Clay Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Jennifer Hamilton as the new Assistant Principal of Mohawk Trails Elementary.

Dr. Hamilton brings a strong record of service to CCS, most recently serving as the Instructional Coach at West Clay Elementary and previously as the Interim Assistant Principal at Smoky Row Elementary. Her experience in both roles has centered on supporting teachers, strengthening the school community, and ensuring that every student grows academically and socially.

At West Clay, Dr. Hamilton has helped guide the rollout of new math and reading curricula, partnering closely with grade-level teams to refine classroom practices and utilize student information to enhance learning. She has been deeply involved in supporting teachers, coordinating student assessments, and ensuring that instructional practices meet the needs of all learners.

Dr. Hamilton is also recognized for her dedication to fostering strong, positive relationships with students and their families. She has led schoolwide efforts focused on student well-being, Skills for Success, and creating a welcoming environment where all children feel connected and supported. Her work organizing after-school clubs and enrichment opportunities reflects her commitment to helping students discover their passions, both inside and outside the classroom.

In addition to her leadership experience, Dr. Hamilton holds a doctorate in communication and completed the Educational Leadership Program at Ball State University. She is also a certified School Safety Specialist through the Indiana Department of Education.

Dr. Hamilton shared that she is excited to join the Mohawk Trails community and partner with students, families, and staff. “I am honored to support such a dedicated school community and to help continue the tradition of excellence at Mohawk Trails,” she said. “I look forward to building relationships and working together to ensure every child thrives.”

Dr. Hamilton is excited to join Principal Rhonda Turner and the Mohawk Trails team at the start of the second semester following winter break.

Carmel Clay Schools is pleased to announce that Miss Kristen Cannady has been named the Interim Assistant Principal of Clay Center Elementary.

Miss Cannady brings fifteen years of experience in Carmel Clay Schools, serving in a variety of roles that span classroom teaching, intervention, instructional leadership, and district committee work. She has taught first, second, and fourth grades at Smoky Row and Carmel Elementary, and most recently served as a reading and multilingual learner (MLL) interventionist at Carmel Elementary.

Throughout her career, Miss Cannady has been recognized for building strong, meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues. She is recognized for creating warm, inclusive classroom environments, communicating effectively with families, and supporting students with diverse needs. Her commitment to helping all children feel seen, supported, and challenged has been a hallmark of her work across multiple buildings.

In her role as a reading and MLL interventionist, Miss Cannady partnered closely with classroom teachers, special education staff, school psychologists, and instructional coaches to design instructional supports that matched student needs. She led efforts to analyze schoolwide literacy and screening data, streamline assessment processes, and strengthen communication with families. Her work supporting multilingual learners—both instructionally and culturally—has made her a trusted collaborator for teachers and a strong advocate for families.

Miss Cannady has also served in influential leadership roles, including grade-level lead teacher, MTSS support team member, and technology coordinator. She has modeled instructional practices aligned with the science of reading, co-taught lessons to strengthen classroom routines, and contributed to curriculum adoption and evaluation teams at the district level. Her colleagues describe her as creative, collaborative, and deeply committed to student success.

In addition to her extensive classroom and leadership experience, Miss Cannady holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from the American College of Education, a master’s degree in curriculum development from Ball State University, and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Purdue University. She is a former Teacher of the Year at Smoky Row Elementary and has been awarded multiple grants from the Carmel Education Foundation for innovative teaching and professional development.

Miss Cannady shared her enthusiasm for this new role, noting, “I am truly honored to serve the Clay Center community. I look forward to partnering with our students, families, and staff to create a welcoming, supportive environment where every child can thrive.”

Miss Cannady will begin her role at the start of the second semester.