Today, students from The Howard School– winners of Chattanooga 2.0’s ‘Thank a Principal’ contest– learned about potential career fields and opportunities within marine life during a field trip to the Tennessee Aquarium.

While exploring the different exhibits and learning what goes into caring for the water and wildlife in the Aquarium, students also participated in an educational program designed to introduce students to a variety of career paths and postsecondary opportunities within the Aquarium. Based on the interests, talents and characteristics of each individual student, they were able to explore what job would be best suited for them.

“I really want to thank Chattanooga 2.0 for this opportunity; I did not think that writing a nice letter for my principal would lead to a free trip for students,” said Ashley Cox 10th Grade teacher at The Howard School. “They were able to understand that it’s not just aquatics, but there’s also business, maintenance and all sorts of career opportunities at the Aquarium.”

Chattanooga 2.0 received over 750 ‘Thank You’ note submissions from students, teachers, parents, and community members, in honor of National Principals Month, during the month of October as a part of a campaign to thank Hamilton County principals,

Teachers who submitted ‘thank you’ notes were entered into a raffle to win a field trip, donated by community partners, for their students and principal. The Howard School 10th grade teacher Ashley Cox submitted a note thanking Principal Dr. Le Andrea Ware, 2019-20 Hamilton County Schools Principal of the Year, and won the field trip for her students.

Based on findings from a 2016 Chattanooga 2.0 report, which highlighted the importance of empowering school leaders in the district, the coalition has worked to prioritize Hamilton County’s great leaders and emphasize the importance of having great teachers in every classroom.

“Our teachers are essential to the success of our future leaders and workforce,” said Jennifer Andrews, Chattanooga 2.0 Programs and Engagement Manager. “Students have the opportunity to learn at the highest possible level when each classroom is equipped with a high-quality teacher, backed by a supportive principal, focused on helping students succeed and prepare for their futures.”