Biography

My name is Dr. Jarrod Pendergraft and I am so excited to start my third year as the principal of Alcoa Elementary School! It is hard to believe that I'm already in year three at AES, because the time has flown by! I was a 2007 graduate of Maryville College with a degree in history with teacher licensure (7-12). I began my teaching career at Halls Middle School in Knox County, where I taught computer applications and 8th grade U.S. History. In 2017 I transitioned into administration as an assistant principal at South Doyle Middle School. From 2018-2020 I served as an assistant principal at Powell Middle school and from 2020-2022 as an assistant principal at Northwest Middle School, all in Knox County. While working in administration I worked to earn a master's degree in educational leadership, an education specialist degree in instructional leadership, and a doctorate in educational leadership. 

I have strived to be an Alcoa Tornado, since I was a student at Maryville College. It was apparent by the strong traditions, educational excellence, and value of community that I wanted to be a part of the Alcoa City School’s family. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve as the principal, a role that I hope to fulfill for many many years to come! First and foremost I value the relationship aspect of education, especially with our PreK - 2nd grade students. My hope is to continue the excellence of Alcoa Elementary School and make a positive impact on as many students as possible. I am looking forward to another fantastic year and watching our students grow along the way. I'm also excited for our new school logo and motto, which is, "Alcoa Elementary School is the foundation of Alcoa City Schools, where we grow students, inspire teachers, and build family." Go Tornadoes!!!