Chris Lafferty named principal of Christiana Elementary School

Chris Lafferty has spent the past nine years developing and honing his academic leadership skills and empowering students to succeed as an assistant principal at Barfield Elementary School.

Lafferty’s successful track record has led to his being named the next principal of Christiana Elementary School.

“He understands that every child has the ability to learn and that some need more support than others,” Director of Schools Bill Spurlock said. “His background and experience makes him the ideal candidate to lead Christiana Elementary School and build a rapport with the community, parents and students.”

Lafferty has been an educator for 19 years and spent most of the past decade working alongside Judy Goodwin, longtime principal of Barfield.

He grew up in Eastern Kentucky and learned to overcome struggles. In his words, “poverty is not a destination.”

“It was teachers and principals who helped me overcome and allowed me to raise a family in Tennessee,” Lafferty said. “Without that, I wouldn’t have gotten out.”

Lafferty is an accomplished pianist and music teacher. He played for the Kentucky Opry, has written his own programs and was a Teacher of the Year.

At Christiana, he plans to keep the programs that work while evaluating those that aren’t. He aims for students to have both high achievement and academic growth.

“I know the value of hard work,” Lafferty said. “That’s what I want for Christiana, is everyone working together for the benefit of the students.”