Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts

Dr. Mary Catherine Gatlin has been named the new principal of Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts (CSLA). With a background rooted in instructional coaching and administration across high school and middle school levels, Dr. Gatlin brings over a decade of leadership experience in Hamilton County Schools. Most recently, Dr. Gatlin served as principal of Loftis Middle School, leading efforts in family and community engagement, professional learning, instructional effectiveness, and innovative learning models.
Her prior roles include assistant principal at Red Bank High School and Signal Mountain Middle High School, supporting teacher development and student achievement. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, an Education Specialist degree, and a Master of Education in Teaching and Learning. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts with emphases in Theatre Performance, Vocal Music Performance, and Secondary Education.
Dr. Gatlin’s broad experience and educational foundation position her uniquely to lead CSLA’s K–12 community, focusing on student well-being, teacher development, academic success, and arts innovation.
“I am both humbled and elated to join the amazing work happening at CSLA,” said Dr. Gatlin. “It is a privilege to follow a powerful leader like Mrs. Scarbrough. In the coming weeks, I look forward to partnering with teachers and families to capture the vision and continue the strong tradition of academic excellence, student growth & innovation.”