Aderica Grier Named Next Principal of Fernway Elementary School

Aderica Grier, currently principal at Louisa May Alcott, a K-5 elementary school in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, has been selected as the next principal of Fernway Elementary School. She will begin her new role on August 1, succeeding Christopher Hayward, who is retiring.

Ms. Grier was selected after a comprehensive interview process that included collaboration from Fernway faculty, students, staff, parents and District administrators. 

With approximately 17 years of experience in education, Ms. Grier has served as an instructional leader, intervention specialist and building administrator. 

At Louisa May Alcott, Ms. Grier has cultivated a safe, inclusive, and respectful school environment while using data-driven strategies to strengthen instruction and strengthen student achievement across all grade levels.

“Ms. Grier is a committed leader who understands how to translate vision into instructional practices” said Dr. Felecia Evans, Assistant Superintendent of Learning & Teaching. “She brings a clear focus in supporting student growth and a deep commitment to building systems that empower both educators and learners to succeed.”

Prior to her current role, Ms. Grier served as assistant principal at Louisa May Alcott. She also participated in the district’s Aspiring Principal program at Orchard STEM School, where she coached teachers and partnered with school leadership to design professional learning aligned with instructional priorities. Earlier in her career, she worked as an intervention specialist in Cleveland for nine years. 

Ms. Grier holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo as well as a master’s in education from Notre Dame College.

The Fernway Elementary School community is invited to a ‘Meet & Greet’ event for new principal Aderica Grier from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, May 11, on the Fernway playground (weather permitting). In case of inclement weather, the event will take place in the Fernway gym.