Fernway Principal Chris Hayward Announces Retirement

After more than three decades of service to the Shaker Heights City School District, Fernway Elementary School Principal Christopher Hayward has announced his retirement, effective at the end of the 2025–2026 school year.

Mr. Hayward began his career in Shaker Heights in 1994 as a teacher at Onaway Elementary School, where he spent five years in the classroom. He then served as a staff assistant at both Onaway and Boulevard before becoming assistant principal at Woodbury Elementary School from 2002 to 2005. In July 2005, Mr. Hayward was named principal of Fernway Elementary School, a role he has held for more than 20 years.

“Fernway has been my home for most of my professional life, and it has been an honor to grow alongside this incredible community,” said Mr. Hayward. “I am so proud of our students, our staff and our families and of the way we support one another through both everyday moments and extraordinary challenges. I will always carry Fernway with me.”

A graduate of Ohio University, Mr. Hayward earned a bachelor of science in elementary education and teaching and later completed his master of education at John Carroll University. He and his wife, Kristina, a Grade 6 Language & Literature teacher at Shaker Heights Middle School, are longtime Fernway residents, deepening his connection to the Fernway school community.

“Chris Hayward is a thoughtful, student-centered leader who has shaped Fernway into a place where children feel known, valued and supported,” said Dr. Felecia Evans, Assistant Superintendent of Learning and Teaching. “His legacy will be felt for years to come.”

Information about leadership transition planning at Fernway Elementary School will be shared at a later date.