By Mason Edwards, Chattanooga Times Free Press
Westview Elementary Principal Debbie Caudle stepped down and will move into another leadership role within Hamilton County Schools, according to a letter Superintendent Justin Robertson emailed to families and staff Saturday. Robertson described the news as “bittersweet.”
When asked via text Saturday whether the transition is connected to the recent issue involving her husband, the Rev. Steve Caudle of Greater Second Missionary Baptist Church, Robertson said he believed his letter addresses the issue.
“(There was) no pressure from anyone internally or externally,” Robertson added in a text message. “This was a mutual decision made in the best interest of the Westview community and Ms. Caudle.”
Robertson clarified through text messages that Caudle’s new position has not yet been finalized. He added that the district will follow its usual hiring process in filling Caudle’s former job.
“We plan to name an interim leader this week who will guide Westview through the end of the year,” he said.
Caudle’s departure comes after a tumultuous week for her family. On Monday, Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp publicly called for her husband to resign from the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Regional Planning Commission after a clip of his sermon went viral. In the video, Steve Caudle criticized Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency and referenced the possibility of violence. He later told reporters his remarks were “taken out of context” and addressed spiritual warfare rather than physical violence.
In Robertson’s announcement, Hamilton County Schools praised Debbie Caudle’s career, noting that, under her tenure, the school earned Tennessee State-Designated Reward School recognition four times and consistently achieved high academic ratings. The district also credited her with championing civic engagement, which helped the school earn the Tennessee Governor’s Excellence in Civic Education Seal.
“With over 20 years of service as a teacher and administrator, she has dedicated her career to elevating student learning, supporting teachers and engaging school communities,” Robertson wrote in the letter. “I hope you will join me in expressing gratitude for Ms. Caudle’s leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment to this school.”
Robertson added in a text that the district plans to name an interim principal next week who “will guide Westview through the end of the year.”
When reached via phone call on Saturday, Debbie and Steve Caudle declined to comment.
Comments