Hello, I'm Andrew Thompson, and it's an absolute pleasure to serve as the Principal of Columbia Elementary School. 

I was born and raised in Mount Vernon, and my connection to this community runs deep. I have a unique bond with Columbia Elementary as I attended this very school as a child. Those early years at Columbia shaped who I am today and instilled in me a passion for education and a love for this place.

My career in education has been a diverse and rewarding one. I began as a middle school interventionist at MVMS, working closely with students who needed extra support to reach their academic goals. Later, I served as an 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher at MVMS and enjoyed sharing my passion for history and helping students discover the joy of learning. Before stepping into the principalship at Columbia, I had the privilege of working as a Career Development Coordinator/Teacher at Knox County Career Center, where I had the opportunity to guide students as they explored their interests and potential career paths.

Beyond my professional life, my heart belongs to my family. I'm married to my high school sweetheart, Angie, and together we are the proud parents of three beautiful children. Two of our children currently attend Columbia Elementary and one is in Mount Vernon Middle School. The joy and challenges of parenthood keep me grounded and remind me daily of the importance of providing the best education and support for every child. We enjoy spending time outdoors, hiking and playing various sports, and attending community events. I firmly believe in the power of community and the impact it can have on our children’s lives.

As Principal of Columbia Elementary for the past six years, I've been fortunate to witness the growth, development, and success of our students. My vision is for Columbia Elementary to be a place where students can learn, grow, and become curious, creative, and caring individuals.

I look forward to another year of working closely with our exceptional staff, students, and families. Together, we will continue to build a supportive, engaging, and enriching environment for all of our students. Columbia Elementary is not just a school; it's a place where dreams take root, and I am proud to be a part of this journey.

Thank you for entrusting me with the privilege of guiding our young learners to their fullest potential.

Warm regards,

Andrew Thompson

Building Principal

Columbia Elementary School