Hillcrest Elementary

Principal's Page

Mr. John Clawson is the principal of Hillcrest Elementary.

Mr. Clawson was born and raised in Hamblen County and has lived here all of his life. Mr. Clawson and his twin brother attended Hillcrest, Morristown Jr. High, and West High graduating in 1972. He went to Walters State Community College and East Tennessee State University where he received a BS degree in education. Mr. Clawson also received a Master's degree in counseling in 1979 and an endorsement in administration and supervision. In 1979 he married Carol Daniel. The couple now has two sons, John Daniel and Stephen.

In 1979, Mr. Clawson obtained a teaching position at West Elementary. He remained there for six years, becoming guidance counselor and assistant principal. In 1985 he became assistant prinicpal of Lincoln Heights Middle School for six years, and in 1991 he accepted the position of principal at Hillcrest Elementary where he is currently working.

"I have always felt like the Lord has called me into education," remarks Mr. Clawson. "Working with young people is a tremendous challenge. There are so many opportunities to guide and assist children. I really never intended to go into administration, but the opportunity came available, and with encouragement from others and believing that the Lord had opened these doors, I decided to take the challenge. Counseling and helping young people succeed has kept me motivated and driven to the challenge."

Mr. Clawson shares his Native American heritage during literacy day with a prior group of fifth graders.