A former school principal who led a turnaround at an elementary school in Ashland, Kentucky, has been selected as the new principal of Indian Trail Elementary School. Uriah Tolbert is currently an assistant principal in Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) at Hartstern Elementary School.
"It is an immense honor and privilege to be chosen as the new principal of Indian Trail Elementary School,” Tolbert said. “I am thrilled to join this vibrant community, bringing with me the invaluable experience of leading school turnarounds. I will lead with equitable purpose, passion, and high-commitment energy for scholar success."
Tolbert came to JCPS and Hartstern in 2024 from Crabbe Elementary School in Ashland. During his six years as Crabbe’s principal, Tolbert led a big turnaround. The school’s statewide test scores increased by 21 points, successfully moving Crabbe out of state Targeted Support and Improvement (TSI) status. He began his career in Fayette County Public Schools in 2010, first as a music specialist and later as a professional growth and effectiveness systems coach.
“Principal Tolbert brings a wealth of leadership experience to continue to move Indian Trail forward positively,” said Dr. Nate Meyer, assistant superintendent of Accelerated Improvement Schools. “He is steadfast in his belief to provide exceptional learning experiences to students and is committed to engaging the school community.”
Tolbert has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music education, as well as an education specialist degree, from Eastern Kentucky University. His first official day as the top administrator at Indian Trail will be July 1.
"My immediate focus will be on building strong relationships with our scholars, staff, families, and the wider community,” Tolbert said. “I will continue to cultivate a nurturing, engaging, teaching, and learning environment where every child feels valued, challenged, and inspired. I am deeply committed to ensuring that scholar proficiency is not only an aspiration but a tangible reality where every scholar reaches their full potential."
Tolbert is replacing longtime Indian Trail principal Joe Wood who is retiring.