LA VERGNE, Tenn. (WGNS) — A familiar face is returning to lead the halls of La Vergne Lake Elementary School following a significant leadership transition in the Rutherford County school system.

District officials have announced that Dr. Cary Holman will assume the role of principal starting July 1. This appointment follows the retirement announcement of Paige Johnson, a dedicated educator who has spent three decades serving the county’s students, including nine years at the helm of "The Lake."

Dr. Holman returns to the district after a two-year stint as the Director of Schools for Franklin County. His deep roots in the local area were established during a 13-year tenure as the principal of La Vergne Middle School.

"Dr. Cary Holman is a proven educational leader who is known for his ability to inspire students, staff, and the community toward a common mission," stated Director of Schools Dr. Jimmy Sullivan. Sullivan noted that Holman's previous success in the La Vergne cluster makes him uniquely qualified to foster a positive environment for the elementary school’s families.

For Dr. Holman, the move represents a homecoming. He expressed a strong emotional connection to the community, noting that the opportunity to lead at the elementary level in a district he previously served for over a decade is "simply amazing." He emphasized a commitment to an "impactful, intentional, and informative" approach to both social and academic growth.

The outgoing principal, Paige Johnson, leaves behind a substantial legacy. Her 18-year history at La Vergne Lake Elementary—split evenly between her time as an assistant principal and her nine years as principal—concludes a 30-year career in education. Johnson reflected fondly on her time at the school, describing the community as a "very special place" and cherishing the connections built during her nearly two decades on campus.