Patrick Carpenter joins Gurney Elementary School as the building principal for the 2025-26 school year. He brings with him over a decade of experience in elementary education including serving as principal of Noble Elementary School in the Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District for six years. Mr. Carpenter has also worked as a ReadOhio Literacy Coach with the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, supporting schools across the state in the implementation of evidence-based reading instruction.

His career in education began in Boston, Massachusetts, where he taught second grade while completing postgraduate studies at Boston College. After returning to Northeast Ohio, he continued his work in education as a third grade teacher and building reading specialist in Cleveland Heights-University Heights, reinforcing his commitment to fostering literacy development in young learners.

Mr. Carpenter is deeply committed to creating a child-centered, literacy-rich learning environment. At Gurney Elementary, he looks forward to building on the school's strong traditions by collaborating with students, staff, families, and the broader community. His focus is on ensuring engaging instruction, experiential learning opportunities, and meaningful partnerships that support the success of every child.

He holds a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston College, an Administrative Licensure from Cleveland State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from John Carroll University.