Staff Highlight: Arielle Hayes: University High
April 8, 2026 – Arielle Hayes is the principal of University High, but she prefers a more personal title. “I call myself the princiPAL,” she said. That mindset shapes everything she does. Hayes focuses on relationships first, making sure students feel comfortable, supported, and ready to grow both in and out of the classroom. From the moment you meet her, it is clear she loves what she does and the students she serves.
Hayes has been in education for over 15 years. She started as a 7th grade social studies teacher and worked her way through many roles, including assistant principal, principal, and district leader. Along the way, she learned from strong mentors who helped guide her path. “They gave me these little pieces of nuggets,” Hayes shared. “Just the affirmation and encouragement that we needed, that we’re doing the right thing.”
Her journey was not always easy. Early in her career, she lost her teaching job during staff cuts. But she did not give up. She reached out to schools, knocked on doors, and kept going until someone gave her a chance. “The only person who gave me an interview officially was Dr. Levine,” she said. “And so, she hired me.” That opportunity helped shape the rest of her career. She would go on to later serve as an assistant principal under Dr. Levine.
Today, Hayes leads University High with a focus on relationships, confidence, and real-world experiences.
“I care about people, I’m very people-centric.”
She even calls herself the “principal pal” because she wants students and families to feel comfortable coming to her. “I don’t ever want it to be a barrier of fear or authority,” she explained.
At University High, students learn directly on a college campus and attend college classes, integrating seamlessly with the other students at UTC. Hayes loves giving them those opportunities. “We’re all about experiences and exposure,” she said. Whether it is attending college events, networking with professionals, or exploring different career paths, students are encouraged to try new things and discover what they enjoy.
One of her biggest goals is helping students believe in themselves. “I want them to feel empowered that they can do anything,” Hayes said. She reminds them often, “You are not the seat, you are the table in every room that you walk in. You belong there”
Hayes also focuses on helping students build confidence and independence. She wants them to learn how to manage their time, communicate clearly, and solve problems on their own. “If I can’t communicate well, I can’t lead well,” she tells them.
Her favorite part of the job is watching students grow. She sees big changes in a short amount of time. “Parents call me and say, ‘Who is this kid?’” Hayes said. “They love school. Their confidence is through the roof.” Moments like that remind her why she does this work.
Even with a small staff and a busy schedule, Hayes stays focused on what matters most. She thinks about one key piece of advice: “What can you do that will have the biggest effect on student achievement? Those are the things you have to do first.”
Outside of school, Hayes enjoys spending time with her family, playing video games, and connecting with the community. She serves on several boards and looks for ways to support others. “I just love people,” she said.
As she looks ahead, Hayes is excited about celebrating her students, especially at graduation. “I don’t take it lightly that they choose to be with us,” she said. She wants students to know their journey does not end when they leave. “I want you to invite me to your wedding,” she tells them with a smile. “We still want to be a part of your journey.”
At the heart of everything she does is a simple message she hopes every student carries with them: “Everyone belongs,” Hayes said. “Give yourself grace.”
Arielle Hayes is the kind of leader every school hopes for. Her care for students, belief in their potential, and commitment to meaningful learning experiences set the tone for everything happening at University High. We are truly fortunate to have leaders like her as part of our district.
