Franklin Community Schools is proud to announce that Katie Smith has been named the principal at Franklin Cub Academy Preschool. The FCS Board of School Trustees approved the recommendation at its September 8 meeting. Smith will officially transition to her new role in January at the start of the second semester.
With nearly 25 years of experience in elementary education and leadership, Smith brings a deep passion for early childhood education. She earned both her bachelor’s in elementary education and her master’s degree in early childhood development from Ball State University.
Smith has led Cub Academy since it opened in 2015, and under her leadership, the program has continued to grow and flourish. As the community’s need for preschool opportunities expands, her proven track record of success makes her the natural choice to guide the new building into its next chapter.
“It’s an honor to have the opportunity to open the new early childhood center for FCS,” said Smith. “This beautiful building will be a safe place to learn and play for our 3- to 5-year-olds in Franklin. I’m thankful that our community has embraced Cub Academy over the last ten years as the preschool and daycare provider of choice. This opportunity represents more than opening a building. It’s about building a culture, shaping a vision, and providing an inclusive environment for our children. I care deeply about our community, and early childhood education holds a special place in my heart.”
Superintendent Dr. David Clendening praised Smith’s appointment, saying, “Katie has been the heart of Cub Academy since it opened, and her leadership has set the tone for its success. She has an incredible ability to create a positive culture, foster strong relationships, and bring a vision to life. With her knowledge of early childhood education and literacy, I am confident she will continue to provide our youngest learners with the very best foundation.”
The new Franklin Cub Academy building is scheduled to open at the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year.
