Journalism students recently had the chance to meet the man behind the title, Etowah’s new principal, Robert Horn. Horn’s focusing on keeping the school on a good track consistently rather than improving it. He stresses the importance of image.

“I want a school that will challenge my students. I want an image for this school that will keep it lit like a torch. ” Horn said.

Horn became a principal because he wanted a profession that had some variety within it. He wanted to progress and change his role. He chose Etowah because he heard about its good reputation and was determined to make it even better. Before becoming Etowah’s newest principal, Horn was an instructional leader, social studies teacher, weight training coach and an assistant principal. He enjoys competing to improve.

Growing up, he always wanted to be a lawyer, but his father despised them, he had no idea what he wanted to do for his profession. It was junior year, Horn’s coaches helped him figure that out.

“My coaches helped me figure out that I wanted to pursue my job in a school environment.”

Some students and faculty wondered why Horn made changes to the school rules, and he explained that it was because he wanted students to feel safer and be prepared for rules that are given in college. Currently, safety for weather conditions is being worked on.

“The CCR bell was put in because when I was in college the professor would shut and lock the door when you were late,” Horn said.

Most importantly, he wants the students’ education to actively grow in the four-year span of high school.

“Treat other people the way you would want to be treated. That is always important throughout life,” Horn said.

Negativity does not bother him because he believes not every single person is going to be pleased with everything. Horn is excited for what this year has upon him and getting to know Cherokee county more.