Students at the Carroll County Area Technology Center know Chad Rose as the person who greets them each morning with a smile, a high five and plenty of enthusiasm. As the school day ends, they often leave the building the same way, sometimes accompanied by a cheer or even a song from Rose as they head home.
That daily tradition reflects the approach he plans to bring as the new assistant principal at Carroll County Middle School.
Rose believes some of life's most important lessons are learned long before graduation, and he sees middle school as one of the most influential seasons in a young person's life.
After 19 years in education, Rose brings experience from the classroom, counseling office and career and technical education. He taught students for 10 years, spent three years as a school counselor and most recently served six years as student advisor at the Carroll County Area Technology Center.
Although his career has taken several different paths, each experience has prepared him for school leadership.
"I have felt a call to leadership during the last couple of years," Rose said. "I've been working on my principal certification since 2024, and I feel my experiences, both good and challenging, have prepared me to lead. They have brought me to a place where I believe I have something meaningful to offer."
Rose credits former Owen County High School Principal Duane Kline with helping him recognize that potential early in his career.
"Duane was the first administrator who saw leadership potential in me, even though I didn't see it at the time," Rose said. "His belief in me made a lasting impact, and I truly believe I wouldn't be where I am today without his leadership."
Rose also is excited to continue working alongside new Carroll County Middle School Principal Kirk Brooks. The two spent the past several years together at the Carroll County Area Technology Center, where they developed a strong working relationship built on shared values and a student-first mindset.
"I've had the privilege of working alongside Kirk, and I know how much he cares about students and staff," Rose said. "We work well together, and I'm excited to continue that partnership at CCMS."
Rose believes their experience together, combined with the knowledge and strengths of the existing administrative team, will create a collaborative leadership group focused on supporting students, teachers and families.
Rose has worked with students of every age, yet middle school has always stood out to him.
"I love kids of all ages, but middle school is such an important time," he said. "Students are still discovering who they are. They are learning to think independently, choosing the people they surround themselves with and making decisions that help shape the adults they will become. Helping them grow into good humans is one of the most meaningful parts of this profession."
As assistant principal, Rose hopes to build relationships while creating a positive school culture where students and teachers feel supported.
"I want to bring joy and genuine care to the building every day," he said. "I hope students know they are valued, and I want our teachers to know they have someone they can count on. Being present throughout the building is important to me because strong relationships create an environment where teachers can teach and students can learn."
Outside school, Rose enjoys spending time with his wife, Anna, and their daughters, Viola and Vera. The family lives on a hobby farm near the Carroll and Owen county line, where they care for goats, rabbits, chickens, ducks, cats, dogs and a mini pig. He also enjoys singing, playing music, hunting, hiking, camping and traveling together. He serves as worship pastor at Epoch Fellowship Church in Owenton, another opportunity that reflects his passion for encouraging others and building community.
Rose said he hopes every student who walks through the doors at Carroll County Middle School feels welcomed, supported and valued.
"If people know they are cared about and supported, amazing things can happen," he said. "I'm excited to get started and help our students grow, both inside and outside the classroom."