eighth and ninth grade school. The campus was changed to seventh and eighth grades beginning the fall of 2020, but remained as eighth and ninth grade in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This allowed for social distancing at Elmira High School which housed grades ten through twelve. Notable alumni Hal Roach (1908) – Film and TV producer with a career spanning much of the 20th century. In 1984, he won the honorary Academy Honorary Award for Lifetime Achievement. Ernie Davis (1958) – First African American to win the Heisman Trophy, and two time All-American. Drafted by Washington Redskins and traded to Cleveland Browns before he died from leukemia in 1963. Bob DeLaney (1942) – Sports announcer Tommy Hilfiger (1969) – Fashion designer and creator of the eponymous "Tommy Hilfiger" and "Tommy" brands. Eileen Collins (1974) – Retired Astronaut, first female pilot, commander of the Space Shuttle Principals Colin Werfelman: 2022–Present Carrie Rollins: 2014–2021 John Wood: 2013–2014 (beginning of Ernie Davis Academy) Chris Krantz: 2012–2013 (end of Elmira Free Academy) John Wood: 2008–2012 Scott Williams: 2006–2008 Robert Bailey III: 2000–2006 John Walker: 1996–2000 Theodore V. Faber: 1995–1996 Cynthia H. Haigh: 1994–1995 Joseph H. Nikiel: 1988–1994 Daile Rose: 1984–1988 Dr.William J Doran: 1981–1984 Martin Harrigan: 1973–1980 G. Ellsworth Bradley: 1969–1973 Kenneth S. Weaver: 1954–1969 Albert Helmkamp: 1936–1954 Francis Parker: 1906–1936 Howard Conant: 1900–1906 Charles Evans: 1895–1900 Herbert Lovell: 1887–1895 James Monks: 1872–1887 Joel Dorman Steele: 1866–1872 G.W. Timlow: 1865–1866 Isaac Mortimer Wellington: 1860–1865 Moses Summer Converse: 1859–1860 References External links Elmira Free Academy Public high schools in New York (state) Buildings and structures in Elmira, New York Schools in Chemung County, New York 1859 establishments in New York (state)