Dowell Elementary School’s new principal has a lifelong connection to Cobb Schools—from student to school leader. Principal Pamela Cain, a proud graduate of Wheeler High School and lifelong Georgia resident, has served as an educator for 28 years, all but one in Cobb.
Most of her career has been in elementary schools, and her dedication to young learners is evident in every step she’s taken. She has dedicated 10 years to guiding student success as a school principal, and although she served two years in a middle school as an assistant administrator, elementary education is where her heart has always been. That’s one of the reasons she is looking forward to supporting students at Dowell,
The veteran educator is also especially drawn to Dowell’s strong sense of community and its commitment to STEAM and Arts Integration.
“What excites me most is the chance to work with such a dedicated and proactive team of educators who truly know their students, collaborate to meet their needs, and continually strive to grow,” Principal Cain shared. “I’m honored to lead and learn alongside them as we continue to nurture a joyful, inclusive, and forward-thinking school community.
Dowell’s school community reflects Principal Cain’s core values of collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to every child’s growth. She’s especially inspired by Dowell’s strong culture of shared leadership and support for both teachers and students.
In this New Principal Profile, Principal Cain shares more about what the Dowell school community can expect under her leadership, how she plans to support students and teachers, and how parents and the community can help.
Question: What does “student success” mean to you?
Answer: “As an elementary school principal, I define student success as the holistic development of each child—academically, socially, emotionally, and creatively. True success goes beyond test scores; it’s about nurturing curious, compassionate, and confident learners who are equipped with the skills and character to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
My goal is to help teachers help students build strong academic foundations while also encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning. Equally important is supporting each student’s emotional well-being, helping them develop resilience, empathy, and a sense of responsibility to others.
Ultimately, student success means preparing our young learners to become kind, thoughtful, and capable citizens—ready to contribute positively to their communities and to navigate an ever-changing world with confidence and purpose.”
Question: Under your leadership, how will you build on the school’s successes?
Answer: “As an educator and leader, I believe schools thrive when there’s a strong partnership between staff, students, families, and the broader community. From what I’ve already seen, this school embodies that spirit of collaboration and care. I’m eager to build on the great work already being done, to support our dedicated teachers, and to create spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and challenged to reach their highest potential.”
Question: What role do parents and the community play in supporting student success?
Answer: “Parents and the community play a vital role in student success. When families are engaged and connected to their child’s learning, it reinforces the importance of education and helps students feel supported at home and school.
A strong, embracing community enhances this support by bringing additional resources, partnerships, and real-world connections into the learning environment. Together, parents and the community help create a nurturing, collaborative space where students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Student success is truly a shared effort, and I see the school as a hub for meaningful partnerships that uplift every child.”
Question: What do you like most about being a principal, and what is your favorite memory as an educator?
Answer: “What I love most about being a principal is the joy that fills a school when students feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing smiling faces in the morning and knowing that school is a place where children feel a true sense of belonging. I’m passionate about creating an environment where learning is engaging, relationships are strong, and every child feels inspired to grow.
Some of my favorite memories as an educator involve mentoring students and working with small groups to help them achieve academic breakthroughs—it’s incredibly meaningful to be there when a student discovers their own potential, which is an experience I deeply value. I also cherish the moments when I get to celebrate the incredible work and life milestones of our teachers, whether it’s honoring a Teacher of the Year or welcoming a new baby into their family.
And honestly, I love the moments outside of the traditional school day too—spring flings, school dances, family nights—those events where we get to see our students just being kids, laughing, playing, and building memories. It’s in those moments that the heart of a school community really shines.”
Question: Outside of school, where might parents and students find you, or what’s an interesting fact about you that the school community might enjoy learning?
Answer: “I’m proud to be a lifelong Georgia resident and a product of Cobb County Schools. I grew up here, attended Cobb schools, and graduated from Wheeler High School—so serving this community truly feels like my purpose.
Outside of school, my greatest joy comes from spending time with my family. My husband, Dan, and I are blessed with three grown children, wonderful sons-in-law and a daughter-in-law, and seven incredible grandchildren. You might find me cheering from the sidelines at a softball or baseball game, attending a chorus concert, or simply enjoying time outdoors with my grandchildren. I also love taking long walks, spending time in nature, and finding a good deal while out shopping.
Being active in both my family life and church keeps me grounded and reminds me daily of the importance of the work we do in our schools.”
