July 9, 2025—Michelle Gillham steps into the role of principal at Mount Bethel Elementary School, bringing more than two decades of experience as an educator. The veteran Cobb educator is honored to serve at a school with such a strong reputation for excellence in action and deep community roots. 

“As someone who was raised in Cobb County and is now raising my family here, I understand the pride people feel in their school communities—and I already see that same sense of purpose,” Principal Gillham explained. “I look forward to learning the traditions that make Mount Bethel special, building strong relationships, and working alongside this team to support continued growth for every child. Go, Buccaneers!” 

Lasting success for every student—that’s what Principal Gillham aims to accomplish with the help of Mount Bethel staff, families, and community. Learn more about Mount Bethel’s new school leader in the following Q&A. 

Question: What does “student success” mean to you?

Answer: “Student success is about helping each child reach their goals—whatever those goals may be. For some students, that might mean mastering a new concept, while for others, it could mean developing confidence or building positive peer relationships. As a principal, I want every student to feel known, supported, and encouraged. I believe success should be personal, and I’m committed to celebrating each student’s progress along the way.” 

Question: Under your leadership, how will you build on the school’s existing success?

Answer: “Great schools are built on strong relationships, clear expectations, and consistent systems of support—and Mount Bethel already has a solid foundation in all three. My focus will be on ensuring every student has access to high-quality instruction in every classroom, every day. That means working collaboratively with teachers to build sustainable systems that support learning and professional growth. I’ll also take time to listen, learn the culture, and identify what’s already working so we can build on it together. 

At the same time, I believe a school’s success is deeply connected to its community. I’m committed to strengthening partnerships with families and continuing to foster connections with organizations that enrich our students’ experiences. When we move forward with shared purpose—staff, families, and community together—we create the kind of momentum that leads to meaningful and lasting success.” 

Question: What role do you see parents and the community playing in supporting student success? 

Answer: “Parents and the community are essential partners in everything we do. I believe learning is stronger when it’s supported both at school and at home. Mount Bethel already benefits from incredible support through the PTA and Foundation, and I’m excited to continue those partnerships. When families and schools work together, students feel the impact—and they grow because of it.” 

Question: What do you like most about being an educator and principal?

Answer: “What I love most is that no two days are ever the same—and yet every day is a chance to make a difference. I love being present in the building, seeing students light up when they feel proud of themselves, watching teachers try something new and grow in their craft, or getting to sit beside a team as they solve real problems together. It’s the small, quiet moments that stay with me—like a student who loops back at dismissal just to share a personal win, or a note from a parent that reminds me the work matters. My favorite memories are never the big events—they’re the relationships that build over time and the joy that comes when someone feels seen, heard, and supported.” 

Question: Outside of school, where might parents and students find you?

Answer: “Outside of school, I’m usually with my husband, Matt, and our two children, Owen and Evan. We enjoy camping, attending church, and hanging out with our dog, Dakota. I love paddleboarding to unwind and recharge. For vacation, you will find me reading a good book on the beach while watching my family fish or hiking in a national park. You can also catch us cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs and Atlanta Braves. 

Our daughter, Evan, is in middle school and active in both visual arts and musical theatre. I love seeing shows with her at places like the Fox or City Springs—or being in the audience when she’s performing in a local or school production. Our son, Owen, recently graduated from Allatoona High School and is now serving in the United States Navy. They keep our life full and grounded.”