July 8, 2025—Stepping into the role as principal of Acworth Elementary School is a dream come true for Acworth native Dr. Tiffany Hourigan. 

“It is my greatest honor to be named the principal at Acworth Elementary! As a proud Acworth native, a North Cobb High School graduate, and someone raising a family in this wonderful community, this truly feels like a dream come true,” Principal Hourigan declared. 

She already knows what makes Acworth Elementary special: a dedicated staff, supportive parents, a strong focus on student learning, and, of course, a welcoming atmosphere. But it’s the broader community spirit that stands out most to her. From local businesses and city officials to churches and families, the entire Acworth community is united in the shared mission of helping students thrive. 

With 17 years of experience—all served in Cobb Schools—Principal Tiffany Hourigan brings a deep understanding of the district and a proven passion for student success. Now, she’s ready to build on Acworth Elementary’s strong foundation of success and community partnership. Get to know more about Principal Hourigan in the Q&A below: 

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

Answer: “Student success means that every student is learning and growing to their highest potential! Students should be supported, challenged, and empowered to set high goals for themselves. Our role as educators is to create an environment where every child feels valued and motivated for excellence. By recognizing and nurturing each student’s unique strengths, talents, and interests, we can help them grow academically, socially, and emotionally- preparing them not just for school, but for life.” 

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

Answer: “I am committed to continuing the proud tradition of excellence at Acworth Elementary and within the greater Acworth community. By building strong, meaningful relationships with students, staff, families, and community partners, we can work together to support student success at every level. My passion for education, positive mindset, and high energy will help foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and high-quality instruction. Through a One Team approach, we will build on Acworth Elementary’s successes and continue to create a supportive, engaging, and empowering learning environment for all.” 

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

Answer: “Parents and the community play a vital role in student success. The strong foundation and unwavering support that families provide set the stage for academic achievement in the classroom. When educators and families work together in close partnership, it creates a One Team approach to learning that empowers students to thrive. A supportive community is equally essential. By meeting the diverse needs of our students, our community partners help us prepare them not only for academic success but for the real world they will enter as future leaders and contributors to society.” 

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

Answer: “The greatest joy of being an educator is the lasting impact we have on students’ lives. We have the unique opportunity to lay a strong academic foundation, nurture a love for learning, and build positive, encouraging relationships that students carry with them well beyond the classroom. One of the most rewarding moments is when former students return to share the impact we made on their lives. These moments remind us why we do what we do and inspire us to continue shaping the future.” 

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: “Outside of school, my greatest joy is being with my family and cheering on our kids- Brooks (13), Ramsey (11), and Eden (9)—at their many activities. Whether it's baseball, basketball, football, gymnastics, cheerleading, or theater, my husband and I love supporting them and watching them stay active and involved in the Acworth community. We’re also proud Georgia Bulldogs fans! A fun fact about me: during my time at the University of Georgia, I was a member of both the gymnastics team and the competitive cheerleading team!”