June 23, 2026 — When Dr. Landon Odom steps into the role as principal at Allatoona High School, he is bringing more than his 20 years of education experience as a teacher, coach, and school leader. He is also bringing a deep connection to the Allatoona community—the place his family calls home. 

Dr. Odom, who most recently served as assistant principal at Kell High School, is looking forward to building on Allatoona’s strong foundation by partnering with students, staff, families, and community members. The veteran educator is strongly committed to building relationships, setting high expectations, and supporting every student’s success.

"Student success means helping every student reach their full potential," Dr. Odom said. "While academic achievement is certainly important, success goes beyond grades and test scores. It includes preparing students for college, careers, military service, and life after high school."

In the Q&A below, Dr. Odom shares more about his leadership philosophy, his commitment to student success, and his vision for continuing Allatoona’s tradition of excellence through strong partnerships with families and the community.

Question: Why are you excited about joining the Allatoona community? 

Answer: "I am excited about joining the Allatoona community because it is a school with a strong tradition of excellence, pride, and community support. What makes this opportunity even more special is that my family is part of the Allatoona cluster. My wife and I have three daughters, with two attending Pickett’s Mill Elementary and one attending Durham Middle School. As a parent, I am personally invested in the success of Allatoona High School and the future of this community. I look forward to building relationships with students, staff, families, and community members as we continue the great work already taking place."

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

Answer: "My goal is to honor and build upon the strong foundation already established at Allatoona High School. I believe in listening first, learning from the staff, students, families, and community, and understanding what makes Allatoona special. Together, we will continue to focus on academic excellence, student involvement, strong school culture, and meaningful opportunities for all students."

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

Answer: "Parents and community members are essential partners in education. Schools are strongest when families, businesses, community organizations, and educators work together toward a common goal. Parents provide invaluable support, encouragement, and perspective, while community partners help create opportunities that enrich the student experience. I look forward to building strong partnerships and maintaining open communication to collectively support the success of all students."

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

Answer: "The most rewarding part of being an educator is watching students grow and achieve goals they may have believed were not possible. Whether it’s seeing a student overcome challenges, walk across the graduation stage, earn a scholarship, or simply gain confidence in themselves, those moments never get old. What I enjoy most about being a principal is having the opportunity to positively impact not only students but also teachers and families. Education is truly a people-centered profession, and being part of those success stories is incredibly meaningful." 

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

Answer: "Outside of school, you will often find me spending time with my family, attending my daughters’ activities, supporting local schools, or cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs. Because my family is part of the Allatoona cluster, there’s a good chance you’ll see me at school events long after the school day ends."