With over 20 years in education—including 15 years in Cobb Schools—Dr. Vanessa Watkins brings a wealth of experience to her new role as principal of Betty Gray Middle School. She has supported students at both the middle and high school levels and understands the critical academic and developmental milestones that middle schoolers must reach to thrive in high school and beyond. 

“I am excited to return to middle school and to join Betty Gray to help continue and build upon the legacy of Dr. Magee, the leadership team, teachers, staff, parents, and the community,” said Dr. Watkins. 

Her time at the high school level has given her a clear perspective on what skills, habits, and support systems students need to build now in order to succeed later. As she steps into leadership at Betty Gray, Dr. Watkins is looking forward to welcoming students and their families and setting the tone for a successful new school year. 

Get to know more about Dr. Watkins in the Q&A below: 

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

Answer: “Student success to me means working collaboratively with the entire school community of parents, teachers, staff, administrators, community members, and students to focus on the individual and collective needs of students. Student success means building positive relationships with students to help them understand that they matter as an individual, and that as the principal, it is my job to work collaboratively with them and the adults to help them find success in school.” 

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

Answer: “I believe in shared leadership and the involvement of all stakeholders- parents, teachers, students, and staff. All stakeholders play a part in a school’s success, and building positive relationships with those stakeholders helps to build trust and, in turn, individual student and school success.” 

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

Answer: “Parents play a vital role in their students’ success. It is essential that schools continuously collaborate with parents in all aspects of their students' education so that the student can have the opportunity to be successful in school and beyond.” 

Question: What do you like most about being a principal?

Answer: “I love the positive relationships that are built with teachers, staff, students, and parents. As a principal, we have a unique opportunity to interact with hundreds of students and adults each day. We have the opportunity to learn about and meet their family members and walk with them through life’s challenges. What an amazing opportunity and privilege!” 

Question: What are some interesting facts about you that the school community might enjoy learning?

Answer: “Some interesting facts about me are that I enjoy spending time with my family, practicing my Spanish, exercising, baking, and reading.”