June 18, 2026 — With 21 years of experience in education—soon entering her 22nd year—and 12 years of service in Cobb Schools, McCleskey Middle School’s new principal brings a strong commitment to student achievement, instructional excellence, and continuous growth for both students and staff. 

“I am excited to join the McCleskey community because of its strong academic performance and consistent growth,” shared McCleskey Principal Dr. Tonya Polk. “It is clear that McCleskey has a solid foundation, and I look forward to collaborating with teachers to continue building on that success. I am also excited to continue serving a community that I have already become familiar with. Over the past two years, I have gained insight into the skills students bring to high school and the areas where they need stronger preparation, and I look forward to using that experience to help ensure McCleskey students are fully prepared for the next level."

Having gained recent insight into student readiness at the high school level, Dr. Polk is eager to bring that perspective back to middle school to help ensure students are prepared for their next academic steps.

In the Q&A below, Dr. Polk shares more about her vision for student success, commitment to collaborative leadership, and focus on creating a supportive environment where all students can thrive academically and personally.

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

Answer: "Student success means that every student is engaged in learning, demonstrates growth, and achieves at high levels based on their individual needs and potential. It includes students consistently showing up ready to learn, mastering standards, and clearly demonstrating their understanding. I also believe success is reflected in lasting learning that leads to meaningful change, as well as in the development of well-rounded students who participate in activities beyond the classroom. Ultimately, student success is measured not only by achievement, but by continuous progress—recognizing that all growth and improvement matter."

Question: Under your leadership, how will you build on McCleskey's successes?

Answer: "Building on McCleskey’s success starts with honoring the strong foundation already in place and continuing the great work happening each day. A key priority will be collaborating with teachers to ensure they have the resources and professional learning needed to deliver high-quality instruction, while also removing barriers that can interrupt teaching and learning. Creating an environment where both students and staff feel supported, challenged, and able to grow will remain central, along with sharing the school’s successes so the broader community can fully see and celebrate the impact of McCleskey."

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

Answer: "Student success depends on strong partnerships between families, schools, and the community. Families play an important role by ensuring students are present, prepared, and ready to learn each day, which directly supports achievement. Beyond that, parents and community members strengthen the school by volunteering, mentoring, and providing experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom. When schools and families work together, it creates a stronger support system for students and helps ensure they are successful both academically and personally."

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

Answer: "What I value most about being an educator is seeing the lasting impact that a positive school experience can have on students. I have seen firsthand how strong teaching, supportive relationships, and meaningful learning opportunities shape students’ growth and open doors for their future. There is no greater reward than seeing a student succeed or graduate and knowing you played a role in that journey, and then witnessing how that experience continues to influence their life in a positive way."

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

Answer: "Outside of school, you’ll see me spending time with my family, including my mom, sisters, son, and my nieces and nephews. I especially enjoy being out with my twin sister, who is also a first-year middle school principal in Cobb. I also enjoy attending Southern Soul concerts throughout metro Atlanta. Music and family time are two of my favorite ways to recharge."