1.  

Administration

SHARE
twitter
Michelle Gillham, PrincipalMichelle.Gillham@cobbk12.org

Michelle.jpg


As someone who was raised in Cobb County and is now raising my own family here, I understand the pride people feel in their school communities—and I already see that same sense of purpose at Mount Bethel. I’m honored to join a school known for academic excellence, engaged families, and a dedicated staff. I look forward to learning the traditions that make Mount Bethel special, building strong relationships, and supporting continued growth for every child. Go, Buccaneers!

With ten years of classroom teaching experience and ten years as an assistant principal, I’m thrilled to step into this new leadership role as principal of Mount Bethel. It’s a privilege to serve a school community so clearly dedicated to student growth and success.

I earned my Bachelor's degree in child and Family Development and Early Childhood Education from the University of Georgia, followed by a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University and a Specialist degree from Berry College. I am currently completing my doctoral degree (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership at the University of West Georgia, with anticipated graduation in December 2025.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Matt, and our two children, Owen and Evan. We love camping, attending church, and hanging out with our dog, Dakota. I also enjoy paddleboarding to unwind and recharge. Our daughter Evan is in middle school and active in visual arts and musical theatre. Our son Owen recently graduated from Allatoona High School and is now serving in the United States Navy. For vacations, you’ll find us hiking in national parks, relaxing on the beach, or cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs and Atlanta Braves.

Ashley Ford, Assistant Principal (3rd-5th Grades)Ashley.Ford@cobbk12.org

Ford Headshot 2025.jpg


It is a true honor to serve as an Assistant Principal at Mt. Bethel Elementary School. As a proud graduate of Mt. Bethel, Dickerson Middle School, and Walton High School, I wholeheartedly believe in the saying, “Once a Buccaneer, always a Buccaneer!” Returning to my roots and supporting the incredible staff, students, and families of Mt. Bethel is a privilege I cherish every day.

I grew up in East Cobb and attended Presbyterian College on a softball scholarship, earning my B.S. in Special Education (PK–12). My career in education began in Clinton, South Carolina, where I taught at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, while also coaching basketball and softball. In 2012, I earned my Master’s in Educational Leadership from Winthrop University and returned home to East Cobb.

Over the past 16 years in education, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles across Cobb County, including IRR teacher and SSA at Fair Oaks Elementary, SSA at Sedalia Park Elementary, School Leadership Intern and Assistant Principal at Smyrna Elementary, and assistant and head softball coach at Walton High School. For the past four years, I’ve proudly served as one of the Assistant Principals at Mt. Bethel Elementary.

I am currently pursuing my Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of West Georgia and look forward to graduating in May 2026.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading, gardening, visiting the beach, and exploring downtown Woodstock. I’m also a passionate Georgia Bulldogs and Atlanta Braves fan—Go Dawgs and Braves!

Alexa Dean, Assistant Principal (K-2nd Grades)Alexa.Dean@cobbk12.org

Alexa Dean Headshot 25.jpg


Hello Mount Bethel Family,

I’m so excited to begin another amazing year as an Assistant Principal at Mount Bethel Elementary! As I enter my third year here, I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of this special MBES community. Each day, I’m reminded of the heart, dedication, and commitment to excellence that make this school so exceptional.

I am a proud graduate of Pope High School, where I played soccer and lacrosse, and realized my passion for working with young students. After high school, I continued my soccer career, and earned my degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University. I later completed my master’s degree in Instructional Technology at Kennesaw State University, and I’m currently finishing my specialist degree in Educational Leadership at the University of West Georgia. I’ve grown into a life-long learner, motivated by the younger version of myself who struggled through school. I use my experience as a student to help ensure all our kiddos get an educational experience that meets their differing needs. And my experience as an athlete, from a young age all the way through college, has engrained in me a mindset of collaboration, teamwork, perseverance, and grit. I carry these qualities into all that I do as I serve this community.

I have recently passed one of my sons off to Hightower Trail Middle School, and I enjoy my time with my younger son here at Mount Bethel in second grade. My husband, boys, and I are avid Braves fans, love visiting new minor league baseball stadiums, and we go out of our way on every road trip to visit every National Park Unit and National Historical site we can! Raising well-rounded boys to become good humans will always remain a priority in my family.

I’m proud to work alongside the best administrative team around, as we are all committed to the success of every student, staff member, and family here at MBES. I look forward to another great year of learning, growing, and celebrating together!

Alix Combs, Special Services Administrator (K-5th Grades)Alix.Combs@cobbk12.org
Alix.jpeg

I am thrilled to serve on the Mount Bethel team for four years now as the Support and Service Administrator (SSA).  This is my 19th year in Cobb County and my 5th year as an SSA.  I began my teaching career at Fair Oaks Elementary, where I taught students who had Moderate Intellectual Disabilities for seven years.  I then transitioned roles as an Intellectual Disability Trainer for five years, followed by a Social-Emotional Support/Environmental Engagement Program Support Specialist for two years.

I am a lifelong learner, having recently completed my Leadership Certification from the University of West Georgia and a Doctoral Degree from the American College of Education in Leadership.  I am excited to be part of an incredible school and support the school’s mission to ENGAGE AND ENRICH THE WHOLE CHILD so we can continue our vision and be a SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE WHERE ALL STUDENTS SUCCEED. I look forward to continuing this journey at Mount Bethel and supporting staff, students, and families.

On a personal note, I am a Cobb County graduate (Pope High School) and live in the community with my husband, two sons (also attend district schools), and two dogs (you may see me out walking them – or perhaps them walking me!).  Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching sports, and staying active!