Kendall Foster - Principal

Hello Norton Park Families!

Welcome to another exciting year at Norton Park Elementary! My name is Dr. Kendall Foster, and I am incredibly honored to serve as the PROUD Principal of this amazing school community. Our theme for the 2026–2027 school year is "Launch Into Learning!" As we begin another year together, I am excited about the opportunities ahead for our students, staff, and families.

I am currently in my 26th year as an educator in Cobb County School District, my 12th year as a principal, and my 5th year serving the Norton Park community. Education is truly a family passion. My wife is also a Cobb County educator, and together we have five children—two college freshmen, an 11th grader, a 9th grader, and a 7th grader—all of whom have attended or are currently attending Cobb County Schools.

Whether I was teaching in the classroom or serving as an administrator, the greatest joy of my career has always been building relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences while working together toward one common goal: providing every child with the very best educational experience possible.

At Norton Park, our mission is simple:

Invest. Engage. Enrich.

Invest

At Norton Park, we believe that relationships come first. Our teachers and staff are deeply invested in the success and well-being of every student. We don't just teach children—we care for them, encourage them, and help them discover their full potential.

One of our collective commitments is:

"Every adult is responsible for the success of every child."

You will see this commitment in action every day through collaborative teaching, purposeful small-group instruction, meaningful relationships, and celebrations of student growth and achievement. Our investment extends beyond the classroom as well, as our staff proudly serves our community through initiatives such as our food pantry, clothing closet, and numerous family support efforts.

Engage

Before becoming principal at Norton Park, I had the opportunity to participate in an Instructional Rounds learning walk here. I immediately knew this school was exemplary. I witnessed exceptional teaching in every grade level, but what impressed me most was the student enthusiasm for learning. They were actively engaged, excited to learn, and eager to participate. The positive culture throughout the building created an environment where learning thrived.

That culture continues today.

Our teachers are committed to providing engaging, innovative, and intentional instruction that challenges students while fostering curiosity, creativity, and confidence.

We also know that the strongest educational partnerships happen when schools and families work together. Parents and caregivers play an essential role in a child's success, and we encourage you to stay actively involved throughout the year.

You can support your child's learning by:

• Communicating regularly with your child's teacher about strengths, goals, and ways to reinforce learning at home.
• Reading together for 20–30 minutes each day to build a lifelong love of reading.
• Joining our outstanding PTA.
• Attending Family Engagement events, grade-level curriculum nights, International Night, Fine Arts Night, and other school activities.
• Volunteering at school through the PTA or in your child's classroom whenever possible.

Together, we can help every student reach their fullest potential.

Enrich

Our goal extends far beyond helping students achieve academic success. We want every Norton Park student to become a kind, responsible, confident, and compassionate member of our community.

Learning important life skills, building strong character, developing leadership, and serving others are all part of what makes Norton Park special. We are incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by families, business partners, volunteers, and community organizations that continually invest in our students.

It truly takes a village, and we are blessed to have such an extraordinary one here at "The Park."

As we Launch Into Learning, I invite you to partner with us throughout the year. Together, we will celebrate successes, overcome challenges, and create meaningful experiences that help every child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It is an honor and a privilege to serve the Norton Park community.

We cannot wait to welcome you back for another incredible year!

Go Eagles!

Dr. Kendall Foster
 Principal
 Norton Park Elementary School

Wendy Embry- Assistant Principal

Hello Norton Park families!  My name is Wendy Embry and I am proud to be one of your Assistant Principals here at Norton Park!  I have also previously been a classroom teacher, as well as an Assistant Principal at McCall and Hendricks Elementary!

I am passionate about helping every student reach their fullest potential and believe that all children can achieve at high levels when given the right support, encouragement, and opportunities.

Throughout my career in education, I have been committed to fostering strong relationships with students, families, and teachers. I believe that when we work together as a community, we create the conditions for success—academically, socially, and emotionally.

My focus is always on student achievement, not only in the classroom but also in developing the character and skills they need to thrive in life. I am excited to partner with you in supporting your child’s growth, celebrating their accomplishments, and ensuring they feel safe, valued, and challenged each day.

I look forward to an incredible school year together as we Invest, Engage, and Enrich here at Norton Park!

Warmly,

Sincerely,

Wendy Embry