Celebrating National Principals Month: Valerie Lowery of Clayton ES!

October is National Principals Month! Our Principals are amazing instructional leaders dedicated to ensuring our students learn more, grow more, and achieve more in our classrooms than they could anywhere else!  We’re recognizing these inspiring leaders with special posts throughout the month. Please join us in thanking them for all they do to support our mission of being the highest performing school district in Georgia. 

Clayton Elementary School Principal Valerie Lowery

Why did you want to become a teacher? 
Teaching was the family business.  I grew up surrounded by lesson plans, grading, and stories from the classroom.  I watched the joy my parents found in their students’ successes and the way they poured their hearts into both students and the community.  Somewhere along the way, I realized I wanted that, too — the chance to make a difference.

Who was the most influential teacher in your life? 
The most influential teacher I ever had was Frankie Shepherd.  She never let me settle for less than my best.  She challenged me to dig deeper, to think harder, and to rise to my potential.  Her belief in me changed the way I believed in myself, and her influence still inspires me today.

What’s a favorite memory from your first year as a teacher? 
My first year of teaching was full of learning and special moments, but my favorite memory was seeing a student’s face light up when all their hard work finally paid off.

How did teaching prepare you to be a Principal? 
Teaching prepared me to be a Principal by giving me firsthand insight into what students need and the dedication teachers pour into their work every day.  Those experiences continue to shape how I support teachers and guide learning so that every student can thrive. 

#CCSDElevateTheExcellence #ThankAPrincipal