Anissa Johnson, New Principal At Fowler Drive Elementary

Anissa Johnson was hired as the new principal of earlier this summer.

Johnson previously served as assistant principal at and holds an education specialist degree from the University of Georgia. She started out as a teacher at Coile Middle in 1999, and spent a few years as a counselor at before returning to take the assistant principal post in 2006.

Now she is taking the role as leader of Fowler Drive Elementary, bringing with her a belief that was instilled in her while she was a student at UGA.

“College begins in kindergarten. That is something I want to perpetuate as my legacy here. Even if all students don’t decide to go to college, the preparation begins in elementary school,” Johnson said.

While the summer months are viewed as time off for most educators, teachers at Fowler Drive used June and July to prepare for the start of school and are already thinking about ways to differentiate and improve their lesson plans.

Some have done research to extend curriculum and improve weaknesses they noticed last school year.

“I’m really excited with the level of energy and knowledge I’ve seen with the teachers,” Johnson said. “They are already thinking about their students and lessons. They talk about their standards and what happened last year, their gaps and weaknesses. They know where they want to go, even without me discussing my vision and things I think need to be addressed.”

She added that the brand new, science-themed building is a learning tool itself.  Through a student’s eye, there are hidden secrets and teaching tools everywhere, with something you can learn from around every corner.

Johnson says parent involvement is vital, and that she will work with the PTO closely to form a good relationship with the community.

She has been married to her husband Kevin, a native Athenian, for 17 years and has grown to love serving the local community.

“I am looking forward to the 2011-2012 school year. I am interested in making the Fowler Falcon community the best, most productive citizens and students that the nation can offer.”