Email Dr. Cook

Hello, Premier Panthers!

I am honored and excited to join the Cowan Road Middle School family as the new Assistant Principal! My name is Dr. Leigh Anne Cook, and I bring 15 years of educational experience, including service as a classroom teacher, Grade Level Chair, PBIS Coach, Capturing Kids' Hearts Coach, Mentor Teacher, and Lighthouse Coordinator.

I earned my Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University and have dedicated my career to building positive relationships, fostering student growth, and creating a school culture where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
I believe that strong relationships, high expectations, and collaboration with families and staff are the foundation of student success. I am eager to partner with our students, teachers, parents, and community as we continue the tradition of excellence at Cowan Road Middle School.

I look forward to meeting everyone and becoming an active part of the Panther family. It's going to be an amazing year!
#PantherPride #CRMSPanthers #StudentSuccess #EducationalLeadership #PantherFamily

Email Dr. Danny Smith

Greetings!

It is with great honor and enthusiasm that I serve the Griffin-Spalding community.

My educational journey began at Fort Valley State University (Go Wildcats!), where I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science. I continued my academic path at Georgia State University, earning a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, and ultimately completed my studies at Capella University, where I earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction.

I began my career in education at North Clayton High School (Clayton County) as a mathematics teacher and football coach. I later joined Creekside High School (Fulton County), where I taught mathematics and coached football, wrestling, and track and field. My passion for instructional excellence led me to the role of Mathematics Instructional Coach and Title I Support Specialist for Fulton County Schools. Most recently, I served as an Assistant Principal at both Herman J. Russell West End Academy (Atlanta Public Schools) and Carver Road Middle School.

Outside of my professional life, I am the proud father of my son, Danny Jr., and I truly value the time we spend together as he grows and pursues his own goals.

While I am not originally from Griffin, I am deeply committed to the success of this community and honored to contribute to its continued growth. I look forward to working collaboratively with families, staff, and students to make this school year a dynamic and successful one.

Warm regards,
Danny Smith, Ph.D.