Gina McClenning has dedicated the past 25 years—her entire career as an educator—to serving students in Cobb Schools. From Sanders Elementary School and Teasley Elementary School to Hollydale Elementary School, she has loved every job because she has been able to positively impact students. 

Now, the veteran Cobb educator brings that passion and experience to Clay Harmony Leland Elementary School as the school’s new principal. 

“There are so many amazing things happening at Clay Harmony Leland, and I am honored to be chosen to lead this school community. The staff is strong and dedicated to student success, and the community is growing and committed to being an active part of the school, which is so exciting. I think my skills as an educator and leader and the already solid foundation that the school and community have are the perfect fit,” said Principal McClenning. 

Get to know Principal McClenning in this new Principal Profile, where she shares her strategies for building on the school’s accomplishments, the key role parents play, and where families may find her outside of school. 

Question: What does “student success” mean to you?

Answer: “Student success can take on many forms; academic, social, and emotional well-being are what resonate the most with me. My job is to ensure every person who is part of our school community is equipped to support students in all these areas. This will ensure they can be the best versions of themselves and experience success as defined by their needs. As a leader, I am dedicated to supporting both teachers and parents in the success of all our students.” 

Question: Under your leadership, how will you build on the school’s successes?

Answer: “I will build on the school’s successes by focusing on two things, fostering an environment where relationships are at the center of everything we do and continuing a laser focus on quality instruction. Every student deserves a high-quality teacher by design, not by chance. I am committed to ensuring our teachers are supported and equipped to do the work in an environment where relationships are valued and growing with all stakeholders.” 

Question: What role do you see parents and the community playing in supporting student success?

Answer: “I don’t think any school can truly be successful without the support of parents and the community. Student success comes in many forms; therefore, it isn’t just educators who are a part of every student’s success story. I believe in the saying ‘it takes a village’ because we cannot do it alone.” 

Question: What do you like most about being an educator and principal, or what is your favorite memory?

Answer: “I have loved every role I have served in whether working directly with students or in leadership. What I like most about being an educator and school leader is seeing the positive change that takes place over time with students and educators as their knowledge and experience grow. Being a part of a child’s story as their teacher or an adult’s story as their leader or mentor is the most powerful and rewarding part of what I have done for the past 25 years and will continue to do at Clay Harmony Leland.” 

Question: Outside of school, where might parents and students find you, or what is an interesting fact about you that the school community might enjoy learning?

Answer: “Outside of school, you might see me walking my dog around Smyrna or at any of the Chattahoochee River trails. I am a bit of a foodie, so there is a good chance you could spot me in any restaurant in any part of town! I have a daughter who is active in the musical theatre scene in and around Atlanta, and if I’m not spending time with family and friends on the weekend, I am most likely sitting in a theatre somewhere, cheering her on as she sings and dances her way across the stage.”