April 25, 2025—Kennesaw Elementary School is welcoming a new leader who is no stranger to the Cobb County School District. With 26 years as an elementary school educator, Principal Beth Lair brings a wealth of experience, a deep love for learning, and a steadfast commitment to student success.

Principal Lair began her career at Frey Elementary School and helped open Bullard Elementary School before serving as an instructional coach at Austell Intermediate School. Her leadership journey continued as assistant principal at both Varner and Still elementary schools. For the past eight years, she has served as the principal of Compton Elementary School.

Although she leaves behind a school community she deeply cherishes, Principal Lair is eager to begin her next chapter at Kennesaw Elementary.

“I’m looking forward to building relationships, supporting the incredible work already in place, and contributing to a school known for its heart, dedication, and strong commitment to student success,” she shared. “It’s an honor to join a community with such a strong tradition of excellence, and I’m excited to be part of its continued growth.”

Learn more about this dedicated servant leader in this new principal profile.

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

Answer: “To me, student success means helping every child grow as a confident, curious, and capable learner. It’s about creating joyful, engaging learning experiences that build strong academic foundations while also encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and a love for learning. When students feel safe, supported, and inspired, they are more likely to take risks, try their best, and develop the skills they need for future success.”

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

Answer: “I will honor the strong foundation already in place at Kennesaw Elementary by listening, learning, and partnering with staff, families, and the community. I believe in listening first, building strong relationships, and supporting teachers and staff so that we can create the best possible learning experiences for our students. It’s about growing together while keeping student success at the heart of everything we do.”

Question: What role do parents and the community play in supporting student success?

Answer: “Parents and the community are essential partners in supporting student success. When schools, families, and the community work together, students benefit from consistent support and encouragement. I believe in creating strong, welcoming connections where families feel informed, involved, and valued, and where the community is actively engaged in helping our children grow as learners and individuals. These partnerships help create a school environment where every child feels encouraged to do their best and excited to learn.”

Question: What is your favorite memory as an educator?

Answer: “One of my fondest memories as a teacher was when I taught 3rd grade, and my students were learning about multiplication through real-world problem solving. We had been working on designing our own classroom store, where students used multiplication to calculate prices and figure out how much money they would need to buy multiple items. They were so into it that one student asked if we could keep working on it the next day. That excitement, when students are learning and don’t want to stop, is something I’ll never forget. As a principal, I love visiting classrooms and supporting teachers in creating those kinds of hands-on, engaging learning experiences. My goal is to help build a school environment where those moments happen every day.”

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

Answer: “Outside of school, you’ll find me spending time with my family, whether we’re enjoying a new movie, cheering on my son at his Friday night football games, or shopping around Cobb County. We enjoy discovering new places around town, and I’m always excited to be part of this wonderful community.”