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Peachtree Middle School

Dekalb County Schools

• Administration

Letter From The Principal

Letter from the Principal

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Dear Peachtree Middle Community – 

It is an honor and privilege to introduce myself as the principal of Peachtree Middle School.


My welcome to DeKalb has been the warmest, most supportive of my entire career, now spanning twenty years. I am thankful to be a part of a team dedicated to providing the best possible education for all students. My mission is to ensure that our students are and feel safe and supported. We know how important, and how challenging, the middle school years can be; it’s a dynamic time when children are growing into adults they will become, with questions, goals, and dreams about the future. It is our job to give them every opportunity to thrive and excel. And that is what I am dedicated to seeing happen for our Patriots. As an assistant principal and district leader, I encourage positive and strong relationships designed to support student success. I believe in and have encouraged, cooperation and collaboration among staff, students, and their families to establish student success and achievement. I know together, we will make great things happen for your children. 


I have worked in education as an Assistant Principal, an instructional specialist, an academic coach, and a departmental leader of communications, curriculum, and teacher and leader evaluations. I’ve also worked as a university professor, as well as in my favorite role, that of teacher. The majority of my career has been in Cobb County Schools. Recently, I have been working in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. My work at the Toronto District School Board has been as an Assistant Principal at two schools, one elementary and one middle school. I’m a visible leader, with a goal to help staff and students reach their full potential through continuous academic and social-emotional learning opportunities. I believe in building relationships to support our students, in schoolwide plans that promote efficiency and safety, and in strong, positive communication.


My training includes being a trauma-informed school leader, making pathways for student choice, voice and leadership, and restorative practices to support positive behaviors. Under my leadership, we will recognize and celebrate students and staff, engage in a partnership to ensure our children are well, healthy, and thriving, and ensure our district continues to provide the best possible educational experience for our students. It’s about equity, respect, and care for each other. It’s also about ensuring our children are prepared to thrive and succeed, today, and in the future.  

I’m absolutely thrilled to be the Principal of Peachtree Middle.

Sincerely,  

Jennifer Gates, Ph.D. 

Principal 

Peachtree Middle School