East Lake
Elementary School
Assistant Principal - Melissa Southern
I am thrilled to continue serving as an assistant principal at East Lake Elementary for the 2026–2027 school year.
My husband, Keith, and I are proud residents of McDonough and have been married for 26 years. We have two children, Tyler (24) and Faith (21), both graduates of Union Grove High School and products of Henry County Schools. Tyler has returned to Union Grove High School as a teacher and coach, and Faith will begin her senior year at Gordon State College this fall as she enters the final stretch of the nursing program. I couldn't be prouder of both of them!
My journey into education took a nontraditional path. After exploring several other career fields, I discovered my passion for teaching while working with the 4-year-old preschool program at Bethany Baptist Church. I taught there in the mornings while attending Mercer University in the evenings, all while balancing the responsibilities of being a wife and mother. I graduated from Mercer University in May 2011 with a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. I went on to earn a master's degree in August 2015 and a specialist degree in Teacher Leadership in December 2016. In 2023, I completed my Tier I Educational Leadership certification, followed by my Tier II certification in December 2025 at the University of West Georgia.
This year marks my 16th year in education, all of which I have proudly spent serving students in Henry County. During that time, I have served as a fourth- and fifth-grade teacher, an instructional coach, and now I am excited to begin my fourth year as assistant principal at East Lake Elementary.
I firmly believe that a school should be a place where students, teachers, and families feel welcomed, valued, and inspired. As your assistant principal, I am committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where every child can thrive. As an instructional leader, I will continue working alongside our teachers to support high-quality instruction and empower every student to reach their highest potential.
I value the partnership between home and school and welcome your input as we begin another exciting year together. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, concerns, or ideas. I look forward to partnering with you to make the 2026–2027 school year a wonderful one for our East Lake Elementary family.
Here's to a year of learning, growth, and new opportunities as we continue to Level UP together. I am honored to serve our students, families, and staff, and I can't wait to see all that we will accomplish this year. Let's make it our best year yet!
Melissa Southern, Ed.S.
Assistant Principal
East Lake Elementary School
678.583.8947