After more than 20 years with Gordon County Schools, including over four years as principal of Tolbert Elementary, Mrs. Shelley Allen is retiring on December 1st. Known for her commitment to educational excellence, Mrs. Allen has been a guiding force in the Tolbert community, leading her faculty, staff, and students to reach higher standards. Her impact on the school will be felt long after her departure, and she leaves behind a legacy of dedication and commitment that will be deeply missed.
Dr. Rebecca Owen has been named interim principal, set to begin on November 1st. Dr. Owen transitions to Tolbert Elementary from Ashworth Middle School, where she served as assistant principal. Her background in education includes experience as an Academic Coach and Instructional Specialist at Rome Middle School, in addition to 11 years as a teacher at Ashworth Middle School. She received her Doctor of Education from the University of West Georgia in 2019.
Dr. Owen and her husband Eric have two daughters, Maddie and Abigail. She is actively involved at Cedarcrest Church, where she serves in the special needs ministry. Reflecting on her new role, Dr. Owen said, “I am excited and blessed to be entrusted with this opportunity to work with Tolbert's students, staff, and families. Leadership is a service position, so I am grateful to be able to serve and to learn in a new capacity.”
As Tolbert Elementary prepares for this leadership transition, the school community honors Mrs. Allen’s years of dedication and welcomes Dr. Owen.