New Principal Profile: Dr. Andy Bristow, Durham Middle School

EDITOR'S NOTE: Cobb students return to school on Thursday, August 1. Patch is committed to providing students and parents the information they need to prepare for the 2019-20 school year. Below is the latest in a series of articles on new hires, issues and trends for the new Cobb County school year.

Q: Why are you excited about joining the Durham Middle School community?

“I am excited about joining the Durham Middle School community, and working with the school’s staff, students, parents, and community partners to continue Durham’s long tradition of excellence. I’m impressed by the way Durham students embrace academic success and the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program, which aims to improve social, emotional, and academic outcomes for all students. Moving forward, I want to continue the traditions and give all students opportunities to achieve even higher academic success.”

Q: What does student success look like for you?

“Student success is defined by each individual student and their goals and aspirations. Success can be found in the classroom, within the community through organizations, or in extracurricular activities. I believe when students are able to obtain success in any area, it increases their opportunity for growth and success in other areas of their lives.”

Q: What do you like most about being an educator and principal?

“I like getting to know the students and seeing their growth over the years. As an educator, I get to see a student transform and often get to see the proverbial light turn on when they are able to get a concept or master a subject. I also get to share in their joy of learning and reaching success.”

Q: Outside school, where might students, parents or staff members find you?

“My wife and I are very active and are often running trails, out walking within the community or attending community events.”

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