Celebrating National Principals Month: Joey Moss of Clark Creek ES STEM Academy!

October is National Principals Month! Our Principals are amazing instructional leaders dedicated to ensuring our students learn more, grow more, and achieve more in our classrooms than they could anywhere else!  We’re recognizing these inspiring leaders with special posts throughout the month. Please join us in thanking them for all they do to support our mission of being the highest performing school district in Georgia.

Clark Creek ES STEM Academy Principal Joey Moss

Why did you want to become a teacher?
I wanted to become a teacher because I loved the idea of helping kids grow into who they’re meant to be.  School was always a place where I felt encouraged, and I wanted to give that same sense of belonging and possibility to my students.

Who was the most influential teacher in your life?
One of my high school teachers, whom I had for many classes, Ms. Fore, made the most significant impact on me.  She didn’t just teach content; she taught me how to think, how to persevere, and how to believe in myself. Those lessons stuck with me and shaped the way I wanted to teach and now lead.

What’s a favorite memory from your first year as a teacher?
During my first year teaching eighth-grade writing, my students published a class collection of their stories.  Watching them flip through the pages, pointing to their names in print, and proudly sharing their writing with family and friends was an unforgettable experience.  It showed me that education is about more than grades; it’s about pride, confidence, and celebrating growth.

How did teaching prepare you to be a Principal?
Teaching taught me patience, flexibility, and the importance of building strong relationships.  It also gave me a deep respect for the creativity and dedication teachers bring to their classrooms every day.  Now, as an elementary Principal, I use those lessons to support and encourage my teachers so they can focus on what matters most ... helping students succeed!

#CCSDElevateTheExcellence #ThankAPrincipal