Dear George Walton Academy Community,
We are excited to share several personnel updates within the GWA leadership and admissions teams.
Kellie Watts Named as Assistant Head of School
We are pleased to announce that Mrs. Kellie Watts has agreed to serve as Assistant Head of School beginning in the 2025-26 school year. After a career as a professional engineering consultant, Kellie transitioned into education and has since become a respected leader within our community. She currently serves as Middle and Upper School Division Head and Academic Dean, where she mentors both students and faculty as a collaborative and innovative leader.
Kellie earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from Georgia Tech, and her background as a mechanical engineer has shaped her creative problem-solving approach to education. She is known for her strong faith, servant’s heart, and caring and approachable demeanor, all of which have positively impacted GWA.
Kellie and her husband, RV Watts, Monroe Police Chief, have three children: Ethan, Grace (GWA Class of 2022), and Will, an 8th grader at GWA.
Reflecting on this new opportunity, Kellie shared:
"I am both humbled and grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve the students, families, and faculty of our special school in this role. Since joining the GWA family, I have grown to love every aspect of GWA. Ensuring our students are confidently prepared for college and life beyond will continue to be my highest priority. I am prayerfully anticipating this next chapter and welcome your support and encouragement."
Admissions Department Updates
For the past 11 years, Mrs. Cari Bailey has been the welcoming face of George Walton Academy, guiding and supporting countless families as our Director of Admissions. We wish her the very best as she embarks on an exciting new opportunity in public relations at Piedmont Walton. Her dedication, warmth, and commitment have played an invaluable role in shaping our school community.
Reflecting on her time at GWA, Cari shared:
"I'm really going to miss all of the people that came through my office to get here over the years. I loved the school community before I started working here, which made my job a joy. There is so much to show off and to talk about. Although I will no longer hold a paid role with the school, I will forever be an ambassador and will remain involved as a parent and raving fan!"
As we prepare to bid a fond and grateful farewell to Cari Bailey, we are excited to announce that Lamonique Pierre has been promoted to Director of Admissions. Cari expressed confidence in this transition "Lamonique is, without question, 100% the right person for this leadership role."
Lamonique has been an integral part of the admissions team since 2020, serving as Admissions Associate. She brings a warm, welcoming presence to working with prospective families and is passionate about sharing what makes GWA so special. As a GWA parent of two young boys, basketball coach and active member of the school, she understands firsthand the value of a GWA education and is excited to foster strong connections with new and returning families.
"Admissions is the most fun and rewarding job on campus. Every day, I get to share what makes GWA special and help families find the right place for their children to grow and succeed," says Lamonique.
To complete our Admissions Team, Mrs. Jenna Johnson will return to the Advancement Team in March as Assistant Director of Admissions and Assistant to Head of School.
Jenna is a dedicated advocate for student success, with over 25 years of experience in private education. Highly organized and detail-oriented, she brings extensive expertise in admissions and recruitment. Her commitment to GWA is centered on attracting and recruiting exceptional students who will thrive in our rigorous academic environment. We are confident that Lamonique and Jenna will make an outstanding team in leading our admissions efforts.
Please join us in thanking Cari Bailey for her dedication and years of service, and welcoming Kellie Watts, Lamonique Pierre and Jenna Johnson to their important new positions.
John D. Marshall
Head of School
