Kenleigh barnes

[NCSS @NewtonCoSchools]

It's National Principals Month! Meet @NCCA_Covington Principal, Mr. Chad Walker!

1. Name: Chad W. Walker
2. School: Newton College & Career Academy

3. What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
Ms. Peggy Purcell was my third-grade teacher and the inspiration behind my career as an educator. She consistently went above and beyond both in and out of the classroom to support me. Remarkably, Ms. Purcell continues to visit me on my birthday each year.

4. What are three key qualities you believe every effective school leader should have? Empathy, Adaptability, and Resilience

5. If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why? If I could have dinner with any historical figure, it would be Walt Disney. His creativity, vision, and relentless pursuit of innovation are remarkable. I would love to hear how he overcame countless setbacks and rejections to build one of the most influential entertainment empires in history. Disney’s ability to blend storytelling, imagination, and technology transformed entertainment and left a lasting cultural legacy. I would be fascinated to learn more about his thought process, how he motivated his team to dream big, and his approach to turning ideas into reality, even when the odds were stacked against him.

6. What is a memorable moment or achievement at your school or in your career that stands out to you? One of the most memorable moments in my career was when we won the 2023 Georgia College & Career Academy of the Year. This recognition was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovation that our entire school community puts in to ensure we provide the best educational and career-preparation opportunities for our associates. It validated our commitment to creating a pathway for associates that merges academic rigor with real-world skills, preparing them for both college and career success.

Another career highlight is having back-to-back-to-back Newton County Schools Teacher of the Year winners (2023, 2024, 2025). These exceptional educators are a reflection of the high standards we uphold at our school. Their passion, dedication, and creativity inspire not only our associates but also the entire staff, setting the bar for excellence in teaching. Both achievements underscore the collaborative spirit and commitment to excellence that define our school community.

7. What is a hobby or interest you enjoy outside of school?
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, whether it's supporting the DAWGS, traveling, or watching sports together.

8. What legacy do you hope to leave at your school?
I want to be remembered for creating an environment where every associate feels valued, supported, and equipped to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or challenges. In addition, the NCCA way focuses on creating a pathway for all associates to reach their full potential by challenging them to think critically, solve real-world problems, and apply their learning in meaningful ways. This approach ensures that associates graduate not just with a diploma but with a vision for their future and the tools to achieve it.

9. How do you stay motivated and inspired in your role as a principal? Staying motivated and inspired comes from seeing the growth and success of associates (students) and trainers (teachers). Every day, I witness the progress our associates make—academically, personally, and socially—and that’s incredibly rewarding. Collaborating with dedicated educators who are passionate about making a difference also fuels my motivation. I find inspiration in creating an environment where everyone feels supported and valued, knowing that our efforts shape the future. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow, which keeps me energized in this role.

10. What is the most important lesson you've learned as a leader?
Leadership is about empowering others, and that begins with valuing their voices.

[NCCA @NCCA_Covington]

Congratulations Mrs. Taylor Moody! She is the 2024-2025 Newton County Teacher of the Year! #myncca #NCCAway

[NCCA @NCCA_Covington]

🎉🎉 Congratulations to Maci Clack for being named Pre-K Student of the Week in Mrs. Cox’s class!

We are so proud of you for being a leader among your classmates! Way to go, Maci! ❤️🖤

❤️ #nccaway #myncca 🖤

[non aesthetic things @PicturesFoIder]

it really do be like this

[Kenleigh barnes @kenleigh0809]

It’s my birthday 🥳 🎂 glad to see 23 🤍

[Roberta Axson @AxsonRoberta]

From former student to Colleague. @NCCA_STEM alumni @kenleigh0809 is now a Pre-K Paraprofessional ! Welcome back to @NCCA_Covington Ms. Barnes ❤️🎉#futureelementaryteacher
@NCCAWBL
@NCCA_STEM
@NCSS_CTAE
#nccaway
#myncca
#SpiritPrideExcellence

[Kenleigh barnes @kenleigh0809]

@AxsonRoberta @NCCA_STEM @NCCA_Covington @NCCAWBL @NCSS_CTAE So excited to be back 😁

[cants @cantseyy]

When you order a pillow on temu

[Roberta Axson @AxsonRoberta]

I still feel overwhelming joy when a student wants to be a teacher! 📚🍎These two @NCCA_STEM treasures are going to have a significant impact on the teaching profession. I can’t wait! @NCCA_Covington @NCCAWBL @NccaCounseling #SpiritPrideExcellence

[Roberta Axson @AxsonRoberta]

Thank you to this former @NCCA_STEM student and future @NewtonCoSchools teacher for always making time to support my adventures @NCCA_Covington !
@NCCAWBL @NccaCounseling
#SpiritPrideExcellence