• River Eves Parents, 


    My name is Susan Gowin, and I am thrilled to be the new principal of River Eves Elementary School for the 2023-2024 school year. While I am new in this role, I have been serving this community since 2011. 

    For those of you who do not know me well yet, here is a little bit about me. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in education from Notre Dame College in Manchester, New Hampshire.  My Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction was earned from Georgia Southern University. Last year, I earned a leadership certificate from Georgia State University. 

    As mentioned previously, I have had the honor and pleasure of working with the staff, students, and parents at River Eves Elementary in various positions for the past twelve years as both a teacher and a leader. Most recently, I have served in the role of assistant principal. Prior to working at River Eves, I taught Georgia Pre-K, first, third, fourth, and fifth grades. I have also been a middle school special education teacher.

    Although not a Georgia native, I have lived in Fulton County for the past 15 years. I am married and have three incredible children. My husband, Chris, is a Milton High School Graduate who owns a classic car restoration business in Cherokee County. My oldest daughter, Lena, graduated from Milton High School and is now a rising junior at Georgia Southern University. Olivia, my middle child, recently graduated from Milton High School and is headed to Ole Miss this fall. Bryan, my youngest, is a rising junior at Milton High School. 

    I am a huge advocate for public schools because all children deserve access to a free, meaningful, high-quality education in an optimal learning environment. To me, an optimal learning environment means that students feel safe, included, understood, and are successful. If students know they are supported, respected, and valued, they will be more likely to take academic risks. I believe that all students can and want to learn but may do so in different ways. It is up to us, the educators, and parents, to help students discover their learning styles and find ways to highlight their strengths, while continually helping them grow in all areas. I also believe that relationships matter. For students to be successful, staff members must take the time to develop positive relationships with one another, our students, and our parents. 

    At River Eves, it is evident the minute you walk through the doors that you are entering a positive and collaborative school community in which each stakeholder is committed to the success of every student. I am committed to continuing the amazing work that is already happening at River Eves Elementary School. I consider myself to be lucky to have the opportunity to work in this community and am looking forward to collaborating with you to ensure your child(ren) have a positive learning experience.


    Susan Gowin, Principal