Dear CMS Parents and Guardians,
After thirty-three years with the DeKalb County School District (DCSD), today was my last day. I became principal of Chamblee Middle School in April of 2006 when they were located in the old Shallowford Elementary on Chamblee Dunwoody Road. I finished out the 2005-2006 school year, and then my staff and I were responsible for moving the contents of that old building to our new building we have today. That was a daunting task for a new principal, but with the help of my wonderful staff and wonderful parents, we made it happen.
After the 2006-2007 school year, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer in July 2007. I took thirty days of Family Medical Leave for the surgery and to recuperate at home. When I returned to work in September 2007, I worked through aggressive chemotherapy and thirty days of radiation. I would not have had the strength to do that without my CMS family. My secretary at the time, Karen Mills, and my bookkeeper, Sarah Shadrix, became my cancer angels. They made healthy soup for me at lunch every day and made it okay to rest when I could not go one step further. The entire CMS staff supported me by having hats made with the breast cancer symbol, and all staff wore them in the yearbook that year. Our football coach, Terrance Jett, and the football team had a huge sign made and hung in front of the gym that said, “Welcome Back Ms. Jackson” The students all wore pink to commemorate my struggle upon my return. Parents brought me gifts, healthy food, positive affirmation books, and cards and emails of encouragement. You see, God planned for me to be at Chamblee Middle School. Without the CMS family, I would have never made it through that difficult period in my life.
I am forever thankful for the incredible things that my parents, my staff, and especially my students have done for me over the last eight years. I only hope that I am leaving Chamblee Middle School in a little better shape than I found it, and that I accomplished what He wanted while I was here. Thank you for being responsible for my life exceeding my dreams and allowing me to be your principal.
With an attitude of gratitude,
Cynthia Jackson
