Mt. Yonah Community,
It is an honor to serve once again as the proud principal of Mt. Yonah Elementary School for the 2026–2027 school year.
I began my journey in education in 2006 and have had the privilege of serving as a teacher, assistant principal, and now principal. However, my connection to Mt. Yonah began even earlier. In 2005, I completed my student teaching here in third grade, so serving this school and community truly feels like coming home each day.
My educational background includes degrees from Gainesville College, Piedmont University, and the University of Georgia - Go Dawgs! I also hold endorsements in ESOL and Tier II Educational Leadership and am continuing my own learning through doctoral studies.
I firmly believe that great leaders remain great learners.
I am also a proud wife to Roger and mom to two amazing boys, Nolan, an eighth grader, and Rhett, a sixth grader, both at White County Middle School.
Our theme for this year is “Lead Where You Stand.” Leadership is not defined by a title or position, it is reflected in the choices we make, the way we treat others, and our willingness to make a positive difference wherever we are. We want every student and staff member to recognize that they have the ability and responsibility to lead with purpose.
As a Leader in Me school, we empower students to take ownership of their learning, choices, and growth. Through the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, our Bears learn to lead with confidence, compassion, and responsibility, both inside and outside the classroom.
We are also proud to be a PBIS school, where we emphasize being Respectful, Responsible, and Ready every day. Together, these leadership principles and shared expectations create the strong, positive culture that makes Mt. Yonah such a special place to learn and grow.
To our families and community, thank you for your continued partnership, encouragement, and trust. Your support means more than you know. I invite you to join us this year as we encourage every Yonah Bear to lead where they stand and use their unique strengths to make our school and community even better.
Humbly serving you,
Juliana Dean
Principal, Mt. Yonah Elementary School