Dr. Veronica Bacote Named Principal of Clements Middle School
The Newton County School System is proud to announce that Dr. Veronica Bacote has been appointed as the next principal of Clements Middle School. The Board of Education approved her appointment during its regularly scheduled meeting held on April 22, 2025.
Dr. Bacote brings to the position more than three decades of experience in education, including extensive leadership roles in multiple Georgia school systems. She began her career in 1987 as a mathematics and social studies teacher in Newton County Schools. Her leadership journey began in Jasper County Schools, where she was promoted from assistant principal to principal between 1999 and 2000. In 2002, she joined Gwinnett County Schools as an assistant principal before returning to Newton County in 2005 to serve in the same capacity at Newton High School.
From 2006 to 2015, Dr. Bacote served as an assistant principal at Alcovy High School, and in 2015, she rejoined the Newton High School administrative team, where she has served ever since.
Dr. Bacote holds a Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education from Paine College in Augusta, Georgia; a Master of Education in Middle Grades Education from Brenau University in Gainesville, Georgia; an Education Specialist degree in Elementary Education from Troy State University in Troy, Alabama; and a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration from Georgia Southern University in Statesboro.
Reflecting on her new role, Dr. Bacote stated, “I was drawn to the position of principal at Clements Middle School because of the school’s strong sense of community, dedicated staff, and the incredible potential of its students. I’ve always been passionate about supporting students during their formative middle school years, helping them grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Clements has a proud history of student engagement, and I saw this opportunity as a chance to build on that legacy while fostering a culture of excellence and support for all.”
Her first priorities as principal will include ensuring that the school is fully staffed and developing strong relationships with stakeholders. “My first step will be to ensure that Clements Middle School is fully staffed with qualified, passionate educators and support personnel,” she explained. “A well-staffed and well-supported team is critical to student success, and I want to make sure we’re in a position to start the school year strong. I also plan to meet with staff, students, and families to listen and learn—understanding the strengths of our school and the areas where we can grow. Building relationships and establishing clear communication will be a key part of setting the tone for a collaborative and successful year.”
Dr. Bacote expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I am truly honored to have been selected as the next principal of Clements Middle School. It is a privilege to serve such a vibrant school community, and I do not take this responsibility lightly. I am excited to partner with our educators, students, families, and community stakeholders to continue creating a safe, inclusive, and high-achieving learning environment. I look forward to the journey ahead and am committed to ensuring every student at Clements has the support and opportunities they need to thrive.”