Typically, most people would expect the beginning of a new school year to bring new students and staff. However, this time, one of our beloved staff members has left Chamblee only two weeks after the start of a new year. After working at Chamblee High School for seven years, Dr. Angelique Vachon-Conner, an assistant principal, has moved on to pursue a new job opportunity.
“I have been promoted to a new district-level position as Coordinator II for Textbooks/Instructional Materials… I wanted to stay and help the school get started for the first few weeks. Now is the time [to leave] because this opportunity became available, and I see it as a way to have a bigger impact for the students and teachers in DCSD,” said Dr. Conner.
Dr. Conner worked at Chamblee High School as an assistant principal with a focus on the Safety and Security department. In addition, she held the position as Social Studies Department Administrator during her time at Chamblee. According to her coworkers, the Chamblee teachers and staff, she made a tremendous impact at this school.
“She’s someone who is just very firm,” said Ms. Reena Moorman, an assistant principal, “but warm and loving and caring at the same time. She’s going to hold you accountable, but she’s also going to support you with anything that you need.”
Many other staff members also remarked on her positive and friendly attitude.
“She was just always there for us…She always gave us a positive note when something happened, even if something was bad. She would always give us something positive first to talk about,” said Ms. Leila Warren, Human Anatomy and Biology teacher.
Even teachers who had known her for a very brief period of time could feel the impact of her hard work and effort.
“I’ve only known her for 2 weeks… From what I’ve noticed, [her contributions seem] plenty. I can’t remember how long she’s been here, but every single person that I talk to really appreciates her and says that she’s an integral part of the Chamblee community and the school,” said Mr. Preston Ridgell, a music teacher.
In addition to her positive attitude, some staff members commented on her organization and preparedness at all times.
“She is the most prepared person in the building; she sends these emails and spreadsheets that cover every single thing that could possibly happen,” said math teacher Dr. Milne.
It’s not just the staff who are feeling the impact of this new change; Dr. Connor also noted the difficulty of leaving her Chamblee team.
“I will truly miss the students and teachers. They have truly become my bulldog family. I will treasure all of the relationships I have built,” said Dr. Conner.
The rest of the staff clearly reciprocated this feeling, each with their own unique reasons for missing her so strongly.
“I’m definitely going to miss her. She’s been here for quite a few years now, and I always get worried about who’s going to follow. She’s a really good administrator, and it’s going to be hard to lose her,” said Ms. Jennifer Andriano, the Yearbook and Lit/Comp 10 teacher.
Other teachers commented on her kindness, including CTAE teacher Ms. Heather Miller, who remarked on how at ease she felt around her.
“Dr. Conner is one of the only people that I let hug me. She’s so sweet and genuine. I’m going to miss her,” said CTAE teacher Ms. Heather Miller.
Finally, Dr. Conner has one last message for all of her students.
“I want every student to know [Chamblee High School] is awesome because of the students. Always do your best! Love who you are and be proud,” said Dr. Conner. “You have the best teachers, so take advantage of all of their hard work each day. Teachers are the heart and soul of Chamblee High.”
