Meet Our Principals

Paula Wheeler

Principal

Serving as principal of Varnell Elementary is a true honor, especially since this is where my own educational journey first began.  Growing up in Whitfield County, I attended North Whitfield Middle School and graduated from Northwest High School in 1995. I started college at Dalton State and completed my degree in Interrelated Special Education at the University of North Georgia. Later, I earned a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Central Michigan University and an Educational Specialist Degree in Leadership from Lincoln Memorial University.

I’m proud to say that my entire career in education has been with Whitfield County Schools. It all began in January 2000, when I started as an itinerant special education teacher serving students at multiple schools throughout Whitfield County.  After six years in that role, I spent the next nine years at Westside Elementary as a special education teacher. In 2013, I was blessed with the opportunity to return home to Varnell—first as assistant principal, and now as principal. I absolutely love this school, our amazing students and staff, and the supportive Varnell community!

My husband, Kevin, and I have been married for 26 years, and we have two amazing children. When I’m not at school, you’ll probably find me in the kitchen cooking, working in my garden, or helping out on our family Christmas tree farm.

I’m so excited for this school year and all the memories we’ll make together as Varnell Colts!

Judith Ross

Assistant Principal

I am honored to be joining the Colt Nation. As a product of Whitfield County Schools, it has been my goal to give back to the school system that inspired me to be an educator. During the last fourteen years I have worked at Eastside Elementary, first serving as a teacher and then becoming assistant principal. Getting the opportunity to come to Varnell has placed me closer to home. When I’m not at school, I enjoy playing board games with my family, shopping, and baking. I look forward to a great school year and getting to meet all the students and families of Varnell.