HFE Administration

I am honored and excited to serve as Principal of Heards Ferry Elementary School. Throughout my career in special education, general education, instructional coaching, curriculum support, and school leadership, I have remained committed to helping every child reach their full potential. I earned my Bachelor of Education, Master of Education, and Education Specialist degrees from Georgia State University, and my work has always centered on creating learning environments where students feel challenged, supported, and inspired to succeed. 

Before joining Heards Ferry, I served as Assistant Principal at Woodland Elementary School, where I helped lead efforts that supported academic growth, STEM recertification, a positive school culture, and strong outcomes for diverse learners. These experiences have reinforced my belief that when students are known, valued, and encouraged, they can achieve extraordinary things. 

At the heart of my leadership philosophy is the power of relationships. I believe every child deserves to feel a sense of belonging and to have caring adults who believe in their potential. I am passionate about fostering a school community where students, staff, and families feel connected, supported, and empowered. Together, we can continue Heards Ferry's tradition of excellence while nurturing a culture of curiosity, growth, and joy in learning. 

Outside of school, my husband and I are the proud parents of two children and are excited to welcome a third child to our family. As both an educator and a parent, I understand the importance of a strong school-home partnership and a school community where every family feels welcomed and valued. I look forward to building meaningful relationships and partnering with the Heards Ferry community to ensure every student thrives academically, socially, and emotionally. 

I am Janet Arias a proud assistant principal at Heards Ferry Elementary. I began my teaching career in Orlando, Florida as an elementary school teacher, a time that shaped my love for nurturing young learners. From there, I stepped into the role of Reading Coach, and eventually transitioned into an assistant principal position at the middle school level. When my journey brought me to Georgia, I was grateful to serve the Spalding Drive community as assistant principal for 11 wonderful years. Each chapter of my career has strengthened my passion for creating spaces where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to grow—academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Outside of school, I am a proud mother of three girls who bring so much joy and energy to my life. When I’m not with them, you’ll often find me in the garden, curled up with a good book, or playing tennis—activities that help me recharge and stay grounded. 

I am deeply committed to working hand-in-hand with our staff, students, and families to uphold the tradition of excellence that defines our community. I truly look forward to getting to know each of you and to building strong, meaningful relationships as we navigate the year together. 

As the 2024-2025 school year begins, I am thrilled to celebrate my 30th year in education, with 27 of those years dedicated to the Fulton County School District and 14 right here at Heards Ferry Elementary. My career began as a curriculum support teacher, where I spent seven fulfilling years before being promoted to Assistant Principal. I am now entering my 7th year in this role and remain as passionate as ever about my work. Heards Ferry truly has my heart, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such a wonderful staff, students, and community.

I have been happily married for 26 years and am proud to have a son who is starting his 3rd year at Georgia Tech. I’m also a devoted dog mom to two lively labs. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends, taking my dogs on walks, and curling up with a good book.

 Michaela grew up in Wilmington, Massachusetts, and graduated from Salem State College with majors in elementary education and geography.  She received her M.S. Ed in Language and Literacy from Simmons College, and her Tier 1 Leadership Certification from Georgia State University. Additionally, Michaela holds ESOL, gifted, and teacher leader endorsements.

Michaela’s 11 out of 14 years in education have been served in Fulton County Schools. She has taught children in 1^st grade, 3^rd grade, 4^th grade, and 6^th grade as well as served in various leadership roles prior to becoming the Curriculum Support Teacher at Heards Ferry. She has experience in private, public, and Title 1 school settings. Michaela lives in East Cobb with her husband. Together, they have one child and two dogs. 

My name is Robin Vaughn-Dixon. I am the Instructional Support Teacher for Heards Ferry Elementary. This is my 22nd year in the field of education. I began my career as an Interrelated Special Education Teacher in 2004. I received my bachelor's degree from Georgia State University, Teaching Certification from The University of Georgia, master's degree in Post-Secondary Education - Psychology from Troy University, and my education specialist degree in Early Childhood Education - Curriculum and Instruction from Brenau University. I was an Interrelated Resource Special Education Teacher for 13 years prior to moving into the Special Education Lead Teacher for Compliance role for 7 years in Rockdale County. This is my 2^nd year as IST for Heards Ferry Elementary and I honored to collaborate with the students, teachers, and parents of Heards Ferry. Go Eagles!

As your school counselor, my mission is to support the social, emotional, and academic well-being of our entire community. We are a true team, and a successful year relies on the strong partnership between our dedicated staff, our wonderful families, and our amazing students. Every smile in the hallway, every helping hand at home, and every encouraging word in the classroom works together to create a safe, nurturing environment where everyone can thrive.

It’s hard to believe, but I am entering my 26th year of teaching and leading in an elementary school! My first career choice was in a similar field of non-profit management, until I realized my true passion was working with children. So, I went to Mercer University to attain my Masters in Elementary Education, and then went on to receive my Specialist in Education from Piedmont College. I’ve taught 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades as a classroom teacher, and then was a gifted instructor for 13 years. Today, I have my dream job of supporting teachers and students in the RTI (Response to Intervention) process, as well as coordinating our IB program at HFE!

I grew up on Lake Lanier, so being close to water, whether the lake, ocean, river or even a pool, will always be my favorite place to relax and unwind! My husband and I have one child (Coker) who attended HFE for six years but is now in 7th grade at Ridgeview Middle School. We have a precious little dog (Thumper) that is an 8-pound maltipoo, who happens to be my constant shadow! My hobbies mostly include the activities and sports my son is involved with, but I also love shopping and trying new restaurants with friends and family. We absolutely love living in Sandy Springs and being part of such a wonderful community.

I look forward to another exciting year at The Ferry, and seeing our eagles return to their nest for the 2024-2025 school year!

I'm Jennifer Hidock and I serve as the Instructional Literacy Coach. I bring 25 years of experience including Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th grade and EIP and I am excited to begin my tenth year here at HFE and my sixth year as Literacy coach.

I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education at Miami of Ohio and my Master's Degree as a Reading Specialist from Mercer University. I have a passion for all things literacy and truly believe that being a successful reader is the key to success. I am so thankful to do the important work of supporting your children and our amazing teachers in helping the students here at HFE to be successful.

I'm Katelyn Woodcox and I serve as the Instructional Math Coach at Heards Ferry Elementary School. I bring 10 years of classroom teaching experience, having taught kindergarten, first grade, and third grade before transitioning into instructional coaching in March 2025. I earned both my bachelor's and master's degrees in early childhood education from Kennesaw State University. I am passionate about supporting teachers in delivering high-quality mathematics instruction while fostering confidence and curiosity in students. My goal is to ensure that every teacher and student is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to approach mathematics with confidence.