Dr. Emily Nelson

Greetings Harmony Family,

It is an honor to serve as the principal of Harmony Elementary. I love my role supporting our staff, students, and parents as we work together to create a strong and supportive learning community that encourages every learner to be successful and future ready.

I am in my 21st year in education. As a product of Gwinnett County Public Schools, it has been so wonderful to work in the district that was part of my educational journey. I began my career teaching first grade and then served many years as a K-5 Literacy Coach, where I provided professional development to teachers. I had the honor of serving as Harmony's Assistant Principal for the past 11 years before beginning my role as your proud principal.

I encourage you to become an active participant in your child’s education by communicating regularly with your child’s teacher, taking advantages of opportunities to volunteer at school, and becoming involved with our PTO. I look forward to a great school year as we build a partnership together to support our incredible students. Go Jaguars!

Education:

· Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education - University of Georgia

· Master’s Degree in Reading and Literacy - Walden University

· Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership - Georgia State University

· Educational Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership – Georgia State University

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Degrees and Certifications:

Mrs. Candace Jones

My name is Candace Jones and I am proud to serve as one of the Assistant Principals at Harmony Elementary. I have been a part of the Harmony community since 2008 as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, administrator and parent. I love that our community truly acts as a family and I believe in building strong relationships with our families to best support our students. Our parents, teachers, and administration work together to ensure that our students have the best education possible.

I am a product of Gwinnett County schools myself, graduating Central Gwinnett High School and moving on the University of Georgia. After graduating with my degree in education, I was excited to return to Gwinnett to begin my teaching career. I have experience teaching first and third grades, ESOL, and serving as our Math Coach prior to my role in administration. These experiences help me to support our teachers and parents each day.

At Harmony, we put children first in every decision that we make, and I am honored to be a part of such an amazing school. I look forward to working with our parents and students to make this the best year ever!

Education:

· Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education – University of Georgia

· Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and Policy – University of Georgia

· Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership – Lincoln Memorial University

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Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Mrs. Makisha Alford

Hello Harmony!

My name is Mrs. Makisha Alford, and I am excited to serve as the new Assistant Principal at Harmony Elementary School. My journey in the Gwinnett County community began in 2004, and I have been deeply connected ever since—as an educator, parent, and leader.
Over the past 14 years, I have served as a classroom teacher, intervention specialist, and instructional coach, along with two years of international teaching experience overseas in Kuwait. As a leader, I value building strong relationships, continuous learning, and strategic decision-making—all of which guide my commitment to supporting students, staff, and families.

Every day, I strive to create an environment where learning is inspired, supported, and celebrated. I look forward to finishing this school year strong with you all and continuing our journey together into an even greater year ahead!

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education – Brenau University
Master’s Degree in Elementary Education – Georgia State University