Greetings Richards Middle School Parents and Community,

Last Friday I met with our school faculty and announced my retirement from Gwinnett County Public Schools after this school year, during the summer.

It has been my privilege and high honor to serve as the school principal at Richards Middle School for 15 years, since August 2010. I have worked alongside some of the greatest human beings imaginable, as we collectively endeavor to teach, guide, and care for the academic and social-emotional needs of our students. Our students continue to amaze me day in and day out! Being a middle schooler has always been challenging. But being one in 2025 is off the charts HARD! I tip my hat to so many who are excelling in school and in life, despite the many roadblocks they may encounter in and out of school. We see students' resiliency every day in our school, and I am very proud to have supported their journey toward success in high school, college, and their careers!

Thank you for your support of my principalship throughout the years! We cannot be successful without the commitment and engagement of our parents, guardians, and
community partners. I will forever be grateful that you've stood beside myself and our schooI through the good times and through the difficult times. The Richards Middle School Community is a very special place, which has forever left an indelible imprint on my heart. It is truly difficult to leave this place I love so much!

This week you will have the opportunity to complete a GCPS survey related to the desired qualities you would like the county to consider when selecting a new principal for the school. That survey will be sent via Parentsquare and placed on our school website. I hope you will provide feedback for district leaders as they make this important decision.

God bless you and your family and best wishes to you all!

Sincerely,

Mark McCain
Richards Middle School
Principal