Garrett Park Elementary School

Hello Garrett Park Elementary School!

Let me begin by saying I am thrilled to be joining the Garrett Park family as your new Principal. Within my first weeks on the job, it is readily apparent that this is a special place filled with special people committed to the success, wellbeing, and overall development of our students. I am honored and humbled to be chosen to lead a building where children and adults can thrive. 

I have had diverse opportunities to learn and grow during my 16 years working in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). My classroom teaching experience as an English teacher and my leadership experiences at the elementary, middle, and high school levels as well as my experiences working in geographically and culturally diverse schools have shaped what I see, think, and do as an educational leader. I believe that everybody matters, or nobody does, and I believe that a world-class, public education as a path to betterment must be available and accessible to ALL children. As your Principal, my primary responsibilities and top priorities are:

1. Maintaining a safe and orderly environment where children can learn and 
2. Providing rigorous, differentiated learning experiences with high expectations and appropriate support for students 

Both of these key interests will require a cohesive team effort, sustained over time, guided by systematic monitoring, and driven by a heartfelt commitment to see our students and staff succeed.

I live with my wife, Jennifer, and two kids, Cliffy (8) and Chloe (5) in Gaithersburg. My kids attend Fields Road Elementary School, and Jennifer also works for MCPS in the Division of Human Resources and Talent Management. I practice wellness and self-care outside of work by cooking healthy and tasty food; training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and lifting weights; and spending quality time with family. 

I can be reached at 240-740-0700 or via email at Clifford_J_CooperJr@mcpsmd.org. 

Education  

• Doctor of Education from Johns Hopkins University
• Administrator and Supervisor Certification from Hood College
• Masters in Education from University of Maryland, College Park
• Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from University of Maryland, College Park

Work History  

• Principal, Garrett Park ES
• Principal Intern, Robert Frost MS
• Assistant Principal, Ashburton ES
• Assistant Principal, Odessa Shannon MS
• Assistant School Administrator, A. Mario Loiederman MS
• English Department Chair, Springbrook HS
• English Teacher, North Bethesda MS
• English Teacher, Seneca Valley HS