Administration
Dr. Chad Shannon, Principal
Photo coming soon
Phone: (256) 734-4271 Ext. 5010
Degrees and Certifications:
Dr. Chad Shannon began his career in education as a science teacher and successful coach. In 2010, he transitioned into school leadership, serving as Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Vinemont High School. He later led the district-wide implementation of the Cullman County Virtual School as its principal. Dr. Shannon subsequently served as Assistant Principal of the Cullman Area Technology Academy, where he helped support Career Technical Education programs while also serving as an assistant baseball coach at Wallace State Hanceville Community College.
Entering his 28th year in education and 12th year as a school administrator, Dr. Shannon transitions from the Assistant Principal at Cullman Middle School to West Elementary for the 2026-2027 school year. He and his wife, Misty, are proud parents of two children, Haley and Wynn.
Mrs. Courtney Waters, Assistant Principal
Phone: 256-734-4271 Ext. 5011
Degrees and Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts in English Language Arts-Athens State University, 2002
Master of Arts in English Language Arts-Alabama A&M University, 2007
Certification in Instructional Leadership-University of West Alabama, 2024
National Board Certified Teacher in Early Adolescence English Language Arts, 2017
Mrs. Courtney Waters is entering her second year as Assistant Principal at West Elementary School. With more than twenty-three years in education, she is committed to creating a positive school environment where students, teachers, and families feel supported and valued.
Before joining the West Elementary leadership team, Mrs. Waters taught English Language Arts at Cullman Middle School for thirteen years. Throughout her career, she has focused on building strong relationships, supporting teachers, and helping students reach their full potential.
Mrs. Waters earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in English Language Arts and completed her certification in Instructional Leadership at the University of West Alabama. She also earned National Board Certification in 2017.
Mrs. Waters and her husband, Ryan, have been married for twenty-four years and have two children. Their daughter, Reese, attends Mississippi State University, and their son, Whitt, attends Cullman High School.
Mrs. Waters is honored to be part of the West Elementary family and looks forward to continuing to serve the students, staff, and families of Cullman City Schools.