DHS welcomes new assistant principal

Working for 28 years in the field education has prepared Kelly Cook to take on the role of assistant principal at DHS.

Cook has always been someone who wanted to take on leadership roles, as she enjoys making decisions and helping others.

After receiving her degree at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Cook moved back to her native Cape Cod to teach at Bourne High School.

At Bourne, she taught English and was a Curriculum Director for 12 years. While she appreciated her time in that position, Cook missed being able to directly communicate and work closely with students.

Now that she's in Dedham, Cook has been getting to know the students, staff, and community and describes everyone as "very welcoming and excellent to work with."

As assistant principal, Cook will be able to work directly with students, while also making decisions for the community on a larger level.

Her approach to leading is to ensure all kids receive the resources necessary to reach their full potential. She is able to do this through empathic teaching and building trust.

“I think that I have an approach that leads with empathy,” Cook explained.

She chose Dedham after some of her friends recommended the community, calling it a "friendly place." She was also interested in taking on an assistant principal position.

“I wanted to further my career," she said. "And on the selfish side, I wanted to be closer to Milton, so I could go to my niece's and nephew's sporting events. It was the perfect job at the right time at the right place.”

Cook still lives in Cape Cod and commutes to Dedham each morning.

Besides spending time with her family, she enjoys reading.

Mirror: What is your favorite book?

Cook: Jane Eyre.

M: What is your favorite movie?

C: Moulin Rouge. I love the music!

M: What is your favorite quote?

C: “You can turn off the sun but I'm still gonna shine.” -Jason Mraz

M: What is your favorite app?

C: Facebook.

M: How do you take your coffee?

C: Black.