Meet our Assistant Principals
Lenise Cole
I am honored to serve as one of the new assistant principals at Norton Elementary. I've always known I wanted to be in education—ever since I was a child with an easel, playing school whenever my cousins came to visit. That early passion turned into a lifelong calling. After spending 30 years in the classroom as a teacher and two years as an instructional coach, I am proud to continue my journey in this leadership role. I believe deeply in the potential of every student and strive to treat each child the way I would want my own daughters to be treated—with love, high expectations, encouragement, and support. One quote that guides my work is, “They may forget what you said – but they will never forget how you made them feel.” I also believe that learning never stops, which is why I’m currently pursuing my doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of West Georgia. I’m a proud Comet and look forward to all that we will accomplish together as a united team of students, families, and educators.
LaSayra Ferguson
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." — Nelson Mandela
I’m proud to say that education has been both my passion and my purpose. As a parent and educator, I believe in the power of learning to unlock confidence, growth, and lifelong success—not just for students, but for families and communities as well.
I graduated from Cedar Grove High School in Ellenwood, GA, and spent 10 years as a training manager at AT&T. While I enjoyed helping adults grow professionally, I felt a strong pull toward working with children and building strong educational foundations early in life. That calling led me to Georgia Perimeter College and then Mercer University, where I earned dual bachelor’s degrees in general and special education, a master’s degree, and later a specialist degree in Early Childhood Education.
Since beginning my teaching career in 2012, I’ve had the joy of serving at Norton Elementary as a special education teacher, 3rd and 5th grade teacher, and instructional coach. In 2021, I stepped into leadership as an assistant principal in the Meadowcreek Cluster after completing the Aspiring Leaders Program and earning my Tier 1 Educational Leadership certification.
Now back at Norton, I’m thrilled to once again be part of this amazing school community. The families of Snellville and the South Gwinnett Cluster inspire me every day. As a parent of three GCPS graduates—with one more to go—I’m deeply committed to helping every child thrive and build a strong foundation for a bright and meaningful future.
Tonya Merl
Tonya Merl is honored to serve as the Assistant Principal at Norton Elementary. A passionate educator, she is committed to fostering the development of the whole child and shaping the minds of future generations.
Ms. Merl earned her undergraduate degree from Georgia Southern University and her graduate degree from Georgia State University. She also holds a Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a Tier 1 Leadership Certification from Piedmont University.
With over a decade of experience in public education and 15 years of parenting her son, Malachi, Ms. Merl brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of student needs. She is dedicated to building trusting relationships with students, staff, and the community, ensuring a supportive and enriching learning environment.
An exceptional educational leader, Ms. Merl is committed to making a lasting impact on the South Gwinnett Cluster and the broader GCPS community. She strives to prepare students for success in college and careers with diligence, integrity, and unwavering dedication.
Delisa Tate
I am a proud career changer who found my true passion in education, and for the past 12 years, I have been honored to serve the students and families of Norton Elementary. I spent seven years in the classroom, two years as an instructional coach, and now, as an assistant principal, I remain dedicated to creating a loving and nurturing environment where every child feels valued and empowered to learn. I hold a Master’s degree from Mercer University and a Specialist degree from the University of West Georgia, and I firmly believe that every student has the ability to succeed with the right support. My Comet pride runs deep, and I am grateful to be part of the South Gwinnett Cluster, working alongside an incredible team to inspire and uplift our students every day!