Snow Hill – Neuse News is continuing a series to introduce Greene County readers to some of the influential, interesting, and decision-making leaders of our community. Consider this “Meet Me Greene County” column a look into what makes Greene County the special place it is to live, work and play. This week we feature a new face to Greene County Middle School but one that should not be totally new to the county, Mr. Phil Cook. 

Since 2010, Mr. Cook has worked within Greene County Schools as a teacher, coach, and administrator, with the last 5 years serving as the principal of West Greene Elementary. This upcoming school year, He joined Greene County Middle School as their new Principal. Cook is a proud father of two and is married to as, he describes her, “ the most amazing woman (Natalie Cook), who is also an educator within GCS (District MTSS Coordinator)”.

Cook is originally from Upstate New York graduating with his bachelor’s degree from SUNY Oneonta. After graduation, he made his way to West Greene Elementary where he taught 5th grade and coached within the county. In 2016, Then Superintendent Dr. Patrick Miller tapped Cook to become an Assistant Principal. In 2017, Cook graduated from UNC Wilmington with a Master’s in School Administration. In 2019, Cook became the Principal for West Greene where he has spent the last 5 years. Cook was also named the GCS Principal of the year for the 2022-23 school year. Most recently Cook returned to ECU to begin his Doctorate of Education in Administration degree. On August 1, Cook became the principal of Greene County Middle School.

Cook Shared that the most important aspect of his job as a leader is “ to provide an environment for all to thrive. I believe in building positive relationships and providing an environment where all feel safe, valued, nurtured, and loved. When you have mutual trust/respect, you can hold people/students to high expectations, and they are more likely to meet them.”

Cook shared that he is excited about this new chapter for him and looks forward to working with Parents, Teachers, and Students as he begins his time there. Most recently in an effort to invite parents to get to know him, he scheduled a meeting with parents on August 10th, one at 8:30 AM and the other at 5:30 PM. Anyone interested in being part of the GCMS Parent Organization is welcome to attend and help us plan for a great 2023-24 school year.

Cook shared with our readers that his words of wisdom are “ Be present and ask questions. With all that goes on in education, I am not sure everyone is aware of the hard work and dedication our staff puts in. By asking questions and being present, you can see firsthand just how much every educator loves working with students. I believe in open communication and look forward to working with our parents, families, and the community to make sure GCMS is the best place it can be.”

Next time you’re near GCMS stop in and say hello to Mr. Cook and tell them Neuse News sent you