Administration

My name is Katie Neal, and it is an honor to serve as the principal of Buford Senior Academy. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education (2007) from Piedmont College, a Master’s Degree in Post-Secondary Education (2008) from Troy University, and an Educational Specialist Degree in Teaching and Learning (2010) from Piedmont College.
My career in education began in Barrow County Schools, where I had the privilege of teaching fourth grade, first grade, and kindergarten from 2008 to 2015. In 2015, I joined the Buford Elementary School family, where I taught first grade and kindergarten until 2020. From 2020 to 2023, I served as Assistant Principal at Buford Senior Academy, and in May 2023, I transitioned to Assistant Principal at Buford Elementary School. In October 2024, I was honored to return to Buford Senior Academy as Principal.
On a personal note, I have been married for 15 years to my husband, Chris. We are the proud parents of two daughters: Emmie Kate, a 7th grader at Buford Middle School, and Addie Gray, a 3rd grader at Buford Senior Academy. Our family is deeply committed to the Buford community, and we are excited to continue contributing to the growth and success of this wonderful district. Outside of school, we enjoy cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs, lacrosse, traveling, and spending time at the beach. 
At Buford Senior Academy, we firmly believe that the key to student success lies in the strong partnership between home and school. When parents, families, and educators work together as a unified team, we create a supportive and enriching environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. I am committed to fostering open communication and collaboration with our families, as we know that together, we can make a lasting impact on the growth and development of each child.
I look forward to partnering with you to ensure our students experience a fulfilling and successful educational journey.

At Buford Senior Academy we are One Buford, One Family. We strive for our students to be happy and successful in a safe, positive learning environment. 

I am excited to be a part of the BSA administrative team for my second year. I have 22 years of experience in education as a teacher in grades pre-K through 5th, and also in various support roles as a gifted coordinator, special education co-teacher, and EIP teacher.

My husband, Casey, and I have been married for 24 years. He is a teacher and coach at Buford High School. Our son, James, graduated from BHS in 2021 and is currently a student at UGA. Our daughter, Caroline, graduated from BHS in 2024 and is a student at Gwinnett Tech. We enjoy spending time with our 3 labradoodles, raising chickens, and traveling. We are proud to be a part of the Buford Community and Go Wolves!

My name is Dusty Sidwell, and I am thrilled to join Buford Senior Academy as the new assistant principal. Previously, I have served as a special education teacher, special education coordinator, and assistant principal serving third through fifth grades. After high school, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, which was a transformative experience for me. During my time in the military, I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education from Georgia College and State University. I continued my learning and professional growth, earning a Masters of Education, an Educational Specialist degree in Special Education, a Tier II Leadership Certificate, and a Doctorate of Education.

I am dedicated to supporting our students, teachers, families, and community. I believe strongly in the power of partnership with parents to achieve the shared goal of educating all children. On a personal note, I am married to my beautiful wife Kaleigh Sidwell, who is also an educator. We are proud parents of two wonderful children, Jackson who is going into seventh grade and McKinleigh, who will be joining me at Buford Senior Academy in fourth grade. I am eager to bring my experience and passion for education to Buford Senior Academy and look forward to collaborating with all of you to support our students' success. Go Wolves!

My name is Tiffany Thomas, and I am thrilled to join Buford Senior Academy as Assistant Principal. As a proud graduate of Buford City School System the experiences I had here have significantly impacted my life, shaping my values and approach to education. With over 14 years of experience in education, I have worked in Dekalb County School District, Gwinnett County Public Schools, Buford City School System, holding various roles including classroom teaching, curriculum development, and school administration.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Sociology from Georgia State University, a Master’s in the Art of Teaching from Brenau University, an Education Specialist degree in Reading from Nova Southeastern University, and a Doctorate in Elementary Education from Brenau University.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family. I believe that a strong support system is integral to my professional success and personal well-being. I have one son,  Carter, a third grader who will be joining me at Buford Senior Academy this year. Carter and I are huge Disney World enthusiasts and try to go as much as possible. We also love spending our nights and weekends at the ball field. 
I am excited to contribute to the continued success and growth of Buford Senior Academy and the Buford community, and I look forward to building meaningful relationships with students, staff, and parents.  💚💛🤍 Go Wolves!!