Known fondly as the “child whisperer,” Dr. Tim Goss has earned a reputation for his remarkable connection with students — a quality that’s immediately apparent to anyone who’s seen him in action.
After 35 years in education, Dr. Goss is retiring from his role as principal of Hazel Grove Elementary, closing a chapter defined by dedication, innovation, and compassion. His wife, Susan Goss, is also an educator — currently a self-contained teacher at Baldwin Elementary and formerly principal at both Clarkesville and Cornelia Elementary. Together, they share a blended family of four adult children and eight years of marriage.
Reflecting on his career, Goss shared, “This marks my 30th year in Habersham County education, plus five years teaching education at Piedmont. It’s hard to believe how quickly the time has gone.”
His journey began in 1989 at North Habersham, and over the years, he taught a wide range of middle school subjects — from science and Georgia History to Language Arts and math — though science remained his specialty.
Through five decades, he has witnessed seismic shifts in the field. “Curriculum has changed a lot, but technology has transformed everything,” he said with a chuckle. “From computers and the internet to online learning and research — it’s reshaped teaching, learning, and how the world communicates.”
Moments That Matter
Among countless students, one particularly memorable relationship stands out. “I had a student who loved writing song lyrics,” Goss recalled. “Back then, a few of us teachers formed a band. Wayne Roberts, our custodian, played drums, and Doug Vermilya and I played guitar. We performed at talent shows and events.”
That student’s lyrics became songs they performed — three in 1997 alone. Today, that same student is pursuing a PhD and teaches English, staying in touch with the mentor who helped shape his path.
“Having former students come back as teachers, or watching them become parents and even grandparents, is incredibly rewarding,” Goss said. “When I see their children — and now grandchildren — in school, it reminds me of the lasting impact we can have.”
He believes in looking beyond test scores. “Reading progress and developmental growth often tell you more about a student’s success than a single exam,” he explained.
Goss also recognizes the strength of students who face hardships. “Their resilience never ceases to amaze me. Knowing what some go through at home, their ability to keep pushing forward is truly inspiring.”
Looking Ahead
Retirement for Dr. Goss means more time for family, music, travel — and perhaps even returning to school himself.
“I’ve been incredibly blessed,” he said. “I’ve worked alongside outstanding educators like Dr. Judy Forbes, Bruce Forbes, Matthew Cooper, and Patrick Franklin. Their mentorship and support meant the world to me.”
Throughout his career, Goss held himself and his colleagues to a simple but powerful standard: Would I want my own child in this classroom?
Words of Praise
Superintendent Patrick Franklin praised Goss as “an extraordinary educator,” adding, “Principals like Dr. Goss are rare and unforgettable. He’s inspired generations — students, teachers, and fellow leaders. I wish him all the best in retirement.”
Sandy Todd, Assistant Principal at Hazel Grove, echoed the sentiment: “Dr. Goss is a phenomenal leader. His legacy at Hazel Grove goes far beyond academics — it’s in the lives he’s touched and the community he’s built. He will be missed, but his influence will endure.”
Former Superintendent Dr. Judy Forbes reflected on their early years working together. “As a middle school teacher, he was attentive and accommodating. As an administrator, he cultivated an environment where growth thrived. He will be greatly missed.”
For Lauren Berrong, a Pre-K paraprofessional at Hazel Grove and former student of Dr. Goss at North Habersham Middle, his presence has been a guiding light. “It’s been full circle — from being his student, to him becoming my daughter’s principal, to now working with him. Hazel Grove is better because of him. Dr. Goss, I wish you the best in this next chapter — you’ve truly earned it.”
There’s no way to measure the true impact one person can have on a life — no scale, no scoreboard, no final tally. But as Dr. Tim Goss steps away from his 35-year journey in education, it’s clear his legacy can be found in the hearts of the countless students he’s uplifted. So many are who they are today because they were once seen, heard, and cared for by a man who believed in them, knew how to relate to them, and made school feel like they belonged.
