I am extremely excited to continue working with the Cooper Academy family again in 2025-2026.  It is an awesome place to work with students, teachers and families every day.  At the center of my educational belief system is the feeling that all children can learn and achieve academic growth with support.  I feel that we must bring enthusiasm and love for what we do in education to school with us on a daily basis.  Our children deserve it.

During my career, I have been fortunate to have the ability to work across a myriad of different levels. I have been able to serve in multiple capacities, which has allowed me to work with students and teachers throughout the K-12 levels. I am a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill and began my teaching career as a high school English teacher and coaching football and baseball. I received my Master’s Degree in School Administration from North Carolina State University and have had the opportunity to work with both middle and elementary schools as both a principal and assistant principal in Chatham and Johnston County. I have also recently completed my doctoral studies at Gardner-Webb University where I took an in depth look at the impact of professional development efforts on standards-based grading.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my wife Kristen and the children. I love running and have finished a few half marathons and one full marathon to the detriment of my knees. We also love spending time outdoors and exploring the scenery of our state. Thank you and I look forward to seeing everyone at Cooper Academy!

Dr. Leonhardt, Assistant Principal

braytonleonhardt@johnston.k12.nc.us