Mrs. Ashley Allen has taught at Cowan Road Elementary School for seven years. She has a total of ten years in education. Mrs. Allen was born and raised in Griffin and graduated from Spalding High School in 2004. Mrs. Allen earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Spelman College. She later obtained a Master of Arts in Teaching with a Reading Endorsement degree from Reinhardt University. She currently teaches 4th grade ELA/Social Studies.

In addition to teaching, Mrs. Allen currently serves as the grade-level chair for 4th grade. She's also served as a mentor for the CRE New Teacher Mentor program. Mrs. Allen has a love for developing positive relationships with her students, parents, and CRE family. Her love for reading has inspired her to start up a book club for the upcoming school year.

She loves spending time with her supportive husband and teenage daughter. They play a huge role in inspiring and motivating her to be the best she can be. During her free time Mrs. Allen enjoys reading, traveling, and volunteering. 

Mrs. Allen is excited and feels honored to serve as the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year.