Lin Thornton is an educational leader with over 21 years of experience in the field of education. Currently, she serves as the Principal at Jones Middle School in Gwinnett County Public Schools, where she leads a diverse school community of over 1,700 students. Ms. Thornton has consistently exemplified a dedication to cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and academic excellence. Since 2019, Jones Middle has been at the forefront of exploring artificial intelligence (AI), ensuring that every student not only understands AI but is also equipped to navigate its impact, making them future-ready individuals. By embedding AI skills into existing standards, their teachers empower students to learn through the lens of being prepared for the future. Her leadership is marked by her ability to inspire and empower both staff and students, ensuring a thriving learning environment that prioritizes student success and community engagement.