COBB COUNTY, GA — A longtime metro Atlanta elementary school principal has resigned following her DUI arrest earlier this year.

Jill Spiva, the former principal of Addison Elementary School, was arrested in early January just blocks from the school campus on Ebenezer Road. Police said she was involved in a crash and was charged with several misdemeanors, including DUI and an open container violation.

Police reported finding vodka in the car and said she refused a blood test.

Spiva had served as principal at Addison Elementary for four years and had worked in the Cobb County School District in other capacities for more than 20 years.

Her employment status had been unclear in the weeks following her arrest, but she has now officially resigned.

Addison Elementary School’s website says Brett Ward will serve as interim principal for the remainder of the school year. His first day on the job will be Tuesday, February 24.

According to the school’s website, Ward has worked in Cobb Schools for more than 40 years, including serving as principal at Brown, Smyrna and Kennesaw elementary schools. The website describes him as a caring and dedicated educator committed to serving students and their families.

School officials say the principal advisory council will provide input to help hire a permanent principal for the next school year.

The district has not commented on Spiva’s arrest, citing the ongoing investigation.

The following statement was released by Cobb County Schools:

“Mr. Brett Ward will serve as Addison Elementary’s Interim Principal for the rest of this school year.

You may already know Mr. Ward as a caring and dedicated educator of more than 40 years with Cobb’s schools. During that time, he served as principal at Brown, Smyrna, and most recently, Kennesaw Elementary School.

Most importantly, he is deeply committed to students and families. He believes in strong relationships, open communication, and supporting your child with whatever they need to learn. Mr. Ward’s experience and calm presence will help our school continue moving forward. He is truly excited to serve your children. You will hear directly from Principal Ward and see him at school on Tuesday for his first day.

Additionally, as we look to the next school year, Addison’s Principal Advisory Council will have the chance to give input on the leadership traits and qualities that are important to you! This input will help hire the best principal for your children.

We are grateful to have such an experienced and steady leader willing to step in. Please join in warmly welcoming Mr. Ward to our school!"

WSB Radio’s Michelle Wright contributed to this story.