Administration
Dr. Casey Wooten
Welcome to Frederick Douglass Elementary School! I am truly honored to serve as the principal of FDES and to begin my sixth year leading this amazing school community. I have been an educator for 12 years and hold a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. Throughout my career, I have learned that the heart of a great school is its people. I am passionate about building meaningful relationships, creating a positive school culture, and making sure every student knows they are capable of achieving great things. I am incredibly proud of our dedicated staff and the commitment they bring each day to helping our students grow academically, socially, and personally. As a North Carolina STEM School of Distinction and a North Carolina Distinguished Title I School, we are proud of what we have accomplished together and excited about the bright future ahead. I believe every child deserves to feel known, valued, supported, challenged, and celebrated, and I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with our students, families, staff, and community to make that happen. This year, as we focus on Building Bright Futures, I look forward to another incredible year of learning, growing, and soaring together. It is a privilege to be an Eagle!
Ms. Leigh Anne Orr
I am honored to serve as an Assistant Principal and am currently in my 16th year in education, with experience in both elementary and secondary schools. I earned my Master's in School Administration from Barton College (Go Bulldogs!), where my passion for educational leadership continued to grow.
I believe every child deserves to be known, valued, challenged, and supported. My role as an assistant principal goes beyond managing the day-to-day operations of a school—it's about building relationships, encouraging teachers, partnering with families, and creating a positive culture where everyone feels they belong. I strive to lead with integrity, compassion, and a servant's heart, knowing that the small moments of encouragement and support often have the greatest impact. Whether I am celebrating student successes, coaching teachers, or working alongside colleagues, my goal is to help others reach their full potential. I believe that when we invest in people, work together, and keep students at the center of every decision, we create a school where every child has the opportunity to build a bright future.
I am excited for another incredible school year and feel truly blessed to be a part of the FDES Eagle Family. I look forward to partnering with our students, staff, and families as we learn, grow, celebrate successes, and continue building bright futures together. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle!
