We are thrilled to welcome our new principal, Emily Culberson, to the Castle!

Mrs. Culberson is a proud Charlotte area native. After graduating from South Mecklenburg High School, she continued her education at Appalachian State University (Go Mountaineers!) and later earned a Master’s degree from Gardner-Webb University (Go Bulldogs!). She started her teaching career in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District, she taught 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades. She also spent several years teaching Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) students. With 11 years of experience in administration, she has served as an Assistant Principal for nine years in Union County Public Schools (UCPS) at Rea View, Cuthbertson Middle, and Indian Trail, and spent one year in Lancaster County, SC. She's SO excited to be back in Union County, joining us at Kensington Elementary!

When asked about her greatest accomplishments, without hesitation, Mrs. Culberson considers being a mom to be the best thing in the world and cherishes every moment with their two children. Family time is precious, and being with their children is their greatest joy. Professionally, being named a 2023-2024 UCPS Assistant Principal of the Year finalist was a monumental honor. She vividly recalls the overwhelming joy when UCPS senior leadership surprised her at Indian Trail. With so many strong administrators in Union County, this recognition stands out as a significant, memorable, and humbling achievement.

She is eager to become an integral part of the Knights community. Her goal for this year is to build strong relationships with all stakeholders, listen and learn from the community, and continue to strengthen academic programs to ensure all students reach their full potential. Mrs. Culberson is committed to fostering growth and learning, maintaining Kensington’s rich history of community and academic success.

When not working, she enjoys indulging in retail therapy and watching sports, especially baseball (Go Cubs!) and football (Go App!). She cherishes time spent with her family, including her two children and wonderful husband. Living close to her parents and middle brother, who has two boys aged 7 and 8, family gatherings are frequent and lively events.

Mrs. Culberson believes in the power of kindness and the Golden Rule: treat others the way you want to be treated, as you never know what someone is going through. This guides her leadership style.

For Mrs. Culberson, success means working together towards a common goal, achieving small milestones that lead to larger accomplishments, and partnering with parents and teachers to do what is best for our KNIGHTS.

We are confident that her experience, dedication, and enthusiasm will make a significant impact at Kensington Elementary. Please join us in welcoming our new principal, Mrs. Emily Culberson, to the Knights family!

Now for the FUN STUFF! Here are just a few of her favorite things:

• Holiday: Thanksgiving is a special time for them, filled with family, friends, and gratitude. Celebrating birthdays is also a highlight.
• Daily Joy: The sweet smile of a child or an innocent, funny remark from a student can brighten their day. A good Caramel Macchiato or Diet Coke/Diet Pepsi also helps!
• Favorite Joke: “What do you call a pig who knows karate? A pork chop!” Corny jokes are a favorite, adding a touch of humor to their day.