Catawba Elementary School

Dr. Bethany Settlemyre

School Principal

Meet Bethany N. Settlemyre, Assistant Principal

Joined Team CCS - August 2000

Experience

I spent the 23 years teaching middle school language arts at Maiden Middle School. Having enjoyed such a wonderful teaching experience prepared me for my role as an Administrator. I became the Assistant Principal here at Catawba in 2023, and was selected to serve as the Principal in 2025.

Education

B.S. in Middle Grades Education, Gardner-Webb University

M.A. in Middle Grades Education, Appalachian State University

Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, Gardner-Webb University

Add-on License in Educational Leadership, UNC Greensboro

National Board Certified

State Certification in Academically/Intellectually Giftedness

Why I became an Educator

School was never easy for me. Thankfully I was blessed with parents, teachers, and mentors who guided me through my educational journey and encouraged me to never, ever give up. It is my desire to encourage all students to discover their strengths and pursue their dreams to the best of their abilities. One of my favorite things about working with students is that every day is different. There are always new avenues to explore and new paths to discover. I absolutely love it when students figure out that their perceived weaknesses may actually be their superpowers!

Favorite Places

My family enjoys hiking in the mountains, relaxing at the beach, and just hanging out at our farm here in Catawba County. My favorite places are coffee trucks, bakeries, and anywhere there is chocolate!

Favorite Activities

Drinking coffee ranks Number #1 on my list! Spending time with my family is a close second! I also enjoy swimming, reading, cooking, and baking. 

Something Unique about Me

When I retire from education, I would love to open a bakery.

Michelle DePalma

Administrative Assistant – School Treasurer, Catawba Elementary School

Meet Mrs. DePalma:

• Joined Team CCS - July, 2024

Jesse Starnes

Data Manager, Catawba Elementary School

Meet Mrs. Starnes:

• Joined Team CCS - August 17, 2005
• Education – BS in Accounting, Villa Maria College, Erie PA
• Why I Became a Data Manager – I have always loved working with children, which is so much better than dealing with numbers
• Favorite Place in Catawba County – Sunsets from my back porch

Wanda Henry

School Receptionist, Catawba Elementary

Jennie Fitzpatrick

School Nurse, Catawba Elementary

Allen Carlisle

School Resource Officer, Catawba Elementary