With a strategic focus on the 2024-2025 school year, Martin County Schools is preparing for a series of changes in our school administration and district leadership positions. These changes are aimed at enhancing our educational services and ensuring the best possible learning environment for our students.
Donna Manning, the current principal at E.J. Hayes Elementary School, will transition to Rodgers Elementary School as principal.
“Mrs. Manning has a tremendous talent for K5 education. She has grown so much as an administrator and has helped her school demonstrate exceptional growth. We are excited to see her share her talents with Rodgers Elementary School,” Dr. White added. “She has a great deal to offer students and staff.”
Manning has served the district since 1996 as a classroom teacher, reading coach, curriculum coach, and assistant principal before her first principal post at South Creek Middle School in 2021.
Manning was recently named Principal of the Year for 2024-2025.
Dr. Angela Cross, current principal at Rodgers Elementary School, will transition to Assistant Director of Exceptional Children’s Services for the district.
“Dr. Cross began her career as an exceptional children’s teacher, and her love of serving special needs children only strengthened when she moved into a school administration path,” explained Dr. Michelle White, Superintendent of Martin County Schools. Cross will take over the position vacated by Leigh Ann Hudson, who has been named principal at Williamston Primary School.
“We are grateful to have someone already on our team with an in-depth background in this area who can step into the role,” said Dr. White.
Cross has been with Martin County Schools since 2000, serving as an EC teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, and MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) Coordinator.