OPS Superintendent, Dr. Wendy Duvall has named Dr. Sarah Brown the next principal of Estes Elementary School. Brown will officially move into the new role effective July 1, 2026. Current principal Ryan Williams is retiring at the end of the year after serving as the school’s principal since 2020.
“I am honored to be chosen to serve as the next principal of Estes Elementary,” said Brown. “In my current role, I have had the opportunity to work with the staff and students in the building for the past several years. I’m looking forward to being in the building full time and continuing to work with the incredible families in which we serve. I believe in the power of building a strong culture rooted in education and collaboration and am excited for this next chapter. I look forward to leading the students and families of Estes into the future.”
Brown has been a part of the Owensboro Public Schools district since 2018. She has served as a science and biomedical teacher at Owensboro High School and most recently served as the Math and Science Instructional Coordinator, a role in which she has held since 2023. Prior to her time at OPS, Brown served as a program coordinator for both Fayette and Clark County Schools in central Kentucky.
Brown earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Master of Arts in Science Education from the University of Kentucky. She also holds an Education Specialist Certificate in Instructional Leadership and a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands.
The experience Brown brings having been both in the classroom and in a districtwide position is something that Superintendent Dr. Wendy Duvall believes sets Brown up for success in this new role.
“Dr. Brown has been a rising star in this district for several years and we are thrilled for her to have the opportunity to lead Estes Elementary into this next era,” said Dr. Duvall. “Her passion for learning and enthusiasm in teaching others will allow her to be able to connect with the students and their families, make learning fun and engaging, and continue to build on the success that Mr. Williams has established.”
Brown will be introduced to the staff at Estes Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 3:20 p.m. at the school.