About Mrs. Culberson

Emily Culberson is excited to serve as the principal of Kensington Elementary. She began her educational career teaching in Charlotte Mecklenburg. She then began her admin career in UCPS. She served as the assistant principal at Rea View, Cuthbertson Middle, Indian Trail and one year in Lancaster County, SC. She was a Top 5 UCPS finalist for Assistant Principal of the Year during the 2022-2023 school year. She received her bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Gardner Webb.

Mrs. Culberson enjoys spending time with her two children and husband. She is very family oriented as her parents and brother both live nearby.

When she is not working, you can find her cheering on the Appalachian State Mountaineers and Chicago Cubs. Football and baseball are her two favorite sports.

She believes in doing what is best for our students and welcomes parent support. Mrs. Culberson is committed to the safety and education of our Knights and values community relationships. 

Contact Mrs. Culberson

• Email: emily.culberson@ucps.k12.nc.us

About Mrs. Horne

Kelsey Horne is excited to serve as an Assistant Principal of Kensington Elementary. She began her educational career in 2016, teaching in North Carolina for Union County Public Schools. 

In 2023, she began her admin career in UCPS.  She received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Children’s Literature from the University of North Carolinat at Charlotte (2016) and a master’s degree in School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (2023).

Mrs. Horne enjoys spending her time with her husband and 2-year-old daughter, Everley.  When she is not working, you can find her spending time with her family, baking, and watching documentaries.

She believes in doing what is best for our students, knowing that every student can be successful when given the right tools and support.  Mrs. Horne is committed to the safety and education of our Knights and values the importance of community relationships.

Contact Mrs. Horne

• Email: kelsey.horne@ucps.k12.nc.us

About Mrs. Gabriel

Samantha Gabriel is excited to serve as an Assistant Principal of Kensington Elementary. She began her educational career teaching in Florida before moving to North Carolina.  She has taught in Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools and Union County Public Schools. 

In 2023, she began her admin career in UCPS.  She received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Exceptional Education from the University of Central Florida and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Queens University.

Mrs. Gabriel enjoys spending time with her two children (Ryleigh and Kendall) and her husband. When she is not working, you can find her going to her children’s activities, relaxing at the beach, and cheering on all UCF sports and the Carolina Panthers.  

Her favorite part of being an Assistant Principal is building connections with students, cheering them on in their successes, and supporting them through challenges.  She is equally passionate about working alongside teachers—encouraging, guiding, and celebrating them as they bring out the best in their students every day. Ms. Gabriel is proud to be part of a school community that feels like family.

Contact Mrs. Gabriel

• Email: samantha.gabriel@ucps.k12.nc.us

• Dr. Jennifer Topper
• 704-296-9898

• Principal: Emily Culberson
• Representative: Jennifer Cooper