Donna Bledsoe is the 2023 Wells Fargo NC Principal of the Year and has over 21 years of experience in North Carolina public education. She has served in various roles, including classroom teacher, instructional specialist, assistant principal, and principal. Since 2016, Donna has been the principal of Cedar Ridge Elementary in Surry County Schools. A proud alumna of Appalachian State University, Donna holds a degree in Elementary Education, a Master’s in K-12 Curriculum Specialist, and an Administrative Add-on. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from High Point University. Donna is deeply committed to fostering excellence, equity, and empowerment in education. She strives to create a positive and supportive environment where students thrive, while working to bring joy to teaching and learning. Donna resides in Mount Airy, NC, with her husband and three children.