Administration

A woman with brown hair smiles at the camera while wearing a green shirt

Dr. Lisa Ober, Principal

This year marks my 20th year with Cabarrus County Schools and my 28th year in education. During this time, I have taught kindergarten, first, second, third, and fourth grades, as well as serving as an MTSS coach for grades 3–5. My leadership journey began at Weddington Hills as a PLC lead and summer school supervisor before I transitioned to assistant principal at WROPS. I have learned from some of the best administrators in the district over the years, and I am honored to now be in my third year as principal of the Dragons, continuing to uphold the traditions and high standards of WROES.

I am originally from Virginia but have called North Carolina home since 1998. I earned my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from James Madison University, my master’s degree in Administration from Appalachian State University, and my doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Gardner-Webb University. I have two wonderful sons, Zach and Matt. Zach is 32 and has level 2 autism; he receives day support from What Matters Most. Matt is 29 and a vet tech in Concord. I am a lifelong Tar Heels fan, have an amazing grandpup named Nugget, and love true crime podcasts!

A woman with long brown hair and glasses smiles at the camera, wearing a floral blouse against a blue background.

Email Mrs. Ruiz

Mrs. Kerri Ruiz, Assistant Principal

I am elated to join and serve the Odell Community! I started my journey in education as a third-grade teacher, and later went on to teach fifth grade, for a total of 6 years in the classroom. My leadership journey began as an instructional coach in Kannapolis City Schools for over a year, and now I am thrilled to join Cabarrus County Schools. My passion lies in supporting both students and teachers in many different capacities, ensuring that every student can reach his or her full potential.

I graduated from High Point University with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Spanish. I have my master's degree in STEM education, as well as my K-12 Principal’s License, from HPU. I am originally from New York, but I have called North Carolina home since 2017. My husband and I live in Concord. When not working, we enjoy traveling and spending time with family and friends!

A woman with blonde hair smiles for the camera, wearing a colorful patterned shirt.

Email Ms. Downing

Ms. Anna Downing, Assistant Principal

I am thrilled to return to the Odell Dragon family as I begin my 23rd year in education. My career has taken me from my home state of South Carolina to vibrant Las Vegas, and since 2012, to Cabarrus County, which I proudly call home. I began my journey with Cabarrus County Schools at Cox Mill Elementary, where I taught 5th grade for nine wonderful years before transitioning into leadership as an MTSS Coach and then Assistant Principal at Beverly Hills Elementary. I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to now continue serving as one of the Assistant Principals here at Odell.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Coastal Carolina University and a master’s degree in School Administration from UNC Charlotte. I am also a proud National Board Certified educator. My passion is helping students thrive both academically and emotionally, and I find joy in partnering with students, staff, and families to ensure every child is supported and empowered to reach their fullest potential in all aspects of school life.

A woman with brown hair smiles at the camera.

Email Ms. Brown

Ms. Sara Brown, Principal Intern

I am very proud to serve as a Principal Intern at WR Odell Elementary. With over 10 years of experience in education, I most recently worked as a School Counselor. I have a bachelor's degree in education policy from The College of William and Mary and a master's degree in School Counseling from Wake Forest University. Currently, I am pursuing my master's degree in educational leadership through UNC-Chapel Hill.

Throughout my career, I have been passionate about supporting the whole child and building strong, inclusive school communities. My work in school counseling was nationally recognized with the American School Counselor Association’s RAMP award, honoring a distinguished and data-driven counseling program. I am also a National Board Certified educator.

I am excited to grow in educational leadership and continue partnering with staff, students, and families to create a positive, supportive learning environment for all.