December 17, 2025
"What's Happening Wednesday!"
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS ARE DECEMBER 22 through JANUARY 5! District and school offices will be closed December 23-January 1. We will see your child back in school on Tuesday, January 6, 2026! Have a saf...
Ad Astra - To the Stars!

Welcome to Catawba Elementary School —
About Us
We’re so glad you’re here! At Catawba Elementary, we believe in creating a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive. We proudly serve students in Pre-K through 6th grade, offering engaging academics, strong community connections, and a focus on the whole child.
Nestled in the charming historic town of Catawba, NC – once part of the Catawba Academy established in 1890 – our school has a rich legacy of learning. Originally known as Catawba High School, our community school evolved over the years to become the elementary school we cherish today. Our current building opened in 2007.
Our dedicated staff works hard to inspire a love of learning, celebrate individual growth, and build a strong foundation for future success. With a variety of enrichment opportunities – including the arts, technology integration, and character development – we aim to meet the needs of every learner.
Our small-town setting fosters safety, belonging, and strong connections among students, staff, and families. Whether you're a returning or new to our Rocket family, we welcome you to a place where students are encouraged to dream big, work hard, and launch into their brightest futures.
Let’s make it a great year at Catawba Elementary—home of the Rockets! 🚀

Inclusivity
We prioritize inclusivity by actively promoting a welcoming and supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered.
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December 17, 2025
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS ARE DECEMBER 22 through JANUARY 5! District and school offices will be closed December 23-January 1. We will see your child back in school on Tuesday, January 6, 2026! Have a saf...
December 10, 2025
ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOL FAMILIES...Fall End-of-Course (EOC) Testing and Retesting is coming up next week, December 15–19!Each high school will share its specific exam schedule and important details, ...
December 4, 2025
🚨 Catawba County Schools ParentSquare AlertDue to the possibility of freezing precipitation in the early morning hours—and with temperatures expected to improve after 9:00 a.m.—Catawba County Schoo...
December 1, 2025
"Foundation Focus"Volume 1 Issue 2December 1, 2025Message from our Executive Director....As we enter t...
View the full calendar to see all the exciting events we have happening in the next few weeks and months!
School Profile

Mission Statement: "Our mission is to create a caring and inclusive learning environment where dedicated and creative teachers help every student succeed. We focus on academic growth, strong character, and social-emotional well-being by offering a challenging and supportive curriculum. Together, we prepare students to thrive in a changing world."
Grades: Kindergarten – 6th
Enrollment: 465 students
Principal: Dr. Bethany Settlemyre
Assistant Principal: Joe Weaver
School Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:45 PM
Principal’s Message

Dr. Settlemyre brings over 25 years of educational leadership and a passion for student success, driving excellence and innovation throughout our school.
Dear Rocket families,
It is an absolute honor to serve as the Principal of Catawba Elementary, where students, families, and staff work together to create a positive and supportive school community.
At Catawba, we believe every child has unique strengths and the ability to shine. Our goal is to inspire a love of learning, encourage curiosity, and help each student grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Whether you're a returning Rocket or new to our school family, we are so glad you're here. I look forward to learning and growing together as we make this an amazing year!
With Rocket Pride,
Dr. Bethany Settlemyre
Phone: 828-241-3131 | Email