Message from the Principal 
Dear Burtonsville Elementary School Staff, Students, and Families,
It is with great pleasure and heartfelt enthusiasm that I introduce myself as the next principal of Burtonsville Elementary School effective July 1, 2025. I am honored to join a school community with a strong tradition of excellence, and I am truly excited to partner with you in supporting the success and well-being of every student.
As a lifelong educator with more than twenty years of experience, I believe that building strong, positive relationships with staff, students, and families is at the heart of effective leadership. As we begin this journey together, I’d like to share a bit about myself. I immigrated from Ghana, West Africa, at the age of five and proudly grew up in Montgomery County, graduating from Paint Branch High School. My professional path within MCPS includes roles as an elementary classroom teacher, staff development teacher, instructional specialist, assistant principal, principal intern, and most recently, principal of Whetstone Elementary School.
My husband and I reside in Burtonsville, and we are the proud parents of two boys. Being a neighbor and parent in the community, I understand firsthand the trust you place in school staff each day, and I am deeply committed to creating a school environment where your children are safe, valued, and nurtured.
I believe that all children can learn and that learning should be joyful and engaging. When high expectations are paired with a caring and inclusive environment, students flourish. My goal as principal is to ensure that every child at Burtonsville Elementary receives a high-quality education and feels a strong sense of belonging. Working together with staff, families, and the community, we will empower every student to reach their fullest potential.
I look forward to collaborating with our Parent Teacher Association to schedule opportunities for us to meet in person through events and informal gatherings.
I am honored to serve the Burtonsville community and proud to call Burtonsville Elementary School my new home.
Sincerely,
Dr. Loretta Woods