The Durham Public Schools Board of Education approves Deborah Brown as principal at Merrick-Moore Elementary.
Dr. Kengie Bass joins DPS as director of magnet programs.
Deborah Brown
Principal
Merrick-Moore Elementary
Deborah Brown has a demonstrated and proven track record as a successful school leader. She successfully moved an elementary school out of low-performing in one academic year. She describes herself as a passionate, resourceful school and district leader with extensive experience in professional development, literacy, data-driven curriculum design, instructional coaching, and technology. Others obviously agree: she was named 2024-2025 Principal of the Year for Hertford County Schools.
“I'm thrilled to embark upon this new journey as principal of Merrick-Moore Elementary School under the new Leadership of Dr. Lewis. I am excited to present my experience in educational leadership and passion for students and families to the school community and district. I look forward to bringing new innovative ways of fostering student success,” said Brown.
Also recognized with an NCCU 40 under 40 Educator award, she has earned a NASA teacher of the Year award and is a member of the Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society.
A 2014 graduate of North Carolina Central University (Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education), she has earned NC teaching licensure and certifications as a K-12 school principal and K-6 elementary education. She also holds a master’s degree in School Administration and is working toward her doctorate in Education from NC State University.
Dr. Kengie Bass
Director of Magnet & Choice Programs
Dr. Kengie Bass holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Organizations with 17 years at the elementary, middle, high school, and collegiate (undergraduate and graduate) levels. He has an expansive knowledge of magnet programming as a student, as a principal, and as a parent and working with diverse populations. His experience as a principal will be important in this leadership role of supporting all magnet schools especially as he collaborates with principals on programming, marketing, and evaluating.
Some of his awards include being named Teacher of the Year, NC Principal Fellow, and one of East Carolina University’s “Top 40 (Graduates) Under 40.”
Dr. Bass holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from East Carolina University; and Master of School Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill; and a Doctor of Education in Leadership, Policy, and Organizations from Vanderbilt University.
"I have spent more than half my life learning and teaching in, leading, and supporting magnet schools. I know first-hand how they can positively impact students and school communities. I look forward to bringing my passion and experience to Durham Public Schools as we grow together," said Dr. Bass.
