Karen Robertson is the principal of West Leesville Elementary (W.L.E.), where 1st - 4th grade students and faculty believe in the motto, Reaching for Your Best at West-Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow! Robertson has 28 years of experience in education. Her career began at East Leesville Elementary where she taught 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade as well as Title I.  In 2010, she was a member of the first instructional coach team in Vernon Parish. This experience inspired Robertson to obtain certification in Educational Leadership. Robertson became the Assistant Principal at Pickering Elementary in 2014.  While there the School Performance Score rose to an A and achieved Top Gains Status. In Robertson’s first year as principal at W.L.E. the school was recognized as a Top Gains School.  In 2021 Robertson was named the Louisiana State Elementary Principal of the Year. Robertson was raised a military dependent of parents who instilled the importance of education and service in their children. She and her husband of 30 years also strive to continue this legacy in their three children by setting an example of pursuing higher education and service.  Robertson obtained her Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern State University with a certification in grades 1-8.  She earned her Master of Education from Northwestern State University and expanded her knowledge by obtaining certifications in: Educational Technology Facilitator, Computer Literacy, Reading Specialist, Teacher Leader, Educational Leader Level 2, and Louisiana Principal Fellowship (NISL-EDP).  Robertson believes in encouraging individuals to be lifelong learners and to serve their communities.