Carter Park Elementary School
Faculty
Principal
Dr. Michael Pelton’s Principal Bio
With more than 20 years of experience in education, Dr. Michael Pelton is a dedicated instructional leader committed to developing people, improving student outcomes, and building school communities where every child can thrive. He has served as a classroom teacher, instructional leader, campus administrator, and district administrator, leading initiatives that strengthen teaching and learning through collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and high expectations.
Dr. Pelton earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Education degrees from Prairie View A&M University and his Doctor of Education degree from the University of Houston. He believes the most effective schools invest in people first by developing educators, fostering strong relationships, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to student success.
As the proud principal of Carter Park Elementary School, Dr. Pelton is excited to partner with students, families, staff, and the community to build on the school’s strong foundation while creating new opportunities for excellence.
His leadership philosophy is grounded in ELEVATE—Empower People, Lead with Purpose, Expect Excellence, Value Every Student, Accelerate Learning, Transform Lives, Every Day. He believes that when educators are empowered and students remain at the center of every decision, extraordinary outcomes are possible.
Dr. Pelton is honored to join the Carter Park family and looks forward to working alongside the school community to inspire a love of learning, cultivate a culture of excellence, and prepare every student for a bright future.
Elevating People. Transforming Lives.
Assistant Principal
Oskana Snegirov
My name is Oksana Snegirov and I am an assistant principal at Carter Park ES I consider it a great honor to serve on a campus that values high student expectations, diversity, and a strong school culture.
I was born and raised in Russia. I studied English and World Literature in the University of Foreign Languages and graduated with a Master of Education. I attended the University of Texas in Arlington (UTA) to complete the requirements for the Principal Certification. I have been an educator all my life. I taught at Oaklawn ES and then at Meadowbrook ES. I left the classroom in 2016, and I have served as a Campus Instructional Coach at A.M Pate Elementary and Westcreek Elementary. Also, I had the privilege of serving as K-12 Math Coach at Alice Contreras, Clifford Davis and Harlean Beal Elementary Schools.
I look forward to working with our students, parents, and teachers!
Clifton Ahlsted - I have been with FWISD for 18 years. I taught fourth grade for 9 years and have been a librarian for 9 years. Cater Park has been my favorite place to work! I love reading and helping others to find a love for reading. I am a writer and ukulele player.
Leah Polk (Title 1 Teacher) - Hello! My name is Leah Polk, and I am the Title 1 Teacher at Carter Park Elementary. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Applied Learning and Development from The University of Texas at Austin in 2014. In my 12 years at Carter Park, I have taught grades 1-3. Outside of school, I enjoy hanging out with my family (including my dog, Charlie!) as well as listening to music and going to concerts whenever possible.