Exceptional Children

Darlene Small is an Exceptional Children Teacher at Royal Elementary School. She has been teaching at RES since the doors opened in 2002. Prior to that, she taught at Bunn Elementary School for three years. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics and a Masters of Special Education from North Carolina Central University.

She held the position of IEP Team Leader from 2002 - 2023. Her biggest accomplishment was being recognized as the Educator of Excellence for Franklin County Schools for the 2019/2020 school year.

Sharon Sharpe is an early childhood educator with 20 years of experience who has the honor of helping our youngest students become the best version of themselves. She aims to lay a solid foundation and a love of learning for each student. Mrs. Sharpe obtained her BS in Child Development and Family Relations at North Carolina Central University. She received her Birth-Kindergarten Teaching License from Mt. Olive University.

Mrs. Sharpe began her career in Early Childhood Education in Durham, North Carolina, by establishing a childcare facility that she operated for 5 years. She later served in NC Pre-K classrooms in Durham, Wake, and Franklin Counties. This is her 3rd year in the Exceptional Children’s Pre-K classroom at Royal Elementary. She strives to provide an environment where all students feel safe and welcomed, are encouraged to do their best, and can uniquely thrive.

Mrs. Sharpe loves spending time with family and friends, fishing, and karaoke.