Lee Elementary has been an important educational institution in Springdale, Arkansas since 1951. It cost $124,502.69 to construct the eight classroom building. During the 1951-1952 school year, 264 students from grades 1-5 attended Lee Elementary. Eight teachers were on staff when the school opened.

The first principal of Lee Elementary was Mr. Oakley Long. He served as the Principal of Lee from 1951 until 1975 for a total of 24 years. Following Mr. Long as Principal was John Stamps, who stayed at Lee Elementary for 5 years, until 1980. From 1980-1982, Linda Childers served as the Principal; she is the namesake of Linda Childers-Knapp Elementary here in Springdale. Ann Clark took over the job for a half of a year. Then, in January of 1983, Peggy Hill became Lee Elementary's Principal. She remained the Principal until June of 1998. Sherrie Bayles began as the Principal of Lee Elementary in August of 1998. In 2000, Mrs. Bayles left to open Bernice Young Elementary. Annette Freeman, who had previously served two years as Assistant Principal, became the Principal. In 2002, Regina Stewman became the Principal after serving as Assistant Principal for one year. In 2011, Mrs. Stewman left to open Sonora Elementary. Mr. Justin Swope, who had previously served as an Assistant Principal at Jones Elementary, became the Principal.

Lee Elementary has had three additions to its building during its 44-year history. In 1962, 4 classrooms were added. Three years later, 2 more rooms were built. The final addition was completed in 1971, consisting of 12 new rooms and kitchen. During the 2003-2004 school year, a new library media center was built. The previous library was converted into 2 classrooms and 1 office space.

There are now approximately 500 students, grades K-5, attending Lee Elementary every year. Lee Elementary is a school known for its diversity; children from all around the world attend school here! Lee is also known for growing students. In 2018, Lee was named in the top 5% of Arkansas schools for Academic Growth. In 2019, Lee was named in the top 10% of Arkansas schools for Academic Growth. Also in 2019, Lee was labeled a “Beating the Odds” school - we were one of the top 5 schools in northwest Arkansas for Literacy Content Growth.