Principal of the Year Awardees
The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) proudly announces that Miles Shea, principal of Quantico Middle High School in Quantico, VA, has been selected as the 2025 DoDEA Principal of the Year.
His leadership at Quantico Middle High School has driven remarkable achievements, including the school's designation as an AVID Schoolwide Site of Distinction and an AP Silver School by the College Board.
Quantico Middle High School has seen a 10% increase in student proficiency rates in literacy and math over the past four years. Nearly half of the school's students now enroll in at least one Advanced Placement (AP) course before graduating. Shea introduced initiatives like the Red and Gold Salute Certificates, which celebrate students for both academic and behavioral excellence.
Americas
Mr. Shea's leadership at Quantico Middle High School has driven remarkable achievements, including the school's designation as an AVID Schoolwide Site of Distinction and an AP Silver School by the College Board.
Beyond academics, Shea has strengthened ties with the military community. His efforts have cultivated a positive school climate, earning accolades from staff and parents.
Mr. Shea's selection underscores his profound impact on education and his commitment to the success of military-connected students at Quantico Middle High School.
Europe
Dr. Leverette’s leadership at Ankara EHS has led to significant improvements in student achievement, outperforming the district average in nearly every grade level on recent summative math assessments. Dr. Leverette has fostered a positive school culture, prioritizing students’ achievement, professional development for staff and seamlessly integrating multilingual learners into general education settings.
Dr. Marian Leverette named DoDEA Europe 2025 Principal of the Year
Pacific
Ms. Schwerdt-Johnson said her “why” for serving as a DoDEA school principal is rooted in her commitment to supporting military-connected students, ensuring they feel valued and empowered in a school community that understands their unique needs. Ms. Schwerdt-Johnson has served as the lead administrator at Humphreys High School since January 2022.
Ms. Amanda Schwerdt-Johnson named DoDEA Pacific 2025 Principal of the Year
