Dr. Veronica Rivera selected as Lead Administrator Dahlgren Elementary/Middle School

Department of War Education Activity Americas Mid-Atlantic District Superintendent Mr. Ryan Smith is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. Veronica Rivera selected as Lead Administrator Dahlgren Elementary/Middle School, effective May 3, 2026.

Dr. Veronica Rivera brings more than 18 years of dedicated service supporting students, educators, and families. Prior to joining the Department of War Education Activity (DoWEA), she taught elementary students in both public and private school settings in Puerto Rico. She began her DoWEA career in 2015, serving as an Educational Aide and later as an elementary classroom teacher. 

Over the past five years, Dr. Rivera has served as the Assistant Principal at Antilles Elementary School in Puerto Rico and Crossroads Elementary School in Quantico, Virginia. 

Dr. Rivera holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Special Education from the University of Puerto Rico, a master’s degree in Bicultural–Bilingual Education from the University of Texas, and a doctoral degree in Educational Management and Leadership from the InterAmerican University of Puerto Rico. 

Her professional experience also includes a wide range of leadership and instructional roles in civilian settings, including Assistant Dean and Dean of Academic Affairs, Human Resources Assistant with the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Transportation Security Officer with the Department of Homeland Security. 

In addition, Dr. Rivera honorably served for 10 years in the United States Army, specializing in Human Resources. She is deeply committed to supporting military‑connected students and families and looks forward to building strong, collaborative partnerships while contributing to the continued success of the Dahlgren Elementary/Middle School community.