Dr. Marian Leverette named DoDEA Europe 2025 Principal of the Year

Dr. Michelle Howard-Brahaney, DoDEA–Europe Director for Student Excellence, proudly announces Ankara Elementary High School (AEHS) Principal Ms. Marian Leverette as the 2025 DoDEA-Europe Principal of the Year.

Dr. Leverette’s career in education began in 1994, joining DoDEA in 2012 after serving as an active-duty naval officer. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Mechanical Engineering from the New York Institute of Technology, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Jacksonville University, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of North Florida, an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership and Administration from The George Washington University, and a Doctorate in Education Administration and Policy from Gwynedd Mercy University.

Dr. Leverette’s leadership at AEHS has led to significant improvements in student achievement, outperforming the district average in nearly every grade level on recent summative math assessments. Her collaborative approach with teacher leaders ensures the school’s strategies are continuously monitored, adjusted, and measured for effectiveness. 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. Michelle Howard-Brahaney, Director for Student Excellence at DoDEA Europe, states, "Under Dr. Leverette’s leadership, Ankara Elementary High School has not only seen significant academic gains but has also become a thriving community where students, staff, and parents feel a strong sense of belonging. Her dedication to professional development and her approachability fosters a collaborative environment where staff and students are empowered to succeed."

The DoDEA Principal of the Year Program recognizes outstanding school principals, one in each region, who have succeeded in leading high-quality learning opportunities for students as well as demonstrating exemplary contributions to the profession. The process begins at the local level, where principals are nominated by peers, employees, parents, students or community members.

One of the Regional awardees will be selected as the DoDEA Principal of the Year, and proceed through a national association nomination process, representing DoDEA at the national level. During the year, the chosen Principal of the Year will serve as an ambassador to their profession, be provided leadership growth opportunities, and support DoDEA priorities and initiatives.

DoDEA plans, directs, coordinates, and manages Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade education programs for school-aged children of Department of Defense personnel who would otherwise not have access to a high-quality public education. DoDEA schools are located in Europe, the Pacific, Western Asia, the Middle East, Cuba, the United States, Guam, and Puerto Rico. DoDEA also provides support and resources to Local Educational Activities throughout the U.S. that serve children of military families.

For any questions pertaining to DoDEA Europe please contact the Public Affairs Office at +49-0611-143-545-1518.