Ryan Smith Selected as New Mid-Atlantic District Superintendent

Dr. Judith Minor, SES, DoDEA Americas Director of Student Excellence, is pleased to announce the selection of Ryan Smith as the new Mid-Atlantic District Superintendent. Smith will officially assume his duties on June 17, 2024.

"Ryan Smith's collaborative leadership style will positively impact the Mid-Atlantic District. His background as a former Marine and dedicated educator within DoDEA has shown his effectiveness and understanding of military culture and makes him a valuable leadership asset to our communities," said Minor.

Smith's previous post was at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, where he served as the Community Superintendent. A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Smith served as a nuclear biological chemical defense specialist for six years before being honorably discharged. He then pursued higher education at SUNY Brockport, earning his bachelor's degree, where he met his wife, Tracy. The couple has three sons.

Smith's teaching career began in the Bronx, New York City, at Harriet Tubman Charter School, where he worked as a physical education and health teacher. During this time, he earned a master's degree in athletic administration from Canisius College and an Educational Specialist degree in educational leadership from Liberty University.

In 2012, Smith began his journey of serving military families at DoDEA's Maxwell Elementary and Middle School. There, he contributed to the continuous school improvement team and was instrumental in launching the middle school athletics program. His career progressed as he took on roles such as interim assistant principal at Fort Rucker Elementary School and Primary School, assistant principal at Mahaffey Middle School, and principal at C.C. Pinckney Elementary School.

Smith is eager to begin his new role and is committed to the continued success of all schools within the Mid-Atlantic District. His extensive experience and dedication to military-connected children will undoubtedly drive excellence and innovation in the district.