Villarreal Selected as 2023 DoDEA-Europe Principal of the Year

Dr. Michelle Howard-Brahaney, DoDEA–Europe Director for Student Excellence, proudly announces Sigonella Middle High School (MHS) Principal Mr. Marc Villarreal as the 2023 DoDEA-Europe Principal of the Year.

“Marc is one of DoDEA’s great teacher leaders. Throughout his more than twenty years with DoDEA, he has demonstrated a unique ability to create positive teaching and learning environments for his staff and students alike. He is highly deserving of this recognition,” said Dr. Howard-Brahaney.

For more than two decades, Villarreal has served with DoDEA as a teacher, assistant principal and now principal of Sigonella MHS. His DoDEA experience includes both teaching and leading at the elementary, middle school and high school levels across the Pacific and European theaters in Japan, Germany, Italy and Spain.

“It is my primary responsibility, as a school administrator and leader, to set the standards for effecting positive change both academically and personally for all of our military-connected students. As the son of an Army veteran, I take great pride in that responsibility,” said Villarreal.

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.