Miles Shea named DoDEA Americas 2025 Principal of the Year
Reprinted with permission from the original author, Michael O'Day.
DoDEA Americas proudly announces Miles J. Shea, principal of Quantico Middle High School, as the 2025 Region Principal of the Year.
Shea has been recognized for his transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student well-being. Under his leadership, Quantico Middle High School has flourished earning recognition as an AVID Schoolwide Site of Distinction and an AP Silver School by the College Board.
"Mr. Shea's outstanding leadership has been instrumental in fostering a culture of academic excellence and community engagement," said Dr. Judith Minor, Americas Director for Student Excellence. “His dedication to military-connected students and families is demonstrated through measurable improvements in student achievement and the deep respect he has earned."
Shea's leadership has led to a 10% increase in student proficiency rates in literacy and math over the past four years. Additionally, nearly half of Quantico Middle High School students take at least one Advanced Placement (AP) course before graduation. His commitment to student success includes personalized approaches such as the Red and Gold Salute Certificates, which recognize students for academic and behavioral excellence.
Shea's leadership extends beyond the classroom. He has collaborated with the School Liaison Officer and Base Command to strengthen partnerships, including Adopt-A-School and AVID tutoring initiatives. His leadership style has fostered a positive school climate where students, parents, and staff feel valued and supported.
Theresa Martin, a Quantico Middle High School teacher, described Shea as "a curriculum leader who is supportive of new ideas and deeply involved in all aspects of school life." His efforts include successfully restructuring the school's seminar program to offer all students academic intervention and enrichment opportunities.
In addition to his focus on student achievement, Shea has prioritized professional development, organizing Educator's Day sessions and the PromptPD program, which tailors professional learning experiences to staff needs and interests.
The DoDEA Americas Principal of the Year program recognizes outstanding school leaders for their excellence in leadership, student achievement, and commitment to serving military-connected students. Shea will now advance as the Americas region nominee for the DoDEA Principal of the Year Award.
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.
Miles J. Shea Principal of the Year Announcement (6:48)
Miles J. Shea Celebratory Hallway Walk (0:32)
The 2025 DoDEA Principal of the Year Regional Honorees:
Pacific - Ms. Amanda Schwerdt-Johnson, Humphreys High School
Europe - Dr. Marian Leverette, Ankara Elementary High School
Americas - Mr. Miles J. Shea, Quantico Middle High School
