Jennifer Castro Selected as Acting Principal of Vicenza Elementary School
Mr. Paul Salatto, Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Europe South District Acting Superintendent, announced the selection of Ms. Jennifer Castro as the Acting Principal of Vicenza Elementary School and Mr. Brian Newsom as the Acting Assistant Principal.
“Jennifer brings a wealth of classroom experience, leadership expertise, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of military-connected students,” Salatto said. “Her dedication to fostering student success and her commitment to building strong school communities make her an excellent choice to lead Vicenza Elementary School.”
Castro began her career with DoDEA in 2002 as a fifth-grade teacher at Vilseck Elementary School in Germany, where she quickly distinguished herself as a dedicated educator. While in Vilseck, she also earned her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She later taught at Kessler Elementary School at Fort Stewart, Georgia, spending a decade teaching second through sixth grades and serving in key leadership roles such as Continuous School Improvement (CSI) chair and grade-level chair.
In 2017, Castro relocated to Sasebo, Japan, where she embraced the opportunity to teach Sure Start and actively contributed to school and district initiatives. She participated in the Teacher Leader Academy, Prospective Principals working group, CSI, Instructional Rounds, and League 2027, continually seeking opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
Throughout her 20-plus years in DoDEA, Castro has consistently demonstrated her commitment to both instructional excellence and school improvement. She is passionate about cultivating safe, nurturing environments where students thrive and about strengthening partnerships among staff, students, and families.
As a mother of two daughters who attended DoDEA schools as military dependents, Castro brings personal insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by military families. This perspective deeply informs her approach to leadership and fuels her dedication to serving the Vicenza community.
A Georgia native, Castro earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Southern University and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction.
Ms. Castro is honored to continue serving the Vicenza Elementary School community, now as Acting Principal, alongside Acting Assistant Principal Mr. Brian Newscom. Together, they are committed to leading with compassion, collaboration, and a steadfast focus on student success.
