Dr. Amaris B. Leal is an accomplished educator and leader with over 25 years of service at every level of K–12 education, as well as in higher education. She earned her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Florida International University, where her research focused on teacher support and retention in secondary schools. Dr. Leal’s academic background also includes Master’s degrees in Educational Leadership and Reading Education, a Specialist in Reading Education, and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with an ESOL endorsement.
Throughout her career, Dr. Leal has held pivotal leadership roles, including principal, assistant principal of curriculum, and district trainer, where she spearheaded initiatives that improved school performance, expanded advanced academic programs, and increased graduation rates. Recognized as the Central Region Office’s Assistant Principal of the Year and a Miami-Dade County District Finalist, she is known for her data-driven decision-making, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to student success.
In higher education, Dr. Leal has taught at Florida International University and Miami Dade College, designing curriculum and instructing bachelor’s and master’s level courses in instructional leadership, school finance, and reading education. In her current role as a teaching professor at Florida State University, she continues to prepare future educational leaders by blending research, real-world application, and a dedication to fostering equitable and high-achieving learning environments.