Dr. Whitney Stephens selected as Bob Hope Elementary School Assistant Principal

OKINAWA, Japan – The Department of War Education Activity (DoWEA) Pacific South District is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. Whitney Stephens as assistant principal at Bob Hope Elementary School, located at Kadena Air Base.

Dr. Stephens began her career in education in 2006 in Shreveport and Bossier City, Louisiana, where she taught fourth grade in both Caddo and Bossier Parishes. Throughout her time with DoWEA, she has served in a variety of roles, including classroom teacher in grades 1-3, reading specialist, and school counselor. Her professional journey in these roles have taken her to Spangdahlem, Germany; Okinawa, Japan; and Fort Rucker, Alabama.

For the past three years, she has served as the Assistant Principal at Tarawa Terrace Elementary School with DoWEA at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Dr. Stephens is deeply committed to ensuring that military-connected students receive the consistent, high-quality, and data-informed instruction they need to thrive. She considers it both an honor and a privilege to serve students and staff while partnering with families to support academic growth and overall well-being. She believes that strong, meaningful relationships are the foundation of a positive school climate and student success, and she is dedicated to building those connections to create a supportive and thriving school community.

A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Louisiana Tech University. She also holds a master’s degree in School Counseling, a second master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction.

Outside of school, Dr. Stephens enjoys spending time with her family. She is married to her husband, a retired United States Air Force member of 21 years, and together they have one child. As a family, they enjoy traveling and exploring new places and cultures.

Dr. Stephens is truly grateful for the opportunity to serve and support the students, staff, and families of Bob Hope Elementary School.