Veneth Waters, Principal
It is a true honor to join the Dr. Ronald E. McNair Elementary School community, and I am genuinely excited for the opportunity to serve as your principal. Dr. REMES has a well-earned reputation for academic excellence, student-centered learning, and strong community pride; traditions I look forward to honoring and building upon alongside our dedicated staff, students, and families.
My journey in education began in elementary and middle school classrooms across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. Upon joining Montgomery County Public Schools, I served as a classroom teacher in both primary and upper grades, as well as a Summer School Coordinator, Targeted School Improvement Liaison, and team leader.
My administrative leadership path includes serving as the principal intern at Stedwick Elementary, assistant principal at both Whetstone and Clearspring Elementary Schools, and acting principal at Whetstone and Watkins Mill Elementary Schools. These diverse experiences have shaped me into a leader who deeply values collaboration, data-informed decision-making, and, above all, keeping students at the center of every choice we make.
As I begin this leadership transition, my vision for our school is guided by four key priorities:
- Academic Excellence: Ensuring all students have access to rigorous, engaging, and high-quality learning experiences.
- Future-Ready Graduates: Equipping our students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in an ever-changing world.
- A Positive, Safe, and Effective Learning Environment: Fostering a school culture where every child feels safe, supported, and valued.
- A High-Quality, Diverse Workforce: Supporting, celebrating, and empowering the strengths of our talented staff.
These priorities reflect my core belief that every student deserves to thrive in an environment where learning, growth, and joy go hand in hand. Beyond academics, I am deeply passionate about supporting students’ social-emotional growth and building strong, transparent partnerships with families. When school staff, families, and community partners work together, our children benefit the most.
On a personal note, I met my husband, my partner of 31 years, while attending Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park. We are the proud parents of two adult sons. When I am not at school, I love spending time with family, working in the garden, and solving puzzles.
I am thrilled to officially be a part of the Dr. Ronald E. McNair family. I look forward to learning about our school’s rich traditions, celebrating our collective achievements, and partnering with each of you to ensure every child feels safe, challenged, and inspired. Please feel free to reach out, connect, or say hello throughout the school year; my door is always open.
Together, we will continue to create a joyful, inclusive, and high-achieving environment where every student can shine.
Warm regards,
Veneth Waters
Principal, Dr. Ronald E. McNair Elementary School
Mrs. Rebecca Mason, Assistant Principal
I am delighted to return to the Dr. REMES team this year as assistant principal.
My drive and motivation to work in the education field is fueled by my belief that every child has a right to a high-quality education. My journey began with intentions to work on educational initiatives from the policy/governmental side. I received a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Georgia and a Master of Education degree in School Policy and Leadership from American University. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, I moved to Washington, D.C. to work at the U.S. Department of Education. Before too long, it became clear to me that I needed to work on the “front lines” of education, in a school setting, where I could interact directly with students and families.
This led me to discover the magic of teaching elementary school students. In D.C. I taught grades 1, 2 and 3 before becoming an instructional coach and an assistant principal. Getting to watch students’ “aha” moments of discovery, as well as their unique strengths and interests, keeps me passionate about this role year after year. Elementary schools are so special because they create deep roots within the community - we are a place of gathering, fun, growth, and learning. I am grateful to continue as part of the Dr. REMES family, and I thank you all for being such an integral part of what makes our school extraordinary.
I currently live in Damascus, MD, with my husband, Sam, our wonderful son, William, and our beloved dog, Sadie. When I’m not working, I love to spend time outdoors, hiking or biking. As a resident of Montgomery County, I’ve enjoyed exploring many parks, trails, and farmer’s markets with my family.
I believe in continuous improvement at all levels and look forward to learning and growing with you all again this school year. Because you are your child’s first and most important teacher, I am eager to maintain and strengthen our lines of communication and partnership to best support your child’s needs. I am thankful for the continued opportunity to support teachers and education leaders at Dr. REMES this year. I know it will be another amazing school year, full of joyous and rigorous learning.