Prior to joining IDEA Public School, Dr. Waters served as a principal for 10 years (elementary, middle, and high school) in Dallas ISD and IL Texas (Arlington K-8 & North Richland Hills K-8).
In addition to serving as a campus principal, Dr. Waters is an Adjunct Professor of Educational Leadership and Policy at the University of Texas at Arlington. He is a former math teacher from Uplift Education and Fort Worth ISD as well as internationally in Camden New South Wales, Australia. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education and Child Development from Morehouse College, a Masters of Curriculum and Teaching from Michigan State University, a dual Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University, and a Ph.D. in K-16 Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Dr. Waters has authored several articles in different educational journals as well as published a book “Preparing for the First 90-Days of the Principalship.” A native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Dr. Waters currently resides in Desoto, Texas with his wife and two children.
Dr. Waters joined the Team & Family in the fall of 2021 as the Executive Director of IDEA Tarrant County and quickly led the region to tremendous growth and success. In his new role as Area Superintendent, Dionel will lead his portfolio of schools and strive to deliver results for every student.
