Dr. Michelle Van Lare
Dr. Michelle Van Lare has worked in education for more than 30 years. A ten-year resident of Arlington with her husband and two children, she is honored to have been appointed to the NOVA College Board by the Arlington County Board in June 2025 and eager to support the mission of NOVA to advance opportunity in our community.
Dr. Van Lare holds a Ph.D. in Education Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Washington. Her current position in Arlington Public Schools is Program Coordinator for the innovative program Arlington Tech Governor’s STEM Academy, housed in the new Grace Hopper Center. She oversees this option program that serves students from across the county. Prior to working in Arlington Public Schools, Dr. Van Lare held teaching and research positions in higher education, including George Mason University, the University of California, San Diego, Stanford University, and the University of Washington.
Dr. Van Lare began her career teaching high school English in Western, NY, including her alma mater in Williamson, NY. Throughout her career in secondary and postsecondary education, she has focused on teacher professional development, curriculum design, and educational equity. She is passionate about creating learning environments that are rigorous, relevant, and responsive to the needs of today’s students.