Dr. Patricia Carlson

Dr. Carlson’s professional background encompasses diverse teaching experiences and leadership roles. Prior to joining DoDEA, she taught in Honolulu, Hawaii. She joined DoDEA in 2013, teaching in the United Kingdom, South Carolina, and Japan. While in Japan, she was promoted to Assistant Principal at DoDEA’s largest school, The Sullivans Elementary. Most recently, she supported the United Kingdom area as an Elementary Math Instructional Support Specialist. Her experience includes teaching general education in grades 1-6, ESOL, Physical Education, and Gifted Education. Dr. Carlson has served as CSI chair, Culture and Climate chair, District-level Focused Collaboration facilitator, Grade-level team lead, School Advisory Council representative, Public Affairs Officer, and assessment coordinator. She has also led several committees and professional development sessions at the school and district levels. 

Dr. Carlson grew up in Italy, where she attended a bilingual Montessori school and an Italian high school where she studied linguistics. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing, a Master of Arts Degree in Elementary Education, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership. Additionally, Dr. Carlson has earned certifications in Italian Language Immersion, Business, and Computer Science. 

As the daughter of a Navy veteran, Dr. Carlson feels privileged to work with military children, as she can personally relate to their experiences as a former military child herself. Furthermore, she has served as an Air Force Key Spouse for four years and is the mother of military dependents. Her husband, Jason, retired from the U.S. Air Force after 22 years of service. Their eldest daughter, Jennifer (22), is a graduate of DoDEA schools and currently pursuing a Biology major at the University of North Carolina in Greensboro. Dr. Carlson's two other children, Lauren (15) and Jacob (13), are currently attending DoDEA schools. 

Being a lifetime learner, Dr. Carlson is looking forward to having the opportunity to share the love of learning with those around her. During her spare time, Dr. Carlson enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family. She feels honored to join the team at Lakenheath Elementary.