Helen Pereira Raso

Superintendent / CEO

Helen Pereira-Raso is a visionary educational leader with over 25 years of experience across both public and independent school systems. Known for her commitment to student-centred learning, inclusive practices, and educational innovation, she has led schools to deliver not only on the promise of academic excellence but also on designing transformative learning experiences that prepare students for an ever-evolving world.

Under Ms. Pereira-Raso’s leadership, schools have implemented bespoke programming including internships, graduate capstone projects, globally networked learning partnerships, and technologically enriched and interdisciplinary curriculum design. These initiatives reflect her unwavering belief that education must be rigorous, relevant, and deeply connected to every learner.

Her academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from York University, a Bachelor of Education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto, and a Master of Education from Nipissing University. She is currently pursuing doctoral studies in Educational Studies, with a focus on leadership and learning systems.

Throughout her career, Ms. Pereira-Raso has championed inclusive school cultures that value diversity, uphold high standards, and foster the development of future-ready skills. She has successfully led systems-level transformation, founded an online learning campus, and established a Centre for Transformative Learning and Leadership, supporting educators worldwide in professional growth and pedagogical innovation.

Her strategic leadership has extended to building impactful partnerships with post-secondary institutions and industry leaders to enhance student learning pathways and real-world readiness. She has spoken at international conferences, is a published author in educational thought leadership, and a facilitator of professional learning experiences for educators at all stages of their careers.

Grounded in the belief that learning is most powerful when every student feels seen, heard, and inspired to achieve their full potential, Ms. Pereira-Raso brings a personable and visionary approach to her work. She has taught students across Grades 7–12, including the Advanced Placement Program, and continues to see the classroom as a source of joy and inspiration; a place where every child can flourish.

Helen is married to Dominic Raso, and they are the proud parents of two daughters, Olivia and Isabella, who are currently pursuing their post-secondary studies in Canada.

Meet Our Team

Our Leadership Team, with over 200 years of combined diverse experience, takes great pride in serving the children of this learning community. Their thoughtful practice and commitment to student-centered decision making keeps children at the heart of the work they do. This makes for an exceptional team to serve the families of Dubai American Academy.

Ready For the Future?