Anita M. Berger began her career in school leadership by obtaining a Master’s Degree in Administration and Exercise Physiology from Howard University.  Ms. Berger served as an assistant professor at Howard University, publishing several research articles on health and wellness during her time there. She remains active in the Howard University community through her work with the Teacher Education Advisory Council, which ensures high quality professional education programs at Howard and focuses on the exchange of information and perspectives on teacher education practices, policies, and programs.

Ms. Berger has served as principal of Benjamin Banneker Academic High School since 2005.  Her expertise in planning and implementing advanced programs has fostered the first public high school in Washington, D.C. with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.  She persistently implements school-wide instructional practices, ensuring high quality teaching and learning for all students.  Her purposeful collaboration has promoted several partnerships including Howard University, George Washington University, Georgetown University Law School, Trinity College, University of Oklahoma, U.S. Department of Education, White House Internship Program and more.  In 2009, Ms. Berger was recognized by the National Association of Secondary School Principals as the DC State Principal of the Year, an honor bestowed upon principals who have demonstrated high quality learning opportunities for all students as well as exceptional contributions to the profession. Ms. Berger is also a member of the College Board’s National Office for School Counselor Advocacy Advisory Board and the D.C. Public Schools Chancellor’s Cabinet.