Dr. Shawn Veron’s journey in education is a story of dedication, resilience, and a lifelong connection to Alief ISD. As the current principal of Smith Elementary, Dr. Veron has spent 25 years serving the community that shaped him, beginning his career as a paraprofessional at just 20 years old.
Dr. Veron’s roots run deep in Alief ISD. He attended Petrosky and Albright elementary schools, spent a year at Hastings, and then moved to Kerr when it opened. Graduating from Kerr High School in 1997, Dr. Veron fondly recalls his days in the student council and journalism. “We created such amazing organizations when Kerr opened, and that really created a major sense of belonging and purpose for me during high school,” he shared.
His inspiration to pursue education came from early hands-on experiences and influential mentors. While in high school, he worked with ESY as a student worker and volunteered with the Alief Special Olympics team. He credits teachers like Mrs. Weisend, who invested in him and inspired his desire to give back. “I had a strong desire to make a difference in the Alief community, just like the teachers and adults I worked with in high school,” he said.
As principal, Dr. Veron thrives on witnessing the success of students and staff alike. “There is something spectacular about seeing students succeed as a result of the hard work and dedication of their teachers and knowing I played a part in that,” he said. “I love the connections I’ve been able to make with our awesome staff and amazing students.”
A guiding principle in his career has been the power of relationships. “They are everything,” he emphasized. “Education is a team effort, and it’s hard to have a strong team without strong relationships—with staff, students, and especially parents.”
Dr. Veron sees his role as extending far beyond academics. “Our families depend on us to grow and educate their children. Sometimes we are the family member that our students need. We do more than teach math, reading, social studies, and science. We create the space that students want to come to every day, showing them there is no barrier they cannot overcome to achieve their future goals.”
Outside of work, Dr. Veron enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching reality television and documentaries, and even karaoke. These personal interests help him maintain balance while continuing to give back to his community.
For students considering a career in education, Dr. Veron encourages passion and perseverance. “There is nothing more rewarding than being an educator. While the work is challenging and demanding, the impact we make is immeasurable. Find a subject you enjoy or are passionate about and use that to impact students through teaching.”
For Dr. Veron, success isn’t measured by salary or titles, but by fulfillment. He takes pride in earning his doctorate degree, overcoming challenges as a struggling reader in elementary school, and using his experiences to guide others. “As a student who struggled, I never imagined I’d earn three degrees,” he said.
Reflecting on his education, Dr. Veron credits Alief ISD teachers who never gave up on him and encouraged him to reach his potential. Those relationships, he says, are what shaped his approach as an educational leader today.
Dr. Veron’s commitment to Alief ISD runs deep. “There is no better organization to work for than Alief ISD. I left for two years to teach overseas, but my wife and I came right back. Seeing so many Alief alumni working in our district is a testament to this community. Our students deserve educators who care, and Alief will always be home for us.”
Dr. Veron’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, community, and relationships in shaping not just a career but a lifetime of impact on students and families.