Robert L. Eichorn believes our most socio-economically challenged, emotionally in need, and intellectually starved students deserve the best schools, teachers, and support services. When provided with a world class education, these students become self-sufficient, confident, and motivated life-long learners. They turn despair to hope, create happiness from sadness, and mold failure into success. Outspoken and relentless advocacy has been and will always be his mission in support of each of our heroic students. Mr. Eichorn is the Principal of New Directions Alternative Education Center in Manassas, Virginia. He has 24 years of school-based experience in alternative education. In 1990, Mr. Eichorn began his career in residential mental health as a teacher, went on to facilitate program management in a host of inter-agency alternative school settings, and subsequently opened several new alternative schools. Mr. Eichorn and his students have been recognized at the local, regional, and national levels for their achievements. He is a member of numerous professional organizations targeting alternative education and leadership development. Currently, Mr. Eichorn serves as the president of the National Alternative Education Association and as an advisor to the National Education Foundation and the Virginia Alternative Educators Association. Locally, Mr. Eichorn is a member of Leadership Prince William, a group of passionate and diverse leaders committed to strengthening community. Mr. Eichorn holds degrees in education from James Madison University and George Mason University.
