Gabriela Gaby Rivas

About Gabriela Gaby Rivas

Dr. Gabriela Rivas, known as Dr. Gaby, is a dynamic leader who blends her expertise in education and real estate to make a meaningful impact on individuals, families, and communities. Guided by her philosophy, “Work hard. Be kind. Make a difference,” Dr. Gaby is committed to creating opportunities and fostering growth in every endeavor she undertakes.As a school administrator with extensive districtwide experience, Dr. Gaby works to make high quality education accessible and equitable for all. Her leadership emphasizes collaboration, innovative problem-solving, and addressing the holistic needs of students, particularly English learners. With a focus on inclusive education, her research and dissertation explored strategies for supporting English learners’ academic and non-academic needs. She strives to create environments where both students and educators thrive.Dr. Gaby co-founded a successful real estate business with her husband while still in college. Their vision was to provide exceptional service, empower first-time homebuyers, and use their success to give back to the community. Over the years, they’ve achieved over $750 million in sales, earning accolades such as Rookie of the Year and membership in multi-million-dollar sales clubs. For Dr. Gaby, real estate is more than transactions; it’s about transforming lives and making homeownership dreams a reality.Her strong organizational skills, adaptability, and client-first mindset help her balance her dual careers. Her experience in real estate has sharpened her ability to manage complex projects and meet tight deadlines—skills that she seamlessly integrates into her role as a school administrator. Similarly, her background in education enhances her ability to lead with empathy, collaboration, and a focus on long-term impact.Outside of her professional roles, Dr. Gaby is a proud mother of six, a devoted dog mom to her golden retriever, and an advocate for finding joy in simple moments and embracing gratitude. She enjoys ice skating, reading, and visiting different bake shops and cafes as a dessert foodie. Dr. Gaby is also passionate about giving back to her community through her work with Arlington Thrive, a nonprofit supporting families in need.Whether helping students and teachers in schools or assisting families in achieving homeownership, Dr. Gaby is driven by a mission to leave a lasting, positive impact. She works tirelessly to create opportunities and inspire others to build brighter futures for their communities.

Experience

1. Principal Elementary School

   Arlington Public Schools

   Jul 2025 — Present

Education

• George Mason University

  Teacher Consultant Fellowship, Northern Virginia Writing Project (NVWP.org)

  2015 — 2015

• Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School

  High School

  1990 — 1994

• Virginia Tech

  Doctorate in Education, Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

• The George Washington University - Graduate School of Education and Human Development

  Post-Master's Educational Leadership and Administration

  2016 — 2017

• Georgetown University

  Bachelor of Science, Foreign Service (Concentration on Latin American Studies)

• Marymount University

  Master in Education, Teaching English as a Second Language

  2011 — 2012

• University of Virginia

  Post- Master's Reading Specialist

  2014 — 2016

Skills

• Corporate Relocation
• Single Family Homes
• Investments
• Agents
• Disposition
• Investment Properties
• Reo
• Asset Management
• Negotiation
• Sales
• Management
• Leases
• Marketing Strategy
• Sellers
• Investors
• Valuation
• Marketing
• Residential Homes
• Loans
• Buyer Representation
• Short Sales
• Real Estate
• First Time Home Buyers
• Foreclosures
• Relocation