Patricia Ann Anton, 63, was found strangled, with her hands and feet tied up, in what appeared to be a robbery, police said Tuesday. Her laptop, TV, phone and other items were stolen from her apartment on the north side of the island.
Anton worked at 3 Mariposas Montessori for the last six years. School officials said they "are completely heartbroken over the loss."
In a Facebook post, her brother-in-law said Anton dedicated her life to helping children.
"Her death is a tragedy," the post said.
No arrests have been made and Dominican officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.