Head of School Welcome
A Welcome from Betty
The first time I ever visited the Castilleja Circle was on Founder’s Day, a celebration that honors the visionary educator, Mary Lockey, who opened this school for girls in 1907. At the time, women could gain admission to Stanford, but they weren’t thriving there because they weren’t as prepared as their male classmates. Mary Lockey wanted to change that.
Over a century later, as I took in the school community that has become her legacy, I realized that she had far exceeded her hopes. Everywhere I turned I saw girls and young women who were prepared for so much more than success in college. They were also inspired to ask hard questions and imagine new solutions, they delighted in their friendships and the world around them, and they were confident that they would lead lives of purpose.
As a student, I attended girls’ school from kindergarten through 12th grade because my mother felt certain it was the right setting for me. At a very young age, I was drawn to science, and the curiosity that was instilled in me throughout my education led me to pursue my PhD in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, but it was my love of teaching my undergraduate students that shaped my career. My family valued education, but not just for the pursuit of knowledge. It was also meant to help me understand how I was going to make a difference in this world, and I knew that being part of a school was where that would happen for me.
At Castilleja, I see teachers who are drawn to education for the same reason, and I see students who take true joy in the pursuit of knowledge. They also take joy in robotics, athletics, the arts, spirit days, chalk drawings, and churros. Most of all, though, I see that they understand this remarkable education will help them learn how they will make a difference. Whether you are a prospective student, a current parent, a colleague, or an alum, this website will help you discover Castilleja as I saw it on that first day and as I see it now—a place where the next generation of women leaders are asking deep questions, forging lasting friendships, and amassing courage and confidence that will guide them long after they graduate.
Warmly,
Betty Noel-Pierre
Betty's Bio
Dr. Betty Noel-Pierre comes to Castilleja after serving as Head of Upper School at the Brearley School in Manhattan. Before joining Brearley, Dr. Noel-Pierre was Head of the Middle School at Saint Ann’s School in Brooklyn and Director of Equity and Diversity at the Browning School. As a student, Dr. Noel-Pierre attended girls’ school from kindergarten through 12th grade, so she brings deep and unique insight to her role as Head of School at Castilleja. After graduating from the Chapin School, she went on to pursue a BA in Biology and PhD in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology and began her teaching career during her graduate studies, earning the Distinguished Service Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Department. Since then, she has taught science in university, Upper School, and Middle School classrooms and has risen into leadership roles that established her strength as a collaborator who brings her vision and experience as a student and a teacher to all strategic conversations. Dr. Noel-Pierre also volunteered her time to help steward her alma mater when she served on Chapin’s Board of Trustees from 2015 to 2017, and she has rejoined the board now.
Dr. Noel-Pierre's Speeches
Coffee or tea?
Medium or dark roast coffee—with a little milk and sugar.
Night owl or morning person?
Early bird surrounded by night owls.
Your favorite subject in school?
Science—specifically Biology.
Favorite retail experience?
It’s a tie between the Garden Center of Home Depot and Michaels (or really any) craft store.
Favorite method of transportation: subway, car, biking, or walking?
Walking. A subway isn’t my favorite but it can be super efficient.
Favorite classroom memory as a student?
One of my favorite memories is a fish dissection in lower school—I thought it was the coolest thing ever!
What led you into working at girls’ schools?
I went to a school for girls and appreciate the familiarity and mission of working in one.
Can you describe a perfect morning?
A quiet household, coffee, and New York Times games.
Can you tell us about a teacher who made a big impression on you?
I enjoyed my tough and quirky 9th grade science teacher who encouraged me to seek out my first research experience and took the time to advise my individual study project senior year.
What’s a recent book you read and something you appreciated about it?
I read The Giving Tree with my son. It is a story of kindness and friendship, and I love that it’s his favorite book at the moment.
Favorite ice cream flavor?
I love ice cream. If I must pick one it would be chocolate chip cookie dough.
Do you prefer seasons or mild climate?
I have only had seasons and have longed for temperate and mild.
Can you tell us about pet you had when you were growing up?
I somehow convinced my mother to allow me to get a guinea pig. She was a beautiful, gray and white-furred, happy guinea pig. One day when I came home from school, I discovered that she had babies! I noticed that she was plumping up but I thought I was just taking good care of her.
Paper or ebook or audiobook?
Paper—the others only for travel or out of necessity.
Who is one of your mentors?
My grandmother, Betty. She has high standards and offers so much wisdom and laughter. She’s a real empowerer of women and has an uncanny ability to connect with just about everyone.
Favorite club or leadership role as a student?
As a senior in high school I was a Peer Leader, and I loved connecting with the 9th grade students and facilitating dicussions with my peers.
Are you a traveler or a homebody?
I'm both!
Your favorite snack growing up? And now?
I had a major sweet tooth growing up and really enjoyed candy. Now I enjoy cheese.
What is your superpower?
I’m pretty steady in uncertain or challenging moments.
One thing your children have taught you?
That my mom was mostly right when I was growing up (don’t tell her)!