Welcome from Head of School Sylvia Rodríguez Vargas, Ph.D.

Welcome to Brownell-Talbot School,

My earliest memory of a transformative learning experience took place when I was six years old. It was a blustery winter morning and, while I loved school, I refused to walk to school by myself that day. Mom pulled me close and helped me zip my pink coat. I reluctantly accepted her assistance in the midst of declaring that I was not going to school. Deep down I knew it was a battle I was not going to win. She hugged me, opened the door, and gently pushed me out of the house. Standing on the porch and pounding on the door, I soon began to cry.

Sadness turned to anger after realizing the door was not going to open. I wiped my tears and declared in an assertive voice, certain that Mom was on the other side of the door listening, “Fine, I’m a big girl! I can walk to school all by myself!” I made an about face, stomped my feet, and began my journey to school. Determined to be victorious despite my fears and discomfort, I arrived to school on time and the friendly greetings and familiar faces made the morning episode fade into the white snow. I had no idea that Mom had sent Dad to watch me from a distance that day.

This experience reflects the kind of perseverance, courage, and self-efficacy that we desire of our children as they grow in their confidence and ability to navigate a variety of situations. Being enabled to gain independence while receiving appropriate guidance and support impacts the way children learn and see themselves as capable.

It is an honor to lead a school that believes in the capacity of children to develop intellectual curiosity, promotes exploration, and strives for students to apply diverse skills in authentic and meaningful ways. Brownell-Talbot is a community where students engage in artistic and athletic interests in ways that allow them to learn passionately, think critically, act responsibly, and lead with integrity. These skills are central to living and working in an increasingly global society and connect directly to the core values at our school. We look forward to hearing from you and having you visit our campus to experience the Brownell-Talbot community of learners.

Warmest regards,

Sylvia Rodríguez Vargas, Ph.D.

Head of School