Championing Girls' Education: A Personal Reflection

When I envisioned this HEADlines series, I made a commitment to myself to use it—in part—to give you a more personal window into who I am and why I do what I do. Throughout Women’s History Month, I have found myself reflecting on the journey that has brought me to this point as your Head of School. I have often proudly shared with you my unwavering commitment to girls' education and uplifting girls and young women. Today, I want to tell you why that passion burns so brightly.

From a young age, I was fortunate to excel academically. I thrived in my classes and earned good grades. Despite this, at Duxbury High School—a well-regarded suburban public school—I experienced firsthand the subtle biases that permeate educational environments. I felt invisible. I was an unproblematic, unobtrusive, high-achieving girl which—in many teachers’ eyes—meant one less student with whom to concern themselves. While I watched my similarly high-achieving male classmates be pushed towards higher levels of success and leadership, everyone seemed happy to let me fade to the background. Despite always having an opinion, an answer, an idea to share, I was never encouraged to do so. 

This discrepancy in treatment is not unique to my experience; it echoes a broader pattern observed in educational institutions across the nation and in research conducted throughout co-ed and single-gender schools: girls are often held to unrealistic standards of perfection from the outset, while boys are afforded the opportunity to grow and develop over time. It is a systemic issue that perpetuates gender inequality and stifles the potential of countless fabulous young women.

For me, the realization of this disparity ignited a fire within me. It set me on my path with an unwavering determination to challenge the status quo and champion the cause of girls' education. In fact, it was at my first teaching job at a girls’ school where, for the first time, I found a mentor. The Head of School said to me, “I see you, and I have no doubt that you are going to have a brilliant career.” The validation that I felt at not only having my work recognized but celebrated was memorable and transformational. Suddenly, I was no longer invisible. I was being pushed to grow and challenge myself—all while feeling like who I was and what I did truly mattered and was valued.

At Marlborough, we are privileged to foster an environment where girls are empowered to thrive each and every day—an environment where I hope each of them finds at least one person who says I see you and you matter. We recognize that the need for celebration and empowerment extends far beyond the confines of a designated month; it is a daily commitment woven into the fabric of our very being as a school.

To the incredible educators alongside whom I am honored to work: I am continually inspired by the dedication and passion you bring to our school. Each of you serves as a beacon of hope and guidance for our students, shaping their lives and futures through your unwavering commitment to redefining excellence.

Even as Women’s History Month soon comes to a close, let us recommit ourselves to intentionally honor the trailblazers who have paved the way for progress, and to the ongoing pursuit of gender equity and inclusivity. Together, we can create a brighter, more equitable future for generations who can follow our good example.