
My name is Bobby Riley and I am the principal at Burlington’s Alternative High Schools. I was at the Integrated Arts Academy (psyched to see some old IAA friends in this setting) for 18 years, first as the librarian then as principal for 9 years.
I am excited to be part of the learning and growth in these schools. My goal as your leader and partner in your educational experience, is to make these schools a place you, our students, are the center of the curriculum. Most students come to the alternative high schools because BHS wasn’t a perfect fit. So we want to co-construct with you and your family, what would best serve you as a student. Love, passion, interest and joy can be connected to deep and meaningful learning. My number one goal is to never hear a student say, “I’m here to just do what I need to do to graduate.” Instead I want you to feel, that school is a place that is personally important and connected to you. I truly look forward to learning from you and determining what school can do to best meet your social, emotional and academic needs.
I am a native of Burlington. I went to Flynn, Hunt and then BHS. I have lived here most of my life, minus about 10 years for some time in North Carolina and Connecticut.
I love music (of all kinds), play a couple instruments (although I’m kind of a hack), I read a ton, enjoy cooking (vegan) and am passionate about athletics and working out. I’ve coached basketball and have recently taken up Pickleball, which is really my new passion. I play daily. So you’ll usually find me with a guitar, book or pickleball in my hand.
I have been married to Aly, a special educator at Edmunds Elementary, going on 17 years. I have three children, Haedyn, 24 (a Horizons graduate!, and a graduate of CCV in graphic Design), Holden, 23 (who just finished at UVM with a Music and Film degree) and Maya, 15 (a freshman at BHS).
Not sure if most people find this fact interesting or crazy, but I am a vegan. That means I don’t eat any animal products. I don’t hold that against anyone that does. I actually think a grilled burger, roasted chicken or BBQ ribs smells great, I just don’t want to eat them. So if you are adventurous and want to try some of my nutty recipes, I’m always willing to share and cook for others.
I am totally stoked for this work and look forward to the journey.
Best
Bobby