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