Caitlin Steele
Cohort 4 Alum - 2024-2025

Caitlin Steele is a high school principal in Middlebury, Vermont, with more than 20 years of experience in teaching and educational leadership. She is passionate about public education as a catalyst for social and economic equity and as a means to strengthen collective efficacy within a democratic society.

Caitlin holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Vermont and an M.A. in English from the Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College. She has also pursued advanced studies in sustainability education at Antioch University New England and explored religion and spirituality through programs at the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Her academic and professional interests include complex systems, systems literacy, contemplative pedagogy, and contemplative leadership. Through her work, she integrates mindfulness and systems thinking into educational leadership, cultivating environments that encourage curiosity, connection, and reflective practice.

A lifelong learner, Caitlin continues to develop the skills and perspectives needed to guide her educational community with wisdom and compassion in a rapidly changing world.