Get to Know Ms. Roybal, our new Head of Lower School

Getting to know Ms. Roybal

New Head of Lower School

Katy Roybal will be joining St.

Andrew’s as the new Head of Lower School this summer, and we wanted to find out a little more about her!

What excites you the most about joining the St. Andrew's community?

Ms. Roybal: Visiting the school this spring, there was such warmth amongst the faculty and a genuine feeling of caring for one another, I felt at home right away. Visiting classrooms and observing play, I witnessed a highly engaged and joyful student body. I am excited for my family to be joining the community.

Tell us a little bit about your family.

Ms. Roybal: My husband Jeremy and I are the proud parents of four boys, CJ (31), Isaac (21), Eli (19), and Gabriel (10). We also have a sweet dog named Benson. Our home has gotten much quieter with the two big boys being away at college (both in the Pacific Northwest). We have a loving extended family of grandparents and aunts and uncles that provide much love, support, and guidance.

What were your impressions when you first walked in the Lower School campus?

Ms. Roybal: I was so honored to get to visit in person. It has been such a challenging and COVID centric year, it felt so refreshing to be in a learning space and to see first hand the teachers and students digging into their work and enjoying one another. I loved witnessing children being enthusiastically greeted by multiple members of the faculty and staff. This is a space of joy.

From a theoretical or philosophical standpoint, what is the most important thing we should be doing as educators in this day and age?

Ms. Roybal: Put children in the center of their learning.

Ms. Roybal with her husband Jeremy (right), dog Benson and sons (left to right) Gabriel (10), Eli (19) and Isaac (21)

Value them for the unique individuals that they are and find ways to ensure they feel seen and connected to their learning.

What are some of your hobbies?

Ms. Roybal: I love reading (and listening to books!), traveling, being outdoors, and spending time with loved ones.

What is your favorite food?

Ms. Roybal: I love Lomo Saltado, a Peruvian dish. My dad makes it the best.

What are you most looking forward to about living in Austin?

Ms. Roybal: I cannot wait to visit many of the places I have heard a lot about but have not gotten to visit yet. I am looking forward to visiting the downtown library and seeing some great live music. I think the pace of life will suit our family well.