My first official day as Head of School.
First, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the abundant support I received while serving as Interim Head of School for the 2023-2024 school year. I am ecstatic and honored to be chosen to lead Carlisle School for the next three years. As we embark on this journey to success, I invite you to partner with me to ensure our 56th year brings continued growth and excellence.
I would like to take a moment to recognize Carlisle’s founders, who envisioned opening a college preparatory school in Southside, Virginia, in 1968. Fifty-five years later, Carlisle School stands strong due to the commitment of the past and present Board of Trustees. Those who have served before me have provided the school with a strong foundation. Now, it is my opportunity to seize this moment and continue building their legacy.
As I move forward, I want to reflect on last year’s accomplishments, including rewriting the mission, vision, purpose, logo, and Portrait of the Graduate. This brought cohesiveness to what drives Carlisle School to be a top-rated PK-12th grade school in the region. We also exceeded our annual fund goal and built new relationships in the community. Due to the drive of our Board of Trustees, administration, faculty, staff, corporate partners, alums, and parents, we were able to see how, with dedication and support, dreams can truly become a reality.
We will write a new chapter this year, which will be called Carlisle’s Journey to Success. Our team of educators will dive extensively into curriculum and instruction. We are committed to ensuring every student has the tools to succeed at Carlisle and beyond because academic standards will always be our priority. We will provide a solid athletic and fine arts program that complements the educational program. In addition to curriculum and instruction, we will focus on facilities and grounds, including safety measures, to provide a secure environment for our students. There will be a heavy emphasis on building alum relationships and working with the Advancement Office to reach our annual fund goal while connecting all constituents.
In conclusion, I am immensely proud of what Carlisle stands for and all our cherished traditions. These traditions are a testament to our rich history and the strong sense of community that we share. I am honored to lead a school community that is deeply committed to the mission and vision of the school. Together, let’s continue to uphold these values and shape a vibrant future for our school community.
Please explore the information found on our website, and feel free to contact me should you have additional questions.
Neal Meyer
Head of School
Mrs. Meyer graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Immediately upon graduation, she began graduate-level coursework at Averett University and met the necessary requirements for certification in elementary education. While attending Averett University, she trained under Dr. Bethany Tucker, developer of Tucker Signing Strategies for Reading. Mrs. Meyer was hired by Dr. Tucker to lead and teach the strategies to other aspiring educators at Averett University and students in the Danville Public Schools. Mrs. Meyer began her 30 years in education at Danville Public Schools in 1994. She joined Carlisle School in 2003 as a preschool teacher. In 2008, she transitioned into the position of Lower School Director, giving her the opportunity to fulfill her dream of leading a team of the most dedicated and skillful educators in the region. The extraordinary children, parents, and faculty that comprise the Carlisle community are a privilege for her to serve. They are inquisitive, compassionate, and resourceful, and they provide Mrs. Meyer with learning opportunities of her own each and every day.