Beth Herlihy, MEd

Beth Herlihy is currently the Principal at Countryside Elementary School in Newton, a position she has held since 2014. Beth began her career in Newton as both an elementary teacher and a middle school math teacher. Her passion for teaching and her core belief of fostering strong relationships with children and caregivers to support children in her class led her to pursue her administrative certification through the Educator Leadership Institute (ELI). After completing the program, Beth began her administrative career at Paul R. Hanlon School in Westwood where she served as a building principal for seven years. 

Now in her 17th year as a building principal, Beth is committed to fostering a vibrant school climate for children, faculty, and families. Creating a community that is rich with communication, teamwork, collaboration, and an equitable environment for all members of the school community. Beth works closely with her teacher leadership team to lead professional development workshops including: Culturally Responsive Instruction, Racial identity Development, and Responsive School. She believes in building teacher’s leadership skills and values their input, feedback, and needs as they work together to design workshops and professional growth for the faculty and staff.

Beth has supported district work over the years as a Mentor Facilitator, serving on the District Safety Team to analyze and revamp emergency protocols, a member of the Math Curriculum Review Committee, and a member of the Superintendent Advisory Group. She is currently working closely with the building and facilities department, architects, and city representatives to prepare for the construction of a new Countryside Elementary School slated to begin in 2025. 

Beth earned her bachelor of arts degree in Child Study from Tufts University. She earned her Master’s of Education from Lesley University where she specialized in technology in education.