Principal's Corner

Ms. Iris Castillo

Iris Castillo is honored to serve as the principal of Emerson Elementary

A Bay Area native, Ms. Castillo has spent the past 17 years in education, working in expanded learning, mental health services, special education, and school leadership.

Her journey began in the same public school district she attended as a child, where she worked in after-school and enrichment programs while completing her undergraduate studies. Supporting students and families in the community that raised her sparked a deep and lasting commitment to education.

After earning her bachelor’s degree, Ms. Castillo worked in the mental health field, providing therapeutic care to young people navigating complex life experiences. That work strengthened her belief in relationship-centered care and inspired her to return to schools, where she could support students both socially and academically.

She earned a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and became a credentialed Education Specialist through the University of the Pacific’s Benerd School of Education. In this role, she served students across K–12 settings, led special education departments, and developed systems to strengthen early literacy, inclusive practices, and social-emotional learning.

That experience continues to shape her leadership today. With a strong foundation in special education compliance, inclusive instruction, and progress monitoring, Ms. Castillo brings deep expertise and advocacy to her work. She believes schools thrive when they honor students' identities, center family partnerships, and build systems that meet the full range of learners.

To deepen her impact, Ms. Castillo earned a second master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration through UC Berkeley’s Principal Leadership Institute. As a leader, she is committed to anti-racist pedagogy, neurodiversity-affirming practices, and ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education.

Her vision for Emerson is to cultivate a school community where all students feel seen, valued, and empowered. She is focused on building strong home-school connections and fostering inclusive, rigorous, and joyful learning that reflects the brilliance and diversity of every child.

Outside of school, Ms. Castillo enjoys traveling with her partner—some of their favorite places include Mexico, Nicaragua, Greece, and Portugal. She also loves cooking, caring for her plants, and spending time with their two beloved dogs, Carmela and Rocky.