Head of School’s Corner

Cindy Ogg has always believed in the power of education. She has experienced it firsthand, both personally and professionally. After landing her first job as a camp counselor and private tutor when she was just 16 years old, she found a way to turn her lifelong passion into a career. During and after college, she worked as a university English language lab instructor. During her graduate studies, she taught English at an early childhood development center sponsored by SUNY in Buffalo, New York. She also formed part of a SUNY educational research team that focused on integrating the sciences across academic curricula. When she returned to Puerto Rico after completing her Master’s degree, she worked as the assistant director of a competitive summer program where she developed an even more holistic and creative approach to education.

In 1993, she joined the Robinson family. Since then, she has been an engaged and committed member of the community. After more than 22 years of service, she has worked in practically every area, from the academic to the administrative. Beginning in Robinson’s Summer Camp program, her dynamic educational approach was rapidly recognized and she was hired as a Kindergarten teacher. She went on to transform our Preschool Program into San Juan’s top developmentally appropriate early childhood program. Her efforts in this area continue to this day. Last year, she launched Robinson’s Toddler Program.

Her diligence and leadership steadily moved her up the ranks to Preschool Coordinator, Assistant Principal, Elementary Division Head, and Assistant Head of School. In 2012, she became the IB Primary Years Program Coordinator, leading the Robinson Elementary School to its authorization as an IB World School for the Primary Years Program. For her important contributions and achievements to Robinson, she was appointed Head of School by the Board of Trustees in January 2016.

“My experiences here at Robinson have allowed me to grow in so many ways. Sure, I’ve learned a lot about child development, teaching and education. But I’ve also learned about leadership, mentoring, collaboration, communication and commitment,” observed Mrs. Ogg.

Cindy has been a longstanding colleague and mentor to Robinson teachers since the beginning. She constantly seeks out professional development for teachers to prepare them in the latest, most multi-dimensional approaches to learning and teaching. “I have a passion for making a difference in preparing our students’ futures in this ever-changing world. Our teachers are vital to this,” she stated.

An optimum learning environment is also fundamental to student learning. Cindy know that this requires continually maintaining and updating facilities. “Classrooms are always being renovated and technology updated,” commented Cindy. Cindy understands that Robinson is a living institution. Her role is to nurture and cultivate the academic excellence and service that have characterized it for over 117 years. One of her primary aims as Head of School is to keep growing in that tradition–making a difference in students’ lives through education, “inspiring them, preparing them and letting them know they can achieve great things.”

Above all, Robinson is an ever-evolving institution with a desire to grow and accept change when needed. “I love being surrounded by a community that wants to grow. Educators have to remain lifelong students—always learning and growing,” said Cindy. “So, one of my goals is to continue growing as a key asset here at Robinson School. I believe in our hard work and I know our continued commitment to each student’s growth and success makes a difference.” Cindy understands that Robinson is unique because of its true commitment to its students, their character and their complete education as future leaders.