Leslie Selberg Viveiros: Upward With the Arts

Having fallen in love with Portugal during her undergraduate study abroad experience, Leslie Selberg Viveiros was determined to spend more time there. With a few months to spare before starting a Fulbright grant, she visited the pre-K–12 Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL) unannounced, hoping to teach music to high school students.

She found elementary principal Katie Morris’ enthusiasm for working with younger students infectious, however—and two decades later, Selberg Viveiros is still at CAISL, having served elementary students as a music teacher, music coordinator, fine arts coordinator, and assistant principal.

One of her greatest joys is collaborating with families and colleagues from all over the world. “It has been incredibly fulfilling to connect our community through the arts—whether directing marimba bands and taiko ensembles; organizing festivals, shows, and exhibits; or leading trips abroad,” Selberg Viveiros says.

Transitioning into the elementary principalship this summer will be “a new adventure,” she adds. “Change is never easy, but I’m fortunate to be part of a school community that nurtures growth, takes risks, and celebrates progress.”

Principal magazine asked Selberg Viveiros about her goals, CAISL’s “hidden” curriculum, and more. Here’s what she said:

What are the goals that drive how you approach the job of principal?

I prioritize relationships by fostering meaningful connections between students, families, staff, and the wider community. These connections create a unified and welcoming environment at CAISL—a sense of belonging that is the cornerstone of our shared success.

How has participation in NAESP’s Principal Leadership for the Early Grades program informed your practice?

[It] has been instrumental in seeing big-picture ideas related to our youngest learners. From addressing separation anxiety at drop-off to strengthening parental relationships, the sessions sparked meaningful conversations and opened the door to exploring new approaches.

What is CAISL’s “hidden” curriculum, and how does it encourage learning and community?

The hidden curriculum started in 2008 with a simple but important goal: to make our core values more than just words on a wall. It embeds those values into our culture to guide how we interact, learn, and grow together.

What is the best book you’ve read in the last year (for personal PD)?

As a sports enthusiast, Legacy by James Kerr left a lasting impression on me. Kerr emphasizes that success goes beyond winning; it’s creating a culture of excellence through humility, growth, and a shared sense of purpose.

What’s the best “leadership moment” you had as CAISL’s fine arts coordinator?

Sharing student work in the arts has always been one of my greatest sources of pride, but leading our team to achieve the Program of Distinction endorsement in music and visual arts from the Middle States Association was particularly meaningful.

What are the challenges involved in leading a multilingual and multicultural school?

[It’s] an ongoing challenge to balance a sense of belonging while celebrating differences. CAISL students comprise 56 nationalities, and we challenge ourselves to celebrate cultural diversity by encouraging home languages, honoring global customs, and embracing diverse perspectives.

What is your favorite part of the school day?

Rain or shine or heavy winds, my favorite part of the day is arrival duty. Greeting teachers, students, and families with a smile and a “Bom dia!” while opening car doors or helping with backpacks creates meaningful moments of human connection to start the day on a positive note.

What is the best book you’ve read in the last year (for personal PD)?

As a sports enthusiast, Legacy by James Kerr left a lasting impression on me. Kerr emphasizes that success goes beyond winning; it’s creating a culture of excellence through humility, growth, and a shared sense of purpose.

What hidden talents do you have that aid in your leadership role?

I don’t tire easily. Portuguese coffee helps. I’m also a jack of all trades. Recently, I played in an alumni basketball tournament, directed the CAISL adult handbell choir, and programmed chatbots as a learning tool within 24 hours.