Kyle Brillante is the founding Principal of The Highbridge Green School in the Bronx, New York, where he is entering his 13th year of school leadership. Under his guidance, the school has grown into a vibrant academic community designed to ensure students thrive through rigorous instruction, extended learning, and holistic support.

Kyle earned dual bachelor's degrees in Mandarin and Biology before completing his master's degree at the University of Texas at Austin. He began his career in education as a Teach For America corps member in the Bronx—a formative experience that deeply anchored his commitment to educational equity. Expanding his leadership expertise, Kyle completed advanced certificates at Pace University and City College (CUNY) and earned his Doctorate of Education from Saint Peter’s University, where his research focused on how school principals interpret and enact policy requirements for LGBTQ students. In recognition of his distinguished impact as an educator, Kyle was also selected as a Cahn Fellow in conjunction with Columbia University in 2024. 

Throughout his tenure, Kyle has secured millions of dollars in competitive grant funding, including New York State Expanded Learning Time and Matisse Foundation Grants, significantly broadening access to arts, enrichment, and extended-day programming for his students. A champion for high-quality instruction, Kyle was honored with the NYC Equity Leadership Award for his leadership in disrupting inequitable literacy outcomes for students. He has also been recognized as a Model Principal by New York City Public Schools for multiple years. 

Kyle’s core work is driven by the conviction that all children deserve access to the exact same opportunities, resources, and experiences as their affluent peers. He is dedicated to cultivating a loving, joyful school culture where children and adults can be happy