About – Brooke Semel
Brooke Semel started her career in education as a seventh-grade teacher in the suburbs of Chicago. Soon after learning about Noble Network of Charter Schools, she joined the Special Education Department at Noble Street College Prep in 2008. Brooke transitioned into leadership soon thereafter, overseeing the student experience for a decade first as Dean of Students and then Assistant Principal. In 2019, Brooke joined Noble Support Team and began supporting senior leaders in operations and strategic thinking. As Chief of Staff, Brooke serves as a strategic partner and operational leader, enabling the CEO to focus on high-impact priorities by coordinating and supporting the Chief leadership team, ensuring alignment across the organization, and driving the execution of critical initiatives. As Noble’s primary cross-functional integrator, she increases organizational coherence and uses strategic advising, operational oversight, and project leadership to advance Noble’s mission and vision.
Why do you work at Noble?
I work at Noble because I am passionate about why we do this work and how we do this work. Providing positive school experiences and equipping students to graduate from college is a service to students and their families and to Chicago, and I feel privileged to be part of that work. There is intention behind every move we make so that we can fulfill our mission, and we are constantly pushing ourselves to be better. I love to work for an organization that is constantly in pursuit of excellence, which is what I believe our students and their families deserve.
Who was your favorite teacher while growing up?
My favorite teacher was Mr. Spaulding – my 7th-grade math teacher. He was the first middle school teacher who took the time to connect with his students and learn about their individual interests. I think this is when I realized that strong relationships in the school community could be transformative for students.
Favorite thing about Noble or favorite Noble moment?
I am fortunate to have been part of the planning of several amazing experiences for students, including graduation ceremonies, Summer of a Lifetime experiences, and special trips. But my favorite event would be the Network Prom that was held at Soldier Field during the pandemic. It was heartwarming to watch our students enjoy the milestone event at an iconic Chicago site. I am proud to have been part of the team that facilitated this experience, and I will never forget it.
What do you/your department do at Noble?
As Chief of Staff, Brooke serves as a strategic partner and operational leader, enabling the CEO to focus on high-impact priorities by coordinating and supporting the Chief leadership team, ensuring alignment across the organization, and driving the execution of critical initiatives. As Noble’s primary cross-functional integrator, she increases organizational coherence and uses strategic advising, operational oversight, and project leadership to advance Noble’s mission and vision.
Start at Noble?
2008
Hometown:
Education:
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (BA)
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (MEd)
