Juan Sheblak
Luanda International School: Secondary Principal
Angola
03-Dec-24
LIS is excited to announce the appointment of Juan Sheblak as its new educational leader, effective August 2025. With 18 years of diverse experience in the education sector, Juan brings a profound understanding of the transformative power of integrating student voices into the educational process. His extensive background informs his visionary approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of fostering student-centered learning environments.
Previously, Juan served as the Deputy Secondary Principal at the United Nations International School of Hanoi in Vietnam and as the Assistant Principal at St. Johnsbury Academy in South Korea. His commitment to personalized, differentiated, and inspired teaching methodologies has made a significant impact on the communities he has served.
Juan holds a Bachelor's Degree in Social Science from Nelson Mandela University, a Master's in Sustainable Development in Planning and Management from Stellenbosch University, a Master's in Education from The College of University, and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Educational Leadership from The College of New Jersey. He is currently completing his EdD at William and Mary.
His focus areas include Equity and Belonging through Empowered Leadership, Student-Centered Learning, Community Building, and Sustainable Change. As an active member of the Association of International Educators and Leaders of Color, Juan regularly contributes to TIE Online, the International School Network, and the Association for the Advancement of Instructional Coaching in International Schools.
Juan Sheblak stated: “I am honored to take on this role at LIS and am eager to implement ambitious plans that prioritize student voices and foster an inclusive environment. Together, we will inspire curiosity and resilience in our students, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global society.”
Juan Sheblak
Luanda International School: Secondary Principal
Angola
03-Dec-24
LIS is excited to announce the appointment of Juan Sheblak as its new educational leader, effective August 2025. With 18 years of diverse experience in the education sector, Juan brings a profound understanding of the transformative power of integrating student voices into the educational process. His extensive background informs his visionary approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of fostering student-centered learning environments.
Previously, Juan served as the Deputy Secondary Principal at the United Nations International School of Hanoi in Vietnam and as the Assistant Principal at St. Johnsbury Academy in South Korea. His commitment to personalized, differentiated, and inspired teaching methodologies has made a significant impact on the communities he has served.
Juan holds a Bachelor's Degree in Social Science from Nelson Mandela University, a Master's in Sustainable Development in Planning and Management from Stellenbosch University, a Master's in Education from The College of University, and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Educational Leadership from The College of New Jersey. He is currently completing his EdD at William and Mary.
His focus areas include Equity and Belonging through Empowered Leadership, Student-Centered Learning, Community Building, and Sustainable Change. As an active member of the Association of International Educators and Leaders of Color, Juan regularly contributes to TIE Online, the International School Network, and the Association for the Advancement of Instructional Coaching in International Schools.
Juan Sheblak stated: “I am honored to take on this role at LIS and am eager to implement ambitious plans that prioritize student voices and foster an inclusive environment. Together, we will inspire curiosity and resilience in our students, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global society.”
Will Hurtado
Oberoi International School: Head of Middle School
India
03-Dec-24
Daniel Smith
Saigon South International School (SSIS): High School Principal
Vietnam
03-Dec-24
Dan Smith has been appointed as SSIS's next High School principal, starting July 2025. He is currently the Secondary Principal at the Canadian International School in Singapore. He has previously served as Principal and Head of School at Ruamrudee International School in Bangkok, Thailand, and as Head of School and Dean of Students at Mosaica International School of Hyderabad, India.
Robert Crowther
ACS Cobham: Head of School
United Kingdom
28-Nov-24
ACS International School Cobham appoints new Head of School with ‘ambitious’ plans for future. ACS International School Cobham in Surrey has announced the appointment of Robert Crowther as its new Head of School. Formerly the Middle School Principal and Head of Senior School, Robert has been a valued member of ACS Cobham since 2016, bringing his expertise, vision, and dedication to the school’s community. Born in the UK and raised in Australia, Robert's leadership journey is rich in international experience, which has taken him across the globe to Rome, Frankfurt, Berlin, Ho Chi Minh City and Jakarta. Robert comes to the role with over 30 years of extensive teaching and leadership experience, with his commitment to excellence in international education strengthened by further positions in teacher training and IB authorisation teams. His teaching expertise includes Lower School, Middle School English, Mathematics, and Learning Support. He succeeds Barnaby Sandow who left the school earlier in the year. Robert Crowther said: “I feel extremely privileged to be able to lead ACS Cobham into a bright future and have some exciting, ambitious plans for the school. I am excited for the opportunity to continue to foster a nurturing environment where every student can thrive and develop the skills needed in a rapidly changing global society. As a school, we will inspire curiosity and resilience in each and every one of our young people and prepare them for the future with confidence.” Tim Cagney, Chief Executive at ACS International Schools, added: “We are thrilled to appoint Robert as the new Head of School at ACS Cobham. Robert’s global perspective, wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to excellence in education makes him an outstanding choice to usher the school into an exciting new chapter.”
Yamin Henn
Bishop Mackenzie International School: Secondary School Principal
Malawi
17-Nov-24
Lindsay Doughty
International School of Beijing: Upper Elementary School Assistant Principal
China
16-Nov-24
Jérémie Rostan
International School of Panama: Middle School Principal
Panama
30-Oct-24
Jérémie Rostan, a graduate of the PTC program, has been appointed as the next Middle School Principal at the International School of Panama (ISP), effective August 2025. With a rich background in academic and leadership roles across divisions in San Francisco, New York, Guangzhou, and Yokohama, Jérémie currently serves at ISP as the High School Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator and Lead for Responsible AI in Learning.
Beth Dressler
BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School: Director/CEO
Germany
29-Oct-24
Beth Dressler has been appointed the next Director/CEO at BBIS-Berlin Brandenburg International School effective 1 August 2025. She is currently serving at BBIS as the Primary Principal and has assumed the role of Deputy Director to support her transition during the 2024-2025 school year.
Jenny Mitchell
Kaohsiung American School: Director for Teaching and Learning
Taiwan
29-Sep-24
Jenny Mitchell has been appointed as the Director for Teaching and Learning at Kaohsiung American School. She has extensive experience in the IB and international schools and is looking forward to being a part of the KAS community. Jenny holds a Master's Degree in Education from Aurora University and is finishing her Doctorate in Educational Sustainability through the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point.
Andrew Hancock
International School of Stuttgart: Director
Germany
18-Sep-24
The Director is the educational leader of ISS and will model the leadership skills required to lead and work with the members of the ISS community to fulfil the school’s mission and vision, inspire, challenge and support students, staff and all other members of the school community. This includes core international educational values, moral purpose, and respect of the community’s cultures, values, and beliefs. The Director will lead the development of the school to this aim. This role commences August 1, 2025.
Jeff Marquis
Harare International School: Secondary Principal
Zimbabwe
24-Aug-24
Jeff is joined in Harare by his wife Angela as they begin their 31st year serving international school communities in 7 countries on 5 continents.
Jason Cone
International School of Amsterdam: Head of Learning Innovation
Netherlands
12-Aug-24
Christelle Lonez
Luanda International School: Primary Principal
Angola
12-Aug-24
After a few years at the International School of Geneva, Christelle has moved back to Africa. Originally from Belgium, she brings her rich experience from PYP schools in the USA, Saudi Arabia, Malawi, and Switzerland to the Luanda International School. Christelle looks forward to leading the Primary section and uphold the mission and values of the LIS community.
Fernanda Dillon
American School of Recife: Secondary School Principal
Brazil
11-Aug-24
Joe Buscemi
American International School of Lusaka: Primary School Principal
Zambia
05-Aug-24
Yasoda Deva
Surabaya Intercultural School: Vice Principal
Indonesia
04-Aug-24
EC1 - Grade 5 and Student Services Lead
Bridget Davies
Luanda International School: Director
Angola
02-Aug-24
Maipelo N'Guessan
International Community School Abidjan: Vice Principal - Whole School
Cote d Ivoire-Ivory Coast
31-Jul-24
Leads and coordinates the school's DEIJ programs and initiatives, place based education opportunities and the service learning program.
Lisa Hughes
Bishop Mackenzie International School: Primary Principal
Malawi
28-Jul-24
Ben Marsh
TASOK, The American School of Kinshasa: Director
Congo-Democratic Republic of the
28-Jul-24
Ben Marsh holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Portland, Oregon. Ben’s is coming from Yangon, Myanmar where he was the Director of the International School of Myanmar (ISM). Prior to this, he led schools in Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Lesotho. Ben is a life long learner who firmly believes in cultivating collective efficacy in schools in order to improve both student learning and the learning environment for entire community. Ben is grateful to have been appointed the Director of The American School of Kinshasa and feels honored to serve the school and community.
Rhonda Norris
International Schools Group: Superintendent
23-Jul-24
I am pleased to be joining ISG as the new Superintendent as of the 1st of August 2024. ISG operates three American schools and two British schools in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia with about 3,300 students attending
Joe Holroyd
ACS Hillingdon: Head of Upper School
United Kingdom
20-Jul-24
Dr Joe Holroyd joins ACS International School, Hillingdon, as their Head of Upper School this August. After many years overseas, serving most recently as Head of International at Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz in Switzerland, Joe is excited to be returning to join a great team in an international team in his hometown of London.
Zak Cohen
American International School Chennai: Director of Mission Alignment
India
19-Jul-24
As the world changes, schools need to change with it. As AISC changes, we want to be sure that we are doing so in a manner that aligns our Mission, Vision, and Values. The Director of Mission Alignment is tasked with ensuring continuity across all sections, departments, initiatives, and the systems and infrastructure that support them. This role is designed to help connect sections and departments to ensure a seamless experience for every AISC student from one grade to the next, every employee from one year to the next, and every community member as they engage with AISC. In short the role seeks to harmonize knowing, doing and being at AISC as the school evolves through its Mission and driving document refresh as a cohesive institution.
LUCINDA WILLIS
ACS Egham: Upper School Principal
United Kingdom
19-Jul-24
Luci Willis has been appointed Upper School Principal at ACS Egham International School in Egham, UK. Previously, Ms. Willis was the Head of Secondary at Raha International School, Khalifa City campus, Abu Dhabi.
Veronica Kaypaghian
American School of Durango: Head of School
Mexico
05-Jul-24
It is with great pleasure that the ASD Board of Directors introduces Veronica Kaypaghian as the Executive Director of the American School of Durango, effective August 2024.
Ms. Kaypaghian joins us with a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our school’s mission and values. We are confident that her leadership will ensure the continued growth and success of ASD in the years ahead.
Jeff Lippman
Halcyon London International School: Director
United Kingdom
01-Jul-24
Appointed to begin in the fall of 2025
Ana Leticia Daza
Pan American School of Bahia: Vice-Superintendent
Brazil
29-Jun-24
Over more than 20 years in international education, I have had the privilege of working in Bolivia, Venezuela, Argentina, and Brazil. My journey has been dedicated to fostering a love of learning, nurturing strong community bonds, and profoundly honoring the rich cultural diversity of each host country. My passion for educational excellence and the transformative power of authentic relationships has only intensified over time. For the past five years, I've held leadership roles at the Pan American School of Bahia in Brazil—a dynamic and compassionate community committed to academic rigor and holistic development. I am deeply humbled and honored to step into the role of Vice Superintendent next school year at this extraordinary institution.
Jason Lasky
Nord Anglia Education: Drama
Russian Federation
24-Jun-24
Teaching Y7-Y13, iGCSE and A-Level Drama
Becky Jobes
Frankfurt International School: Assistant Head of School
Germany
23-Jun-24
Loretta Fernando-Smith
Frankfurt International School: Associate Principal/ PYP Curriculum Coordinator
Germany
15-Jun-24
at the Wiesbaden Campus
Joseph Levno
International School of Estonia: Director
Estonia
06-Jun-24
My heart is filled with excitement and a deep sense of honor to be selected as the next Director of the International School of Estonia!
For nearly three decades, I have dedicated my career to education, fostering a love of learning in students from middle school to university levels. My journey has taken me across continents, from the hectic classrooms of California to the vibrant international community of the Philippines and beyond. This path has instilled in me, a deep appreciation for the transformative power of a diverse and globally-focused education, precisely the kind offered at ISE.
My experiences as an educational leader in Manila, Egypt, Colombia, and Korea have equipped me to navigate the unique challenges facing ISE and I look forward to meeting them. At the heart of my leadership philosophy lies a commitment to fostering a vibrant learning environment where students can excel academically and develop as well-rounded global citizens, where they are nurtured and supported on an individualized journey to becoming global citizens in tomorrow's world.
ISE's reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to the IB Programme deeply resonates with my educational values and I am eager to connect with the ISE community – students, faculty, parents, and staff – and collaboratively build upon the school's strong foundation. Together, we can create an even more dynamic learning experience that prepares students to thrive in our ever-evolving world.
Sheena Nabholz
Academy of International School Heads: Deputy CEO
Canada
02-Jun-24
In her role as AISH Deputy CEO, Sheena will partner with CEO Jeff Paulson to lead the AISH organization in further pursuit of its strategic goals. Honoring the founding Board’s vision of Heads of International Schools supporting each other - for heads, by heads - they will provide thought partnership for aspiring and current Heads, focusing on AISH’s core pillars of community engagement, partnerships, program enhancement, financial stewardship, and operational excellence.
Liam Browne
Advanced Learning Schools , Riyadh: Superintendendt
Saudi Arabia
16-Apr-24
Advanced Learning Schools is delighted to announce the appointment of Liam as our new Superintendent. Liam brings a wealth of experience in international education, having dedicated nearly three decades to this field. This appointment marks his third headship and adds to a career spanning Germany, Brazil, and Norway, where he has led exclusively International Baccalaureate (IB) schools.
Liam is currently the Head of the Franconian International School in Germany, a role he has held with distinction for the past three years. His career also includes teaching IB Diploma Programme history, Theory of Knowledge, Business Management, and various Middle Years Programme courses.
As he prepares to leave the Franconian International School, Liam is excited about the opportunity to contribute to the dynamic community at Advanced Learning Schools and is looking forward to the new learning experiences that await.
Nicola Zulu
Verdala International School: MYP Coordinator
Malta
04-Apr-24
I am looking forward to joining Verdala International School as the MYP coordinator in the new academic year. The opportunity to be part of a school that celebrates diversity, empowers and inspires individuals to discover their true potential is super exciting.
Samantha Olson=Wyman
Colegio Maya: Elementary Principal
Guatemala
27-Mar-24
Dr. Samantha Olson-Wyman has been appointed Elementary School Principal of Colegio Maya (American International School of Guatemala) in Guatemala.
shadrack kyalo
eastlands nobility academy: headteacher
Kenya
13-Mar-24
serving the community in impacting the lives of young ones is my delight
Ken Fernandez
XCL American Academy: Superintendent
Singapore
10-Mar-24
We are delighted to announce that Ken Fernandez has accepted the role of Superintendent at XCL American Academy in Singapore. Ken's twenty-five-plus years as an international school leader and educator have focused on building collaborative and inclusive structures and programs in schools. His wide-ranging experiences in both small and large schools in Guatemala, Nepal, India, UAE, Morrocco, and Brazil bring expertise and perspective to the XCL American Academy, now in its third year as a new school in Singapore.
Elizabeth (Lizzie) Bray
Amala: Director of Education Programmes
10-Mar-24
We are delighted to announce that senior educational leader Lizzie Bray has been appointed as Amala’s Director of Education Programmes. Lizzie is the former Head of the Dover Campus at United World College of South East Asia, Amala’s founding partner school which played a pivotal role in supporting the development of the curriculum for the Amal Global Secondary Diploma programme.. Lizzie has been working with the Amala team as a consultant since September 2022, collaborating closely with our team to build capacity within the organisation to achieve accreditation. Since then she has been working on a project to ensure that we are able to continue to deliver on the promise of our transformative education whilst reaching greater numbers of refugee and conflicted affected youth. Lizzie joins Amala at an exciting time: having received accredited status from the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), we are currently looking to the next three years of Amala’s development. The coming years will focus on creating more impact through the expansion of our programmes, as well as through sharing Amala’s transformative education model more widely. The role of Director of Education Programmes will be critical as we grow and scale our work. With over 30 years of experience, Lizzie’s extensive background in teaching and leadership in international schools across the globe and deep understanding of what a world class education looks like will be invaluable on this journey.
Derek Dalasta
Asociacion Escuelas Lincoln: Elementary School Principal
Argentina
08-Mar-24
Lincoln is excited to introduce Derek Dalasta as the new elementary school principal beginning August 2024. Mr. Dalasta has a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Minnesota and 18 years of experience as an international educator. He has served as a Principal in the United States and a teacher in the Czech Republic, South Korea, and Mexico. While in leadership roles, Derek has used data, research, and reflection to lead school change and meet the individual needs of students and their families. He is dedicated to fostering an inclusive atmosphere that promotes both academic excellence and personal growth among students. He has worked with dual language models both in México and in the United States. During his time as an administrator, Derek led two schools through the design and construction process of a new school building and facility modernization project. Mr. Dalasta's experience, and his commitment to educational innovation, will also play a crucial role in shaping the future of Lincoln’s school community.
David Nelson
Asociacion Escuelas Lincoln: High School Principal
Argentina
08-Mar-24
Lincoln is thrilled to welcome Dr. David Nelson as the new high school principal for the 2024-2025 school year. He has a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Wilkes University and 34 years of experience as an international educator. He has served as the High School Principal and Coordinator of Professional Development and Growth in Greece and previously worked as an educator in the United States. Dr. Nelson has experience in service learning, research, project-based learning, expansion of course options, AI and Conscious Citizenship frameworks, contingency planning, adult learning, and professional development. As an Oregon native and former history teacher, he has traveled through Central America and lived in Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua to study Spanish. He also founded the Equity Maps app: an educational technology tool to help make classrooms more inclusive with more equitable dialogue, more collaboration, and deeper reflection. Over 60 countries around the world use this tool. As Lincoln embraces the exciting opportunities ahead, Dr. Nelson's visionary leadership and dedication to professional development will inspire our community to reach new heights of excellence.
Mel Bland
International School of Zug and Luzern: Primary School Principal
Switzerland
25-Feb-24
Ms Mel Bland has accepted the position of Primary School Principal for the 2024-25 academic year at the International School of Zug and Luzern, Switzerland. Mel’s experience spans from New Zealand to international schools globally, to early childhood centres, to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme, to leading a school from its foundation to an enrolment of over 1,000 students. Her journey has fostered a deep understanding of community building and collaborative education. She resonates with ISZL’s mission and values, and her leadership style underscores respect, motivation, and achievement, focusing on inclusive learning. Melissa's approach to education is centred around leading learning for everyone in the community, understanding the essence of quality learning and teaching, and maintaining visibility and engagement with those she leads. Mel is a bonafide "Fiwi" - Fijian Kiwi - embracing both her unique Fijian and New Zealand heritage. She is a proud Pasifika woman, hoping she can support other Pasifika peoples to embrace international school leadership.
Tom Pado
TH School: Superintendent cum Chua Boc Secondary Principal
Vietnam
19-Feb-24
We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Tom Pado as our new Superintendent cum Chua Boc Secondary Principal beginning August 2024. The recruitment process attracted substantial interest from highly accomplished educational leaders from schools worldwide, a fact that genuinely fills us with gratitude and pride. Mr. Tom holds a Bachelor's degree in History/Economics and a Master's in Educational Leadership. With an impressive 30 years of experience in education, including 22 years in leadership roles, with the last 12 years headship (American International School of Lusaka, Escola Americana de Campinas, and currently American International School of Lagos), he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our School. We are truly excited about having Tom on board and working closely with the team to shape the future of the School that we all love.
Jamie Green
American School of Belo Horizonte: Upper School Principal
Brazil
18-Jan-24
Mr. Jamie Green has accepted the position of Upper School Principal for the 2024-25 academic year at the American School of Belo Horizonte (EABH), Brazil. Mr. Jamie comes to EABH with an impressive background as a High School Principal, showcasing a strong commitment to academic excellence, student-centered leadership, and the fostering of positive school cultures. His passion for collaboration with teachers, parents, and community stakeholders aligns seamlessly with EABH values. While Jamie is a native of the UK, he also holds an American passport due to his numerous years of experience living and working in the USA.
Kerry Timmerman
American School of Belo Horizonte: Head of School
Brazil
18-Jan-24
Mr. Kerry Timmerman has accepted the position of Head of School at the American School of Belo Horizonte (EABH), Brazil, starting in January 2024. Mr. Kerry is uniquely positioned to carry forward the ongoing work as EABH expands and develops. With over 20 years of experience in education, Mr. Kerry brings a wealth of international and stateside expertise. He has served as an administrator in various schools, ranging from small to medium-sized international schools in the UK, China, and the UAE to large urban and suburban U.S. schools. With over two years of experience at EABH, most recently as Deputy Head of School, Mr. Kerry is well-equipped to continue and enhance the positive trajectory of EABH’s growth and evolution.
Rachel Caldwell
AAIE Association for the Advancement of International Education: AAIE Superintendent of the Year 2024
USA
17-Jan-24
Paola Torres de Pereira
American School of Paris: Lower School Director
France
17-Jan-24
APRAJITA RALLI
Sreenidhi International School: Secondary School Prinicipal
India
27-Dec-23
Aprajita Ralli assumed the role of Secondary School Principal at Sreenidhi International School very recently , embarking on a continuous learning journey. In her educational journey she acquired several certifications, including Microsoft in Education as an Expert and Trainer, Certified Educator for Technology Integration from TISS and Microsoft Education, and certifications from platforms like Penpals Schools, Adobe, Seesaw, Wakelet, and Flipgrid. Taking an active role in mentoring new teachers within the school, she has guided them through MIE certification training and has encouraged advancement to MIEE certification. Her dedication to mentorship extended beyond her workspace, she has been conducting training sessions, securing the MIE Trainer status, and offering professional learning and instructional design support to schools nationwide. She is driven by her passion for amplifying students' voices and fostering engagement in global goals became evident through the role as a TeachSDG Ambassador, where she trained multiple groups of teachers and students. Over an 18-year span in education, Aprajitya has always emphasized the significance of community service and global perspectives.Advocating staunchly for student-centered learning, she believes in placing students at the nucleus of educational endeavors. Her different leadership roles have provided opportunities to create diverse learning experiences, ensuring students are engaged profoundly in their educational journey.
Viki Stiebert
Head of School
Netherlands
18-Dec-23
I am very happy to share that I will be joining UWC Maastricht in the Netherlands as their new Head of College for the coming school year. UWCM is a K-12 school which offers all four IB programmes.
RUAIRI CUNNINGHAM
KIS International School: Secondary School Vice-Principal
Thailand
10-Dec-23
After nine fantastic years working in various senior leadership positions at world class educational institutions in the Middle East & China, namely GEMS Education, Nanjing International School & Qatar Foundation - Ruairi is delighted to have accepted the Vice-Principal position at KIS International School, Bangkok. He is accompanied by his wife, May Cunningham, who will join as an Early Year’s Teacher!
An educational leader who places the utmost importance on trust, empathy and respect, Ruairi is certain it will be an absolute privilege & honour to serve this inspiring IB community.
