Ruminations on Leading Abroad…

American international schools are widely recognized for their sophisticated approaches to education that combine the best of American educational principles with international perspectives and cultural experiences, providing educators with unique and rewarding professional opportunities. Often serving students from dozens of nationalities, the rich diversity and exposure to varied cultures fosters deeper understanding of pluralism, cross-cultural communication, empathy, and a global mindset. Schools frequently incorporate language immersion programs or offer multiple foreign languages that deepen intercultural insights and global competencies. Community initiatives and partnerships with local and international organizations are common with a notable emphasis on service and appreciative inquiry. Many international schools host events, workshops, and cultural celebrations that bring the school community together and connect students with the broader global society. 

As a leader searching for your next professional opportunity, is leading an overseas school an experience that you’ve sufficiently considered, examined, and envisaged? It’s rare to meet someone who doesn’t consider themself to be open-minded; we all like to believe we’re open to new ideas and possibilities. To what extent do preconceived notions, biases and assumptions shut the door on spectacular, life-changing opportunities in schools abroad? 

The expatriate experience is not dictated by the stereotypes of the foreign country one lives in. Host country culture and context is significant, but the overall experience is largely shaped by the school itself and the individual’s own inclinations. It is common for educators to have a wonderful experience, with a very high quality of living, in an excellent school in a third world country. 

Leading a school overseas sometimes comes with a unique set of challenges. Navigating geopolitical issues, ensuring student and staff safety in international environments, managing the cultural complexities and dynamics of diverse staff, student and parent populations, securing visas, recruiting qualified educators, supporting teachers' cultural adaptations, and compliance with varying national and international educational requirements are just some of the challenges that international school leaders may encounter. But it’s helpful to know you are not alone. The Office of Overseas Schools (US State Department) and the Association for the Advancement of International Education (AAIE), along with regional organizations, are powerful supporters. For many, these challenges are also opportunities to learn and grow in dynamic, exciting international school settings.


As a leader of a school in the Caribbean, I dove colorful reefs in crystal clear waters, explored ancient ruins in Mexico, trekked rainforests in Honduras and waterfalls in Costa Rica, hiked Machu Picchu and enjoyed a cuba libre on the streets of Havana. But more important than any of this was the incredible leadership, learning and growth opportunities I experienced, along with freedom and flexibility to collaborate with outstanding educators, transform and develop a school, and make meaningful impacts in the lives of students. Leading a school in Africa afforded countless extraordinary adventures for me and my family (there are tremendous benefits to raising children abroad) but the professional growth experience as the School Director was equally invaluable, including the opportunity to develop a strategic direction, clarify school identity, and shape the future path of a dynamic organization. 


The world is smaller than ever, and the number of people in the US thinking about moving abroad has skyrocketed in recent times. Once considered a strange or intimidating choice, living overseas has become a more common reality. Could leadership in an overseas school be in your future? Perhaps it’s something that deserves serious contemplation. If you’re interested in knowing more, please reach out to me at jeremy.moore@rg175.com.