Leadership

I am Amal Al-Minawi, Superintendent here at American Baccalaureate School. I have been working at ABS since 2006. I remember when the advertisement for a principal was in the newspaper and, without hesitation, I sent my CV (Curriculum Vitae) to the “brand new” American school opening in Kuwait. I had an interview with the school Director and that was my first step in the journey that I have taken with ABS.

The accomplishments, achievements, and successes that I have been able to witness while working here at ABS have been completely amazing. It has been an honor to be able to work for this well-regarded educational institution. I have always believed that ABS is the best place for students, teachers, and administrators.

Each day in ABS adds a new challenge for me. The school has built a strong organization from the very beginning, and this has helped them create a community where the staff can meet goals and reach the targets that they have set for themselves. I have been able to develop my leadership skills and cultivate a positive learning environment among the staff, as well as with parents.

Here at ABS, we believe in teamwork. Innovative learning is encouraged in the classroom, as well as professional development and collaborative thinking at the teacher level. This is part of the teaching process and has helped many teachers succeed and grow. We partner with and include various school programs such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and UNESCO where students can participate in various activities. ABS has shaped the right conditions, policies, and procedures for all the stakeholders to learn, work and succeed.

Finally, as we all look forward to the continued impact that American Baccalaureate School will have, I hope that ABS will keep glowing and growing as they continue to be a positive and constant progress in the school culture and community here in Kuwait.

Amal Al-Minawi - Superintendent

Greetings ABS Families!

As I embark on my fourth year as Senior Principal and reflect on a decade with ABS, I'm thrilled to renew connections with both long-standing and new families. Our motto, “Learners today, Leaders tomorrow,” embodies our shared commitment to nurturing every child’s potential.

With eleven years of teaching experience in Kuwait starting in 1998, followed by fifteen years in administration, I’m deeply invested in enhancing student achievement. My journey has equipped me with experience across all curriculum levels: KG, Elementary, Middle, and High School—and I’m dedicated to applying what I learn to benefit our ABS community.

At ABS, our focus remains on advancing teacher training, analyzing student progress data, and setting personalized learning targets. We are committed to providing a supportive and dynamic learning environment where each child can thrive.

Welcome to all members of the ABS Community of Stakeholders, whether you’re returning or joining us for the first time. I look forward to a successful year ahead with you all.

Alicia Szydlowski - Senior Principal

I am privileged to serve as the Principal of the Kindergarten Department at American Baccalaureate School, where I have had the honor of contributing to the team for nearly nine years. With over twenty years of experience in education, particularly with kindergarten students, I am deeply committed to fostering an environment that encourages lifelong learning, critical thinking, and global citizenship. Our school’s mission is grounded in these principles, and I am proud to collaborate with a dedicated team of educators who are aligned with the ABS vision. Success at ABS is a collective endeavor, reliant on the collaboration of the community, staff, and teachers to create a supportive, stimulating, and engaging environment for our students. Effective communication is a cornerstone of our approach, and it is a significant strength of our school. I am inspired by Benjamin Franklin's philosophy: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn,” which encapsulates my own educational philosophy.

Jennifer Naser - KG Principal

I joined the American Baccalaureate School in the Summer of 2015 as a homeroom Kindergarten English teacher. Those years I spent with our youngest learners, having just arrived in Kuwait for my first time, remains such a fond memory to this day. The Kindergarten Department is a wonderful and bright environment to be a part of for staff and students alike. It is full of engaging and lively programs and activities all year-round. I joined the KG Administrator Team in 2017 and can honestly say that my skillset in Education and Leadership has grown more than I could have imagined, thanks to the training and resources made available to us by the school. ABS places great value on communication and continuous improvement, which ultimately pushes us towards significant growth and success on both an individual and school-wide level. I love being a part of this team and working collectively for the success of our students.

Rachelle Parsons - KG Vice Principal

As the Principal of Elementary, I extend a warm welcome to all our students, families, and teachers as we begin an exciting new school year. It is both an honor and a privilege to support the success and growth of our Elementary community. At ABS, our mission is to cultivate learners who are prepared to excel in leadership, are ready for international universities, and can make meaningful contributions to the global community. In Elementary, this journey begins with us. Our rich curriculum lays the foundation for the development of these essential skills in a safe and inclusive learning environment. By embedding initiatives such as STEM and fostering a growth mindset, we equip our students with the tools they need to face the challenges of an ever-changing future. The ambitious vision and exceptional student outcomes at ABS are what initially drew me to the school in 2018, when I first joined as a grade four English teacher. At that time, I couldn’t have imagined the incredible journey that lay ahead. Thanks to the positive leadership and guidance here, I have grown as an educator, enhanced my leadership skills, and progressed within the school. I am excited to collaborate with you all this year and to witness the continued growth and success of our Elementary students.

David Holmes - Elementary Principal

Welcome back Abs families and friends. My name is Shereen Kroutz. This is my sixth year in Kuwait, and Vice Principal at ABS. I bring along a combined thirty-three years of experience in Education, spanning over three countries: South Africa United Kingdom and currently Kuwait. My role in education has progressed through Elementary teacher to Senior school management, ensuring my school advances from good to outstanding on an accreditation level. This success I believe can only be achieved through dedication and commitment to excellence in teaching and learning , and creating an ethos where every child matters.  Under our strong  guidance, our students will continue to thrive, in an environment where every student is encouraged to reach their full potential. As we embark on another exciting school year, I want to  encourage all stakeholders to sign up to the challenge of dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to our school. I will continue to go above and beyond to ensure that our school is a place of safety, inspiration, and vision. Moreover, creating a beacon of hope and stability, as we guide our students and teachers towards a successful academic year.

Shereen Kroutz - Elementary Vice Principal

Welcome to ABS!  As Vice Principal, I am thrilled to welcome you to our community of learners, families, and educators. At our school, we are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. This is my third year here in Kuwait and my seventh year in the GCC region. Over these years, I have been fortunate to work with diverse students, families, and educators and I am truly excited to continue this journey in such a vibrant community. Our team of dedicated teachers and staff work together to inspire a love of learning, nurture creativity, and encourage personal growth. We believe that every student has unique talents and strengths, and we are here to support them on their educational journey. I invite you to explore our school, stay connected with our community, and feel free to reach out with any questions or ideas. Together, we can ensure that every student has a positive and enriching experience here at American Baccalaureate School.

Cheryl Bedenbaugh - Elementary Vice Principal

I've been working at ABS since 2008. I started working as a Science teacher, then head of Science department, and then became the Dean of Sstudents in Elementary. I had considerable experience in working at ABS. Each year brings up new excited challenges and goals for me, and this year, will be also another interesting one. ABS is a valuable place for communication, improvement and enlighten skills that pushes up toward success and growth.  

Sahar Nabtiti – Elementary Dean of Students

Dearest Students, I'm a Canadian Certified Counselor with a Masters degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy. I have been working as a University Counselor in Canada before I moved to Kuwait and joined ABS. I come to you as your new Elementary Counselor at ABS, a role I embrace with a heart full of anticipation. Consider me a gentle guide, an understanding listener, a good friend, and a confidante. I am here to offer you a safe space where you may share your thoughts, emotions, dreams, and challenges. I will empower you by teaching you social-emotional skills that enable you to make informed and educated decisions. This will be done through our counselling program, as well as Character Education, Bankee, Social-Emotional Lessons, and Student Council programs. Together, we shall navigate the intricate tapestry of childhood, discovering the beauty and resilience that lies within each of you. May this new school year be filled with joy, wonder, developing social-emotional skills, and a sense of belonging. Let us embark on this journey together, hand in hand and heart to heart, as we explore the boundless possibilities that await.

Abeer Zayad – Elementary Counselor

I became a member of the ABS community in 2010 as part of the Elementary Department, where I proudly served our students as a teacher & Head of Department, then I was promoted to a position as a KG/Elementary Curriculum Coordinator. Being a part of the ABS team has provided me with professional growth and limitless experiences. ABS focuses on education support that runs very well for our students. In ABS, the curriculum with a STEM focus has not only engaged our students but also has had a positive impact on increasing our teacher’s instructional capacity and skill. Our students have become willing to communicate, collaborate, create, and critically think. Students feel safe to analyze, predict, take risks with their learning, and are vested in self-assessment and seeking improvement. We are developing future leaders who will contribute to the global community.

Marian Sami – Elementary Curriculum Coordinator

ABS has been more than just a workplace for me, it has been a second home for the past 16 years. The school management at ABS genuinely fosters an environment where everyone is encouraged to excel and reach their fullest potential. Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how ABS nurtures its teachers, administrators, and students, guiding them towards bright and promising futures. What truly sets ABS apart is its deep-rooted connection to Kuwait’s cultural ethics, religious values, and moral principles. This school is a true embodiment of what Kuwait stands for, and we take pride in educating our students not just to become successful professionals, but to emerge as the future leaders of our society. At ABS, we’re committed to equipping our students with the tools they need to tackle the challenges of 21st-century education. Recognizing the growing importance of the digital age, we’ve introduced various technology-enhanced programs that prepare our students to thrive in every aspect of education, whether it be Science, Technology, or the Arts. Reflecting on my journey, I am deeply grateful for the many opportunities that ABS has provided me. Starting as a middle school math teacher 16 years ago, I have grown both personally and professionally, and I now have the honor of serving as middle school administrator. The support and recognition I’ve received from ABS, whether through local and international conferences or professional development workshops, have been invaluable. I am immensely proud to be part of an institution that truly values every employee as an essential member of the ABS family. My time here has been rich with experiences and learning, laying a solid foundation for my long-term leadership career. Being a part of ABS has been an honor, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the school's legacy of excellence.

Mian Sadiq - Middle School Vice Principal

It is with profound gratitude and humility that I approach the opportunity to be a part of the American Baccalaureate School community. Even in the short time I have been here I can see clearly that ABS is a unique school among those in which I have worked . The commitment to excellence in education, the dedication to nurturing each student's unique potential, and the vibrant atmosphere of learning are inspiring. It is a privilege to contribute to such a prestigious institution, where innovation and academic rigor go hand in hand. I am eager to collaborate with my colleagues, support our students, and contribute to the school's continued success. I believe that together, we can create a nurturing and enriching environment where every student can thrive and achieve their full potential. Thank you once again for entrusting me with this important role. I am committed to upholding the values and standards of the American Baccalaureate School and look forward to making meaningful contributions to our community.

Matthew Baker - High School Principal

I joined American Baccalaureate School in January 2023 as Vice principal. I have worked in education in the UK for over 10 years and was very fortunate to be welcomed into the ABS community. I am excited to start my first full academic year at ABS, I have found the staff and students to be extraordinary people and I look forward to developing and inspiring our young people to their future pathways and helping them forge new friendships, opportunities, and most importantly educational excellence. ABS is a community and climate of trust, openness and cooperation that enables students to learn self-respect, independence, and initiative. I look forward to welcoming back all our families and students to the new academic year.

Kimberly Vas - MSHS Vice Principal