Leadership

I am Amal Al-Minawi, Senior Principal 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 to the “brand new” American school opening in Kuwait. I interviewed 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 truly amazing. It has been an honor to be able to work for this well reputed 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 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 - Senior Principal

As Vice-Principal of the Kindergarten Department, I am fortunate to be a part of the American Baccalaureate School team. My experience in the field of education spans over twenty years and I am proud to say that a number of those years have been with ABS. During this time, I have been able to build relationships with my colleagues and members of the community. Creating those strong bonds is paramount to me and I look forward to continuing many years of building sustainable relationships. In order to achieve this, I believe communication is a key element which is one of the many strong suits of the American Baccalaureate School. My commitment to and passion for student learning success, especially for my sweet kindergarten students is in line with the principles of our school. Teaching, learning, and community is the foundation upon which our school resides. I believe that school success is a team effort at all levels and is the reason ABS excels in the education community. Lastly, my philosophy as an educator is best summed up by Benjamin Franklin’s quote, “tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn”. 

Jennifer Naser - KG Vice Principal

Warm greetings to new and returning students and their families to ABS. We share a partnership in education of young learners. We are pleased to welcome students to school, while promoting a safe environment for all, establishing COVID 19 precautions. During our 2021 Cognia Review Team feedback, in which ABS was granted Reaccreditation Status, our stakeholders cited communication as our greatest strength. We will continue these efforts as we enter the school year. As part of our ABS school mission and vision, our motto is “Learners today, Leaders tomorrow.” In Elementary, all needs are provided to support student success: clean facilities, innovative technology, high-level resources, team support and most significantly, caring, effective teachers who adopt the best teaching practices. Our students need to prepare for future success and 21st Century Skills. Due to the extensive learning time away from school, we have a two-year Recovery Plan. Elementary Department goals are based on renewal: student social/emotional growth as well as academic growth. With our trained teachers and intervention specialists, we are ready to serve all learners’ needs in Elementary. Thank you for being who you are and being here with us. It is a pleasure to be with you.

Alicia Szydlowski - Elementary Principal

Since joining the ABS community as an educator and leader, I have strengthened the many skills that I developed over my years of experience in schools abroad. With continuous training and support, ABS has given me the opportunity to challenge myself as a leader, mentor, and coach. The ABS community creates an environment for growth for both students and teachers. This is a learning atmosphere you cannot miss! Moreover, as we navigate and explore the unknown, our team upholds a positive outlook as we work together to get things done and keep ourselves and our students moving forward. I am proud to work alongside a diverse community of team players.

Shereen Kroutz - Elementary Vice Principal

ABS’s vision includes educating lifelong learners-including its staff. I formally started my career in education at ABS as a Grade 1 self-contained teacher. With training and support, I was then promoted to a position as Head of Department. After a couple years away from ABS, I was invited back as a Vice Principal for the Elementary Department. My journey in education has been enhanced by my exposure to the global community promoted in our vision. I know I am here today because of the ones at ABS who believed in me. 

Jaclyn Guzman - Elementary Vice Principal

For the past eight years, I have been a proud member of the ABS family. There is no dull moment at ABS, with each day bringing exciting challenges with new goals for me to strive towards. The positive energy and sheer kindness that I have experienced from our students, parents, and staff here in Kuwait, can make anyone feel at home!

Lamees Alnagar - Elementary Vice Principal

ABS is an exciting place to work where school management encourages everyone to do their best. Here at ABS, teachers, administrators and students are destined for a great future. ABS is a true reflection of Kuwait in terms of cultural ethics, religious norms and moral values. We educate our students not only to be successful professionals but also to be future leaders. We provide every opportunity and facilitate our students to face the challenges of 21st century education. We also understand the importance of the digital world, so to meet future requirements, we have introduced multiple technology-aided programs at ABS. Our students compete in every field of education whether it be related to Science, Technology or Arts. ABS provides countless opportunities to all staff members to grow professionally and contribute to communities after they move on to other parts of the world. I highly value my stay at ABS for multiple reasons. For instance, the knowledge and skills I am gaining over the years, supports my long-term leadership career. Thirteen years ago, my journey started at ABS as a middle school math teacher and within years, the school recognized me as the Middle School Principal. I’m glad to share that ABS has always appreciated my work and provided me with ample opportunities, from local or international conferences to professional development workshops. I feel honored and proud to be part of an institution that considers every employee to be an integral part.

Mian Sadiq - Middle School Principal

ABS is a school filled with warmth, creativity, fun, and friendship. It is a place that is willing to implement innovative programs to affect student outcomes in a positive way. As when moving to a new country across the world and joining a new ‘workplace’, I did not know what to expect. After being part of the ABS family for 6 years, I am glad I made the decision to move and teach. My initial plan was to stay for 2 years; however, I could not resist extending my contract. ABS is more than a workplace, it’s a home, a haven where there is constant encouragement, opportunities for students and teachers to gain exposure in various fields. The school always looks at providing the teachers with professional development and mentors to guide. The students are encouraged to use their gifts and develop on their talents, and to grow into well rounded human beings. On an everyday basis, students are being challenged by a dedicated team of nurturing and professional faculty who work in unison to instill core values in every teaching. I have chosen to be a part of the ABS Community because I have always enjoyed interacting with students, helping them grasp new concepts and acquiring new skills, and I feel that ABS fosters a proper environment for student and teacher development.

Kayla Johnson - MS Vice Principal

Welcome to the 2021-2022 school year!  I am thrilled to welcome you back to school. It is truly an honor for me to be High School Principal at ABS. I am privileged to work with an outstanding staff to make it a smooth transition for our students during this uncertain time. We are proud of our beautiful school and have high expectations for each one of our students. ABS provides an exceptional educational experience while encouraging our students to be lifelong learners and global citizens. Our graduates attend top universities around the world. Together with our dedicated staff, we strive to make connections with students to help them feel valued, accepted, and safe. Whether we are learning in person or remotely at home, our goal is to encourage active student engagement to foster a lifetime love for learning. With over twenty years in educating youth, I look forward every day to make a difference in the lives of each and every student. I am excited to keep learning and growing at ABS. It is truly a privilege to be part of the ABS family.  

Todd Thompson – High School Principal

My ABS journey started with being a Curriculum Coordinator and I quickly became a HS Vice Principal. It is a true blessing to be part of the ABS community; moving to Kuwait was the best decision I have ever made. It has been wonderful learning a new culture and meeting so many inspiring people. Needless to say, there is never a boring moment at ABS. The career path I have chosen is challenging but it brings about so much joy and has helped me to fulfil my life’s purpose. Observing and assisting in the progression of students and teachers is one of the many amazing things that ABS delivers. Our vision is to ‘educate lifelong learners with ethical values who will develop into leaders’. Each and every day this vision is at the heart of everything we do! The ABS family all work together in pure solidarity to ensure that we achieve this purpose. Although this vision applies to students, ABS has a tremendous way to fulfil this motto for staff also.

Calicia Daniel - High School Vice Principal

My experience at ABS so far has been exceedingly positive, which I believe bodes well for the future.  Everyone, from my co-workers, the staff, teachers, and others within the administration, have been extremely friendly and accommodating throughout this transition period.  At this point in time, I am looking forward to both challenges and rewards the academic year is sure to bring I and sincerely hope to have a positive influence on our students, teachers, and staff.

Ryan McGohon - High School Vice Principal

I first became a member of the ABS community in 2018 as part of the High School English Language Arts Department, where I proudly served our students for two consecutive years. This year, with the training and support of administration, I joined our team of High School College Counselors. The opportunity to work closely with our high school student body is a sincere privilege and easily the best aspect of my work at ABS. I find assisting our students in developing the academic and social skills needed to succeed personally and professionally, and counseling them in making defining decisions for life after high school to be deeply meaningful. Professionally, ABS has provided me with a tremendous amount of continuous support and opportunities for development within the field of education. Since my start at ABS, I have learned exponentially from a diversified and talented team of professionals and I am excited to continue finding innovative ways to better assist ABS students and fellow staff members in the future.

Diana Garcia - High School Counselor

As a new member of the ABS family, I am thrilled to begin serving as a High School College Counselor in the ABS Counseling department.  Since joining ABS, I have been able to experience significant personal and professional growth.  The staff at ABS are welcoming, professional, and work to make sure everyone is comfortable and performing at the highest caliber for our students.  As a college counselor and College Seminar instructor, I'm able to work with our students in two capacities.  This role has enabled me to serve the individual needs of our students during high school and as they prepare to move into the next stage of their lives.  I'm excited to see what this year holds.

Ashley Jackson - High School Counselor

American Baccalaureate School is a very special school. It is not only a school, a place for learning, but it is also a home in many ways. The administration, teachers, parents, students all have a connection and a bond that unites us. Not only are academic subjects taught, but focus is also placed on developing students’ character and abilities. The students use their intellects, talents, and gifts to stretch themselves and become the best they can be. At ABS, we have created fond and funny memories which are held close to our hearts and are shared over a lifetime The best part is that everyone is welcome into the ABS family.

Jamala Spencer - High School Counselor

Since joining the Elementary Department at ABS in August 2014, I have had numerous opportunities to grow and learn professionally with my team and as an individual. Working here has been utterly amazing thanks to the support of staff, parents, and students. I have been presented with opportunities to advance based on my interests and experience and have been thoroughly supported to excel in new positions. As I begin my position as Middle School Counselor, I am confident that this will be a smooth transition. I am excited to be able to work with the incredible students who I have taught previously, as well as getting to know our remarkable new students. I look forward to assisting students with learning strategies, self-management, and social skills as well as working with the MSHS department.  

Arika Beverly - High School Counselor

My career started at ABS as a math teacher. With much trust and support, I developed my capabilities and grew in the role in to become HoD. As I earned an MBA and my social phycology certificate, I had the privilege of becoming Elem counselor. This position is humbling since I can work directly with students helping them face daily challenges and supporting them to tap into the fullest potential. Students, teachers, and parents have all witnessed unprecedented circumstances and changes upon the educational system. However, ABS mission continues to prioritize and to prepare today’s learners to become tomorrow’s leaders. More than ever, I feel inspired to carry out my role as a counselor and to work with everyone to ensure our students and teams evolve and become more resilient, while maintaining parents’ trust in the value we deliver. 

Dima Khaddage - Elementary Counselor

I joined the American Baccalaureate School in the Summer of 2015 as a homeroom Kindergarten teacher. Those years I spent teaching 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.

Rachelle Parsons - KG Coordinator

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

Joining the ABS family as the Middle School-High School Curriculum Coordinator has me working alongside the principals, vice-principals, department heads, teachers, and other key individuals. This is to ensure the ABS curriculum, standards and practices, and delivery of knowledge are evolving to address our current and future students and the needs of a global society and greater Kuwait.  A key aspect of my role involves supporting ABS teachers in implementing classroom strategies and learning opportunities selected by ABS leadership that ultimately meets and surpasses what is expected of students entering university.  Just as it is essential for teachers and students to have strong academic relationships and communication, my role connects information from teachers and administrators with information and planning to bring about the highest success possible for students through data analysis and in-classroom teaching strategies.

Edward J. Kelkis – MSHS Curriculum Coordinator

I’ve enjoyed teaching Science for Elementary School over the past 13 years, and 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 as I got promoted to be the Dean of students for Elementary. ABS is a valuable place for communication, improvement and enlighten skills that pushes up toward success and growth. 

Sahar Nabtiti – Elementary Dean of Students

Working at the American Baccalaureate School has been an exciting opportunity as it has added value to my personal and professional growth. Our school’s mission is to ‘prepare students to become accountable, independent, and successful global citizens’ which goes beyond simply promoting educational excellence. As the Dean of Students for the girl’s campus, I am privileged to have a close working relationship with our incredible student body. This is the highlight of my job as students come with a wealth of knowledge and highly relevant personal experiences that greatly provides insight and enhances our interactions. Every day is a new learning experience at ABS as this is an evolving community full of exciting challenges and professionalism. The staff at ABS work together seamlessly to create a safe, supportive, and positive environment which encourages everyone to be their best selves.

Sanaa Noor – High School Dean of Students

While I just started working at American Baccalaureate School, I have never felt so motivated and empowered to begin a new school year. Since the moment I was hired by ABS I felt like part of a family. The educators and administration work closely together to make sure students are getting the best quality education and a real sense of community. ABS is an impressive organization that makes educators feel supported and equipped in their efforts to change lives. As a leading center of education in Kuwait, ABS is organized and united under a mission that is evident in all that we do for our students.  As the incoming Dean of Students, I hope to make a meaningful impact on our students by guiding, mentoring, and encouraging them throughout their middle and high school careers. Imparting graciousness, accountability, and determination into the mindsets of our young gentlemen will be my focus this year.  I am very excited to start this new adventure and I wish everyone in our school community great success. 

Steven John Eisenbarth II – High School Dean of Students