Beyond Grades: AISA’s Mission to Cultivate Resilient Learners & Ethical Leaders

Edarabia had the opportunity to interview Dr. Andrew Torris, Director of American International School in Abu Dhabi (AISA), to discuss the school’s plans for 2025, academic priorities, and strategies for student engagement and well-being. Dr. Torris shared insights on fostering a positive school culture, preparing students for future challenges, and involving parents in the school’s development.

1. What are your plans for 2025?

2025 marks a transformational year for AISA. We are launching a mission-driven School Development Plan, built around four pillars: Academic Excellence, Positive School Culture, Future-Ready Learning, and Operational Excellence. This strategic process is intentionally collaborative and action-focused. Our goal isn’t just institutional compliance—it’s to ensure we are truly developing resilient learners and compassionate leaders for a dynamic world.

2. How do you decide what to focus on academically each year, and which new ideas are you pursuing?

Academic focus areas are shaped through a thoughtful review of internal data, inspection outcomes, and stakeholder voice. For 2025, we’re prioritizing curriculum alignment and targeted improvement in core subjects. We’re also embracing innovation, particularly in AI integration, to support personalized learning while empowering educators with intelligent planning tools.

3. What challenges do you anticipate in the field of education over the next 5 years?

Navigating the intersection of innovation and well-being will be essential. While AI and digital platforms are transforming education, we must protect the human core of learning—connection, curiosity, and compassion. Additionally, recruiting and retaining skilled educators worldwide will continue to challenge schools. We must also prepare students for a future that demands adaptability, emotional intelligence, and ethical awareness.

4. How do you keep students interested in learning, especially those who struggle or seem unmotivated?

Engagement grows from connection and relevance. At AISA, we support diverse learners through differentiated instruction, robust SEL integration, and a sense of belonging. Our Positive Behavior Interventions and upcoming K–12 house system help cultivate identity and school spirit. We’re also expanding interdisciplinary and project-based learning to ensure every student sees purpose in their learning.

5. How does the school ensure all students feel welcome and have the same chances to succeed?

Equity is embedded in our mission and practice. Our Positive School Culture pillar focuses on building inclusive environments where each student’s voice, background, and potential are honored. The relaunch of the AISA Lion’s Way reinforces our shared values, while differentiated support structures and culturally responsive practices help ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.

6. How proactive is the school in matters of student stress and bullying?

We take a proactive, whole-child approach. Our PBIS model, SEL programs, and strong counseling services form a foundation of care and accountability. We empower students with emotional regulation skills and promote a climate of trust and respect. By weaving well-being into the fabric of school life, we create safe spaces for all.

7. How do you help students build the skills they need for life after graduation?

Our mission compels us to prepare students for a dynamic world—one that demands more than academic content. We foster analytical and systems thinking, global citizenship, and a lifelong love of learning. Through the IB Programme, service learning, and CAS, our students develop the leadership, resilience, and reflective habits that future universities and workplaces require.

8. How involved are parents and the community in making the school better?

Our parents are partners. Through the PTSA, strategic focus groups, and community events, we invite parent voice into the heart of school development. Under our Operational Excellence & Community Engagement pillar, we’re committed to deeper relationships, clear communication, and shared celebration of student growth and achievement.

9. How do you develop a school culture that attracts and keeps great teachers?

It starts with culture. We prioritize authentic listening, professional respect, and purposeful leadership development. At AISA, teachers are not just employees—they are co-creators of a mission-driven learning environment. Through recognition, trust, and meaningful growth opportunities, we build a school where great educators want to stay—and thrive.

10. Do teachers at your school have growth opportunities for leadership roles?

Absolutely. One of our core commitments is growing internal leadership capacity. We offer coaching, mentorship, and project-based leadership roles that allow educators to lead authentically from where they are. Whether through strategic teams, program coordination, or innovation pilots, teachers are trusted as leaders in our community.

11. Which after-school activity would you say has the biggest positive impact on a student’s future?

It depends on the student, but activities that spark passion and build confidence—like Model UN, student government, athletics, or the performing arts—tend to have lasting impact. They cultivate voice, teamwork, and resilience, all essential for navigating the challenges of life beyond school.

12. As a Principal, what is your definition of success?

Success is when every student feels a deep sense of belonging, every teacher feels deeply valued, and every decision aligns with our mission. When we see young people developing not only in knowledge but also in character and compassion, we know we are succeeding.

13. If you had the opportunity to inspire the world in one sentence, what would that sentence be?

In a world that never stops changing, choose to lead with compassion, learn with humility, and grow with purpose.