Edarabia had the opportunity to interview Dr. Carolyn Mason Parker, Head of School at KIS International School Bangkok, to gain insights into her vision for the school’s future, her approach to education, and the strategies she employs to ensure student success and well-being. Dr. Parker’s passion for holistic education and her commitment to student-centered learning were evident throughout the conversation.

1. What are your plans for 2025?

In 2025, I’m focused on improving and developing our facilities to help personalize our learning programmes and advance teaching practices to ensure students thrive academically, socially, and personally. We’ll continue to explore innovative approaches to learning, incorporating new ideas and tools that inspire growth and engagement. At the same time, wellbeing and community belonging will remain at the center of every decision, ensuring that our progress is always rooted in connection and support for everyone.

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

At KIS Bangkok, our academic focus is guided by our commitment to holistic education. We follow the IB framework, which keeps teaching and learning innovative and transdisciplinary. Every year, we prioritize initiatives that enhance inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and adaptability, ensuring students are prepared for the challenges of the future. We have exciting new initiatives planned around technological change and advances with AI. They promise to be truly transformative.

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

The rapid pace of technological advancement and the increasing need for adaptability will be key challenges. Equity and well-being in a diverse world also remain critical issues. Digital citizenship and AI will continue to shape the future of education, and at KIS Bangkok, we focus on teaching students how to work with these advancements, not against them. By equipping them with the skills to use AI effectively and responsibly, we prepare them for a world where these technologies will redefine the way we live and work.

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

Learning is becoming more and more accessible every year, and learning at KIS Bangkok is personalized, inquiry-driven, and hands-on. We connect classroom content to real-world applications, creating meaningful and engaging experiences. Field trips are a key part of this approach, starting from the early years with visits to places like the butterfly garden, to exploring the Science Museum, and later more immersive experiences like studying environmental science at Amphawa or trekking through the jungles of Chiang Mai. These activities bring learning to life, spark curiosity, and foster resilience, making education both enjoyable and memorable.

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

From their very first day, new students are paired with buddies to help them adjust to school life, while our student ambassadors play a vital role in welcoming and guiding families. The KIS Bangkok Parent Association (KISPA) also helps parents feel connected by offering a network of support and organizing activities to strengthen the sense of belonging within our community.

Our dedicated counselors and student support team are essential to ensuring every student thrives, both inside and outside the classroom. They provide guidance, offer individualized attention, and help students navigate challenges to live happy, fulfilling school lives. Together, these efforts create an environment where all students feel welcome and have equal opportunities to succeed.

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

Safeguarding and child protection are at the heart of KIS Bangkok. While bullying can occur in any school, what sets us apart is how quickly, effectively, and empathetically we address it. We organize parent and student information sessions on well-being, stress management, and building positive relationships. We have robust wellbeing programmes in place to support students with resilience, and understanding. We encourage students to seek different perspectives and we value communication to resolve challenges.

We use digital platforms for reporting safeguarding concerns confidentially, ensuring issues are addressed promptly. From an early age, every community member learns how to handle emotions, demonstrate care for others, and report concerns if they or someone else is facing difficulties. These proactive measures, combined with our caring community, create an environment where incidents are rare, and students feel supported at every step.

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

At KIS Bangkok, students develop essential skills through the IB programs. Transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary learning teaches them how to learn — a critical skill that fosters adaptability and builds a lifelong love for learning. The IB Learner Profile attributes, such as being reflective, open-minded, and balanced, shape students into well-rounded individuals ready to face challenges in class, at work, and in their personal lives.

Both the IB Diploma Programme (DP) and the Career-related Programme (CP) prepare students for university and beyond. The DP offers a strong academic foundation, while the CP is ideal for students passionate about specific fields, allowing them to begin university-level courses and prepare for careers in their chosen domains.

The IB equips students with critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, ensuring they’re ready to excel and make meaningful contributions wherever their paths may lead.

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

The KIS Bangkok community is one of the strongest and most active in Bangkok. Parents are true partners in education, playing a vital role in shaping the school’s vibrant and welcoming culture. The KIS Bangkok Parent Association (KISPA) is integral, regularly organizing events that bring the community together—from coffee meetings and outdoor activities to welcoming new families and ensuring everyone feels at home.

KISPA is more than a support network; they’re active collaborators with school leadership. With a KISPA representative on the school board, parents have a voice in decision-making, ensuring their insights contribute to the school’s growth and success. Week after week, KISPA fosters a buzzing, dynamic atmosphere, enriching the lives of students, families, and staff alike. Their partnership is at the heart of what makes KIS Bangkok a strong and united community.

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

We attract teachers who not only believe in the IB but embrace the unique way it’s taught at KIS Bangkok, aligned with our values. We foster a supportive and professional environment, offering growth opportunities, collaboration, and a shared commitment to student success. This ensures KIS Bangkok is a place where teachers feel valued, inspired, and proud to contribute.

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

Absolutely. At KIS Bangkok, we actively encourage professional growth, offering opportunities for teachers to advance both horizontally and vertically. For example, our Head of Art is transitioning to the role of MYP Coordinator this year, our Primary Vice Principal began as a teacher, and our School Director once started as a librarian. We recognize and support talented individuals, fostering a culture where growth and leadership are integral to our community.

We understand the importance of developmental learning and we partner with a number of universities around the world to support and mentor teachers in training.  This is an opportunity to share our experiences and our expertise with the next generation of teachers, and for our faculty to see and adopt new ideas from other countries and continue with their own growth.

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

All our after-school co-curricular activities have a positive impact, each contributing to nurturing passions in different ways. Sports, the arts, and academics all help students develop valuable skills and discover their passions. MRISA sports stand out for the unique opportunities they provide—students bond with their teammates, develop teamwork and a competitive spirit, and even form connections with peers from other countries. These experiences not only prepare students for future challenges but also create lasting memories and friendships that extend beyond the school environment.

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

For me, success is simple: it’s about living our vision of Inspiring Individuals. It ensures our community thrives, enrollment growth is sustainable, and that teachers, students, parents, and staff all work together seamlessly to make KIS Bangkok a better place every day. Success is also about ensuring that anyone who is part of KIS—whether a family, teacher, or staff member—leaves with lasting memories and a positive experience. It’s about honoring the past while building a sustainable future.

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

That’s an easy one. At KIS, “Inspiring Individuals” means not only inspiring our students but also helping them become inspiring themselves. We believe everyone has a unique way of inspiring others. So my one sentence would be:

“Each day, seek inspiration and strive to inspire others.”