A Message to the AISL Community Our Next Director, Dr. Oli Tooher-Hancock

Dear AISL Community,
 
I am absolutely delighted to be chosen as the next Director of the American International School of Lusaka. My husband and I are thrilled to have Zambia as our next home on our international school journey which started many years ago. AISL will be the sixth DP, and third PYP, MYP school we have led and worked in, so will be in familiar IB territory.
 
The whole search process took place virtually and whilst this was a unique experience in so many ways, it went very smoothly indeed. The AISL Search Committee did an excellent job in organizing interviews and all calls went without a glitch, which was an added bonus.
 
I am excited by the opportunity to grow the school. You have the space, you have the international curriculum framework with the IB and you are eager to welcome others into your learning community.
 
I will surely do my utmost to fill the large shoes of Dr. Russ Menard (though my actual feet are much smaller!). I enjoyed meeting all cross sections of the AISL community. I got a sense during the online conversations, that the school has a passionate atmosphere of holistic engagement and Russ told me of his love for the school, but like me after eight years, it was time for a new adventure.
 
And for Mike and I, it is AISL. It is our first time working in Africa, our first time coming to a new school and country without our boys, the first time to attempt to bring a pet (Indian street dog, Habi) with us and, in the most unusual of times – lots of firsts, lots of change, lots of new beginnings. The opportunity to take AISL to the next phase of its development awaits. I’m ready!
 
Looking forward to meeting everyone on campus as soon as it is possible. Wishing you all a successful and safe year.
 
Gooooooo Leopards!!