1. Can you share a brief overview of your professional journey? What inspired you to pursue leadership in education?

I am an Indigenous Appalachian American Educational Disruptor from the mountains of North Carolina, USA. My passion for teaching and learning has driven me to dedicate 23 years to the field of education across three continents and four countries. Over the years, I have taken on multiple roles, including Teacher, Instructional Leader, Educational Consultant, Textbook Content Editor, Curriculum Coordinator, Vice Principal, Executive Principal, Academic Director and C-level Executive Director with American schools and Educational Management Organizations throughout the US and the MENA Region.

As a sought-after educational and motivational speaker, teacher trainer, and American Curriculum Educational Specialist, I have been privileged to inspire and guide educators worldwide. My credentials include a Principal license in the District of Columbia (PreK-12) and an Educational Leadership license in Florida (All Levels, Superintendent & Principal). Additionally, I hold certifications in K-12 Exceptional Student Education, 6-12 Drama, Pre-K to 12 Media Specialist, K-12 School Counseling, and K-12 ESL.

I am also certified across the entire International Baccalaureate (IB) World Continuum, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). My global journey has led me to establish Appalachian American Academy Global, a Digital First American Curriculum School, that was established to provide  globally accessible, high-quality Cognia accredited American Curriculum education world wide. Currently, I  currently serve as the Principal at MLS Riyadh, and Vice chairperson of the board of Governors of Copperstone Education where I continue to drive innovation and excellence in education in both the Kingdoms of Morocco, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

My journey in education has been driven by a passion for innovation, student success, and equity in learning. As an experienced educational leader, I have worked extensively in American K-12 and international schools My role as Founder and CEO of Appalachian American Academy Global (AAA Global) and my current leadership as Principal at MLS Riyadh have allowed me to pioneer digital-first, innovative American curriculum models. My inspiration stems from a strong belief in student agency, ensuring that all students—regardless of location or background—have access to high-quality, accredited education. I have always been motivated by the idea that education should be engaging, inclusive, future focused and fun!

2. What do you see as the core responsibilities of an education leader in today’s evolving learning environment?

An education leader must be a visionary, a bridge-builder, and a relentless advocate for both students and teachers. In today’s rapidly changing world, my core responsibilities include:

• Implementing innovative and flexible learning models that adapt to students’ needs.
• Ensuring equity and accessibility in education, particularly through digital learning and hybrid options.
• Building and sustaining a strong educational community, fostering relationships among educators, students, and families.
• Advocating for teacher professional development, ensuring they are equipped with cutting-edge strategies and resources.
• Aligning with global educational trends to prepare students for the evolving demands of higher education and the workforce.

3. What are some of the biggest challenges in professional development for educators and school leaders today? How do you address these challenges in your leadership role?

One of the biggest challenges in professional development today is keeping pace with rapid advancements in technology, pedagogy, and student needs. Many educators struggle with outdated methodologies and lack access to high-quality training. To address this, I prioritize:

• Continuous professional learning through structured development programs.
• Hybrid professional training models, leveraging digital resources to reach a global network of educators.
• Fostering a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging educators to seek advanced certifications and specializations.
• Providing mentorship and coaching to ensure ongoing support and career growth for educators.

4. Can you describe any leadership frameworks or strategies you use to support and develop educators?

I consider myself a blend of a transformational leader with a servant heart. I focus on empowering educators, fostering innovation, and creating a shared vision. Some key strategies include:

• Encouraging collaboration and shared leadership to cultivate a strong professional learning community.
• Providing personalized leadership development plans to address individual educators’ goals.
• Leveraging data-driven instruction to continuously refine teaching methods and enhance student outcomes.
• Focus on Relationships and Connections in education is essential for fostering a positive, engaging, and effective learning environment.

Education isn’t just about academic success—it’s about developing well-rounded individuals. Schools that prioritize relationships create lifelong learners and responsible citizens who understand the importance of connection in their personal and professional lives.

5. How do you tailor leadership development initiatives to meet the unique needs of different schools, districts, or learning institutions?

Look, learn, and listen then start BUILDING. Understanding the unique culture and needs of each educational community is key. I take the time to engage with stakeholders—teachers, students, and parents—before implementing any changes. Buy-in is crucial; when people feel heard and valued, they become active participants in driving progress. My approach focuses on:

• Stakeholder-driven decision-making, ensuring that initiatives align with the needs of the community.
• Scalable and flexible programs, allowing for customization across different institutions.
• Ongoing feedback loops, ensuring continuous improvement in leadership development.

6. Can you share any success stories or notable outcomes from your leadership initiatives?

One of my most significant success stories is the establishment of Appalachian American Academy Global (AAA Global). This innovative K-20 institution provides students with the opportunity to progress seamlessly from Kindergarten to an Associate Degree or Professional Certification. Through our Early College Program, students can graduate high school with both career-level certifications and two years of university education completed. This model ensures affordable, accessible, and high-quality education for students worldwide. A K-20 program offers a seamless, lifelong learning pathway, allowing students to progress from early education through higher education within a single, cohesive system. This continuity fosters academic consistency, personalized learning, and stronger student support networks. By integrating early college, career certifications, and advanced training opportunities, a K-20 model reduces learning gaps, accelerates achievement, and prepares students for real-world success. It empowers learners with flexibility, global connectivity, and future-ready skills, ensuring they graduate not just with diplomas, but with meaningful credentials and career pathways tailored to their aspirations.

7. How do you view the role of professional certifications and advanced training in strengthening educational leadership?

Crucial! Lifelong learning is essential for excellence in education. Professional certifications enhance the quality of instruction by ensuring educators have specialized expertise. At AAA Global, we provide students access to certified and licensed American educators, no matter where they are in the world. At MLS Riyadh, we ensure all teachers are certified in their home countries and also IB-trained and approved by the KSA Ministry of Education (MOE) in alignment with KSA Vision 2030, which emphasizes teacher quality as key to global educational success.

8. What key trends and challenges do you foresee in educational leadership over the next decade?

The future of educational leadership will focus on flexible, hybrid learning models that move beyond traditional brick-and-mortar schools. The pandemic demonstrated that education must be fluid, technology-driven, and experiential. Schools should provide:

• Hybrid and virtual learning options that allow families to travel while maintaining educational continuity.
• Experiential learning opportunities such as study-abroad programs and real-world applications. Schools will continue moving away from traditional grade-based models toward competency-based education (CBE), where students progress at their own pace
• Early College Programs that prepare students for university and professional success before they even graduate high school. These programs will expand, allowing students to graduate with dual enrolment credits, professional certifications, or associate degrees.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) & EdTech Integration AI-driven tools will revolutionize personalized learning, assessment, and administrative processes. Education leaders must train educators on ethical AI usage and integrate emerging technologies to enhance, rather than replace, human instruction.
• Mental Health & Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) the importance of SEL and mental well-being will continue to grow, making trauma-informed leadership and emotional intelligence critical skills for educational leaders. Schools will need robust mental health programs to support students, teachers, and staff.

Key Challenges:

• Bridging the Digital Divide while EdTech is transforming education, accessibility gaps remain. Leaders must work on closing the digital divide to ensure equitable access to technology and resources for all students.
• Teacher Recruitment & Retention Teacher shortages and high attrition rates will continue to challenge schools. Leaders must focus on teacher well-being, competitive compensation, and meaningful professional development to attract and retain top educators
• Balancing Tradition & Innovation schools will face pressure to modernize curricula and teaching methodologies while maintaining core educational values. Striking a balance between tradition and innovation will be key to long-term success. Adapting to concerns regarding data protection and ethical AI usage will require leaders to implement strict policies and transparent governance.
• Adapting to Workforce & Higher Ed Shifts as the workforce evolves, traditional education pathways may become less relevant. Schools must adapt by providing alternative credentialing, micro-credentials, and industry-aligned learning experiences to prepare students for new and emerging career fields.

Educational leadership in the next decade will demand flexibility, adaptability, and visionary thinking. Leaders must embrace innovation, prioritize inclusivity, and foster future-ready skills while navigating evolving challenges in technology, policy, and student needs. Those who lead with empathy, collaboration, and a deep commitment to lifelong learning will be best positioned to shape the future of education.

9. How do you incorporate feedback from teachers, students, and the community to continuously improve educational leadership and decision-making?

Feedback is invaluable. I firmly believe in data-driven decision-making and following Simon Sinek’s approach of communicating the “why” before the “how.” I collect feedback through:

• Regular stakeholder meetings (teachers, parents, students) to ensure all voices are heard.
• Data analysis of student performance and teacher evaluations to guide instructional improvements.
• Open-door leadership, where educators and parents can voice concerns and suggestions directly.

10. Why do you believe continuous learning and professional development are essential for education leaders in today’s rapidly changing world?

The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace. AI, technology, and digital transformation are reshaping education. Leaders must embrace these changes and learn to use technology as a tool, not a replacement. The students we teach today are not the same as those we taught even last year. Leaders must stay ahead by continuously learning and adapting best practices to ensure students receive a relevant, future-ready education.

11. What is your vision for the future of educational leadership, and what steps are you taking to contribute to that vision?

My vision is to create a borderless, student-centered education system that is flexible, globally connected, and personalized. I am working towards:

• Expanding AAA Global’s digital-first K-20 model to reach students globally.
• Strengthening Early College access so students can transition seamlessly into higher education or the workforce.
• Developing hybrid learning models that allow students to balance life experiences with education.
• Training and equipping educators with the tools they need to lead in a digital-first world.

12. What is that one quote you absolutely live by or find helpful?

Through innovation, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning, I strive to disrupt traditional education models and make learning more accessible, engaging, and impactful worldwide, there for I will leave you with my personal and professional mottos instead of a quote:

• Personal Motto: “Attitude is contagious: Be the reason someone smiles.”
• Professional Motto: “Engaging minds, Bridging Cultures, and Shaping Futures.”