Matt Smith

Statement of Philosophy

The education profession is about relationships, and it is my belief that we are in
the business of establishing positive relationships built on trust and open communication.
Without these fundamental characteristics, teachers and students will experience
frustration, and students will be far less likely to succeed. With them, effective teachers
and administrators will guide, encourage, and lead students through meaningful learning
experiences and students will excel.
In my years as both an educator and administrator, I have solidified my belief that
positive relationships with all members of the school community are at the core of a
successful institution. In the classroom, this involves creating an environment that is
student-centered where teachers are seen as lead learners and use a constructivist
approach that requires students to explore, wonder, inquire, create, and use higher level
thinking skills. Educators are meant to lead by example and presenting ones self as a
positive, hard-working, lead learner helps to build these relationships.
Being an international school administrator requires a variety of skills in order to
be an effective facilitator of student learning. Understanding the programs and
curriculums is important for student success. Furthermore, establishing positive
relationships with all stakeholders in the school is vital. I have worked hard to maintain
open lines of communication with students, staff members, and parents and use multiple
avenues to do so. Most important however is the culture and environment that is created
in the classroom. The classroom needs to be a place where students feel inspired and
empowered to think, inquire, and create.
The importance of these qualities extend beyond the classroom into the
administrative roles that I hold. I have learned a great deal in my roles as upper school
principal and IB Diploma Coordinator. Being open, honest, fair, and consistent with staff
are the keys to building positive relationships. Taking a lead in school initiatives and
actively listening to feedback from staff and parents are equally important. All
stakeholders of the school community are in this journey together. The more members of
the school community sharing a common vision, the more successful the school will be.
Inspired by Peter Senges work in The Fifth Discipline, I continually reflect on the
system of the school institution. Most importantly, how do we create a shared vision
where the belief is that we are greater as a whole than the sum of our individual parts?
Through collaboration, collegiality, and being mission-driven, this synergy and positivity
can help us lead an innovative school of the future.
Finally, the international school setting needs educators and leaders who are
willing to be an active part of the school community. This involves coaching, attending
events, and participating in service opportunities in the local community. In this regard,
there is no time clock on a teacher or administrators schedule and the school community
becomes the dominant aspect of our lives as international educators. This is an incredible
opportunity for educators and I absolutely love this part of my life.
Ultimately, I love what I do. I get to be a lead learner in a truly international
community and now, with the birth of my son, get to raise him in an ideal setting: an
international school. Every day, I get the opportunity to make a positive impact in the
lives of children and get to work with other educators and learners from diverse
backgrounds. I am fortunate to be in this field of work and will always pride myself on
being a positive contributor to the international school community.



Matt Smith