Andy Pontius Appointed Next Secondary School Principal at AISL

On behalf of Dr. Oli Tooher-Hancock, Director of the American International School of Lusaka (AISL), Zambia, Search Associates is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Andy Pontius as Secondary School Principal at AISL, commencing in August 2025. In her announcement to the AISL community, Dr. Tooher-Hancock said,

Andy has experience as a principal in Africa and extensive knowledge of MYP and DP, and wellbeing. He is a team builder who aligns change with strategy…His focus on “establishing relationships and building a community where each learner can discover their unique path to a better future” resonates with all the work we are currently engaged in. His calm and attentive personality is a perfect fit for our school at this stage in our journey.

Currently Upper School Principal at the International Community School of Abidjan (ICSA), Andy holds an M.A. Educational Administration from Chadron State College, Nebraska, USA. He shares his excitement:

During my recent visit to the AISL campus, I had the privilege of meeting this vibrant community, and it was truly inspiring to see the dedication to developing well-rounded International Baccalaureate (IB) students and the deep sense of connection among students, staff, and families. From the moment I arrived, AISL felt like home, and I am excited to become part of such a nurturing and innovative community.

Andy, along with his wife Kirsten—a health and wellbeing consultant—and their two sons Arlo (10) and Lachlan (7), can’t wait to meet everyone in the AISL community and start this next chapter. The entire family is especially eager to explore the natural environment of Lusaka!

Search Associates would like to thank all the candidates who applied for this position, and to everyone who assisted and supported the successful search process for the next secondary school principal at AISL.