Dr. Heather Naro Appointed Next Head of SAS

On behalf of the Board of Trustees at Schutz American School (SAS) in Alexandria, Egypt, Search Associates is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Heather Naro as Head of School, beginning in August 2024. In their announcement to the SAS community, the Board of Trustees said,

Throughout her time abroad, Dr. Naro has been a dedicated advocate for students. She firmly believes in the potential of all students to succeed when provided with the right environment and support. Her passion for education and commitment to empowering students have led her to support all students on their pathway to success. The Schutz community is beyond excited for her to lead us over the coming years.

Dr. Naro is currently Lower School Principal at the International Community School Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire, a position that she has held since 2021. Her other leadership positions include Elementary Director of Instruction at the Almaty International School, Almaty, Kazakhstan; Secondary Principal at the Lincoln School, Kathmandu, Nepal; and eight years as Elementary Principal at the International School Eastern Seaboard, Chonburi, Thailand, before serving two years as Superintendent there. Heather says,

What excites me about joining Schutz is the genuine sense of community and inclusivity. The school’s motto “Schutz is Family” immediately resonated with me. I’m passionate about building relationships and being an active part of a supportive community, and the idea of working with all members of the school community aligns with my values. During my initial visit, I was warmly welcomed by the staff, parents, and students, and their kindness left a lasting impression. I admire the collaborative and family-oriented environment at Schutz, which I believe is pivotal in fostering a supportive learning atmosphere.

Additionally, the prospect of leading Schutz into its next century, especially as it celebrates its 100th year, is incredibly exciting. The school’s rich history as the oldest school on the African continent is something I find inspiring. Being part of its continued growth and development as it enters this significant milestone fills me with enthusiasm and a sense of purpose. I’m thrilled at the prospect of contributing to the school’s legacy and its journey into the future.

Heather, who in her free time loves playing and watching various sports, reading, and spending time with her family, shares what has guided her through challenging times as a school leader:

My mantra is “How does this affect student learning?” This simple yet powerful question encapsulates the unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of every student, no matter the challenges faced. It serves as a reminder to prioritize the individual needs and growth of every student, to persevere in the face of adversity, and to maintain a student-centered focus in all decision-making and actions.

Search Associates would like to thank all the candidates who applied for this position and everyone who assisted and supported the successful Head of School search process for Schutz American School.