Leading with Purpose Across Continents: Dr. Paula Gordon’s Journey in International Education

“A child’s zip code should never determine the quality of education they receive,” says Dr. Paula Gordon. Guided by the conviction that every child deserves access to a high-quality education, she began her career more than 20 years ago. After graduating from college, Paula was selected for the national teacher fellowship Teach for America, and what started as a two-year commitment soon became a lasting professional calling.

Over the course of two decades, Paula taught and led schools across the United States, building a strong foundation in educational leadership. About ten years ago, she began to consider opportunities beyond her home country, drawn by the potential to broaden her perspective and contribute on a larger scale. She recalls,

I wanted to explore opportunities that would allow me to have a broader global impact. I was eager to learn more about education systems around the world and how they prepare students to compete and succeed in a global society. I also enjoy traveling and saw international leadership as an opportunity to combine my passion for education with my love of exploring different cultures and countries.

For the past eight years, with the support of Search Associates (SEARCH), Paula has taught and led schools across four continents—North America, South America, Africa, and Asia—gaining deep insight into diverse educational contexts and communities. Now, again in partnership with SEARCH, she is preparing to step into her next role as Principal of the American School of Ben Guerir in Morocco. Reflecting on her international experience, Paula remarks,

Working in diverse communities around the world has been a deeply transformational experience. These opportunities have broadened my perspective and shaped the lens through which I see education, leadership, and the world. What I value most about this journey is the ability to travel and immerse myself in different cultures and communities with curiosity, humility, and a commitment to learning from each place I serve.

When Paula first began exploring international teaching and leadership opportunities, she relied on her professional network for advice. After learning about two well-regarded organizations, she chose to register with SEARCH, confident in the standards upheld by its member schools and appreciative of the personal attention she would receive throughout the process. She shares,

Throughout the process, my Associate Renée Green was supportive and helpful. I initially reached out to Ms. Green to schedule a meeting because I was interested in pursuing school leadership roles and was concerned that the January fair might be too late to secure interviews. She responded promptly, and we had a productive conversation in which she shared that while there were fewer positions available than in December, there were still 39 leadership opportunities listed in the database.

With a clear goal of securing an invitation to the Search Cambridge job fair just two weeks away, Paula worked with focus and determination to complete her application, finalize her portfolio, and ensure all references were submitted. Once registered, she proactively connected with schools through the SEARCH platform, filtering for leadership roles and arranging pre-interviews in advance of the fair. Upon arrival, she found a reassuring and collegial environment, and her Associate in person!

I introduced myself to Renée when I arrived. The Associates were helpful and supportive, even when they were not directly assigned to you.

Like many educators navigating the international recruitment process, Paula encountered moments of uncertainty. She found that persistence, thoughtful follow-up, and an open mindset were essential. When responses were delayed, she remained proactive while continuing to explore new possibilities. Staying flexible allowed her to consider schools and regions she had not initially prioritized, focusing instead on alignment with her professional values and educational philosophy. Throughout the process, she maintained close communication with her Senior Associate:

I would frequently check in with Renée, especially when I got an offer or wanted a thought partner about any concerns that I may have with the process.

Before accepting her current position, Paula conducted thorough research into both the school and its location. Ultimately, it was the interview experience that confirmed the strength of the match. She recalls,

The Deputy Head of School Elisabeth and I had a wonderful interview which felt aligned as we discussed our views around systems, curriculum, instruction, and culture in contributing to a vibrant, effective and successful school.

Dr. Gordon encourages educators considering international schools to make the leap with confidence and openness:

It has been one of the most transformational and rewarding experiences of my journey. I would also advise fellow educators to remain flexible as they explore opportunities and countries. Your first, second, or even third choice may not be available—but ask yourself whether a school is a good fit for you, even if it isn’t in your preferred country.