Search Associates is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Brayan Muñoz as the next Head of Gaia School in Costa Rica, beginning July 2026. A proud Costa Rican with extensive international experience, Mr. Muñoz brings both local insight and a global perspective to this leadership role. Brayan shared:
I’m excited to bring my leadership, experience, and skills to support this community and to return home to contribute to a project that reflects the very best of what education can be. I look forward to learning from, growing with, and contributing to this extraordinary community as we continue building something truly meaningful together.
Over the past decade, Mr. Muñoz has held senior leadership roles in several international and bilingual schools. Most recently, he has served as Executive Manager for School Improvement with the ISA International Education Group in China, partnering with school leaders and boards to design and implement systems for strategic growth, academic excellence, and organizational sustainability. He also serves as Director of Data and Assessment at ISA Science City International School.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Muñoz served as Executive Principal at Hefei IVY Experimental Academy, where he successfully led the establishment of two international schools, developed an integrated Chinese–American curriculum, and guided them through accreditation and expansion. His leadership consistently centers on student well-being, professional collaboration, and sustainable improvement grounded in shared purpose. Before his international experience, Mr. Muñoz worked at the Pan-American School in Costa Rica as MYP and Department Coordinator.
Brayan holds a master’s in educational leadership from the University of Texas, a Certificate in School Management and Leadership from Harvard University, and a bachelor’s in Biochemistry from Westminster College (USA). He is also an alum of the Red Cross Nordic United World College in Norway. Brayan’s leadership philosophy is inspired by the words of Sheryl Sandberg: “Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.” Reflecting on this, he notes,
True leadership happens when we nurture, empower, and uplift those within our community.
Deeply aligned with Gaia’s Waldorf-inspired, bilingual, and nature-connected philosophy, Brayan is passionate about whole-child education, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. He says,
Visiting Gaia and meeting the community truly felt like coming home. I’m genuinely excited about this next chapter and the opportunity to contribute to such an amazing school.
Outside of school, Brayan enjoys being outdoors—kayaking, hiking, and taking long walks with his dog, Topo. He also loves traveling and spending time with friends and family.
Search Associates joins the Gaia School community in congratulating Brayan Muñoz on his appointment and extends sincere appreciation to all candidates and community members whose engagement contributed to this successful search.
