Leadership Spotlight: Chris Terrill
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Director search for International School of Port of Spain (ISPS) in Port of Spain Trinidad and Tobago. Congratulations to Chris Terrill for accepting the position, beginning July 2024! Chris is currently the Executive Director at Crosstown High.
Chris holds a Bachelors in Education from Friends University, and a Masters in School Leadership from Baker University. In the following feature, learn about Chris’s background in education and leadership, his experiences traveling the world, and the excitement around his upcoming role at ISPS.
Please share about your prior career experiences.
I am the founding Director of Crosstown High in Memphis Tennessee. Crosstown is currently recognized as one of the most innovative schools in the United States and was the subject of the documentary “The First Class.” Prior to my experience at Crosstown, I was the Head of School at Pine Lake Preparatory in Charlotte North Carolina. My family and I recently completed a sabbatical year, traveling around the world examining innovative educational practices. In total, we covered 41 countries on six continents.
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
Several influences have fueled my interest in education. Firstly, my parents, both dedicated to serving others – my mother as a nurse and my father as a minister – instilled in me a strong desire to make a difference. Their commitment to helping people has always resonated with me, driving me to pursue similar endeavors.
Secondly, Mrs. Crespeni, my 7th-grade reading teacher, played a pivotal role in nurturing my passion for reading. Her enthusiasm for literature inspired me to cultivate a love for books and education. Additionally, my family and I have long harbored a desire to engage in International Education, but we were uncertain about how to proceed. However, a recent sabbatical, during which we traveled the world exploring innovative educational practices, provided us with the courage to pursue our dreams. This transformative experience empowered us to take tangible steps towards our aspirations in the field of education.
Chris, his wife Keena, and daughters Ellana, Elise, Evi, and EmmaClaire
International School of Port of Spain
Congratulations on your upcoming role at ISPS! What are you excited about in this new role?
I am absolutely thrilled to join the esteemed International School Port of Spain community! As I embark on this exciting journey, I am filled with anticipation for the incredible potential that lies ahead. I must first acknowledge the outstanding leadership of the outgoing Director, Helen Brocklesby, whose remarkable work has set a high standard of excellence for us all to aspire to.
Furthermore, I am eager to collaborate with the dedicated and long-tenured staff members who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Their commitment to providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment is truly commendable. Of course, I cannot contain my excitement to meet the amazing students who are the heart and soul of this institution. Their enthusiasm for learning and diverse perspectives promise to make every day an enriching experience.
Last but certainly not least, I am grateful for the genuine and supportive board members who share a collective vision for the school’s continued success. With such a passionate and dedicated community, I am confident that together, we will achieve great things and foster a culture of excellence and growth.
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can your new community expect?
In my educational philosophy, I prioritize the cultivation of original thinkers primed for navigating the uncertainties of our world. Central to this approach is fostering collaboration and mastery of fundamental literacies. By encouraging students to question, explore, and create, they develop the critical thinking skills necessary for innovation and adaptation.
I believe in a management style that is personal and connected to all stakeholders. This involves building strong relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and the broader community. By fostering open communication and mutual respect, we create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported in their learning journey.
Through a curriculum that emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary learning, students not only become proficient in essential literacies but also learn to apply them in novel ways. By instilling a sense of curiosity and a love for lifelong learning, we empower students to confidently navigate the complexities of our ever-evolving world.
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
The team at ISS were amazing to work with. They took great care to understand my unique experiences and supported me throughout the job search process.
And finally, what is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?
My family and I are avid scuba divers. A side benefit of my tenure at ISPS is the excellent scuba opportunities off the coast of Tobago.
Many thanks to Chris for these reflections, and congratulations on this exciting upcoming role! We are wishing him and his family a fantastic chapter ahead of learning and rich new experiences. You can connect with Chris on LinkedIn and X.
If you’re interested in pursuing a school leadership position, please check out our current leadership searches or get in touch with the ISS Leadership Search Team.
