Leadership Spotlight: David Butler

David Butler

ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the High School Principal search for the Kaohsiung American School in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Congratulations to David Butler for being offered and accepting the position, beginning July 2026! David currently serves as the Upper School Principal at the Canadian International School of Hong Kong.

David holds Bachelors Degrees in History and Education from Queen’s University, a Masters in European Studies from the University of Cambridge, a Masters in Educational Leadership from Western University, and a Ed.D in Educational Leadership from Western University.

He has been a history teacher, Assistant Principal, Upper School Vice Principal of Academics, and Upper School Principal while serving at schools in Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong.

In this feature, read about David’s passion for education, commitment to fostering global citizenship, and how his diverse experiences — both personal and professional — shape his approach to education and leadership.

What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically? I was once underwhelmed in a grade 11 Ancient History class and wondered if I could teach it in a more interesting way. My experience of studying abroad left me with a desire to live abroad again, and I was lucky to find a spouse who shared that curiosity. We fell in love with international education and never looked back.

Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the Kaohsiung American School community expect?

As principal, I seek to build conditions that allow each individual learner to learn at their full potential and set them up for success in pursuit of their ambitions and dreams. I want students to feel confident that they are in control of their own learning journey and for teachers to feel fully supported in their work while being free to adapt and innovate. I believe that the entire community (directors, educators, parents, and students) share the stewardship of the school and must collaborate to set a vision for the school and then bring that vision to life.

David poses for a photo with some peers

Congratulations on your upcoming role at the Kaohsiung American School! What are you excited about in this new role?

Our family is thrilled to join as KAS Dragons. We wanted a school with a reputation of academic achievement but also a culture that celebrates other forms of student success including athletics, the arts, and student leadership. My interviews with different community members left me confident that KAS is an exciting school with lots happening, but also a place that values compassion and kindness.

What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share? When not busy leading my school, my preferred recreation is playing Dungeons and Dragons. This hobby has helped me to connect with colleagues and students, as well as build friendships in Hong Kong beyond the school community.

Thinking about your recent experience with ISS, what would you say made that experience above average compared to either your expectation or to experiences you may have had with other organizations? The ISS reps who initiated my interview questions made it clear that they were representing me as much as they represented the schools. They helped my confidence, gave constructive feedback, and left me feeling supported.

David and his family

Many thanks to David Butler for sharing his insights, experiences, and vision for education. We wish him and the vibrant community at the Kaohsiung American School the best in this new chapter ahead!

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.