Leadership Spotlight: Karli Lomax
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Director of Teaching and Learning search for Georgetown International Academy in Georgetown, Guyana. Congratulations to Karli Lomax for accepting the position, beginning July 2025! Karli currently serves as the Coordinator of Instruction and Learning at Graded, The American School of São Paulo, Brazil.
Karli holds a Master of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies for International Educators from Buffalo State University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Boston University. Her previous leadership and teaching roles include Deeper Learning Coach and Classroom Teacher in international schools across China, Bangladesh, and the US.
In this feature, learn about Karli’s lifelong passion for learning and the global experiences that shaped her career. Plus, hear how those experiences and values inspire what she’ll bring as a leader to Georgetown International Academy!
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
I loved learning as a child and wanted to become a teacher for as long as I can remember—I was always ‘playing school’ as a kid. Being naturally curious, I took advantages throughout my years as a student to study abroad in Russia during high school and complete my student teaching practicum during a college semester in Australia. Travel was a way to connect with people and learn about the world — it really inspired me!
After teaching for several years in the US, my husband, who is also an educator, and I were met with the opportunity to teach internationally. We knew it would be an amazing opportunity for our family and are so thankful for all of life-changing experiences we’ve shared.
Karli reading aloud with students
Georgetown International Academy (GIA)
Congratulations on your upcoming role at Georgetown International Academy! What are you excited about in this new role?
I’m really excited to work alongside teachers, students, and parents to create a vibrant learning environment built on a strong sense of community. My hope is that together, we can make Georgetown International Academy a place where students feel at home, are inspired to learn, and grow into passionate individuals eager to make a positive difference in the world.
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the GIA community expect?
I believe learning is a journey of continuous growth that enriches our lives and brings joy. I’m passionate about my own learning journey and committed to empowering others to pursue theirs.
As a leader, I focus on fostering collaboration and creating authentic, meaningful experiences that bring people together. A strong sense of belonging is essential to learning, so I prioritize respecting diverse perspectives and honoring each individual’s identity. My goal is to cultivate an inclusive culture where both teachers and students can thrive.
Fostering community with staff
School life, learning, and belonging
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
My experience with ISS during my most recent job application was professional and personal. I believe that ISS prioritizes relationships and earnestly tries to provide the best quality support and communication to both educators and schools.
What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?
As a self-professed homebody, I’m either in the gym or my art room. Besides being active and working out, I really love to create art and spend my free time sketching, painting and making mixed media pieces in my art journal.
Many thanks to Karli for these reflections! We look forward to seeing her passion for education and commitment to fostering belonging flourish with the GIA community. You can connect with Karli on LinkedIn.
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.
Karli and her family