Leadership Spotlight: Keith Collins
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Director of Inclusion and Challenge search for the Zurich International School in Zurich, Switzerland. Congratulations to Keith Collins for accepting the position, beginning July 2026! Keith currently serves as the Interim Head of Student Support at The Brearley School.
Keith holds a Bachelors Degree in Education from Fairmont State University, a Masters in School Administration from Shenandoah University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Virginia Tech.
He has been a Vice Principal at the International School of Beijing, Principal at Keyser Middle School, and Director of Student Services at the International School of Bangkok.
In this feature, read about Keith’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?
Education and schools are where I’ve always felt at home. I started in Head Start as a child and never really left school after that. Supporting students and educators has been central to who I am, and knowing that our work can positively shape communities continues to motivate and inspire me.
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
I had signed up a few years ago, so I only needed to update my profile, which was an easy process. I found the initial screening interview helpful, and it better prepared me for the interview. The entire process has been easy to navigate.
Keith serving up drinks at a school function.
Keith participating at an event.
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the ZIS community expect?
My educational philosophy is grounded in the belief that learning should be meaningful, relevant, and joyful. I value inquiry, which allows students to wonder, question, create, and connect their knowledge to the world around them. When students feel seen, respected, and challenged in ways that honor who they are, they flourish as thinkers and community members.
As a leader, I see myself as a learner. I lead by listening, asking questions, and working alongside others to understand what is working, identify growth opportunities, and pursue shared aspirations. I believe collaboration is the key to meaningful and sustainable improvement.
I strive to align my leadership with my educational philosophy by building supportive systems and structures that adapt to students. It is our collective responsibility to create environments where learning is accessible, challenging, and affirming for every learner.
Congratulations on your upcoming role at Zurich International School! What are you excited about in this new role?
I am thrilled to join the ZIS community because it embodies values important to me, such as inquiry, inclusion, and a commitment to meaningful learning. I look forward to collaborating with students, teachers, and families in an environment where learning is personal, purposeful, and empowering.
My hope is to contribute to a culture where every learner feels seen, challenged, and supported, and where educators are empowered through collaboration, reflection, and thoughtfully designed systems. I am especially excited to support structures that promote equity and access while maintaining a joyful and engaging learning environment. Ultimately, I hope to help ZIS continue to be a school where curiosity, creativity, and care guide teaching and learning.
Keith, husband Matt, and their dog Peggy.
What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?
My husband and I visited Zurich during Christmas of 2016 and immediately fell in love with the city. We were drawn to how it offers both a vibrant city life and easy access to outdoor adventures. We even joked about moving there one day, and now it seems that dream is coming true. In anticipation of our move, we’ve already started learning German. Though after four years of German in high school, Matt is clearly ahead of me. Professionally, I am passionate about supporting students and schools through a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) model, and I currently serve as Vice Chair of the International MTSS Association (IMA) and on the board of the International School Leaders of Educational Support (ISLES).
Many thanks to Keith Collins for sharing his insights, experiences, and vision for education. We wish him and the vibrant community at the Zurich International 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.