ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Superintendent search for the American Community School of Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. Congratulations to Peter Light for being offered and accepting the position beginning in August 2027! Peter currently serves as the Superintendent of the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District in Massachusetts, USA.

Peter holds a Bachelors Degree in Music Education from the University of New Hampshire, a Masters in Music Performance from Yale University, and Post-Graduate work in Educational Leadership from Endicott College.

He has been an Assistant Superintendent, High School Principal, and Director of Music with Franklin Public Schools.  Over his career, Peter has led school and districts through periods of change and innovation.  As a Principal and Superintendent, he led the design and construction of new facilities that pioneered sustainability measures, and incorporated innovative learning programs in areas such as bioengineering, forensic science, exercise science, and robotics.  As a high school Principal, he led the development of a school-within-a-school integrated Arts Academy.  As an Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent, he has focused on implementing tiered systems of support, expanding access to social emotional learning and mental health supports, and ensuring curricula and programs fully reflect the students and families that schools serve.

In this feature, read about Peter’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?

When I was a student, I had some incredible mentors as educators. The connections with my teachers throughout middle school and high school made me want to pursue education as a career.  Knowing how much these mentors gave to me, made me want to pursue education to give back to the next generation.

My interest in joining the international community started when I began my own educational journey as a Kindergartener while living abroad in Panama. Knowing first hand what being a “third-culture” student meant stayed with me throughout my educational journey.  That experience, coupled with the impact of many educators throughout my life has made me passionate about working professionally in the international environment.

What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?

I spent my early childhood in Balboa, Panama, where I first started school; an experience that sparked a lifelong interest in global perspectives. Outside of the office, I am an avid boater and enjoy spending time along the coast of Maine or at my family’s cottage in Ipswich, Massachusetts. I also find balance in the kitchen, and enjoy creating meals for my family.

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?

This was my first application to an international school so I wasn’t completely sure what to expect with the application and interview process.  Beth and Pauline at ISS did a fantastic job of explaining the process and helping me feel well-prepared for the interviews!