Panthers of ISKL #268: Kim McNaughton - The Devoted Panther
In Elementary School, we adopted the phrase Bersatu, which means "Better Together" in Bahasa Melayu. It's true in our ISKL community, but also no matter where we are in the world.
From her formative years exploring the outdoors in Ontario, Canada, to her global teaching journey, Kim McNaughton’s path has been one of personal growth, adventure, and deep connection. After enriching educational experiences in Canada, Thailand, and the UAE, she found a profound sense of belonging at ISKL.
As a dedicated Prep Senior teacher and Varsity basketball parent, Kim has always cherished the everyday joys of the classroom and the unforgettable moments. After leaving ISKL at the end of the 2024-2025 academic year, she will take a gap year before returning to teaching in Canada.
Here is Kim’s story:
Please tell us more about yourself.
I am from Ontario, Canada, and spent my childhood in a small city near the water. I was always outside, and my family camped a lot, which I loved.
I spent the first two years of my teaching career in Canada. Since then, I've taught in Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and finally here, where we've remained for the past 14 years.
When and why did you join ISKL?
We had several friends and colleagues who worked at ISKL and always spoke highly of the school, so we were all in when the opportunity to come here presented itself. I also think this region of the world is amazing!
Can you share a saying or idea you learned or experienced at ISKL that you will always carry?
In Elementary School, we adopted the phrase Bersatu, which means "Better Together" in Bahasa Melayu. It's true in our ISKL community, but also no matter where we are in the world.
What will you miss most about ISKL?
Teaching Prep Senior (PS)! Teaching five-year-olds is a new adventure every day, and the PS team is amazing.
What are your plans once you leave ISKL?
I am taking a ‘gap’ year next year. I have two children who are graduating this June and next June. We are repatriating to Canada in June 2026. When we return to Canada, I will teach there.
Can you tell us more about your hobbies and interests? What do you do after work?
I walk, hike, exercise, travel, read, cook, and, of course, spend time with my family and dogs.
Who or what inspires you?
In the natural world, people who help lift others use their voices to shine their light even when it is difficult for them to do so.
What is your best memory (or most memorable moment) so far working at ISKL?
I'm a Varsity basketball parent, so the Boy's Varsity team winning gold at IASAS in front of our home crowd last weekend was beyond amazing!!!!! The team's accomplishments, the energy and spirit of our home crowd, and being part of the ISKL basketball community were incredible. Yay, Panthers!
What does "Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world" mean to you?
Be authentic and true to yourself, do what you can to lift others, and do what you can to effect change. Even our smallest actions matter.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff who always have an anecdote to tell, love to share some insights into their passions and interest, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.