Panthers of ISKL #290: Kyle Martin - The Middle School Principal
“Middle School is a critical time in the lives of students. It is a time dedicated to trying new things, exploring passions, and discovering your place in the world. I believe that our role as a middle school is to provide a strong, caring, and supportive environment for all students to challenge themselves and learn and grow as humans.”
With a rich background in education across the United States and Latin America, ISKL welcomes its new Middle School Principal, Kyle Martin, who brings a deep passion for nurturing student growth during this pivotal stage of learning.
Having previously served as the MS Principal at the International School of Panama, and with teaching and leadership experience spanning Nicaragua to the United States, he strongly believes in fostering a supportive environment where students are encouraged to explore their identities, passions, and values.
Alongside his wife, Julia Martin, who joins ISKL’s Early Childhood team, and together with their three sons, he is excited to immerse himself in Malaysian culture, cuisine, and the ISKL community.
Here is Kyle’s story:
Please tell us more about yourself.
I was born in a small town in Ohio, in the United States, and have worked across the United States and Latin America during my career. I think my upbringing has instilled values related to hard work, dedication, and family.
After university, I taught math, science, and physical education at several schools in the United States before moving to Managua to work at the American School of Nicaragua. Following our time in Nicaragua, my wife and I moved back to the United States to start a family. During this time, I worked as an Assistant Head of School at a Montessori school. For the past six years I was the Middle School Principal at the International School of Panama. My wife, Julia, is joining ISKL as an Early Childhood teacher, and our three boys will be starting at ISKL. We also have a yellow Labrador.
I love to run, play sports, cook, and read. Our family loves to travel, eat new foods, go to the beach, and read.
What are you looking forward to the most about joining the ISKL community?
Wow. I do not know where to start…
In the international school community, ISKL has a world-class reputation. Prior to engaging in the interview process, I had heard of ISKL and knew that it was well known around the world as an institution with strong values and an innovative vision for education.
After visiting in May 2024 (for my interview), I fell in love. As soon as you walk onto campus, it feels special. Through my conversations with students, faculty, and parents, I was blown away by how the values of the school are truly visible in every interaction. In the search process, we were hoping to find a place where my wife and I could grow professionally, a place where my kids could thrive, a community with strong values and beliefs, and a country with a unique, vibrant culture. My family and I could not be happier to move to Malaysia and join this community.
What is your educational philosophy, particularly when it comes to Middle School learners, and what message would you like to share with our community as you begin this exciting new chapter?
Middle school is a critical time in the lives of students. It is a time dedicated to trying new things, exploring passions, and discovering your place in the world. I believe that our role as a Middle School is to provide a strong, caring, and supportive environment for all students to challenge themselves and learn and grow as humans. In addition to a strong academic foundation, we want all learners to leave Middle School with an understanding of who they are and what they stand for, as well as the skills and mindsets to help accomplish their goals in the future. I’m looking forward to building on the amazing work of my predecessor, Peter Casey, and continuing to nurture a Middle School culture where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to thrive.
What are you most excited about when it comes to moving to Malaysia? Is there a food, place, or experience you're especially looking forward to?
To be honest, I do not know. I have heard so many great recommendations about food, travel, culture, and sports, and cannot wait to start exploring. My family loves to explore new cultures and try new things, so I am eager to have the opportunity to be immersed in such a beautiful country and culture.
I love food, and my family loves cooking. We have heard that Malaysia is the food capital of the world, so I cannot wait to try new and exciting foods. If anyone has any recommendations for great food, please let me know!
What does the ISKL vision – "Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world" – mean to you?
One of the many reasons I decided to join this community was because of this vision. I see the vision as a progression of sorts. In my mind, the phrase “know yourself” is at the beginning, as it is the first step in the journey. A top priority for all members of our community is to know who we are. This includes our values, beliefs, dreams, and aspirations. In my opinion, one must understand who they are (values and beliefs) to effectively care for all. Caring for all demands an understanding and empathy for all others in our world, and it is challenging to have that without a firm foundation in knowing yourself. As we care for others, we will be able to create a better world.
I firmly believe that if we can align as a community to know ourselves and care for all, we will, in turn, create a better world.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff member 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.