Panthers of ISKL 310#: Kimi Pichardo - The Powerfully Performing Panther
The most enjoyable part of my job is watching a student who may never have performed on stage before develop into a confident communicator. I love the ‘a-ha’ moments of discovery in the performing arts - when kids think they may be able to do something and then …. They rock it! As a teacher, those are the best moments to be a part of!
Meet Kimi Pichardo, ISKL’s talented and inspiring Performing Arts Director. Having joined ISKL in August 2025 at the beginning of the academic year, she is new to the school and excited to share her first High School show with the ISKL community. Preparing for the forthcoming production of Mamma Mia!, she is looking forward to opening night.
Here is Kimi’s story:
Tell us more about yourself
I was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and grew up all around the state, mainly in rural areas with a lot of agriculture. My favorite memories of “home” are quite pastoral - pine trees, red Georgia clay, and the smell of honeysuckle.
I have worked in the U.S., Dominican Republic, Bangladesh, and Japan, and I feel like every place I’ve lived has left an impression on who I am today.
When and why did you join ISKL?
I knew Tina Casey and had worked with Jonathan and Jaymin Baird previously in the Dominican Republic, and when the High School Theatre position opened up, I was excited to apply.
Who or What Inspires You?
Life inspires me - my students, my adventures, art, music, and of course, other theatre. I love watching performances, collaborating and learning alongside professionals, and then trying new techniques in the classroom.
Tell us more about your HS Theatre teacher position. What are your daily activities?
Typically, my days consist of teaching classes, preparing for classes, or working on tasks for the Performing Arts Center, as I am the PA Director.
What is the most enjoyable and most challenging part of your job?
The most enjoyable part of my job is watching a student who may never have performed on stage before develop into a confident communicator. I love the ‘a-ha’ moments of discovery in the performing arts - when kids think they may be able to do something and then …. They rock it! As a teacher, those are the best moments to be a part of!
What is your overall vision for the upcoming High School production of Mamma Mia? What can the audience look forward to?
I’ve always wanted to work on Mamma Mia! and I’m excited that it is my first show at ISKL. The vision is to ‘transport’ the audience to Kalokairi (the fictitious Greek Island of the film) and delight our patrons with some audience participation treats.
Can you tell us more about your hobbies and interests? What do you do after work? What do you do after work?
Because we are in show season, the show is basically my hobby right now. I do really enjoy exploring around Kuala Lumpur and checking out the food and arts culture. I am a recent empty nester - my daughters are both in Chicago and Northwestern University - and I have been rediscovering life outside of daily motherhood. I have future plans to try out some solo travel (once I have completed my ‘tax residency’ time).
What is your most memorable moment so far working at ISKL?
I am not sure I have ONE particular BEST moment - there are already innumerable moments because ISKL is such a magical place. However, my ‘newbie’ class of teachers is pretty spectacular, and spending time with those radiant humans always fills my heart.
Which Panther are you?
🐾 The Most Onz Panther (Onz meaning nothing is impossible)
Share why you chose this superlative and how it shows your Panther spirit!
I am the Most Onz Panther (Onz meaning nothing is impossible) because I rarely allow ‘limits’ to stop me in my own personal life or my creative life. When people say “that’s not possible”, I typically respond with “..... yet”.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you:
“I Suka (like) ISKL because its values mirror my own personal values. Taking care of oneself, one’s community and making a better world is core to who I am. I think, if the world operated more like ISKL, we would probably have a lot less pain and trauma.
What does ‘Know yourself, care for all and create a better world’ mean to you?
EVERYTHING! I honestly believe that using this motto as an ethical meter stick for life would solve a lot of the world’s problems.
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.