After a memorable eight years at ISB, ISB Principal Justin Alexander has decided to leave Bangkok to embark on a new journey working as Principal at International School Manila (ISM). Known among ISB’s staff and students as a motivational leader with a warm character, ISB will be sad to see him and his family leave the ISB community. 

As the community prepares to say farewell to Mr. Alexander, PantherNation reflects on his impactful journey through an exclusive interview.

When asked what his focus has been during his nearly decade-long tenure, he emphasizes the importance of student health and balance. “My focus has been really about student health and well-being, ensuring students have balance in their academics, activities, and various opportunities,” he says. Working collaboratively with his administrative team, he has prioritized creating a supportive environment where students can thrive. Mr. Alexander says he feels gratitude toward the high school faculty, recognizing their critical role in student growth. “The ones who make the biggest difference to your learning are the teachers in front of you everyday, and I’m so proud.” 

ISB senior Jaya Baluci describes Mr. Alexander as someone the students “adore” and who has “made ISB a better place.” “He brings a lot of school spirit to ISB and is very proud of the school he’s helped cultivate,” she says. 

During the COVID19 quarantines of 2020, seniors were deprived of proper ISB graduation celebrations. Mr. Alexander started the golf cart parade to allow everyone to come together as a community to commemorate such a big milestone in a way that would still allow distancing. The establishment of this continuing tradition is part of Mr. Alexander’s legacy, one of many impactful contributions to ISB. 

The influence of Mr. Alexander’s motivational  leadership and warmth is reflected in the sentiments of his colleagues, teachers Patience Soule and Brian Compton. “I have really enjoyed working with Justin Alexander and getting to know his whole family,” says Mr. Soule, who teacher high school biology. “He is an amazing husband and father.”

She had the opportunity to teach Mr Alexander’s daughter, Darcy, who has “been super successful” since graduating from ISB a few years ago. Mrs. Soule has observed small acts of kindless, like Mr. Alexander bringing his wife Kellie coffee. “He brings that same warmth and care to his colleagues,” she says. “We have really enjoyed having him here at ISB, and we’re super excited for them and their next adventure.”

Brian Compton, a high school math teacher, reflects on his longstanding professional relationship with Mr Alexander, whom he knows from working together for a decade in Shanghai, China, when Mr. Alexander was a vice principal.

Their paths crossed again in Hong Kong, where Mr. Alexander was a principal, and finally again here at ISB. Compton emphasizes Mr. Alexander’s positive impact, describing him as “very teacher-centered” and someone who fosters a supportive learning environment. “He supports everything we do in the classroom and is a motivational leader,” Compton says.

Among Mr. Alexanders’ many achievements, perhaps his greatest is the formation of ISB’s strong administrative team and expanding student options, “giving more options for students in classes that suited their needs,” he says. He highlights his efforts to create diverse pathways for students to encourage growth and participation in all different classes. 

Reflecting on the school culture, Principal Alexander notes its caring nature. “ISB has always been a welcoming community,” he says. He adds that students find their passions and interests, which helps create a sense of belonging. Despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic, he feels that the community has come together again, fostering pride and participation among students. 

Senior Dimple Htake Htar characterizes Mr. Alexander as “one of the most patient and logical adults I’ve ever met.” Meanwhile, Pyn Kruesopon, another senior, describes him as someone with “a really high degree of professionalism.”

As he prepares to leave ISB for a new role in Manila, Mr. Alexander says he feels a mix of pride and sadness. “I leave as a proud Panther parent, having experienced my daughters’ high school journeys here,” he says. His advice to his successor, Kate McKenna, who is coming from International School Nido de Aguilas in South America, is to prioritize connection. “Learn how to do the wai respectfully and get to know the students through their activities,” he says. 

As he leaves ISB with years of change and memories, the ISB community celebrates his contributions and the lasting impact he has made. His commitment to student well-being and academic excellence will continue to inspire future leaders and students alike. “I’ve experienced firsthand the opportunities this school offers,” he says. “It’s bittersweet to leave this community.” He will truly miss the people — students, parents, and staff — recognizing that “it’s all about the relationships we cultivate. Once a Panther, always a Panther.”