Staff Editors

John Kernis

Head of Secondary

John Kernis Head of Secondary

John’s journey began in the picturesque state of Connecticut, USA, but his career path led him to embrace international education and diverse experiences. In 2022, he joined BFIS, leaving behind a noteworthy tenure at the Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore, where he served as a Secondary Vice Principal.

 

CIS stands as a beacon of educational excellence, encompassing students from Pre-K through 12th grade, representing over 70 nationalities. It’s renowned for its exceptional bilingual Chinese and English program, a testament to the school’s commitment to academic success.

 

John’s career is marked by a multitude of accomplishments and responsibilities. His professional journey has seen him in roles ranging from English, Learning Support, and Math Teacher to Diploma Coordinator. He played a pivotal role in leading the CIS IB MYP and IBDP curriculum innovation team, illustrating his dedication to educational excellence. As a founding member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, John championed an inclusive educational environment. He also took the helm of the advisory program, nurturing student growth and development.

 

John’s contribution to the educational discourse extends beyond the classroom. His groundbreaking work on “The Power of Story” at CIS was not only impactful within the school community but also earned recognition at the East Asia Regional Council of International Schools (EARCOS) Leadership Conference in 2021-2022.

 

Fluent in two languages, John holds a Master of Education (M.Ed) in International Education Administration from Endicott College. His academic journey also includes a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Comparative Literature and a Master of Arts (MA) in Modern European Literature from the University of Sussex. He has further enriched his qualifications with the Principals Training Center Certificate of International School Leadership, showcasing his commitment to professional development at the highest level.

 

John’s teaching odyssey commenced in Connecticut at the Bullard-Havens Technical High School before taking him to Madrid. Subsequently, he ventured into teaching and leadership roles at esteemed institutions such as the Western Academy of Beijing and the International School of Tanganyika in Tanzania. Most recently, his educational expertise has been instrumental in Singapore, where he dedicated his talents until his arrival at BFIS in 2022.