Saint James prides itself on having a diverse international student population from more than 20 countries, so Kimberly Kingry’s experienced career as an educator abroad should be a major asset. Kimberly began her tenure as Assistant Headmaster and Academic Dean on July 1. For the last three years, she has served as the Principal and Head of Yogyakarta Independent School in Indonesia and before that as an English teacher and Department Head at international schools in Uzbekistan and Norway.

Kimberly is a graduate of Western Kentucky University with a BA in English, and she also has an M.Ed. in International Education Administration from Endicott College in Leysin, Switzerland. Kimberly has a love of learning, which she feels makes working in education an ideal place to contribute and grow.

“Education is by nature transformative,” she said. “There is power in its potential to open minds and hearts, so I believe that what I do matters. Also, my work in education allows me to share my academic passions with students, which is an absolute pleasure.”

Kimberly was drawn to the school’s ethos, which can be summed up in the Saint James motto: ‘Live bravely. Lead for good.’ 

“This statement boldly declares one of the primary missions of Saint James, which is to develop individuals who are prepared to lead with a sense of moral purpose and integrity,” she said. “As an educator and a parent, I am thrilled to be working and living within a community that shares my values.”

Kimberly is a concert violinist who loves music, and she also enjoys exploring new places and traveling 'off the beaten path.' At Saint James, she is most looking forward to working closely with SJS students, both inside and outside of the classroom, and joining the many events and activities that are an integral part of the school culture and tradition.

Kimberly and her husband, Adam, have three daughters, two of whom will also be Saint James students. Eleanor will be in fourth form and Charlotte in third form, while their eldest daughter Madeline is an IB Diploma Program graduate of Tashkent International School and is now in her final year of college in the U.S. The Kingrys are living in the John Ross Fulton House.

“Life as international school educators has been enriching. Raising a family of intrepid explorers, we have come to appreciate the many challenges and opportunities associated with life abroad,” Kimberly said. “However, it has been a blessing and a privilege to be invited to join the Saint James School community and we are grateful for the warm welcome home.”