Dr. Carolyn Mason Parker is a visionary educator and leader, passionate about shaping dynamic, inclusive learning environments where students thrive. With over two decades of experience in international education, she champions innovation, future-ready skills, and meaningful global connections. A firm believer in curiosity-driven learning, she encourages students and educators alike to think critically, embrace challenges, and explore beyond the obvious. Dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence and lifelong learning, she advocates for creativity, adaptability, and the power of education to shape a better future. Her leadership is driven by a commitment to impact, purpose, and continuous growth.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with K12 Digest, Dr. Parker shared insights into what drives her passion for education and leadership, the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education, her favorite non-academic books, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Dr. Carolyn Mason Parker, what drives your passion for education and leadership, and how do you stay motivated?
Education has always been more than just a profession for me—it is a calling. I believe in the transformative power of learning and its ability to open doors, create opportunities, and change lives. From an early age, I was inspired by the idea that schools are not just places where knowledge is imparted, but environments where individuals are shaped, perspectives are broadened, and character is developed. This passion for education has guided me throughout my career, and my motivation is continuously renewed by the energy of students, the dedication of teachers, and the support of a busy school community.
Leadership, for me, is about service—serving students by providing them with a world-class education, serving teachers by empowering them to reach their full potential, and serving the broader community by ensuring that schools remain places of inspiration, innovation, and inclusivity. Staying motivated requires continuous, lifelong learning and self-reflection. I find happiness in exploring new ideas in education, and witnessing the impact that meaningful change can have on students’ lives. Ultimately, my passion is fueled by the belief that education is one of the most powerful forces for good in the world, and I am honored to play a part in shaping its future.
What do you love the most about your current role?
What I love most about my role as Head of School at KIS International School Bangkok is the opportunity to be an active part of a dynamic and forward-thinking learning community. KIS International School is more than just a school—it is a place where students grow into confident, compassionate, and curious global citizens. Being in a position where I can support this journey is incredibly fulfilling.
One of the aspects I particularly enjoy is working with our faculty. Teachers are at the heart of any school, and I take great pride in collaborating with educators who are passionate about student success. Together, we explore new teaching methodologies, integrate innovative practices, and create an environment where both students and teachers can thrive.
I value the relationships I build with students and families. Seeing students develop a love for learning, overcome challenges, and achieve their personal and academic goals is deeply rewarding. Knowing I am part of a school culture where every student feels seen, heard, and supported makes my work meaningful every single day.
How do you see the role of educational leaders evolving in the future, and what skills and qualities do you believe will be essential for success?
The landscape of education is shifting rapidly, influenced by advancements in technology, globalization, and evolving societal needs. As such, the role of educational leaders is also changing. In the future, I believe successful leaders will need to be highly adaptable, embracing change with agility and a forward-thinking mindset.
One key skill that will be essential is the ability to navigate complex challenges while maintaining a clear vision. Leaders must be comfortable with ambiguity, able to make data-informed decisions, and proactive in identifying trends that will shape the future of learning. With artificial intelligence, personalized learning, and new digital tools transforming education, leaders must be well-versed in how technology can enhance, rather than replace, human connection in the learning experience.
Emotional intelligence will also be crucial. As schools become more diverse and interconnected, leaders must foster inclusivity, build strong relationships, and create environments where every student and educator feels valued. The ability to listen, empathize, and inspire will be just as important as making strategic decisions.
Leadership in education will require a commitment to lifelong learning. The best leaders are those who are constantly evolving, seeking out professional growth, and modeling a mindset of continuous improvement. The future of education will belong to those who embrace change not as a challenge, but as an opportunity to innovate and lead with purpose.
How do you foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and global citizenship at KIS International School?
At KIS, we believe that excellence is not just about achieving high academic standards—it is about creating a culture where every student is encouraged to explore their potential, think critically, and engage meaningfully with the world around them. Excellence starts with setting high expectations, but it is sustained through a commitment to curiosity, creativity, and continuous learning.
Innovation is deeply embedded in our approach to education. We encourage teachers to experiment with new methodologies, integrate interdisciplinary learning, and create student-centered experiences that go beyond the traditional classroom. Whether through concept based, transdisciplinary learning, digital tools, or real-world applications, we strive to make learning dynamic, engaging and relevant.
Global understanding is a core part of the KIS belief. As an international school, we embrace diversity and seek to develop students who are not just knowledgeable, but also culturally aware, empathetic, and socially responsible. Through programs focused on sustainability, community engagement and intercultural understanding, we empower students to think beyond themselves and recognize their role in shaping a more just and equitable world.
Our culture of excellence, innovation, and global citizenship is built on a foundation of strong relationships. We nurture an environment where students feel confident to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from their experiences. By fostering this mindset, we ensure that learning at KIS is not just about what happens in the classroom—it is about developing the skills, mindset, and resilience needed for a rapidly changing world.
Can you share your thoughts on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education?
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are not just important in education—they are fundamental to building a fair and forward-thinking society. Schools should be places where students from all backgrounds feel represented, respected, and empowered to succeed.
Diversity in education goes beyond demographics; it encompasses perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking. A truly inclusive curriculum reflects multiple voices, allowing students to see themselves in their learning while also broadening their understanding of the world.
Equity means recognizing that not all students start from the same place and ensuring that they have the resources and support needed to thrive. It is about meeting students where they are, identifying barriers to success, and actively working to remove them.
Inclusion is about creating an environment where all students, regardless of their abilities, identities, or backgrounds, feel a deep sense of belonging. It requires ongoing commitment from educators, leaders, and communities to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn in an environment that values and uplifts them.
At KIS, we are intentional in embedding DEI principles into our policies, curriculum, and community engagement. We want our students to graduate with not just academic knowledge, but also the empathy, cultural awareness, and critical thinking skills to contribute positively to a diverse and interconnected world.
What have you learned as a woman in leadership?
Being a woman in leadership has been both an empowering and enlightening journey. One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is the importance of resilience. Leadership comes with challenges, navigating leadership spaces can sometimes mean confronting biases, breaking barriers, and proving yourself in different ways. However, these challenges have strengthened my confidence, deepened my sense of purpose, and reinforced my belief in leading with authenticity.
I have also learned the significance of mentorship and community. The support and guidance I have received from other women in leadership have been instrumental in my own growth. Because of this, I am deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of female leaders, encouraging them to step forward with confidence and to recognize their unique contributions to the field of education.
Another lesson is that leadership does not mean perfection. It is about making informed decisions, owning mistakes, learning from experiences, and remaining adaptable. As a leader, I strive to model self-reflection and continuous growth, encouraging those around me to do the same.
Finally, I have realized that leadership is most powerful when it is collaborative. Women leaders bring incredible strengths to the table, including emotional intelligence, empathy, and the ability to foster inclusive environments. By embracing collaboration and drawing on all qualities, we can drive meaningful and lasting change in education.
How do you prioritize your own well-being and self-care given the demands of your work?
Balancing the demands of leadership with personal well-being is an ongoing practice, and I have come to understand that self-care is not a luxury—it is a necessity. In order to lead effectively, I must be intentional about maintaining my own mental, emotional, and physical health.
In leadership, it is easy to be available around the clock, but I make time for activities that recharge me. Reading, exercising, and spending time with family help me maintain balance and clarity. Additionally, I find that engaging in continuous learning—attending conferences, connecting with fellow educators, and exploring new ideas—keeps me motivated and inspired.
I believe in encouraging well-being within the team. A culture of self-care needs to be worked on and maintained. I hope to encourage educators and staff to do the same, fostering an environment where we all support one another in achieving balance.
What is your favorite non-academic book and why?
Two books that have influenced my thinking are Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner, and Generations by Jean Twenge. Both books offer interesting insights into the hidden forces that shape our world and challenge us to think beyond the obvious.
Freakonomics is a fascinating exploration of how incentives drive behavior in ways that are often unexpected. It applies economic thinking to everyday situations—examining the impact of parenting styles, crime rates, or even how small decisions ripple into broader societal trends. What I love about this book is that it encourages curiosity and challenges us to look deeper than surface-level assumptions. In education, this way of thinking is crucial. Schools are complex ecosystems where policies, culture, and human behavior intersect in intricate ways. As a leader, I strive to bring this same mindset to decision-making—ensuring that we don’t just accept traditional solutions, but instead ask, What are the underlying factors at play? and How can we create conditions for meaningful, lasting change?
Generations builds on this idea by providing a deep dive into how different age groups experience the world based on historical and technological shifts. It challenges the stereotypes we often hold about different generations, instead highlighting the social and economic forces that shape mindsets, values, and behaviors. In a school setting, understanding generational shifts is critical. Today’s students are growing up in a digital-first world, experiencing learning, relationships, and problem-solving in ways that are distinct from previous generations. As educators, we need to recognize these shifts—not just to better engage students, but to prepare them for a future that is constantly evolving.
Both books align with my ideas on curiosity, critical thinking, and future-focused leadership. They push us to think beyond immediate outcomes and consider the long-term impact of our choices. They remind us that education is not just about the present, but about equipping students to navigate a world that is changing in ways we might not yet fully understand. By fostering a mindset of inquiry, adaptability, and deep analysis, we empower students and educators alike to make informed, thoughtful decisions that will shape the future in positive ways.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In the next five years, I envision myself continuing to lead and contribute to the field of education in ways that inspire innovation, inclusivity, and excellence. Whether in my current role or in a new capacity, my focus will remain on creating learning environments that prepare students for the future while fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.
I am particularly interested in the ways education is evolving and how schools can be at the forefront of shaping new approaches to learning. I see myself continuing to explore forward-thinking strategies, integrating technology meaningfully, and championing initiatives that empower both students and educators.
Beyond my immediate role, I would like to contribute more broadly to conversations about the future of education—whether through speaking engagements, mentoring future leaders, or collaborating on initiatives that drive meaningful change. Most importantly, I want to continue learning, growing, and ensuring that the work I do remains impactful for the communities I serve.
What advice would you give to aspiring Principals or educational leaders who are looking to make a positive impact on their schools and communities?
My advice to aspiring educational leaders is to lead with integrity, purpose, and a commitment to service. Leadership is not about having all the answers; it is about fostering an environment where learning, collaboration, and innovation can thrive.
First, focus on relationships. A leader listens, builds trust, and creates a culture where people feel valued. Your team, students, and community are your greatest assets—invest in them, support them, and lead with empathy.
Second, embrace change with curiosity and confidence. The education landscape is constantly evolving, and the best leaders are those who adapt, explore new ideas, and encourage continuous improvement. Be open to learning, take risks, and see challenges as opportunities for growth.
Third, remain student-centered. No matter how complex leadership can be, always bring decisions back to one fundamental question: How does this benefit students? Keeping students at the heart of every decision ensures that your leadership remains meaningful and impactful.
Lastly, take care of yourself. Leadership can be demanding. Make time for reflection, seek mentorship, and prioritize your own well-being. A great leader is not just one who drives results, but one who leads sustainably, inspiring others to do the same.
Aspiring principals and school leaders have the power to shape futures, influence communities, and leave a lasting impact. Approach the journey with passion, purpose, and the unwavering belief that education is one of the most powerful forces for change in the world.