Our Story

We are AAICIS, a non-profit educational association (501c3) dedicated to amplifying the impact of instructional coaching in international schools. We are a dynamic, committed collective from international schools and organizations across the globe with a shared purpose:

to empower educators, cultivate thriving communities, and unlock student potential through advocacy centered on instructional coaching.

We believe in fostering vibrant, inclusive school communities where belonging is the norm and teacher retention isn’t wishful thinking. We believe every learner deserves to thrive and that well-implemented instructional coaching is part of unlocking their full potential, and we hope to give everyone the opportunity to be part of this important conversation.

Since the summer of 2023, we’ve been building something special: a movement, a community, and the start of research-based practices for international school educators, coaches, and leaders yearning for robust instructional coaching cultures.

Our Vision

Our Values

Belonging and Connection: We create spaces where everyone feels they belong, without needing to be the same. Each of us is a unique thread, woven together to build something greater than the sum of its parts. We are dedicated to nurturing genuine connection—supporting each other so that we leave each gathering feeling lighter, stronger, and valued.

Compassion and Service: Compassion is the heart of our work. We strive to understand ourselves and each other, practicing empathy in action. We move forward together, lifting each other and serving our communities with intention. By making space for one another, we ensure every voice is heard, and every member feels valued.

Growth and Experimentation: We are always learning. Our work is a continuous journey of reflection, thinking, rethinking, and taking meaningful steps forward. We experiment, make meaning, and share our experiences openly. In our collective, it’s okay to try, to fail, and to grow—knowing that support is always there.

Momentum and Action: We are driven by the desire to serve well, to build momentum through purposeful action. We value progress over perfection and hold space for reflection after every step we take. Together, we “wonder” and make decisions that move us forward, staying aligned with our shared purpose.

Diversity and Shared Purpose: Our strength comes from our diversity. Like a constellation, each of us shines individually, but together we create something beautiful that guides our work. We are united in a shared purpose—to uplift and benefit all members, schools, students, and communities through our collective efforts.

We are guided by these values in every decision, every interaction, and every act of service, ensuring that what we build together is intentional, impactful, and sustainable for everyone who joins us.

Our Beliefs

We Believe:

• empowered coaches can transform student and professional learning.

• coaches play a role in helping teachers feel valued and recognized for their unique talents, creating a sense of belonging.

• coaches and instructional coaching supports school leaders in creating a culture of growth mindedness.

• Instructional coaching leads to equitable and transformational learning experiences for all students.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

At AAICIS, everyone is welcome. We champion diversity and foster an inclusive environment where educators of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences feel empowered and valued. We recognize the richness that diverse perspectives, cultures, and journeys bring to our community, fostering both personal and professional growth for all members.

We invite educators worldwide of all backgrounds, lived experiences, and identities to join our vibrant community. Together, united by our shared passion for instructional coaching in international education, we can learn from each other and continue to thrive.