Dr. Paola V. Clark

Alcuin School proudly welcomes Dr. Paola V. Clark as our new Head of School. With over 23 years of experience spanning international education and independent school leadership, Dr. Clark embodies the values of academic excellence, innovation, and whole-child development that define Alcuin School.

Her extensive background in both Montessori and International Baccalaureate education positions her to advance Alcuin's unique program. As an International Baccalaureate Evaluation Leader, she has guided institutions through rigorous accreditation cycles while developing programs that prepare students for success on global stages. Her expertise in fostering environments that nurture critical thinking, independence, and global citizenship mirrors the educational philosophy that has distinguished Alcuin for six decades.

Dr. Clark's leadership philosophy weaves together data-driven decision-making with an unwavering commitment to each student's individual journey. She has championed strategic initiatives in governance and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), while implementing innovative frameworks for 21st-century education. This approach resonates deeply with Alcuin's dedication to preparing students for an interconnected world.

A trilingual educator fluent in English, Spanish, and French, Dr. Clark brings a truly global perspective to our community. Her academic journey reflects a dedication to lifelong learning: she holds a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Central Florida, a Master of Science in Science Education from Nova Southeastern University, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology-Biotechnology from Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina (Lima, Peru). Currently pursuing an MBA at the University of Kansas, she will attend the prestigious Klingenstein Fellowship for Heads of Schools at Columbia University's Teachers College this summer.

Dr. Clark is currently the Principal (Head of School) at Holy Cross Catholic School in Overland Park, Kansas. Prior to this role, she served as Head of School at Escuela Bilingüe Internacional in Oakland, California. Throughout her tenure, has led transformative initiatives in STEAM education and language acquisition while fostering a vibrant, student-centered learning environment. Her proven ability to guide strategic planning, curriculum development, and program innovation will be instrumental in shaping Alcuin's next chapter.

"Education has the power to transform lives and create positive change in our world," says Dr. Clark. "I am honored to join the Alcuin community and look forward to working together with our faculty, staff, students, and families to build upon the school's legacy of excellence while innovating for the future."

As Alcuin celebrates its 60th anniversary, we are thrilled to welcome a leader whose vision will help shape our next decades of excellence. Dr. Clark's commitment to empowering students and educators as agents of change, combined with her passion for creating peaceful, just, and sustainable learning environments, makes her the ideal steward of Alcuin's future.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Clark to our Alcuin community.