As Lyford Cay International School (LCIS) commences its second five-year strategic plan and prepares for the expansion of the secondary school, LCIS has recognized the need to strengthen its development efforts. With this primary goal in mind, LCIS announced the appointment of Dr. Joanna Paul as the school's new development director.
Dr. Paul began her career as an educator in Los Angeles, Calif. where she was embedded in the educational community as a teacher, a high school principal and a district administrator for 12 years. Her desire for less city and traffic and more community and nature transported her to the island of Eleuthera, where she headed the Deep Creek Middle School (DCMS). Dr. Paul worked as a school leader at DCMS and The Island School for seven years. In her most recent role as director of education and advancement, she was part of the team that completed a $15 million comprehensive campaign ahead of schedule for The Island School. Her leadership allowed DCMS to exceed its fundraising goals for four consecutive years. She has developed a deep bond with The Bahamas and a belief that this is one of the best countries in the world to live and work in.
In Eleuthera, as both a new mother and leader of a young institution, she was prompted to investigate the best educational opportunities in The Bahamas. Those queries led her to LCIS.
"I've always searched for progressive schools that focus on critical thinking, connectivity, creativity and community building," she said. Dr. Paul did her doctorate research on international schools that best prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century. "I was attracted to LCIS because of the school's focus on larger global issues and the skills that these children will need to be leaders in a complex future. I can't think of a school in the region that is making a bigger impact," she said. "The world should be paying attention to what is going on at LCIS."
When she was approached about the development director position, she already had a good understanding of the school and community to bookend her extensive leadership in schools. It was a natural fit. Dr. Paul has embraced her new role wholeheartedly.
"I really believe in the quality and future of this school. We might be small, but we are having an incredible affect on the lives of the children who attend our school. There is real momentum behind this school model and it is leading us towards a fantastic future," she said. "I'm excited to help this school reach the next level through fundraising, communications and constituent relations. The development of a new secondary campus and the growth of our endowment will be exciting opportunities. I am thrilled to be a part of the team of school leaders and volunteers who will be enacting this strategic vision."
Both Dr. Paul and her Pre-kindergarten daughter are adjusting well to life and work at the school.
"As an international family, we appreciate the diversity of the student body and the staff at LCIS, as well as the focus on both Bahamian and global topics in the IB (International Baccalaureate) curriculum," she said. "I have such an appreciation for teachers, especially those at LCIS. I cannot think of better people to share the responsibility of teaching my child with. This is the strongest group of teachers I have ever seen in The Bahamas."

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