Welcome from Matt Horvat

Dear ASL community,

I am delighted to join the American School in London!

When I arrived on Tuesday morning in the lobby of the School for the first day of the finalist interviews, I watched as a large part of the community entered the building. I remember vividly the incredible energy that accompanied the start of that school day, particularly palpable and visible in a school with such an entrance through which most members of the community pass every day. In fewer than ten minutes, the youngest members of the community to the seniors, faculty, parents, staff, and guests (including me) made their way into ASL. It is this setting where I hope to begin many days, welcoming everyone to a new school day.

While my two days of interviews were filled with invaluable opportunities to meet so many different members of the ASL community, the four meetings with students, from all divisions, were especially inspiring. While their preparation was impressive, what also stood out were their care for the School, their investment in it, and their enthusiasm about it, which they said comes from who their teachers are and how their teachers work with them. Further, they all spoke joyously about the friendships they have made at ASL. They articulated what I, too, believe: our relationships are what lead us to learn, to feel a sense of belonging and trust, and to thrive.

I am eager to return to an international school and one that serves students across 14 years. It’s mind-boggling to think about the growth that takes place for each individual over these many years, whether in their physical transformation or how they develop as readers, thinkers, writers, problem solvers, and so much more. 

Much like the students, the faculty and staff spoke passionately about the School and their interest in ensuring the next leader supports the critical work of educating students. Their collective work and commitment have created a community in which students are challenged, known, respected, and nurtured.

Finally, good schools are those that are always seeking to improve. Doing so requires being self-reflective and honest about where work is needed, and then responding collectively to identified needs. At the end of every school year, I take apart the class that I teach and in collaboration with others, we review and revise the class. I look forward to similar processes in varied areas of ASL. First and foremost, though, I look forward to learning from all of you about ASL, including all the things that are unique and exceptional, essential and impressive as well as the areas worthy of attention. 

I am looking forward to visiting the School in the latter part of the year and will begin full-time at the start of July. I am already in touch with Coreen Hester, who is providing superlative support, as I learn about the School, and she and I are fully committed to a smooth transition, one that ensures every aspect of the program will proceed seamlessly.

Let me also extend my gratitude to the Board of Trustees, the search chairs, ASL families, faculty, staff, and the administrative team, all of whom showed commitment to a transparent process and, moreover, to the long-term health and well-being of the School. I look forward to getting to know all of you far more fully in the days to come and thanking you all for your collective trust in me. 

What an honor to join the ASL community! July will be here before we know it. Many boxes to pack before then. 

Warmly, 

Matt Horvat
ASL’s next Head of School