Meet the Leadership Team
The Leadership Team at MYIS International School works collaboratively to set the strategic vision of the school and ensure it is reflected in every aspect of teaching, learning, and community life. They are committed to upholding the school’s core values—respect, responsibility, and a commitment to continuous growth—while fostering a culture of inclusion, innovation, and academic excellence across all divisions.
Meet Our Founder & Head of School
Head of School,
Mrs. Khanum Thampi
Khanum Thampi is the Founder and Head of School of MYIS International School. For over 30 years, she has led MYIS with an unwavering commitment to educational excellence and the belief that every child has the right to be respected, heard, and empowered. Under her visionary leadership, the school has evolved from an early childhood center into a full IB World School offering programs through to secondary education.
She holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Pacific Oaks College in California and has participated in extensive professional development both in the U.S. and internationally. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, Mrs. Khanum has infused this philosophy throughout the school’s culture—placing high value on inquiry, creativity, and the capabilities of every learner.
While her journey began in early childhood education, her advocacy for children’s rights and holistic development continues to shape the school at every level. She remains a dedicated observer of children’s learning and a passionate school leader, committed to nurturing a vibrant, respectful, and inclusive community for students of all ages.
Associate Head of School
Primary School Principal
Ms. Tahireh Thampi
Tahireh Thampi
Tahireh Thampi has served as the Principal of MYIS International School since August 2022, guiding the school’s transformation from an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) institution to a Middle Years Programme (MYP) candidate school with a growing high school division.
With over 14 years of experience in international education, Tahireh began her career as an Early Years teacher in Thailand before teaching at the American Embassy School in New Delhi. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music & Teaching from the University of Melbourne and a Master’s in Education with a focus on Instructional Coaching from Clemson University. In 2019, she transitioned to the role of PYP Coordinator at MYIS, deepening her impact on curriculum and instructional leadership.
Committed to continuous growth, Tahireh completed the Certificate in School Management and Leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education in 2024. She is passionate about fostering a caring, collaborative community where students, teachers, and families work together to thrive—and to make a meaningful difference in the world. Tahireh believes deeply in the capability and potential of every MYIS learner.
Director of Teaching & Learning
Secondary School Principal
Caty Romero
Caty Romero brings a wealth of experience and vision to MYIS as our Secondary School Principal and Director of Learning. Over the past three years, she has played a pivotal role in leading the school’s academic development, guiding MYIS through its transition from an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) school to Middle Years Programme (MYP) candidacy and expansion into high school.
Caty has been instrumental in strengthening our mathematics program, with her leadership contributing to a 70% increase in student achievement on MAP standardized assessments. Her impact reflects a deep commitment to inquiry-based learning, reasoning, and communication.
Before joining MYIS, Caty served as the Mathematics Instructional Coach at Shanghai American School. She also consults internationally and presents regularly at leading educational conferences including AASSA, NESA, EARCOS, SENIA, Learning 2, and ACAMIS.
Caty is passionate about fostering a supportive and dynamic learning environment where all students can thrive both academically and personally.
Middle Years Programme (MYP) Coordinator
Emily Thomas
Emily Thomas serves as the Middle Years Programme (MYP) Coordinator at MYIS International School, leading the implementation and development of the IB MYP for students in Grades 6–10. With a strong background in inquiry-based teaching and interdisciplinary curriculum design, Emily works closely with teachers to ensure that learning is engaging, challenging, and aligned with IB standards.
She is passionate about empowering students to become independent thinkers, compassionate collaborators, and globally minded individuals. At MYIS, Emily plays a key role in guiding curriculum planning, assessment practices, and the integration of Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills across subject areas.
Emily’s commitment to student growth and her collaborative leadership style make her an integral part of our Secondary School team.
Primary Years Programme (PYP) Coordinator
Elisa Mons
Elisa Mons is the Primary Years Programme (PYP) Coordinator at MYIS International School, leading the development and implementation of the IB PYP for students from Early Years through Grade 5. With a strong foundation in inquiry-based learning and child-centered education, Elisa supports teachers in designing meaningful, concept-driven units that nurture curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Elisa brings a wealth of international teaching experience and a deep understanding of the IB philosophy. She works collaboratively with students, teachers, and families to foster a caring and inclusive school culture where every child feels seen, valued, and inspired to take action in their learning journey.
Her leadership ensures that the PYP at MYIS continues to grow with integrity, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.
Director of Operations
Rahul Thampi
Rahul Thampi is the Director of Operations at MYIS International School, bringing over two decades of dedicated service and leadership to the school. With a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, a Master’s in Teaching and Curriculum from Michigan State University, and a certification in Educational Technology, Rahul combines educational insight with operational expertise.
Rahul has played a pivotal role in MYIS’s growth, including its transformation into an accredited IB World School and the successful completion of major campus expansions—most recently managing the construction of the new school building. He oversees all aspects of school operations, including logistics, facilities management, safety, staffing, and the strategic integration of technology to streamline administrative processes.
Known for his thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach, Rahul ensures that the daily operations of MYIS run smoothly and that the school remains a safe, well-resourced environment where learning can thrive.
International School Manager,
Ms. Orasa Kanjanachoosak
Ms. Orasa has been an integral part of MYIS International School since 2006, serving as the School Manager. She holds an MBA from the prestigious Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration at Chulalongkorn University and brings extensive expertise in finance, accounting, and administrative operations to the school.
With a focus on efficiency, transparency, and long-term sustainability, Ms. Orasa has played a key role in strengthening the school’s operational systems and financial management. Her leadership ensures that school processes—from admissions to budgeting—run smoothly and effectively in support of the MYIS mission.
Beyond her administrative role, Ms. Orasa has a deep love for children and a genuine commitment to the MYIS community. Whether visiting classrooms or joining school events, she is a warm and familiar presence on campus—always ready to lend a hand and connect with students and families alike.