Member News
Special Interview
Journal 2025
You have had a long, successful career in international education. Can you share with us your journey that led you to Dwight Seoul? My professional journey began in 1991 in inner-city Los Angeles, where my first teaching role shaped my passion for education and my belief that all children can learn in any environment. After five years, I caught the “international bug” and joined Seoul Foreign School (SFS), where I spent 21 transformative years in roles ranging from teaching and coaching to principalship and operational leadership. Working alongside extraordinary educators, including my mentor Dr. Harlan Lyso, profoundly influenced my leadership approach with his example of respect, compassion, and integrity. After two decades at SFS, my family and I moved to Singapore, where I served as a middle and high school principal at International Community School. I gained valuable insights into Singapore’s international educational landscape and celebrated my son’s graduation from Singapore American School. Upon returning to Korea, I joined Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS). After three years and my daughter’s graduation, we embraced a new chapter. Following a sabbatical, I joined Dwight Seoul.
Special Interview with
DR. ESTHER MYONG
Upper School Principal at Dwight Seoul
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Dwight’s mission to “ignite the spark of genius in every child” resonates deeply with my belief that children thrive in diverse, inclusive, and relationship-driven settings. Building meaningful relationships has always been central to my work, as they lay the foundation for trust, growth, and success. One of my first priorities at Dwight was engaging with the senior class (Grade 12) through an open dialogue, allowing them to get to know me as their new principal and fostering a sense of connection. Joining Dwight Seoul is a chance to live out my belief that every child has unique potential waiting to be discovered. I am committed to creating an environment where students and teachers feel valued, supported, and inspired to thrive. It is a privilege to grow alongside such a remarkable community of students, educators, and families, and I look forward to continuing this meaningful journey, one relationship at a time.
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