Passing the Torch: Welcoming Elizabeth Elizardi to Lead the Lower Primary
An exciting new chapter of leadership begins at the Lower Primary as HKIS welcomes incoming principal Elizabeth Elizardi. We sat down with her for a quick chat during an orientation trip to visit the school and prepare for her big move her during the summer. With her passion for service, wealth of experience and a vibrant spirit, Elizabeth is poised to inspire students, faculty and parents.
Elizabeth Elizardi
A Journey Rooted in Community
Born in Philadelphia, Elizabeth is the youngest of four sisters, raised in a close-knit, blue-collar neighborhood where community was paramount. "We were out on the streets at night, playing games until the streetlights came on," she recalls fondly. This environment fostered her love for collaboration and collective effort, values that she carries into her educational philosophy.
Elizabeth's educational journey began in parochial schools, culminating in a degree in elementary education from American University in Washington, D.C. Her early years were filled with performances on stage and honing her skills in public speaking, laying the groundwork for her dynamic leadership style.
Elizabeth visiting with her dog Ouisie at Country Day School.
Elizabeth and family hiking in North Carolina
A Passion for Service and Advocacy in Education
One of the pivotal moments in Elizabeth's life came when she traveled to Russia at the age of 15 for a three-week service project. This experience, organized by the nonprofit Peace Child, involved working with local teenagers and using the performing arts to bridge cultural divides. "We wrote and performed a play that addressed important social issues," she explains. This journey not only broadened her worldview but also ignited her passion for education and advocacy.
Elizabeth's commitment to service deepened further after Hurricane Katrina. Motivated by a desire to help, she moved to New Orleans to work in turnaround schools, focusing on revitalizing education for under-resourced communities. "It was a calling to give back," she shares, reflecting on her experiences helping those in need during a time of crisis.
Elizabeth and volunteers with Habitat for Humanity rebuilding a home after Hurricane Katrina devastated the southern USA.
A Whole-Body Yes
When she started researching HKIS as her interest in the position deepened, Elizabeth found an alignment with the school's mission and values. "The focus on service learning and play-based education really spoke to me," she says. Her interviews revealed a culture of growth among educators, a quality she deeply values.
"It was a whole-body yes for me," she emphasizes, highlighting her excitement about joining the HKIS community.
Elizabeth's approach as a principal is shaped by her training in positive psychology and leadership coaching. She believes in fostering awareness and agency among educators, empowering them to refine their practices continuously. "It’s about building on what's right," she explains, a principle that resonates throughout her leadership style.
Elizabeth on a boat at Tai O Fishing Village during one of
her early trips to visit HKIS.
Embracing Hong Kong
Elizabeth's initial impressions of Hong Kong have been overwhelmingly positive. From the efficiency of the MTR to the breathtaking landscapes, she is excited about the adventures that await. "You can be on the beach, in the mountains, and then in the city, all within 15 minutes," she marvels, highlighting the unique lifestyle the city offers.
At HKIS, Elizabeth has already observed a culture of joyful engagement within the Lower Primary division. "There's a deep level of knowledge about early childhood education among the teachers," she notes, expressing her enthusiasm for working alongside such dedicated professionals.
A Fire Within
As she steps into her role at HKIS, Elizabeth embodies the spirit of the Dragon—symbolizing strength, passion, and a commitment to celebrating traditions. With her playful energy and dedication to fostering a nurturing environment, she is set to ignite a love for learning in students and staff alike.
In her own words, "I want to ensure that our division is celebratory and appreciates the traditions of this wonderful place."
With her leadership, the future of the Lower Primary division at HKIS looks bright.
Welcome, Elizabeth!
A fun family trip to Disneyland (children Eden and Finn with
Elizabeth and husband Jeff).