From classroom teacher to school leader, Head of Middle School, Polina Jackson’s journey at BASIS International School Hangzhou offers a firsthand look at how growth, mentorship, and collaboration shape leadership within our school network. Her experience reflects what it means to evolve as an educator while supporting others, highlighting the opportunities available to those ready to take the next step in their career.
Becoming a Leader at BASIS International School Hangzhou
Hi everyone, I’m Polina Jackson from BASIS International School Hangzhou, where I currently serve as Head of Middle School and teach AP Economics.
When I first arrived in 2019, I taught Grade 7 Logic, Grade 8 Economics, and AP Economics courses. In 2021–22, a Social Sciences Chair position became available, and after interviewing, I was fortunate to be selected. I was the only female department leader in a predominantly male team—with just one other female History teacher. I collaborated closely with the Grades 6–12 History teachers and another Grade 8 Economics teacher, while continuing to teach Economics in both Middle and High School.
The Chair position was still relatively new within the network, so I had the opportunity to help shape the role and define the best practices for collaboration, instructional strategies, and improving student outcomes. Lesson observation and coaching models were newly introduced at the school and network levels, and it’s been rewarding to see how the teaching and learning domains and coaching guidelines have evolved over time.
Soon after, I moved into the position of Vice Head of High School for the 2022-23 school year. In this role, I worked with Subject Chairs and the High School teaching faculty—coaching, mentoring, and collaborating while continuing to teach AP Economics. I also had the privilege of working closely with the College Counseling department, learning more about what it takes to create a strong student profile for top global universities, and co-leading several High School Coffee Mornings focused on helping students gain admission to top-30 global universities.
In the 2025–26 school year, I transitioned into my current role as Head of Middle School. I now work even more closely with the entire Middle School faculty while still teaching at the High School level. I also launched a Middle School “formula for success” that emphasizes a well-balanced combination of academic and athletic achievement, community service, career exploration, and increased extracurricular engagement. My experience as the Vice Head of High School helped me realize the importance of building successful student profiles as early as Grade 6.
Leading at BIBS • C
Being a leader within the BASIS International & Bilingual Schools • China (BIBS • C) network means wearing many hats: teacher, colleague, coach, mentor, evaluator, and supervisor. The BIBS • C culture is built on collaboration and continual professional growth, with regular classroom observations and coaching conversations at the foundation of everything we do. This process is invaluable for both new and seasoned teachers.
It’s more than just mentorship—it’s a collaborative journey where each conversation is a unique, multifaceted professional exchange that shapes the overall teaching and learning environment. Coaching conversations extend beyond the classroom, happening in hallways, during transitions, in the coffee lounge, and at dismissal.
Through my own experience with coaching and mentorship, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of being a patient and attentive listener. It’s crucial to create a space where self-reflection and accountability can flourish. As mentors, we learn and grow alongside our mentees, expanding our own educational toolkits through these exchanges. The process reinforces the belief that we grow through what we go through, and ultimately, our shared commitment to refining our teaching practice enhances our students’ learning experience and success.
Across our schools, Heads and Vice Heads of Divisions collaborate regularly during monthly network-wide Round Table meetings. Additionally, there are opportunities to engage in professional dialogue via email or in person with Chief Instructional Officers during their campus visits.
Leading with Service
My leadership style is rooted in building trust and practicing servant leadership. I strive to foster a culture of service, growth, and collaboration by integrating the four C’s of Servant Leadership: Connection, Clarity, Coaching, and Commitment. These principles guide me as I navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving educational environment. At the core of the 4 C’s are key values that underpin all of my interactions: empathy, respect, accountability, and collaboration.
Active listening is central to my leadership approach, ensuring that the needs and voices of all stakeholders are not only heard but meaningfully addressed.
Support Structures That Made Growth Possible
Anyone new to a role, whether as a teacher or leader, has the unique opportunity to attend the Summer Institute, which takes place two weeks before the school year begins. It is an essential week of practical, insightful training and workshops that familiarizes new staff with BIBS • C’s unique teaching approach, connects colleagues from across the network, and builds a sense of community across the BIBS • C schools.
I vividly remember my first Summer Institute in 2019 at BASIS International School Park Lane Harbor. That year, I participated in workshops with other new-to-BIBS • C Economics teachers and attended several sessions with my current Dean and Vice Head, who were there in a teaching capacity.
In addition to the Summer Institute, schools have two professional development (PD) days each year, one in the fall and one in the spring. On an ongoing basis, there are monthly Round Table meetings, weekly check-ins with line managers, and Institute of Management and Teaching (IMAT) sessions—two-day leadership training workshops held twice a year.
A Mentor Who Showed Me What It Means to Lead
The mentor who has played a role in my growth is Kyra Gailis, our Head of School at BASIS International School Hangzhou. Her unwavering determination and compassionate servant leadership style have been a constant source of motivation. Mrs. Gailis embodies integrity, kindness, and resilience, and she leads by example in all aspects of her work. Her genuine care for our school community and her positivity create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered, and her ability to navigate challenges with grace and optimism demonstrates the power of perseverance and empathy. Working alongside her has been a privilege, and she continues to inspire me to strive for excellence in everything I do.
My Advice for Anyone Considering This Journey
Working at BASIS International School Hangzhou has been an incredible career journey. I can confidently say that there are countless growth opportunities for any teacher with an open mind, a growth mindset, and a strong work ethic. Active listening skills and a commitment to student success are key attributes that will help you thrive in this environment.
Living in China offers an overall horizon-broadening experience. Each city and each BIBS • C school is unique and has so much to offer. I hope you will consider joining one of the BASIS International & Bilingual Schools soon!
Polina Jackson
Head of Middle School (Grade 6–8)
AP Economics Teacher (Grade 9–11)
NEC Club Advisor/Supervisor (Grade 8–11)
BASIS International School Hangzhou
If you’re looking to grow as a leader, we are hiring for our final teaching positions for the 2026 – 27 school year. Learn more about career opportunities with BASIS International Schools on our careers website.
