New Era for Canadian Academy
Lindsey Berns’ leadership is poised to launch the prestigious institution to new heights.
Canadian Academy (CA), a beacon of international education in Japan, has welcomed Lindsey Berns as its new head of school.
With a distinguished 23-year career in international education, Berns brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that promises to guide CA toward a future of innovation and inclusivity.
CA STUDENTS’ IMPACT
For Berns, the decision to join CA was an easy one. Having had the privilege to work in schools across the globe—including in Canada, Hong Kong and Turkey—Berns was excited to embrace the opportunity to gain experience in Japan. She was already familiar with CA, as the school has an impressive global reputation, but what clinched the decision was the students. “I sat with a group of secondary students … they were representatives from different clubs and organizations, and it was the most incredible conversation,” she says. “They were so thoughtful, and the questions they asked me really made me think.”
In her first year, Berns plans to further immerse herself in the community. Understanding the dreams and aspirations of CA students, faculty, families and alumni is the foundation of her leadership. She’s already begun building connections through morning visits and advisory groups, setting the stage for a tenure built on open communication and trust.
Berns with the late Jeopardy host Alex Trebek
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Berns’ vision for CA embraces change while honoring tradition, as defined by the community. She’s keenly aware of the evolving landscape of international education, particularly as it pertains to advancements in AI. As schools around the globe grapple with platforms such as ChatGPT, Berns and CA are poised to stay ahead of the curve. “Education is not just about filling students with information; it’s about teaching them how to learn, how to think critically and how to adapt,” she explains. A central theme in Berns’ educational philosophy is the role of teachers in fostering a love of learning, and she believes that teachers play a pivotal part, not just in imparting knowledge, but also in equipping students with the skills to navigate a rapidly changing world.
Under Berns’ leadership, CA is poised to strengthen its position as a leading international school in Japan, one that not only embraces diversity but also prepares its students for an ever-evolving global landscape. As Berns continues to connect with the community, her vision for CA’s future—rooted in compassion, inclusivity and a forward-thinking approach to education—will undoubtedly shape the next chapter of this prestigious institution. And if you ever have the opportunity, ask her about her experience on the famous game show Jeopardy!
October 2024
