Skip to content
AISY logo

Founding Principal's Welcome

A warm welcome from Founding Principal Sonia, who shares her vision for authentic American education and our commitment to knowing every child by name.

A Message from Our Founding Principal

Sonia, Founding Principal of the American International School of Yanbu
Sonia, Founding Principal

Dear AISY Parents,

It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I welcome you to the 2025-2026 school year at the American International School of Yanbu (AISY)! I’m honored to serve as the Founding Principal and to share this exciting journey with you. Originally from the United States, I’ve had the privilege of calling Indonesia and Qatar home during my previous Principalships. This is my 21st year in education, and over the course of my career, I’ve been privileged to serve as a teacher, Assistant Principal, district leadership coach, consultant and school Principal.

I’m passionate about travel, languages, and immersing myself in new cultures. I’m thrilled to now call Yanbu home and begin this new chapter in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, alongside my husband of 23 years.

We are proud to bring the AISJ legacy—more than 70 years of educational excellence and U.S. accreditation—to Yanbu. AISY teaches an authentic American curriculum rooted in the Common Core, with specialists in Arabic, Islamic Studies, PE, art, and music. Our approach balances rigorous academics with the whole child: character, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. In small classes, every scholar is known by name and seen.

Our inaugural year will be filled with joyful learning, meaningful partnerships with families, and the chance to grow a community where your child belongs.

I’m excited to get to know your children and to build strong, lasting partnerships with each of you as we embark on this exciting journey together.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with your thoughts, questions, or simply to say hello. We truly value your voice and look forward to connecting in person. Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education.

Welcome—Marhaba—to the AISY family!

Sonia Founding Principal, American International School of Yanbu

Growing Alongside Your Family

We prepare every scholar to thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally—in small classes where they’re known by name. With 12+ after-school activities, specialist instruction, and a whole-child approach, AISY is where curiosity grows and your child belongs.

Elementary students engaged in a lesson in a modern AISY classroom
Young students reading a book together
A child enjoying the campus playground at AISY

Ready to Begin?

I’d love to meet your family. Book a tour to see our campus and meet the team, or apply now for year-round admissions. Questions? Email admissions@aisy.edu.sa or call +966 53 039 7696 — we’re here to help.

Ready for the next step?

Apply now for year-round admissions, or book a tour to see the campus your child will call home.