Stephen C. Bigelow, Ph.D.
A blend of Michigan roots, global leadership, and a lifelong commitment to learning.
I am an educator, writer, and school leader who has spent my career helping students and communities discover what learning can look like when curiosity, compassion, and high expectations come together. After more than two decades serving as a teacher, principal, and superintendent in Michigan, I now have the privilege of serving as Superintendent of the Pan American School of Bahia in Salvador, Brazil.
My leadership journey has taken me from classrooms to international school boardrooms, but the thread connecting all of it has remained the same. I believe in learning that is human-centered, forward-thinking, and grounded in relationships. Whether guiding a district strategic plan, mentoring new leaders, or reflecting on a moment of unexpected clarity—sometimes on a balcony in Salvador or while losing a phone in Lisbon—I write to make sense of what it means to lead in a world that is changing faster than ever.
Throughout my career, I have implemented multiple strategic plans, led complex organizational change, modernized curriculum systems, and helped teams navigate everything from evolving assessment landscapes to global disruptions. I have always been drawn to the work behind the work—the conversations that strengthen culture, the trust that builds teams, and the daily decisions that shape a school community’s future.
Now, working at an American–Brazilian–IB school, I’m learning just as much as I’m leading. International education has expanded my thinking and reminded me, once again, that great schools don’t just teach students; they shape citizens of the world.
Away from the office, I write frequently about leadership, education, travel, and the moments—both profound and unexpected—that help us grow. These reflections help me stay grounded in a profession that demands adaptability, humility, and optimism. They also help me stay connected to the many educators, families, and colleagues I’ve worked with over the years.
Thank you for visiting. Whether you’re an educator, a fellow leader, someone curious about international schooling, or simply a traveler stopping by, I’m glad you’re here. I hope you find something that supports your work, your leadership, or your own learning journey.
And if you ever find yourself in Salvador or the state of Bahia, you’ll understand why the ocean, the energy, and the people inspire me every day.