It is with profound sadness that we inform our alumni community of the passing of Mike (Emmanuel) John Pavlos, a revered former director of our school from 1976 to 1979. Mike passed away on December 25, 2024, in Harwich, Massachusetts. ​

During his tenure, Mike Pavlos demonstrated exceptional leadership and a profound commitment to education. His influence extended far beyond our school’s walls, as his career spanned over five decades, during which he served as a mathematics teacher and international school director. His career took him and his family across the globe, with impactful tenures in Italy, Belgium, Kenya, Morocco, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Cairo, Egypt. His dedication to fostering international education left an indelible mark on countless students and educators worldwide. 

A special part of Mike’s legacy continues to thrive right here at ASW. His son, Nicolas Pavlos, born during Mike’s time at our school, is leading ASW’s Visual and Performing Arts Department. Furthermore, two of Mike’s grandchildren are currently students at ASW, directly benefiting from the legacy he helped build within our community.

In response to a social media tribute to Mike's passing, a former ASW employee fondly recalls, "Mike was my principal many years ago in Poland. I was always the first to school every morning. He was the second. He visited all the empty classrooms seeing what the teachers were up to, and when he came to mine, we always had a good chat”.

Beyond his professional achievements and dedication to the value of working together, Mike was known for his warmth, curiosity, and storytelling prowess. He seamlessly blended roles as a philosopher, math enthusiast, and judo instructor. Deeply proud of his Greek heritage, Mike was a cultural chameleon—equally at ease bartering in a bustling market or engaging in café conversations in Vicenza. His quick wit allowed him to challenge injustices, yet he remained approachable and compassionate.​

Mike cherished life's simple pleasures: his deep love for his family, engaging political discussions, reflections on education, leisurely walks with his dog Carson, assisting children with math, experimenting with the latest gadgets, and cooking traditional dishes like Gigantes while immersed in Cretan music. To many, he was known affectionately as Mr. Pavlos, Mike, Uncle Mike, Papou, or Dad. Regardless of the title, he always made time to listen, challenge, counsel, and share his wisdom, often accompanied by a glass of red wine or an ice cream. His unwavering love and guidance gifted his children with lives rich in culture, language, and adventure.​

Mike's contributions extended beyond the classroom. He served as a board member of the Overseas Schools Assistance Corporation (OSAC), the overarching non-profit for both The International Educator (TIE) and the Principals’ Training Center (PTC). His colleagues at TIE and PTC remember him with deep gratitude for over 35 years of collaboration. ​

As we mourn the loss of such a remarkable educator and individual, we invite our alumni to honor Mike's memory. In the spirit of his son's heartfelt message, we encourage you to share a toast, enjoy a long meal, and reminisce about the moments that Mike touched your life. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence our community for generations to come.​

A celebration of Mike's life is planned for the coming summer (2025). In the meantime, let us hold his family in our thoughts and cherish the memories of a man who dedicated his life to education, cultural understanding, and the betterment of those around him.

Please share your memories and tributes to Mike Pavlos in the comments below.