Dr. Peggy Pelonis was raised in Los Angeles, California. She is an active leadership and professional growth instructor and a facilitator of school leadership transformation conducting workshops, trainings, and lectures in Europe, the Middle East, and the USA. Her work with educators and professionals across the globe focuses on initiating and navigating Change. Having taught in both K-12 and university, her educational philosophy stresses the importance of a healthy mind and body while developing skills and gaining knowledge that will intentionally transform the world around us. Dr. Pelonis is a Licensed Psychotherapist and certified School Counselor in the State of California and holds school leadership certification from the Harvard Business School and Harvard School of Education. She is also a National Certified Psychologist. Dr. Pelonis was on the staff of Cal State University Fullerton as well as the University of LaVerne, teaching in the Master’s Psychology programs, she was on the staff of the Adlerian Training Institute, USA, and is currently on the staff of ICASSI (International Committee of Adlerian Summer Schools and Institutes). She is on the Board of the European Collaborative for International Schools (ECIS) as well as the Board of Middle States Association (MSA) for school accreditation.
Her Doctoral work from the University of Bath, UK involved international schools from around the world examining the practice of Heads of Schools and Principals regarding professional development worldwide. She also holds an M.Sc. degree in Counseling and School Psychology from California State University, Fullerton, an Executive M.B.A. from the University of Indianapolis, and a B.S. in English Literature and Psychology from the American College of Greece.
She is a frequent lecturer at conferences as well as an invited speaker on various TV and radio programs. Her work on Coping with Change, Resilience as well as on Leadership in Education and Educational Transformation has been cited in journals, magazines, and books. She is the author of numerous journal articles, book chapters, and magazine & newspaper articles, as well as three books: *"Resilience and the Internationally Mobile Family; Navigating Changes and Transitions”, *"Change in the journey of life" and "Υπάρχω Αλλάζω" (published in Greek). Published articles include:* An International Perspective of Academic Leadership, * Providing Exceptional Educational Experiences to Students with Financial Need; A Modern Challenge for International K-12 Schools, * Leading Educational Change to Transform the Community, * Modeling 21 st Century Education with Intentional Excellence, *Can Good Citizenship be Taught? * Metamorphosis; A Collaborative Leadership Model to Promote Educational Change.
email: pelonisp@acs.gr
Ms. Tokatlidou completed her Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the School of Law and Economics at the Aristoteleion University of Thessaloniki in 1981. She continued her studies in Toronto, Canada, where she completed her Master of Arts in Economics and all but the thesis requirement for the Ph.D. program in Economics. In 2013 she received her M.B.A from the University of Indianapolis as well as her Certificate for International School Leadership.
Ms. Tokatlidou has been a member of the ACS Athens community since 2005. Initially, as an IB Economics faculty, then as Director of IB and AP programs, as Academy Vice-Principal, and currently the Dean of Academics.
For more than a decade, Ms. Tokatlidou has worked along with the IB Diploma and AP Faculty in expanding and enhancing the IB and AP programs as well as the curriculum and professional development of faculty, making the IB Diploma program one of the most sought-after programs in Greece.
In 2019, she spearheaded the launch of ACS Athens Virtual, offering online courses. Ms. Tokatlidou led a team of educators and administrators to create a new curriculum while at the same time adapting the existing one. Currently in its third successful year, ACS Athens Virtual placed ACS Athens amongst the leading schools worldwide that incorporated and effectively applied technological developments in education that addressed different types of learners through an extended variety of courses. Further, ACS Athens Virtual helped create a framework for hybrid learning during the extended Covid-19 lockdowns of 2020 and 2021.
Ms. Tokatlidou strongly believes in learning and citizenship development through service, innovative projects, and personal growth through education. This led to the development and creation of the ACS Athens Youth to Youth Educational and Social Integration Program in collaboration with The HOME Project organization. The program addresses the social and educational needs of unaccompanied minors in Athens that fled to Greece due to the Syrian civil war through a student-to-student partnership learning model running since January 2017. The program now includes the Part-time Youth to Youth that runs on Saturdays and involves numerous student and faculty volunteers, and the full-time Youth to Youth program run through the Ed Shapiro Foundation scholarships.
Ms. Tokatlidou, as an educator, strives for lifelong learning unconfined by physical proximity, global citizenship, effective risk-taking, and ethical decision-making. She has led various workshops and has published in numerous scientific journals.
Ms. Tokatlidou was born and raised in Drama, Greece.
email: tokatlidouj@acs.gr
Ms. Lora Kordolaimi was born and raised in Athens, Greece. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Athens University of Economics and Business and a Master’s in Business Administration (M.B.A.) from University of Piraeus.
As part of her Master’s degree Ms. Kordolaimi took seminars in the United States, in Kellogg School of Management – Northwestern University, Loyola University Chicago and Booth Graduate School of Business at the University of Chicago. Her thesis was a 5-year business plan for a private educational institution.
She joined the ACS Athens family in 2009 as the school Cashier. In 2015, she was offered the position of the Accountant, while in November 2020, Ms. Kordolaimi assumed the role of the Accounting Manager, monitoring and supervising the Accounting and Payroll offices as well as the Institute of ACS Athens. As of September 2024, she holds the position of the Director of Finance.
Ms. Kordolaimi’s deep knowledge of the school, holistic approach, ethos and dedication to ACS Athens are only a few of the characteristics that add value to the Business Office and schoolwide subsequently.
email: kordolaimil@acs.gr
Steve Kakaris started employment at ACS Athens in 2002 as Business Manager. Currently holds the position of Director of Finance and Facilities.
His business career started in USA, where he worked for 21 years at different companies in the private sector. His experience was in the areas of public accounting, manufacturing and financial management.
Mr. Kakaris undergraduate studies were in Business Administration at the University of Piraeus and his Masters degree in Accounting from Roosevelt University in Chicago. He passed the Certified Public Accountant exams in Illinois.
Mr. Kakaris is married and has two kids who graduated from ACS Athens.
email: kakariss@acs.gr
Ms. Andromachi Fragkou has been a member of the ACS Athens community since April 2018. With a strong dedication to fostering human development, she currently holds the position of Director of Services and Employee Development. Her approach to this role is shaped by a solid educational background and extensive professional experience.
Ms. Fragkou's academic achievements include an MBA Degree from Athens University of Economics, a Master's Degree in Human Resources Management from Paris University 7 Denis Diderot, and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Her practical experience spans over a decade, encompassing various sectors such as NGOs, retail, and banking in both Paris and Athens.
Drawing from her diverse background, Ms. Fragkou applies her knowledge to benefit the ACS Athens community. Her current responsibilities involve utilizing her expertise to empower individuals, nurture their growth, and contribute to the overall progress of the community.
email: fragkoua@acs.gr
Ms. Constantinides was born in Cairo, Egypt. She earned a Bachelor of Education in Physical Education and French Language at McGill University; she received an M.A. in Exercise Physiology from the same institution, an M.Sc. in Sports Administration from Louisville University, and an MBA from the University of Indianapolis.
Ms. Constantinides is an ACS Athens Alumnus (class of '79) and returned to ACS Athens as a Middle School Physical Education teacher in 1986. She holds the position of Athletic Director since 1998.
Ms. Constantinides was the event manager in a number of International Sports projects, such as the McDonalds Classic in Paris, the NBA Jam Tour in Greece, the NBA 3 x 3 tour in Greece. In addition, she has worked in the Sydney 2000 Olympics, was the Venue and Competition Manager for Softball in the Athens 2004 Olympics, and was the appointed Technical Delegate for Softball in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, as well as the venue and sports manager for the Special Olympics that took place in Athens in July 2011. She was the Assistant Technical Delegate of the World Summer Special Olympic Games of 2015 in the sport of softball.
She was a member of the ISST Executive Board from 2006-09, a member of the International Softball Federation Executive Board from 2008-09, is presently the Vice-Chair of the ISAA conference (International Schools Athletics Association), and is the recipient of the “Women and Sport” Award by the International Olympic Committee.
In 2021, she was the first female elected Board member of the Hellenic Basketball Federation overseeing Women' s Basketball in Greece. Since 2023, she also serves on the Women' s commission of FIBA Europe, a "think tank" group for the development of women's basketball across the globe, and most recently she was named Ambassador for the 2025 Women's Eurobasket which took place in Greece.
email: constantinidesa@acs.gr
Dr. Julie Crain is an experienced administrator with over 30 years serving private and public education students and communities. She was formerly the ACS Athens Academy principal, Middle School Principal and Professional Development Coordinator.
Dr. Crain holds a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of Kansas, and three additional academic degrees in education and liberal arts from accredited universities in Illinois and Kansas. She is a licensed teacher, principal and superintendent. Dr. Crain is also a published author, former journalist and copy editor. Communication is the key to understanding at what rates and styles students learn, according to Dr. Crain.
She is married to Dr. Thimios Zaharopoulos and they have two sons.
email: crainj@acs.gr
Evelyn Pittas is a highly experienced International Baccalaureate (IB) Educator, IB Curriculum Developer, IB Teacher Support Material contributor, and IB Examiner with over 25 years of distinguished service in Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature. She has served as the Academy Vice-Principal at ACS Athens for 5 years, and she combines leadership with pedagogical depth, guiding students and faculty with a clear vision rooted in academic excellence and global citizenship.
Ms. Pittas holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Lehigh University, Pennsylvania, a Master of Arts in English Literature from Kutztown University, Pennsylvania, and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Gwynedd-Mercy College. She earned her U.S. Secondary Teaching Certification in 1994 and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.) at the University of Nicosia in Cyprus, with a research focus on sustainability and global competence in international education.
Her formal journey with the IBO began in 1999, when she became an IB English A2 instructor, later transitioning to teach English Language and Literature HL/SL. Since 2004, she has served as an IB Diploma Examiner for Group 1 and Extended Essays. Her long-standing commitment to academic integrity and assessment rigor makes her a respected authority in the field. She continues to hold this role today, marking with precision and deep pedagogical insight.
In addition to her examining work, Ms. Pittas has played a critical role in Curriculum Development, showcasing her curriculum design expertise and interdisciplinary mindset. In 2017, she was invited by the IBO to contribute to the revision of the Group 1 curriculum, integrating Theory of Knowledge (TOK) in meaningful and intentional ways. Her knowledge and expertise helped shape the revised Group 1 curriculum launched in 2019, underscoring her understanding of conceptual learning and interdisciplinary connections while demonstrating her commitment to academic rigor and innovation.
Her dedication to professional growth is evident through participation in IB Category 2 workshops, regular e-marking training, and consistent involvement in professional learning communities. An invited speaker at the 2020 IBO Global Conference, in The Hague, Ms. Pittas was selected to present on empowering youth through the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Though the conference was canceled due to the pandemic, her selection underscores her innovative thought leadership within the IBO global network. A strong advocate of global citizenship and conscious education, Ms. Pittas embodies the IBO learner profile, inspiring both students and colleagues to think critically, act ethically, and engage meaningfully with the world around them.
Ms. Pittas’s commitment to cultivating conscious citizenship through literature, assessment excellence, and teacher mentorship is unwavering. Her academic background, leadership experience, and enduring involvement in the IBO make her a formidable contributor to the continued development and integrity of the Diploma Programme.
email: pittase@acs.gr
Ms. Manos joined the Technology Department in 1987 and currently serves as the IT Administrator. She is the NVS (NESA Virtual School) System Administrator for Moodle® and represents ACS Athens at the annual NESA conferences for IT Intranet Administrators.
email: manosm@acs.gr
John Papadakis is the Director of Institutional Advancement, Alumni Affairs & Media Productions at ACS Athens and the school's certified Data Protection Officer.
In September 2025, he assumed his duties leading Institutional Advancement and Alumni Affairs of ACS Athens. After two decades leading Enrollment Management—and along the way also serving as Director of Technology and Communications—this transition is a natural and meaningful progression, drawing on the skills, insights, and relationships built over these years to strengthen our school’s advancement and alumni engagement efforts.
He oversees the operation of the "Suheil Sabbagh" Media Studio at the Learning Commons and is involved in the strategic implementation of the Media Literacy program and initiatives throughout the school, especially organizing the annual Media Literacy Festival every spring.
Since 2021, he has been a member of the executive team of ACSAthensGlobal, the official platform connecting the school's global alumni community. He also serves on the school's RAIL (Responsible AI Learning) team, which spearheads efforts to empower educators and students to utilize AI in teaching and learning ethically and responsibly.
John Papadakis has been the school's certified Data Protection Officer (email: dpo@acs.gr) since 2018, overseeing its compliance with GDPR. He received his DPO certification from TÜV Austria in 2018. He has also served as the managing editor of the International Schools Journal, published by ACS Athens, between 2019 and 2023.
After 14 years in the United States, where he served the American K-12 education in different capacities as a Math teacher, educational technologist, tutor, and administrator, he returned to Greece with his family in 2001. His academic studies include an Executive M.B.A. degree from the University of Indianapolis (Athens Campus), a B.A. in Communications/Electronic Media/Broadcasting from Columbia College Chicago, and an associate degree in Electronics Engineering from Triton College, IL. He has extensive experience in radio/TV production and has worked as an editor/staff writer in weekly ethnic newspapers based in Chicago, IL. John Papadakis was the Director of Communications and Operations of the Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) – North and South America Region, based in Chicago, from 1995 to 2001, covering and promoting the educational, civic, and cultural activities of the ethnic Greek community on the American continent. After his arrival in Athens in 2001, he was involved in technology projects as a training consultant and as a project manager for new media projects (e-commerce, online Content Management Systems, web 2.0, etc.).
Previous business ventures in the U.S. include: a TV satellite company operating as a Dish Network dealer and distributor of Greek satellite TV channels in the Midwest; a weekly radio program promoting the activities of the Greek American community; and various business technology and communication consulting services to organizations and businesses in the Chicagoland area.
John Papadakis is a lifelong learner, music lover, and global-minded citizen of the world.
email: papadakisj@acs.gr
Frances Tottas is the Assistant Director of Enrollment Management at the American Community Schools of Athens (ACS Athens) in Greece, a position she has held since 2011. During her tenure in this capacity, she has managed the enrollment workflow of the school from inquiry to registration while also overseeing retention efforts, all during a period of continuous and sustainable growth. Previously, she held several administrative positions within the school, earning a deep understanding of its operations and culture. She has been a member of the school staff since 1987, marking 38 years of service this year.
In addition to her responsibilities at ACS Athens, Ms. Tottas served three years as a member of the Special Interest Group (SIG) for Admissions of the European Council of International Schools (ECIS). In this role, she contributed to the ongoing dialogue on best practices and emerging trends, ensuring that ACS Athens remains a leader in the international schools community. Frances had the privilege of presenting and participating as a panelist at the ECIS Inclusive Education Conference, where she shared insights and expertise as a member of the Admissions Special Interest Group Committee. The SIG’s presentation, “Inclusive Admissions from Enquiry to Matriculation: An Interactive Deep Dive,” highlighted the journey toward creating an inclusive admissions process within the educational landscape.
Before joining ACS Athens, she worked for a shipping company and later had a three-year career with SONY Electronics, managing the Import Department of Greece. She also has experience organizing and setting up multiple trade shows and expositions, both locally and internationally. This professional background adds a multifaceted dimension to her career.
Frances Tottas is an ACS Athens alumna (Class of 1982) and the parent of an alumnus, offering her a valuable perspective on understanding the school community and its needs.
email: tottasf@acs.gr
Mr. Charalambos (Babis) Mamas is the Elementary Assistant Principal and Operations Officer at ACS Athens and the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
Before joining ACS Athens, Mr. Mamas spent 11 years in leadership roles at a prestigious international school in the United Kingdom, where he served on Health & Safety, Safeguarding, and Academic Strategy committees and led cross-functional projects that strengthened operational systems, student conduct frameworks, emergency readiness, and co-curricular provision. This experience—combining regulatory compliance, risk management, and day-to-day school operations—underpins his current focus on clear procedures, reliable timetables and duty structures, and responsive student support and behavior systems.
He holds UK-accredited Safeguarding Level 1 (highest tier) training for Designated Safeguarding Leads, along with additional certifications in Health & Safety in Education, Mental Wellbeing in Children and Young People, and Child Protection in International Schools. Combined with extensive experience in case management and staff training, these qualifications provide a strong foundation for his work in aligning ACS Athens safeguarding practices with both Greek legislation and international standards.
Mr. Mamas began his career teaching Physical Education in Greek public schools and brings a high-performance, team-centered approach shaped by his background as a national-level track and field athlete and as a professional volleyball coach in Athens and the UK. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Sports Science & Physical Education (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki) and an MBA (The Open University Business School, UK) and is currently completing an MA in Educational Leadership (The Open University, UK). His leadership is characterized by data-informed decision-making, collaborative problem-solving with faculty and families, and an unwavering commitment to safe, inclusive, and well-run learning environments.
email: mamasc@acs.gr
Dimitri Grant was born in Athens, Greece, and attended ACS Athens from where he graduated.
He obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Production Technology and Management from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, specializing in Technical Stage Management.
He then pursued a Master’s degree in Project Management and Innovation at the University of Strathclyde.
Prior to joining ACS Athens, Dimitri worked in theater construction and stage engineering.
email: grantd@acs.gr