Message from the Head of School

Dr. Marc-Frédéric Ott
 

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My grandparents, Fred & Sigrid Ott, founded Leysin American School (LAS) in 1960 with the vision of bringing together young people from all over the world. As the world was healing from the wounds of the Second World War and the Cold War was raging, they dreamed of educating teenagers from diverse backgrounds and nationalities to become citizens of the world. 

Today, LAS welcomes 300 students from over 50 nationalities in a warm and caring community. Students are encouraged to become the best version of themselves through our excellent academic, experiential, and entrepreneurial programs, as well as numerous leadership opportunities—all within this beautiful setting in the pristine Swiss Alps!

I regularly witness the warmth and kindness of our community, which comes together with a shared love of and excitement for learning. I am privileged to be part of the LAS Global Family that continues transforming lives. 

Marc Ott, Ed.D
Head of School

Marc grew up in Switzerland and in the Middle East. After earning a Master's degree in teaching Business, Economics, Accounting & Swiss Law from the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, he moved to the United States to work for the Leysin American School (LAS) Admissions Office outside of Boston. Marc completed his Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Administration from Columbia University in New York City. He returned to Switzerland in 2005 to lead LAS Admissions Department and became Head of School in 2009. 

Marc has written and published on quality management and accreditation in schools and taught in the summer at the Endicott College Master's Degree program. In addition, Marc serves on several boards, including the Association of Private Schools of the Canton of Vaud in Lausanne, the Swiss Federation of Private Schools in Bern, and the Aigle- Leysin-Col des Mosses Tourist Association. Marc is married to Stephanie (one of the town doctors), and they have one daughter. He loves traveling, participating in alpine sports, reading, and spending time with family and friends.