Rev. Fr. Apisit Kritsaralam, C.Ss.R., recently announced that he has stepped down from his long-time role as School Director for Ruamrudee International School. Rev. Fr. Apisit’s dedication and leadership of over two decades have been a driving force in RIS’ success and identity as a Catholic institution that has always cherished academic excellence and values. School Manager Rev. Fr. Jittapol Plangklang, C.Ss.R., has been appointed School Director in his stead.
Rev. Fr. Apisit started at RIS as a School Counselor in the 90s, and since then, his various roles have included Head of School in addition to School Director. His leadership has been characterized by his insight, creativity, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication to quality education. Throughout Rev. Fr. Apisit’s long tenure, he has inspired many to be at their best, and his accomplishments have truly been a testament to years of passion and hard work. Rev. Fr. Apisit is now very much looking forward to a much-needed break to relax and rejuvenate.
Rev. Fr. Jittapol began at RIS as a School Counselor before taking on the role of Assistant School Director in 2019. Rev. Fr. Jittapol completed his B.A. in Humanities (Philosophy and Religion) at Saengtham College, Thailand, and earned his M.A. in Theology (Religious Education) from Ateneo de Davao University, Philippines. His further credentials include an M.A. in Spirituality from Fordham University, New York; an M.S.Ed. in School and Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania; and a Certificate in Advanced Education Leadership from Harvard University, Massachusetts.
A passionate administrator who has always believed in the power of education to transform people’s lives and the world, Rev. Fr. Jittapol was appointed School Manager in April 2020. Despite the undeniable challenges of a global pandemic, Rev. Fr. Jittapol brought positive change to RIS by adhering to his core principles of professionalism, transparency, collaboration, and financial awareness. He has been commended by his peers for his vision, passion, and dedication to the community in the face of adversity.
The announcements were made via a school wide letter from Rev. Fr. Dr. Michael Picharn, C.Ss.R., Chair of the Redemptorist Fathers Foundation and RIS School Licensee. In it he shared: “The Redemptorist Fathers Foundation of Thailand and members of the RIS school board wish to acknowledge and thank Rev. Fr. Apisit for his guidance and leadership all these years. We are honored and grateful he will continue to serve RIS as a Senior Advisor to the Leadership Team. We wish to congratulate Rev. Fr. Jittapol as our new School Director. His combined expertise in education, counseling, and spirituality will be a great asset towards ongoing school improvement.”
