U.S.A.
Alyssa Allgaier

Drama Teacher

Brigham Young University

Ni Hao! I'm Alyssa Allgaier and I am the middle school and high school drama teacher. I was born in California, studied in Utah, and have over 10 years experience teaching in both art and drama in Washington DC, London, and Ireland. I believe everyone needs to learn to act. We find ourselves in social situations everyday that require us to act in a certain way. I love teaching this subject to this age group as it helps prepares them for life --- teaching them to act with better manners, clearer presentations, and more confidence. I am here with my husband, David, who works for Ernst & Young. We have two daughters, who are age 8 and 12, and attend SCIS.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Sarah Bailey

Pre-Kinder Teacher

Cornish College of the Arts, Seattle

This fall I joined the PreK team at SCIS Hongqiao. This is my first experience in China and I am thrilled to be living in the vibrant city of Shanghai. I have lived on the USA west coast, from San Diego to Seattle. Most recently I resided in Truckee, California with my husband, 3rd grade SCIS teacher, Nathan Bailey. Besides teaching early childhood education, I have taught Pilates, Gyrontonic and dance. I am excited to be part of the dynamic staff at SCIS and look forward to teaching my beautiful class of four year olds.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Joshua Balli

Librarian

Pacific Union College

Hello everyone! My name is Josh Balli and if it seems that you have heard my name before, it is because I taught at SCIS before, both ESOL and Pre-K. While I enjoyed both assignments, I found where I really wanted to work was in the library, so I spent last year getting my library credential at the University of South Florida (USF). Books have always been a passion of mine, and I enjoy reading to others as much as I enjoy reading to myself. At the SCIS Hongqiao library we are working hard to make things as fun and enjoyable as possible for all involved. For example, we just completed our first (and definitely not last) guest reader week where a wide variety of people came in as guest readers for the students. We look forward to more fun events like this one. When I am not working, some of my hobbies include playing sports, going to the gym, playing video games and being with friends. My favorite hobby however, is traveling! I have been to 36 countries, and hope to add more to that list during the next couple of years. Feel free to come to the library any time!

My Links:

Venezuela
Giovanni Bello

Aquatics Teacher

Universidad Pedagogica Experimental Libertador

Hi. My name is Giovanni Bello, and I am the Aquatics Director at the Hongqiao campus. I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education from la Universidad Pedagogica Libertador in Maracay, Venezuela. I taught PE and swimming at Venezuelan schools, before becoming the Aquatics Director at Escuela Campo Alegre, an international school in Caracas. I also served as the vice-president of the Caracas swim league. I am very excited to return for another year at SCIS and I am looking forward to continuing to build the swimming program. In my free time I enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including mountain biking, hiking, flying kites, and traveling around China.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Greer Bevel

Social Studies/College Counselor

Whitman College, Walla Walla, Washington

I grew up in Huntsville, Alabama; a city with a large NASA presence and driven by a thriving aerospace industry. As a child, my parents took me to historic homes, monuments, and museums rather than amusement parks. These early introductions to tangible, living history eventually drew me closer to my academic interests. After high school, I left The Deep South for the Pacific Northwest to attend Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. I graduated with a B.A. in History and a minor in Education. After student teaching, I accepted a position at a teacher's college outside of Warsaw, Poland. After I returned from Poland, I worked as an admissions officer for Whitman College. After the experience in admissions, I took a break from academia/education entirely and worked in the Walla Walla Valley wine industry in production and marketing for three years. Eventually, the education profession beckoned me back and I taught A.P. U.S. History, and 20th Century U.S. History at Walla Walla High School for three years. I left Walla Walla for Seattle to pursue a M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction/Social Studies Education at the University of Washington. While in grad school, I worked for the Office of Admissions and taught as a teaching assistant for the Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies. I graduated in June 2007 and arrived in Shanghai in August of the same year. I am very excited to begin my third year here in Shanghai in a new role: College Counselor and IB Teacher.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Brian Blanck

Tech Integration

Northern Arizona University

Hi! I am Brian Blanck and I came to SCIS from Phoenix, Arizona USA. I grew up in a military family, and have had ample opportunities to live and travel overseas. Teaching, travel, and history have always been passions of mine. I love being able to experience different cultures and perspectives and then dialoging with my students about different cultural viewpoints.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Neil Bray

Grade 5 Teacher

Bates College, Lewistion

Hello! My name is Neil Bray. This is my 4th year teaching 5th grade at SCIS and my 16th year teaching elementary grades 2-6. I have taught in bilingual, ESL classrooms in city and rural schools. I have extensive training in bilingual education, cooperative learning techniques and behavioral management. I consider Minnesota my home in the United States but am also very happy here in Shanghai.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Miro Bruan

P.E. Teacher

Seton Hall University

Hi my name is Miro Bruan. I am a Physical Education teacher for grades 6th - 10th here at SCIS Hongqiao. I have been teaching Physical Education since 2001. Before arriving in Shanghai, I was teaching in Newark, New Jersey, USA at Dr. Horton School and International School of Manila in Manila, Philippines. I also coached the Volleyball, Basketball, Tennis and Track and Field teams at these respective schools. I now coach the Varsity Boys Volleyball Team and am the Girls Varsity Basketball Team Head Coach. I coached the Middle School Volleyball and Basketball Boys Teams. I am now also assisting with the school Tennis Team. It has been such an amazing experience here thus far and am blessed to be apart of a great community!

My Links:

Australia
Joanne Burke

Science Teacher

Monash University

My name is Joanne Burke and I am looking forward to the learning and teaching we will share this year. I started my teaching career in Melbourne, Australia. I then spent two years at North Jakarta International School after which I returned to Melbourne to complete a Masters of Education. For the next 12 years I taught in a K-12 school of about the same size as SCIS called St Leonard's College. I was part time curriculum and pastoral care administrator and part time teacher of Biology, Science, Health and Math teacher. For the past 2 years I have been at Monash University teaching pre-service teachers. I love to experience travel and new cultures.

My Links:

Taiwan Province
Michelle Chang

Music Teacher

Northern Illinois Univiersity

My name is Michelle Chang and I have been teaching music in Shanghai, China for two years and one year in the United States. I have spent time during the past years traveling in the States and Europe, so I am looking forward to discover China. I had been a musician for entire my life so far and music is a life long learning process. In addition to teaching and traveling, I am interested in reading, performing, movies, art, cooking and hiking. I look forward to teaching music and getting to know my students in the 2009-2010 school year.

My Links:

U.S.A.
KC Cherkasky

ESOL Coordinator

SIT Graduate Institute, Brattleboro, VT, USA

Having spent my childhood in Michigan, I had no forethought that the majority of my adult life would be led outside of the USA. It's my parents' fault. When my mom and dad suddenly decided in the midst of my college years to move to Jakarta, Indonesia, they encouraged me to visit them. So, I did. A few visits later, they couldn't get rid of me. I started my overseas teaching career at Jakarta International School as a tutor, a substitute teacher, and the assistant director for a drama production. Soon, I was appointed to a full-time teaching position. I, then, completed my master's degree in teaching at what is now called the SIT Graduate Institute in Brattleboro, Vermont. Ultimately, I lived in Indonesia for nearly ten years, learned Indonesian, and traveled throughout that great archipelago. When I returned to the States, I taught for a few years before becoming a graphic and web designer for a New Mexican architecture firm. In 2006, I re-entered the international scene as the Head of the ESOL Department at the American School of Bombay (ASB), where I have spent the last three years. While I enjoy teaching students from around the world how to communicate through language, I continue to explore ways to communicate through images, words, and ideas as a designer, fine artist, and actress. It is fantastic to be in this cosmopolitan city. I can ride my bike, eat delicious food, and watch a tap dance lesson given in the middle of Jing'An Park. My cat, V, and I are going to like it here, I am sure!

My Links:

Canada
Ted Corbould

Grade 5 Teacher

University of Bath

My name is Ted Corbould and I come from Vancouver, Canada. This is my 7th year teaching overseas and my 2nd year teaching Grade 5 at SCIS. Being overseas has been a wonderful experience where I have furthered myself professionally, socially, and personally. I enjoy learning and I have completed a Master's Degree in Education with a focus in teaching and learning. I have a keen interest in travel and different cultures, and since leaving Canada in 2003, I have visited 37 countries around the world. Besides travel, some of my other interests include physical fitness (e.g. weight training, biking), photography, model making, and movies. As an educator, I value my position and the opportunity that I will have to teach your child the requirements he/she will need to have a successful and productive school year. It is my aim to create a positive and supportive learning environment filled with enriching activities that develop the Multiple Intelligences of the students. Your child's success in my classroom is always my number one priority.

My Links:

South Africa
Margie de Villiers

Library Coordinator

Rhodes University

Hello and welcome to the Hongqiao Campus Library! This is my ninth school year with SCIS; five years at Changning and now I am the Library Coordinator at the Hongqiao campus. My goal is to develop in students a love of reading, which is one of my favorite pastimes. I invite parents to use our school libraries both before and after school to enhance your home collections. When not in the library, I enjoy photography, writing, travel, and jewelry design.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Greg Dotzenko

Math Teacher

Harvard University

Math, Honqiao Campus My name is Greg Dotzenko and I am from the State of Alaska in the United States. I moved to Shanghai with my family on August 3, 2008. Before coming to China I have taught in Dubai, Kuwait, Iraq, United Kingdom and Alaska. I enjoy teaching mathematics at SCIS and have found the students and parents a delight to work with. Shanghai is a great place to be with all it has to offer and there never seems to be a dull moment.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Andrew Elliott-Chandler

Tech Integration

The University of Chicago

I feel so lucky to combine my loves of teaching, traveling and technology in my work at SCIS. I grew up in Southern California and then went to the University of Chicago for college, where I double-concentrated in East Asian Languages and Civilizations and American History. In Teach for America, I met my wife, Alyssa, who is teaching first grade at SCIS. When we're not working or talking about work, we love to cook, read and play word games. We also love to take advantage of teachers' ample vacations to travel, both around the U.S. and the world. Now we are fortunate enough to live abroad! Technology has been a life-long passion of mine and it offers amazing resources for education at any level. I look forward to helping teachers and students take great advantage of all it can be!

My Links:

U.S.A.
Priya Goel

Grade 1 Teacher

University of Illinois, Urbana

My name is Priya Goel, and I am delighted to join the first grade team at the SCIS Hongqiao Campus. I attended DePaul University for my Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign for my Master's Degree in Educational Organization and Leadership. After having taught primary grades in Chicago for five years, I very much look forward to joining the international community of educators and families here at SCIS. Being a first-generation Indian, I enjoy Indian food, arts, and culture. Also, and similar to many other global educators, I enjoy traveling to learn about language, culture and history of many different cultures. During my time in Shanghai, I hope to learn Mandarin and all about the fascinating Chinese history and culture that surrounds us. Currently, my professional development interests lie in technology integration. I'm eager to support our students' learning and bring our international community to life through use of our technology resources. Please come visit our classroom community in Room 125!

My Links:

China
Isaac Guo

U.S. Mandarin Teacher

East China Normal University

Hi, everyone! I'm Isaac Guo, originally from Shanghai, China. I graduated an English Major from East China Normal University. This is my fourth year with SCIS. I like the school for its real international and community atmosphere. With a fantastic, devoted, collaborative and professional team of faculty, we will learn and progress together with your kids! I now teach native level Chinese from Grade 6 to 11 and IB A1 & A2 Chinese. This surely will be an exciting year! In my spare time I like reading, cycling, being close to nature. Thanks, Isaac

My Links:

China
Helen He

U.S. Mandarin Teacher

University of Birmingham

Hi! My name is Helen He. I am a British national with Chinese origin and my mother tongue is Mandarin Chinese. I was educated in China and also in the United Kingdom. I graduated from Zhejiang Teachers' University in 1988, majoring in English Language and subsequently obtained a Master's degree in Education (specializing in Foreign Languages in Education) from the University of Birmingham in England. I have taught both English and Mandarin as a foreign language to children and adults in China, England, Belgium and Switzerland. I also worked for over three years in Switzerland in the area of intellectual properties, which I enjoyed tremendously.

My Links:

China
Shirley Huang

L.S. Mandarin Teacher

Shanghai Normal University

Hello, everyone! I'm Shirley Huang. This is my third year at SCIS Hongqiao Campus and I really enjoy working with all the students here. I'm teaching Lower School Mandarin from Grade 1 to Grade 5. I am a native of Shanghai and graduated from Shanghai Normal University in Elementary Education. I've worked with children ranging from 4 years old to Grade 7, for about 17 years, in local public schools. Before I worked at SCIS, I taught for 5 years in another International School in Shanghai, as a Mandarin teacher. I love teaching and my 8 years experience in teaching ESOL to local primary students, during weekends, convinced me that school is not only a place to learn, but more importantly, a place to feel joyful, proud and successful. So I love focusing on creating an interesting, attractive and wonderful learning environment for the students from different countries. Besides teaching, I very much enjoy reading as I truly believe that a great teacher is always willing to learn more, to try new things, and should want to improve. I'm looking forward to meeting all of the wonderful students and having a great year with them.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Holly Hubbs

Pre-School Teacher

West Virginia University

Hello, my name is Holly Hubbs and I am from a small rural town in West Virginia , three hours drive from Washington, DC. I went to West Virginia University for my undergraduate and Master's degree and that is where I met my husband, Dave. He is teaching in the math department at SCIS. We have two grown daughters adopted as babies from Korea and one grandson born in late May. I have taught for 27 years, mostly kindergarten or preschool. I love children and feel very comfortable with them. I want to make learning fun.

My Links:

South Africa
Robyn Hull

Grade 2 Teacher

University of Cape Town

Grade 2, Hongqiao Campus My name is Robyn Hull and I am excited to be teaching Grade Two this year. I am from South Africa, and was born in Johannesburg but have lived most of my life in Cape Town. I am here with my husband, Cliff Hull, and our two daughters, Jamie and Melissa. Both girls are attending SCIS. I graduated at the University of Cape Town with a Bachelor of Primary Education in 1986 and have also obtained a distinction in a Post Graduate Education for Special Needs Course. In 1988, I completed a Montessori Teaching Diploma through the St. Nicholas Montessori College in London. I have taught in a Montessori Pre-School for four years and have also had extensive experience teaching Grade 1 through to Grade 7 in a Primary School.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Heidi Johnson

Grade 4 Teacher

University of Minnesota

Greetings! My name is Heidi Johnson. I come from Duluth, Minnesota, in the United States. My home is on the tip of Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world. My husband, Neil Bray, is a Grade 5 teacher, and our son is in Grade 1. This is our fourth year at SCIS. Neil and I traveled throughout China together way back in 1992. We knew then that we'd return to this incredible country with our family.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Jeff Kalpin

ESOL Teacher

St. Cloud State University

My name is Jeff Kalpin. I grew up in the town of Osakis, Minnesota, U.S.A. This is my second year teaching in Shanghai and my first as an ESOL teacher at SCIS. I really enjoy teaching the young people at SCIS. The students as well as the energetic staff have been great. My previous teaching positions were in Minnesota and Hawaii. Most of my spare time in Shanghai is spent doing anything related to basketball. I am involved with the SCIS boys and girls teams and also like to attend the Shanghai Sharks games of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) on the weekends. I also follow the Duke Blue Devils on the internet as much as possible. During the Chinese holidays I have been able to travel to many cities in China and have truly enjoyed those experiences. Three that I recommend visiting are Lijiang, Yangshuo, and Sanya. During the summer I typically travel to Minnesota, so that I can visit family and friends. While in Minnesota I enjoy camping, golfing, fishing, and attending as many Dave Matthews Band concerts as possible. I hope to meet you soon.

My Links:

Canada
Michelle Kays

Grade 4 Teacher

University of New Brunswick

My name is Michelle Kays and I am from beautiful Prince Edward Island, located on Canada's friendly East Coast. I am thrilled to be back at SCIS teaching 4th grade. I obtained my Psychology Degree and Education Degree in Canada where I had taught for 7 years at various elementary levels. My passion for teaching internationally began in Seoul, Korea in 1996, where I taught English for a year. My desire to see more of Asia led me to Shanghai and that's been my home for over four years.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Jessamine Koenig

Language Arts Teacher

University of Tulsa

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page." -- St. Augustine My name is Jessie Koenig. This is my second year at SCIS, but I'm excited to be involved in this school where excellence is a priority. I'm from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where I taught high school English and coached girls soccer for nine years.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Josh Krajczar

Grade 3 Teacher

University of Wyoming

Hi, my name is Josh Krajczar. I am teaching 3rd grade. This is my fourth year teaching overseas. Previously I lived and taught in the Philippines and Thailand. I grew up going to international schools and knew that I would like to be involved in them as an adult. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Wyoming and my teaching certificate from George Mason University in the state of Virginia. I am excited to be in Shanghai and look forward to a happy and fulfilling time here.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Robert La Londe

Math Teacher

University of California

My name is Robert La Londe and I am teaching Middle School Math. I was born and raised overseas by two international school teaching parents. I was born in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; then moved to Budapest, Hungary; then to Bangkok, Thailand; and finished High School in Kfar Shmaryahu, Israel. I have enjoyed living overseas immensely and that is what prompted me to pursue a career in international teaching. The first time I lived in my home country, the U.S., was when I attended the University of California at Santa Cruz where I majored in Environmental Studies. I really enjoyed teaching at my last school in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. Teaching in Yanbu was my first teaching job and I ended up teaching a range of subjects including PE, Math, Science, Health and Model United Nations.

My Links:

Canada
Bernie Lawrence

Grade 5 Teacher

University of Western Ontario

Greetings! My wife, Katie (PreK), and I were founding teachers at the SCIS Pudong Campus and taught there for six years, surrounded by the rice fields and vegetable gardens of rural Shanghai. Last year we moved into the city! Bright lights, easy subway trips, multi-cultural cuisine - and a student population of over 1000! One of the highlights for me has been the opportunity to work with several teachers at the same grade level: team-teaching the Colonization of China unit with Neil Bray; mapping out an Orienteering adventure with Mike Kohler, and of course organizing the Invention Convention extravaganza with the entire 5th grade team! It's great to be a Hongqiao Dragon, eh?

My Links:

U.S.A.
Nerina Lewis

Kindergarten Teacher

Western Australian College

"Growing and learning together" is the motto of our kindergarten room. I believe that all of us have something to offer each other, despite age, cultural and language difference and this is something that I endeavour to foster in my classroom. I am very excited to start this new school year and I am looking forward to getting to know another wonderful bunch of students who will be in my Kindergarten class. Shanghai has been my home for the past two years. I live here with my husband, Ian, who is involved in ship building and my two children. Both my children are students at SCIS Hong Qiao. My daughter, Carnie is in 8th grade and my son, Warne is in 5th grade. Home for me is originally Perth, Western Australia. It was there that I started my teaching journey too many years ago!! I have taught a variety of subjects and ages throughout my time, but have finally settled on Kindergarten, as it is a delightful experience to grow and learn together with the children. I have also had the opportunity to teach in Japan and South Korea which has really added to my international school experience. It has been exciting to gain more experience in teaching students from diverse racial and cultural backgrounds. These experiences have reinforced the importance of building positive relationships with students and the community. It is going to be a fun filled, jam packed learning experience in our classroom this year. Drop in and see what we can do!!

My Links:

U.S.A.
Jeffrey Lindstrom

Social Studies Teacher

University of Tennessee

Hello, my name is Jeff Lindstrom and I am really excited to be teaching at Shanghai Community International School. This is my sixteenth year teaching and my fourteenth teaching outside of the United States. For the last six years I have been teaching in Kuwait. I am happy to be returning to East Asia after so many years away. I have also taught in Japan, Korea and taught for two years in Beijing. I am from Tennessee in the United States and enjoy learning the history and culture of where I am teaching, so I am looking forward to learning more about China over the next few years. Living in Shanghai is an amazing experience and I am excited about enjoying my time here.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Roger Magee

Science Teacher

St. Martins University

My stories begins with growing up come from Ohio where my 90 year old father still lives. My family of 6 lived on a small farm with a stream where I raised goats and explored the nearby 1000 acre nature preserve with friends. My BA in Education is from Wilmington College (Ohio) and my M.Ed. in Ed Technology is from St. Martin's University, (Washington). I come to Hongqiao from Washington State by way of the International School of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso and Korea International School, Seoul. I like to laugh and I know I shouldn't dance!

My Links:

Singapore
Hernie Martin

Art Teacher

Monash University

Hello and Apa Khabar. Although I was born in Singapore and have called Montreal, London, Italy, Korea, and Australia home, this is my first time in China. I teach Visual Arts and I love sharing my passion with students. I ran my own Interior design firm in Singapore for a few years before I had my calling to go back to university for a teaching degree. Further to that, I moved and graduated with a Master's in Visual Arts at Monash University in Melbourne. Currently, I am half way through my Master's in Counseling. I enjoy painting, reading, shopping, and exploring new cafes during my free time. My husband, Jeff Martin, and I find China warm and exhilarating and we are happy to be a part of the SCIS family.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Tim McDermott

Language Arts

University of Florida

It has been a wonderful experience watching our campus mature from the day I started seven years ago to this year with over 450 students in the upper school. This is my sixth year in our upper school and I have thoroughly enjoyed every day of it. My students in language arts class this year are a creative and talented group who bring a rich and diverse cornucopia of experiences to class each day. In class we are able to study and discuss many varied topics; reading tales of adventure and losing ourselves in alternate realities while still having a little time to listen to a song or two.

My Links:

Australia
Brendan McGibbon

Music Teacher

Southern Cross University

I was born in Brisbane, Australia in 1974. Most of my schooling took place in Maryborough, Queensland on the Fraser coast. My school life was full of active learning and sport. I took a keen interest in playing music, at the age of 13, and after graduation continued my studies earning a degree in Music Performance (Piano) from the University of New England. I began my teaching career in Bangladesh at the American International School-Dhaka and at the International School of Dhaka (IB World School). Being a lifelong learner, I continue to develop as an educator and recently completed a Masters in Business Administration (MBA).

My Links:

New Zealand
Shaun Park

Grade 4 Teacher

Palmerston North College of Education

As I enter my sixth year with the SCIS community I have no doubt that it will prove to will be as rewarding as previous years. Shanghai, with all of its wonderful nuances, is a fabulous and dynamic city in which to live. International teaching continues to afford me innumerous travel opportunities and more importantly a realistic insight into the way different cultures think, feel and act. Beyond travel and propping up the local economy I enjoy photography and spending family time with my partner and two young girls, Amelia and Catlin who are both, proudly, born in China.

My Links:

Brazil
Erick Pessoa

IT/Tech Coordinator

Universidade da Cidade

"Ol! Directly from Berlin to Shanghai. After 1 year in Berlin and 6 years teaching at the American School of Rio, I now call SCIS my new home. The idea of community and full technological resources for the students drew me here, where within a few months, I already feel at home and there is no question that being in Shanghai is a privilege. My hobbies are technology, watching (making?) movies and playing sports. So, there is no question you will see me involved in extra-curricular activities. "

My Links:

Canada
Colleen Pontello

Language Arts Teacher

York University

Hi, my name is Colleen Pontello and I have been an educator for the past twenty-three years in the province of Ontario, Canada. I have taught grades 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and the now defunct grade 13 or Ontario Academic Credit year. During my secondary school career I have taught English, Physical Education, Religion, and Special Education. I have also been the Student Success Teacher for my school, and the Student Success Consultant for my school board. The last few years of my career I have been a secondary school administrator at a very large high school in Toronto. It is great to be back in the classroom with such an amazing group of students. I continue to grow and learn more each day, and enjoy challenging my students to develop and broaden their understanding of the world of literature. I am thrilled to work part-time with the exciting and hard-working teachers of the Language Arts Department at SCIS. I have taken a leave of absence from my school board as my husband takes on a new role with his company in Shanghai. Our two children are working hard as students in the Lower School at SCIS.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Kelsey Reppart

Language Arts/T.E.P. Teacher

Miami Univeristy

Hello all! I am brand-new to the international teaching scene and I am very excited to be joining the SCIS staff this year. I am arriving from Las Vegas, Nevada where I taught 6th and 7th grade Language Arts for the past three years. I received my Bachelors at Miami University in Ohio and I am currently working on my masters. I truly enjoy aiding children, at all age levels, develop their reading and writing capabilities. I am a firm believer in learning how to communicate effectively through speech and writing and this will come through in my curriculum. More importantly, I am always striving to make my lessons as applicable to my students' lives as possible. I have many interests in addition to teaching. I have studied and practiced Scottish Highland Dancing for the past 10 years, and have taught classes as well. I enjoy hiking, traveling, writing, dogs (especially the bull mastiff breed), cooking, and reading about Eastern Philosophy. I look forward to working with all of you in this upcoming school year and feel free to contact me anytime!

My Links:

U.S.A.
Jennifer Rowe

Grade 3 Teacher

University of Wisconsin

Ni hao! Although I am new to the Hongqiao campus, I am not new to SCIS! Last year was my first year teaching grade three at SCIS (Pudong Campus), and while I enjoyed working in a small school setting, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to grow with a large team of seasoned teachers here in Hongqiao. I hail from St. Paul, Minnesota and earned my Bachelor of Arts at the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in International Relations--Economics Focus and German. My interest in languages and travel took me to Taiwan where I worked in a variety of capacities including international liaison/publishing coordinator at the Center for Neural Regeneration; docent at the National Palace Museum; and teaching English. It was while teaching English in Taiwan that I discovered my passion for teaching elementary-aged students. After returning to the United States and earning my Masters of Education degree from the University of Wisconsin-River Fall, I gained valuable classroom experience in St. Paul/Minneapolis, Minnesota. Working with a wide international student/staff body in dynamic Shanghai is a fusion of my personal interests and I look forward to teaching your children!

My Links:

U.S.A.
Stefan Schear

ESOL

University of California, Berkeley

Hello, my name is Stefan Schear and I am the ESOL teacher for the Lower School. My wife Virginia and I are very excited to be back in Asia teaching! We are both from Seattle, Washington, where we went to different high schools but had common friends. I went away to college at UC Berkeley, and then we met up again as teachers in Viet Nam. We came back to Seattle, and were married outdoors under the evergreens we love so much. Being here in Shanghai is a great inspiration, and I look forward to a great year with our SCIS students.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Eric Schmidt

Science Teacher

City University

Science, Hongqiao Campus 1500 years ago, everybody "knew" that the earth was the center of the universe. 500 years ago, everybody "knew" that the earth was flat. Imagine what you'll know tomorrow. Agent K, Men in Black My name is Eric Schmidt, and my wife and I have returned to SCIS for another amazing teaching experience. I've been a teacher now for a just over a decade, spending four years in the US, five years in China, and two years in Egypt. I've had the opportunity to teach students from pre-school through community college, but my favorite by far is upper school science - especially chemistry!

My Links:

U.S.A.
Zack Smith

P.E. Teacher

Evergreen State College

Hello, all! I am Zack Smith and I have been teaching at SCIS for four years. I have a new job this year, Early Childhood PE. I graduated from the Evergreen State College in Olympia, WA in 2001, and just completed my Master's in Education with the University of Phoenix. In my spare time I enjoy playing the drums, writing, and checking out the local music scene. I am looking forward to having a great year!

My Links:

Australia
Melanie Somers

Grade 3 Teacher

Edith Cowan University

Hello, Nihao! My name is Melanie Somers and I am thrilled to be returning to the SCIS community this year. I am originally from a small farming community near Perth, Western Australia. I have a large extended family almost all of whom grow wheat, lupins and canola in WA. For the past 5 years the bright lights of Shanghai have been my home. One of my favourite things about living in Shanghai is the fact that every day you can see something you've never seen before, and may not ever again! I love cycling around Shanghai looking for new and exciting adventures. When I'm not working I enjoy making pavlovas, practising my yoga moves and swimming. I love seeing live bands particularly alternative country rock. I am a big supporter of the arts and love any type of theatre. During the cold winter months I like playing Scrabble and backgammon and attempting to finish my knitting projects before spring. Of course I also enjoy spending time with my lovely husband and children.

My Links:

U.S.A.
Terry Strombeck

Social Studies Teacher

John Brown University

My name is Terry Strombeck and I teach Grade 8 East Asian Studies, Grade 10 World History and Grade 11 IB Theory of Knowledge. I graduated from high school at the American School of Tegucigalpa, Honduras. After attending university in Arkansas, I taught at high schools in Utah and Oklahoma. My previous China experience was teaching in a school exchange program between my Oklahoma high school and a Chinese high school in Chengdu, Sichuan Province (2004). In 2007-2008 I taught with the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations at another Chinese high school in Anqing, Anhui Province. My interests include travel, photography, film and music. I am also interested in cultures from around the world and have been involved with hosting groups from China, France, Russia, Japan, Costa Rica and Nigeria. I enjoy bringing all my life experiences to my history classes. One of my goals in my classes is to help students realize that history is not a subject of the past but rather it is a subject about who and what we are now and where we are headed in the future.

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Netherlands
Janet Van der Hoeven

Dutch Teacher

Hogeschool of Utrecht

My name is Janet van der Hoeven and I am from a small town in the north of the Netherlands. I gained my Bachelor of Education from the Hogeschool of Leeuwarden and my Master of Education in Dutch Language from the Hogeschool of Utrecht. In the Netherlands I taught Dutch at secondary school level for nine years, after which I left for Nepal to volunteer for two years as an Education Training Advisor in Kaski Education Training Centre in Pokhara. I had a great time working with the Nepali people, sharing skills and changing lives. Currently I am delighted to be part of the SCIS community, which has given the Dutch organisation, De Oranje Draak, the unique opportunity to integrate their classes from Pre school through grade 6 in the SCIS timetable. So far it has been a wonderful experience and I feel truly lucky to be a member of this welcoming family....

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Australia
Stephen Venema

Music Teacher

The University of Western Australia

Hello, my name is Stephen Venema and I am teaching music at SCIS. I am from Perth Australia, and I studied at the University of Western Australia to receive a Bachelor's degree in Performance. My main passion is stringed instruments, but I have also studied trombone, piano, saxophone, and voice. In years prior, I have worked in a number of different schools teaching band, orchestra, string programs, and classroom music. I have toured internationally in symphony orchestras as well as traditional folk bands. I love Irish fiddle music. I look forward to another year at SCIS and in one of the biggest cities in the world!

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China
Grace Wang

Mandarin Teacher

Hello, I am Grace Wang and my Chinese name is Wang Xinhua. It???s my fifth year working in SCIS. During the five years, I have taught different level???s students and in the recent two years, I have been engaging in Advance Mandarin Level (Level5, Level6). I love my job because I gain different experience from my job which benefits me a lot. Importantly, the students always bring more joy and surprise for me! I hope that I can cooperate with others well in order to produce remarkable results in this school year!

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Australia
Philip Wayth

Math Teacher

Deakin University

Upper school Mathematics, Hongqiao campus. I am an Australian from a sleepy seaside town, south of Melbourne in Australia. I have been teaching mathematics for thirty odd years, and most recently taught senior mathematics at the International School of Luxembourg. My wife, (who teaches Grade Two at SCIS Hongqiao), and I are both grateful for the opportunity to teach internationally, and enjoy the travel and experience that comes with it. This includes the experience of living in such a lively city as Shanghai. My main hobby is music as I have played guitar for many years, and enjoy playing in band situations. Like many other Australian SCIS faculty, I am a passionate Australian Rules football fan, and also enjoy the game of cricket. I am looking forward to a productive and rewarding year ahead.

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U.S.A.
Zachary Winter

PE Teacher

Arizona State University West

My name is Zach Winter and I am from Phoenix, Arizona in the States. I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education.  I have been involved in many different sports my entire life, including playing baseball in college.  I have a lot of knowledge and experience with fitness and active sports.  It has been a life-long passion and dream of mine to be involved someway with fitness and sports. So, to be able to pass my knowledge on to our youth is such a great opportunity!  When I am not working I enjoy playing softball or card games with my wife Krystle who is a Grade 2 teacher at SCIS. 

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U.S.A.
Mark Wiser

Counselor

University of Utah

I am particularly happy to be here at SCIS. I began my career teaching Social Studies at Damascus Community School in Syria. After 4 years, I returned to the United States to finish a masters degree in Educational Psychology, I met and married Kate who was in Law School at the time. As much as I loved overseas teaching I chose Kate, believing I would never be able to return to teaching overseas. For the next 24 years, I worked in the U.S. as a school counselor, became a licensed mental health counselor working at a community mental health center, specializing in child and family therapy. Most recently I spent the last 7 years as a teacher/counselor in a special education school for behaviorally and emotionally disturbed High School students.

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Philippines
Rizza Wood

Grade 1 Teacher

Centra Escolar University

Hello! My name is Maria Rizza Wood. I am originally from Manila, Philippines, but have called China home for the past eight years. I have had the opportunity to live in Beijing, Changchun and Hangzhou. Prior to my move to China, I lived in Bangkok, Thailand where I met and married my husband. In March 1994 I graduated from Centro Escolar University in Manila with a Bachelor of Secondary Education degree, also earning my teaching certification and license. Since completing my degree, I have taught different grade levels from pre-school to Grade 4 and even a multi level class of grade 4-6. I joined SCIS at our Hangzhou campus in 2003 and stayed for three years before moving to my present post in 2007 as one of the Grade 1 teachers. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, traveling, good food, watching movies and spending time with my family. My aim is to create a warm, welcoming and nurturing environment in my class, where the children can flourish.

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Japan
Hiromi Yasukawa

Pre-K Teacher

University of Phoenix

My name is Hiromi Yasukawa, and this is my eighth year at SCIS Hongqiao. Let me tell you a little bit about myself. As you might be able to tell from my name, I'm Japanese, but I never lived in Japan. I've been an expat my entire life! When I was six months old, my family moved to Taipei, Taiwan. We thought we'd only be there for five years, but we ended up staying for 17+ years. While in Taipei, I attended Taipei American School and happily graduated from there. Upon graduation, I headed to Indiana University Bloomington (go, Hoosiers!) where I studied Elementary Education and English as a Second Language. After four fun years, I graduated with Highest Distinction and received my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and E.S.L. My teaching license is from Indiana. In September 2007, I graduated from University of Phoenix with a master's degree in Early Childhood Education. Our Hongqiao campus provides a warm, fun, positive learning environment for all. Please drop by my room (building C, room 110) when you are visiting the campus. It's great to be a Hongqiao dragon!!

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U.S.A.
Eduardo Zevallos

Technology Teacher

Skidmore College

Hello! My Name is Eduardo Zevallos and I am the Modular Technology teacher here at SCIS Hongqiao. I was born in Lima, Peru and grew up in Southern New Jersey. I have a degree in Classics from Skidmore College, Master in Education from SUNY Buffalo and an IB certificate from George Mason University. Before moving abroad, I spent several years teaching Latin in a prep school in Pennsylvania. I am here with my fianc Eva Christensen who also teachers at SCIS HQ. I enjoy soccer, swimming and football. I look forward to a great year of being part of the SCIS community. Go Dragons!

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China
Carolyn Zhang

LS Mandarin Teacher

Tianjing Foreign Studies University

I am Carolyn. I was born and raised in Tianjin. Two years ago, I studied an English major of translation at Tian Jin Foreign Studies University. English is truly an international language, whenever you go in the world chances are you can communicate with other people using English, so I worked hard.Luckily, I was assigned to China Eastern Group as the trainer and translator after graduation. With such working experience, I found out that I preferred to teach. Hence I started to prepare well for being a teacher. Before joining SCIS, I gained a lot of teaching experience. I love kids. I try to be more than a teacher to my students; I try to be their friends. In my classes, I invite students to express their opinions and explore the wide world beyond them; it is not a place where ideas and facts are forced upon them as if they were nothing more than machines in which information is stored. I want them to trust and like me, I want them to respect me as a person, not only as a teacher. In my spare time, I enjoy a lot of hobbies such as dancing, singing, writing and reading. But my favorite is playing the piano. Even though I am not Shanghainese, I never feel lonely. I believe that fate is my hand and youth never says die.

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U.S.A.
Dan Zimmerman

Kindergarten Teacher

Middle Tennessee State University

Hi! My name is Dan Zimmerman and I am thrilled to be teaching Kindergarten at our Hongqiao campus this year. I am originally from beautiful Tennessee in the United States, but have spent almost all of my life living in Asia. I grew up in Taiwan and Hong Kong where I attended International Schools very much like this one. After graduating from Hong Kong International School I returned to the US where I attended Middle Tennessee State University and majored in International Relations. I found myself deeply missing Asia and returned as soon as I graduated. In 2000 I came to visit a friend in Shanghai and decided to stay. I then taught English for three years before deciding that I was serious about teaching and so I returned to Hong Kong where I received my Post Graduate Diploma in Education from Hong Kong University. For the past two years I have been teaching preschool and Mandarin at our campus in Hangzhou. This year I was lucky enough to be given the chance to transfer to our Hongqiao campus and I am very pleased to be back in the big city again. It's going to be a great year in Kindergarten and I can't wait to get to know all of you.

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