Innovative Learning
for Lifelong Success

Ms. Hinda has been working as an elementary classroom teacher at TAS since August 2021. Ms. Hinda was born in Sudan and raised in Scotland. She taught ESL at the Posco Education Foundation in South Korea for 3 years, before returning to Scotland to earn her PGDE in Primary Education. She moved to Ho Chi Minh city in 2020. Ms. Hinda worked for a year at Lycée Français International Marguerite Duras as an English teacher in the British International Section, before joining TAS as the Grade 3 teacher. As of August 2024, she will be the Grade 5 homeroom teacher. Throughout her career, Ms. Hinda has had the privilege of teaching a diverse range of students from different backgrounds and abilities. Her teaching philosophy centers on the belief that every student has the potential to succeed and that it is her role to provide the support and inspiration they need to reach their full potential, thrive and be themselves. Ms. Hinda strives to create a classroom environment that is inclusive, supportive, and intellectually stimulating. Ms. Hinda holds the following degrees and certifications: PGDE Primary Education, University of Aberdeen BA Film and Media Studies, University of Stirling TEFL Certificate, The TEFL Academy, Scotland PYP Category 1 Certification In addition to English, Ms. Hinda speaks Arabic and French. She is passionate about travel and exploring different cultures, having visited over 40 countries. She spends her free time reading thrillers, working out, watching action movies and eating sushi.

Mr. Junya Kobo has been a Middle-High School Mathematics teacher at TAS since August 2023. Born in Japan but raised in Canada from the age of one, he grew up in the small town of Pickering, Ontario. He moved to Japan to teach at an international school in order to learn more about his own culture and heritage. He has taught both AP Calculus and IB Higher Level Mathematics, middle school math, physical science and physical education, coached high school girls’ volleyball and softball, and was the athletic director of his previous school for 23 years. Mr. Kobo holds the following degrees and certifications: Sc Honors degree in Physics with a major in Mathematics Ed in Mathematics and Science Ontario Teaching Certification Mr. Kobo has played ice hockey all his life and although he is still learning, he loves to play the guitar with his students. He chose to come to Vietnam to experience its rich culture and has enjoyed sharing his knowledge, experiences and enthusiasm with the students at The American School in Vietnam through various facets of school life, both in and outside the classroom.

Mr. Nicolas de Baenst has been appointed Middle-High School Science Teacher beginning August 2024. Nicolas de Baenst, an experienced science teacher with 14 years of teaching experience, has worked in both Belgium and Vietnam, following the Belgian and Cambridge curricula. He believes in a hands-on approach, allowing students to explore new topics through experimentation and take charge of their learning. His passion for science drives his commitment to empower students. Mr. de Baenst holds the following degrees and certifications: Bachelor of Education in Science – ENCBW (Belgium) College Board AP Chemistry Certification (USA) Cambridge PDQ in coordinated science (UK) Cambridge PDQ in lower secondary science (UK) Cambridge Teaching Knowledge Module 1 (Vietnam) Beyond the classroom, Nicolas enjoys film photography and develops his photos in a darkroom. He eagerly anticipates joining the American School, where he can continue positively impacting young minds.

Ms. Dana Hamilton was appointed Student Support Services Coordinator and Middle-High Counselor from August 2024 Master of Education – School Counseling (Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA) Bachelor of Arts – Psychology (Central Washington University), Ellensburg, WA) Licensed Certified Professional Counselor, Nevada Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Washington National Board-Certified School Counselor, 2014 National Board-Certified Counselor, 2014 I have been a school counselor since 2002. I’ve worked at the primary and secondary level focusing on cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy. I believe if one changes the way they think they will change the way they feel. Prior to becoming a school counselor, I worked as a mental health therapist dealing with children and adults in crisis as well as providing brief and intermediate therapy. I believe that dealing with the “whole child” creates a path facilitating the best outcome for the student in their educational pursuit. I am a firm believer in Social-Emotional Learning and believe that the lives of children will be better the more empathic they are. My husband I love to travel – we have been all around the world and plan to continue to do this. I am an avid runner – I just ran my 12th marathon. I am so excited to become a part of the TAS community. I am ready to make a difference. Ms. Dana Hamilton was appointed Student Support Services Coordinator and Middle-High Counselor from August 2024 Master of Education – School Counseling (Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA) Bachelor of Arts – Psychology (Central Washington University), Ellensburg, WA) Licensed Certified Professional Counselor, Nevada Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Washington National Board-Certified School Counselor, 2014 National Board-Certified Counselor, 2014 I have been a school counselor since 2002. I’ve worked at the primary and secondary level focusing on cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy. I believe if one changes the way they think they will change the way they feel. Prior to becoming a school counselor, I worked as a mental health therapist dealing with children and adults in crisis as well as providing brief and intermediate therapy. I believe that dealing with the “whole child” creates a path facilitating the best outcome for the student in their educational pursuit. I am a firm believer in Social-Emotional Learning and believe that the lives of children will be better the more empathic they are. My husband I love to travel – we have been all around the world and plan to continue to do this. I am an avid runner – I just ran my 12th marathon. I am so excited to become a part of the TAS community. I am ready to make a difference. Mr. Peter Nguyen Academic & College Counselor Ms. Rachel Temple Curriculum Director Ms. Cassandra Perry ES/ECC Vice Principal Our Faculty Our faculty is at the heart of everything we do. With a shared passion for teaching, learning, and mentoring, they lay the foundation for intellectual and personal growth. Through innovative methods and real-world insights, teachers create a classroom experience that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and global awareness.

Mr. Gary has been with TAS as Mathematics Department Head and Math teacher since August 2021. As a result of his extensive experience, Mr. Gary has worked with a range of Mathematics curricula: GCSE, IGCSE, A Level, IBDP, IBMYP and the American Curriculum. Mr. Gary’s experience with these courses spans both international schools and schools in the UK; he has worked in UK day and boarding schools, and has worked in international schools in South East Asia and Europe. In his career, Mr. Gary has held positions of responsibility in both departmental leadership, secondary phase leadership and whole-school leadership. The ability to pursue his enjoyment for the outdoors has also been afforded to him over the course of his career: he has been able to be part of education programs for young adults and he has been an Assessor and Supervisor for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Mr. Davies holds the following degrees and certifications: BSc (Ed): Bachelor of Education in Mathematics and Science Qualified Teacher Status (UK) KAA Senior Leadership and Middle Leadership certification. Mr. Gary continues to enjoy his time at TAS as each day presents a varied experience. He looks forward to seeing how TAS will continue to develop in the near future.

Mr. Andrew has been with The American School since August 2019. Mr. Andrew Macdonald has been named Social Studies Teacher beginning August 2024. Prior to this new role, he held the Middle School EAL position from August 2019. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, Mr. Andrew has been living and teaching in Vietnam since June 2013. He first moved to Hanoi to work at a private English language center. After his time teaching there, he moved south to Ho Chi Minh City in December 2014. After arriving, Mr. Andrew started teaching English as a Second Language to elementary, middle school and high school students. After wishing to focus solely on teaching Social Studies and Advanced Placement Economics to high school students, Mr. Andrew joined the Social Studies Department. Mr. Andrew holds the following qualifications: Bachelor of Business (Economics) from the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia iQTS – International Qualified Teacher Status (Business Studies) – (expected: December 2024). Modern Classroom Educator, The Modern Classrooms Project CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) TYLEC (Teaching Young Learners Extension Certificate) IH CAM (IH Certificate in Advanced Methodology) Mr. Andrew is well-traveled throughout Asia. He has visited Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Thailand. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, watching basketball, listening to podcasts, laughing at economics memes, going to the gym, and eating chicken adobo and kare-kare.

Ms. Amy Nguyen has been a TAS Early Childhood and Elementary School Learning Support Specialist since August 2022. Originally from a small town in the state of Maryland, USA, Ms. Amy has been living in Vietnam since 2022. With a background in Psychology, Ms. Amy enhances her role in student support through a deep understanding and adept application of psychological principles. Throughout her academic journey, she has delved into various areas of psychology including cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and educational psychology. Ms. Amy applies her knowledge and insights to provide tailored support and interventions for students with diverse learning needs. She collaborates closely with teachers, parents, and other professionals to develop individualized strategies that foster academic growth and promote social-emotional well-being. Ms. Amy is deeply committed to cultivating learning spaces that are inclusive and supportive, ensuring that all students feel welcomed and motivated to succeed in all areas of life. She is a passionate advocate for teaching empathy and compassion to students, understanding its crucial role in shaping their character and in preparing them to become global leaders and citizens. Ms. Amy holds the following degrees and certifications: BA in Psychology from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Living Works Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) Certificate PYP Category 1 Certification Currently working on her Masters in Psychology from Pepperdine University Beyond her professional endeavors, Ms. Amy actively engages in mental health research and dedicates her time to supporting mental health initiatives and advocacy efforts through volunteering. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, working out, and singing. Ms. Amy is excited to continue her work at TAS, where she is dedicated to nurturing students to become lifelong learners.

Mr. Bryan Turner has been with TAS since August 2023. After growing up in North Carolina, USA, Mr. Turner began his teaching career in South Korea teaching ESL. After teaching in all grade levels for 10 years, he went back to the states and obtained his Master of Arts Degree in Teaching and obtained a teaching license for Elementary Education. After teaching in North Carolina, he went back overseas to Taiwan and taught ESL once more. However, his bachelor’s degree was in Art and he always wanted to get back to his real passion of working in the arts. Having incorporated many project-based learning activities in his teaching career, he is happy to engage with his students and share his passion for art with them at TAS. He hopes to continue to promote a creative and imaginative classroom environment where students can express themselves visually through projects throughout the year. Mr. Turner holds the following degrees and licenses: Master of Art Degree in Teaching from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington BA in Art from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte State of North Carolina teaching license in Elementary Education (K-6) PYP Category 1 Certification Mr. Turner enjoys traveling, experiencing new cultures, and tasting delicious food from around the world. In addition to exploring new places, his main hobby is woodburning popular animation characters and reading graphic novels. through the projects throughout the year. Mr. Turner holds the following degrees and license: BA in Art from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte Master’s Degree of Arts in Teaching from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington State of North Carolina teaching license in Elementary Education (K-6) Mr. Turner enjoys traveling, experiencing new cultures, and tasting delicious food from around the world. In addition to exploring new places, his main hobby is woodburning popular animation characters and reading graphic novels.

Mr. Grant Moxham, New Jersey, USA, has been named Middle-High School math teacher beginning August 1, 2021. In his professional career, Mr. Moxham has taught IMYC Mathematics at the International School of Koje, South Korea, Cambridge IGCSE Math at VAS, HCMC, and Common Core Math here at TAS. Before entering the world of teaching Mr. Moxham spent many years working as a professional carpenter in the USA, building new homes and additions for families in New Jersey and Massachusetts. He has been teaching for 15 years. Mr. Moxham holds the following degrees and certifications: Masters of Education from Framingham State University, Massachusetts, USA Bachelor Degree from Gordon College, Wenham, Massachusetts, USA State of Florida Teaching License (Elementary K-6, Mathematics 5-9) Google Certified Educator Level 2 COBIS Child Protection for International Schools Level 2 ASD Certificate from the American College of Education Mr. Moxham draws on his love of mathematics, theatrics, technology, and puzzles to inspire his students. He is an avid rock climber in the summer and snowboarder in the winter.

Mr. Jason Bednarz, Hartford, Connecticut, USA, has been a science teacher at The American School since August 2021, and was appointed Science Department Head from August 2023. In his professional career, Mr. Bednarz has taught HS Biology and Academic English at the university level across various institutions in Vietnam and greater Southeast Asia. Before entering education, Mr. Bednarz worked in the US in the field of horticulture, as well as the oil and gas exploration industry. Mr. Bednarz holds the following degrees and certifications: MEd Secondary Education, The College of New Jersey BS Forest Management, University of New Hampshire State of Connecticut educator certification in Biology grades 7-12 State of Connecticut educator certification in General Science [middle school] Certificate in Secondary Education, The College of New Jersey IDLTM: International Diploma in Language Teaching Management DELTA: Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Mr. Bednarz strives to balance performance expectations in science with literacy and critical thinking skills development. In his years at TAS he has enjoyed various field trips to explore local ecosystems, such as the Can Gio mangrove forests, and also appreciated creating ecosystems with the TAS student gardening club.

Brian Aldo, Connecticut, USA, is the ICT Department Head Middle-High School teacher who has worked at TAS since August 2022. Throughout his professional career, Brian has taught Computer Science in Vietnam, Thailand, and Mexico. Before starting a career in teaching, Brian spent many years working in the field of Information Technology. He has worked as a Cybersecurity Analyst, Technology Director, and Software Engineer. Brian is well versed in computer coding and has developed numerous applications, websites, and video games. Brian holds the following degrees and certifications. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at Western Governors University in Salt Lake City, Utah Certificate of Teaching, Computer Science, Arizona Board of Education Comptia Cybersecurity Analyst Certification Comptia Security+ Certification Comptia Network+ Certification Comptia IT Operations Specialist Certification Comptia Secure Infrastructure Specialist Certification Comptia A+ Certification Comptia Project+ Certification Amazon Cloud Practitioner Certification LPI Linux Essentials Certification IT Service Management Certification Brian incorporates his vast IT experience into his teaching methods, which allows students to learn hands-on skills that they can use in everyday life.