Ann Capitulo

Ms. Ann G. Capitulo, Manila, Philippines, has been named the TAS Early Childhood Center Teacher beginning August 2016. In her professional career, she had the privilege of teaching English in South Korea for more than a year. For eight years, Ms. Capitulo has had the joy of being a head class directress in a Montessori preschool. She has taught English, Reading, Writing, and Math.

Ms. Capitulo holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from the center of teacher education in the Philippines, the Philippine Normal University. She has been teaching preschoolers for the past 9 years and she loves every single moment of it.

Ms. Capitulo is a nature lover. She loves the ocean even if she doesn’t swim. For leisure, she delights in modern calligraphy, reading, writing, going on long walks and traveling. She enjoys learning about other country’s culture, lifestyle and food.

• BA Early Childhood Education, Philippine Normal University, Philippines
• 9+ years of teaching experience in Philippines, and Vietnam

Lovely Coloma

Ms. Lovely Joy A. Coloma, has been named TAS Early Childhood Center Nursery teacher since August 2014. In her professional career, Ms. Coloma has taught in primary and preschool for six years in Philippines and three years of preschool in Vietnam.

Ms. Coloma loves to travel and explore different countries and their beaches. She has a sweet tooth, loves coffee, and music. During her spare time, she reads, paints and plays musical instruments. She is also fond of going to coffee shops and restaurants.

• BA Elementary Education, University of Southern Mindanao, Philippines
• MA Early Childhood Education, Philippine Normal University, Philippines
• Professional Teacher License issued by the Republic of the Philippines
• 9+ years of teaching experience in Philippines and Vietnam

Emma Berckmans

Ms. Emma Berckmans has been named the TAS Middle and High School Mathematics Teacher starting in August of 2018. Ms. Berckmans coached competitive swimming in Canada for eight years and worked as the Aquatics Coordinator for the Upper Grand District School Board for two years. She spent six months living in Peru working for a Rural Development NGO. She also spent some time doing undergraduate and graduate research in Costa Rica and lived and worked in Honduras.

Ms. Berckmans enjoys doing outdoor activities and always tries to stay busy. She is also a certified Divemaster with PADI and loves to go scuba diving at different places around the world.

• Master Certificate Forestry Economics, Michigan State, USA
• BA Hons Food, Agriculture and Resource Economics, University of Guelph, Canada
• Advanced TESOL Certification
• Coaching Association of Canada, Skills Coach, Canada
• 8+ years of of teaching experience in Canada, USA, and Vietnam

Emily Easterby

Ms. Emily Easterby — Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, has been named the TAS Elementary Kindergarten Teacher beginning August 2013. Ms. Easterby is the Lower Elementary Department Head here at TAS. Her department is busy working on making the lower ES a fun and inviting place to learn. She has spent the past 10 summers working with children with special needs at Camp Kodak and taught outdoor education at Camp Brebeuf for eight months.

Ms. Easterby spends her summers outside teaching sailing, waterskiing and stained glass to children of all ages. She loves being outside and discovering new places. She spends her free time playing rugby and exploring the ever expanding and changing Ho Chi Minh City finding new places to eat and have fun.

• H.BA Psychology Neuroscience and Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
• B.Ed Primary Junior Divisions, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
• MA Elementary Education, The College of New Jersey, NJ, USA
• 7+ years teaching experience in Canada and Vietnam

Mia Elizaga

Ms. Mia M. Elizaga has been named TAS Early Childhood and Elementary School Art Teacher beginning August 2016. She has been teaching since the year 2015. In her professional career, Ms. Mia has internationally taught Pre-Nursery, Nursery, Pre-K, Kindergarten, Grades 1 to 3, and Middle School. Ms. Mia has been a musical director for stage plays, vocal solo and duet trainer, instrumental solo coach, Musical Theatre teacher, and a choir conductor. She has also become a winning coach for badminton and cross country. Ms. Mia holds the following degrees and certifications:

• Bachelor of Education, University of Southern Mindanao, Philippines
• Diploma in Pre and Primary Education, Asian College of Teachers
• Diploma in Montessori Teachers Training, Asian College of Teachers
• Music Education Certification at International College of Music (ICOM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Professional Licensed Teacher Certification

Ms. Mia has been teaching and living in Vietnam for many years and has been loving the Vietnamese culture. She enjoys performing with a band, singing with choir, Glee club and other singing groups, running marathon races, cycling, painting, and gardening.

Ian Osberg

Mr. Ian Osberg — Philadelphia, PA, USA, has been named the TAS Elementary Grade 1A Teacher beginning August 2016. In his professional career, Mr. Osberg has been living and teaching in Vietnam for five years. He has experience teaching all elementary levels. Mr. Ian studied at San Jose State University where he received his BA in Sociology and Child Development.

Mr. Osberg is married and has become a new father not too long ago. Besides spending time with his family, he also likes to travel, do research, go to the cinema, try new types of cuisine, socialize with friends, and get the best out of life. He is looking forward to teaching your children this year, and hopes they have as much fun in class as he does.

• BA Sociology, Child Development Minor, San Jose State University, CA, USA
• ABCTE Teaching Certificate awarded by the State of New Hampshire (in progress)
• IB PYP Certificate awarded by California State University of San Marcos (in progress)
• CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) Certificate awarded by Cambridge
• 5+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam

Wallace-Yip

Mr. Wallace Yip — New Orleans, Louisiana, has been named a TAS Elementary Grade 1 Teacher beginning in August 2016. In his professional career, Mr. Yip as taught Kindergarten, 1st Grade and 2nd Grade. He has worked in Russia, Taiwan, China and South Korea. He has over 5 years of classroom experience. He has taught English, Writing, Reading, Mathematics, Science and Inquiry. He also coached Basketball and organized a Comic Book club at his school in Russia.

Mr. Yip enjoys playing guitar, drawing, writing, reading, cooking, traveling, scuba diving, white water rafting, basketball, movies, spicy foods and drinking coffee.

• MA Teaching – Early Childhood Education K-5, University of Georgia, Georgia, USA
• BA in Computer Information Systems, Loyola University, New Orleans, USA
• Georgia State T5 Teaching Certification
• TEFL Certification
• IB PYP Certification (Category 1)
• 6+ years of teaching experience in Russia, Taiwan, China, South Korea, Vietnam, and USA

Colleen Quinn

Ms. Colleen Quinn — Boulder, Colorado, USA, has been named the TAS Elementary School Grade 2 Teacher since August 2015. This is her second year teaching at TAS, and her seventh year in total of teaching. Prior to coming to Vietnam, she spent six years living and teaching in Hsinchu City, Taiwan. Last year, she worked on the Heartbeat Vietnam committee, and is looking forward to another great year with the families of TAS.

In her free time, Ms. Quinn enjoys reading, writing, hiking, and cycling. She also enjoys exploring her new home, Ho Chi Minh City, and spends her free time practicing shotokan karate.

• MA International Elementary Education, The College of New Jersey, NY, USA
• BS News-Editorial, School of Journalism and Mass Comm., University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
• Bridge TEFL, Bridge Linguatec
• 7+ years of teaching experience in Taiwan, USA, and Vietnam

Danielle Cope

Ms. Danielle Cope — Windsor, Ontario, Canada, has been named the TAS Elementary Grade 3 Teacher since August 2013. This is her third year of teaching grade 3 at TAS. In her professional career, Ms. Cope has taught kindergarten and early childhood for nine years and elementary for three years in Taiwan, Korea, New Zealand and Vietnam.

She has been living in Vietnam for almost four years now and enjoys spending time with her husband and young son who is now also attending TAS nursery program. Ms. Cope enjoys traveling and exploring her host country where she lives. She loves learning about the culture and tasting the food wherever she is living.

• B.Ed, Primary K-6, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
• Early Childhood Education Certificate, St. Clair College, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
• BA Psychology, University of Windsor, Ontario, Canada
• Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certificate (TEFL), Canada
• 10+ years teaching experience in Canada, Taiwan, Korea, New Zealand and Vietnam

Deondra Richey

Ms. Deondra Richey — Atlanta, Georgia, USA, was named the TAS Elementary Grade 4 Teacher beginning August 2016. In her professional career, Ms. Richey has taught elementary for a combined sixteen years. She has been a member of the CIS accreditation committee, served as grade level chair, English Department Head, Elementary Department Head, and Literacy Coordinator and Coach.

Ms. Richey enjoys swimming, snorkeling, sailing, hiking, camping, reading, and playing golf. She also likes to spend her free time volunteering for local food banks and animal rescue organizations and traveling. She is looking forward to learning more about Vietnamese cuisine and exploring the country.

• BS Early Childhood Education, North Georgia College and State University, Dahlonega, GA, USA
• Georgia State Teacher Certification in Early Childhood Education PreK-5 with Reading and Math Endorsements
• Teachers as Leaders Certificate, USA
• Promethean Board Certification, USA
• Love and Logic Certification, USA
• Fountas and Pinnell Benchmark Assessment Certified, USA
• 16+ years of teaching experience in Baku, Azerbijan; Majuro, Marshall Islands, and USA

Corie Sovereign

Ms. Corie L. Sovereign — St. Paul, Minnesota, USA, has been named TAS Elementary School 4th Grade Teacher beginning August 2016. In her professional career, Ms. Sovereign has taught kindergarten and Grades 2, 4, 5, and 6 in Taiwan, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Ms. Sovereign has taught the core elementary subjects of language arts, science, math, and social studies, as well as PE and art. She directed and taught the Spanish Club at her previous school. She planned and directed school fundraisers for an orphanage in Cambodia and an environmental group here in Vietnam. She developed an in-service program on technology in the classroom, and assisted in kindergarten orientation for new teachers.

Ms. Sovereign studied abroad in Monterrey, Mexico, and she loves learning and working with language.

Ms. Sovereign enjoys listening to and singing along with all kinds of music, dancing, cooking, fitness, arts and crafts, and exploring the world around her. She loves to read, and her favorite genres are science fiction and historical fiction

• BA Spanish Language and Literature, Hamline University, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
• CELTA Certification, Cambridge International, USA
• Teacher’s Certification through Teach Now Educatore
• Washington, D.C. Elementary Teaching Certification, USA

Brigid Fagan

Ms. Brigid Fagan has been named the TAS Elementary School Grade 5 Teacher since August 2015. Prior to that she taught Grade 4 at TAS. In her professional teaching career, Ms. Fagan taught Pre-Kindergarten for two years at Agassiz Elementary School in Chicago, USA. She taught elementary ESL students in Seoul, South Korea for three years. Ms. Fagan has also coached elementary basketball, judged the Chicago elementary Science Fair, and worked at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies summer camp in Yeonju, Korea. Before becoming a teacher, Ms. Fagan worked in NIH grant administration at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Ms. Fagan loves to spend her free time reading, travelling, trying new foods and cheering on the Chicago Cubs. She is looking forward to another great year at TAS.

• BA English Literature, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
• M.Ed Elementary Education, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
• Illinois State Teaching License, USA
• 7+ years teaching in the United States, South Korea, and Vietnam

Joshua Leiner

Mr. Joshua Leiner — Cedar Key, Florida, USA, has been named TAS Elementary School Grade 5 teacher beginning August 2016. In his professional career, Mr. Leiner has taught elementary for three years and middle school for two in Seoul, South Korea. He has been a member of the school improvement committee, coordinated winter and summer youth programs and initiated an international cultural exchange program. Previously he spent five years in Tampa Bay as a social worker with juvenile offenders adjudicated through the Department of Juvenile Justice.

Mr. Leiner is an avid waterman who enjoys everything on and under the water. He also likes to spend his free time volunteering, traveling and trying new foods. He is looking forward to learning more about Vietnamese cuisine and exploring the country.

• BS International Affairs, Communications Minor, Florida State University, FL, USA
• Florida State Teacher Certification in Elementary Education K-6 and Social Sciences 6-12
• Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certificate (TEFL), USA
• 5+ years of teaching experience in South Korea, USA, and Vietnam

Anna Belova

Ms. Anna Belova has been named the TAS Elementary School ICT and ESL Teacher since August April 2014. She has eight years of teaching experience at schools around the world. Ms. Belova started out her teaching career as an English instructor at Kazan State Technical University in Russia from 2008-2010. She taught English at Yeungjin College and Yeungjin English Village in Daegu, South Korea from 2010-2012. Upon returning to Kazan City, Russia, Ms. Belova taught Physics at IT Lyceum Secondary school from 2012-2013.

Ms. Belova’s interests outside of education are live music, data processing, and Internet security.

• Specialist in Linguistics and Teaching English, Linguistic University of Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
• Specialist in Astronomy, Kazan State University, Russia
• BS Physics, Kazan State University, Russia
• AA Business Administration, Yeungjin College, South Korea
• 8+ years of teaching experience in Russia, South Korea, and Vietnam

Andrea Bennett

Ms. Andrea Bennett — Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, has been named the TAS Elementary ESL Teacher beginning August 2016. This is Ms. Bennett’s third year at TAS. She previously taught elementary for three years in Seoul, South Korea. Additionally she has spent time teaching summer programs for Chinese international exchange students in the USA.

Ms. Bennett is an animal lover and has spent a lot of her time working with Animal Rescue Korea – she helps with fostering and finding couriers for animals to go to the USA. She currently lives in district 2 with her Korean rescue dog, Bae. Ms. Bennett also likes to spend her free time traveling, reading, and trying new foods.

• M.Ed English as a Second Language, The College of New Jersey, NJ, USA (in progress)
• BA Gender Studies, The University of Cincinnati, OH, USA
• Florida State Teacher Certification in Elementary Education K-6
• Florida State Teacher Certification in ESOL K-12
• International Baccalaureate Certificate, CSU San Marcos, CA, USA (in progress)
• Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certificate (TEFL), USA
• 6+ years of teaching experience in South Korea, Vietnam, and the USA

Benjamin Litwicki

Mr. Benjamin Litwicki, Sedona, Arizona, USA, has been named TAS Early Childhood and Elementary School Music Teacher, beginning August 2016. In his professional career, Mr. Litwicki has been a digital arts teacher in Sedona, Arizona, a Math and English tutor in greater LA and a library tech in Santa Barbara. As a computer teacher, he developed and implemented curriculum for coding in Java Script at the elementary level, CAD 3D design, modeling and printing, photo editing/graphic design, audio effects processing, video effects processing and editing through online and offline digital tools such as Afinia 3D, Sketchup pro, 3DSlash, Khan Accademy, Scratch, W3schools and Photoshop. Mr. Litwicki provided training in Microsoft Excel for secretarial staff, was part of a leadership team to administer benchmark testing through Study Island, and completed an Edumentum Mentorship program. He also implemented response to intervention for English language learners using Lexia educational software and completed workshops for cluster grouping to increase academic rigor with gifted students. As a musician he worked as a freelance instrumentalist performer in Los Angeles and recorded at MI in Hollywood and in Studio City. Mr Litwicki has performed with the Monday Madness Big Band in Santa Barbara and Torros Embolados in LA. He taught afterschool piano classes throughout Santa Barbara at the elementary level. As a multi-instrumentalist, his primary instrument is the saxophone and his secondary instruments include but are not limited to the piano, guitar, bass, flute, clarinet and singing.

At California State University Northridge Mr. Litwicki held the seats of Tenor Soloist and Baritone in the Wind Symphony and chamber saxophone quartet. He sang bass in the University Choral and played second alto and tenor saxophones in jazz large ensembles.

• BA Music Education, CSU Northridge, California, USA
• AA Humanities, Santa Barbara City College, California, USA
• TEFL Certification, TELF Academy, Chicago, USA
• Edmentum Certificate
• 3+ years of teaching experience in USA and Vietnam

Eric Blaisdell

Mr. Eric Blaisdell — Los Angeles, California, USA, has been named TAS Elementary School Art Teacher since August 2013, this is his third year of teaching at TAS. He received his undergrad in English Literature and Art. Mr. Blaisdell began substitute teaching in San Francisco in 1997. Mr. Blaisdell took his first international job teaching in Japan in 2005. He returned to Seattle and worked briefly for the military at Fort Lewis. Mr. Blaisdell studied at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon to complete his teaching credential as an Arts Teacher in 2009. Upon completion of his schooling, Mr. Blaisdell moved to South Korea with his girlfriend Corinne and was married in 2013.

Mr. Blaisdell enjoys music and has played in several amateur bands in Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. When not teaching, he enjoys travelling throughout Southeast Asia and sampling the local cuisine.

• MA Teaching Art Education, Lewis and Clark College Portland, OR, USA
• MA Multi-Media Studies, San Francisco State University, CA, USA
• BA English Literature with Minor in Studio Art, Whittier College, CA, USA
• Oregon State Residency Teaching Certificate, USA
• 12+ years of teaching experience in USA, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam

Dianne Buisan

Mrs. Dianne E. Buisan has been named TAS Early Childhood and Elementary School Physical Education & Health teacher since August 2015. She has been teaching for 10 years here in Vietnam and in the Philippines. She went to the University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, Cotabato, Philippines for her undergraduate studies and Sultan Kudarat Polytechnic State University, Tacurong City, Philippines for her graduate studies.

When Mrs. Buisan is not teaching, she enjoys dancing and playing with her hyperactive kids, biking, doing outdoor activities that strengthens both body and mind. Her family loves to explore and travel together, since this brings them together with uninterrupted quality time.

• MA Teaching Physical Education, Sultan Kudarat State University, Tacurong City, Philippines
• BA Secondary Education major in Physical Education, Health and Music, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, Cotabato, Philippines
• Teaching License Certificate – Professional Regulation Commission, Philippines
• License #: 0825251
• 10+ years of teaching experience in the Philippines and Vietnam

Diem Vo

Ms. Diem Vo has been named TAS Elementary School Vietnamese as a Second Language (VSL) Teacher since August 2010. This is her sixth year teaching at TAS and has been a teacher for 19 years. Ms. Vo earned her Bachelor of Arts in English at the University of Social Science and Humanities, Vietnam. She also completed a teacher training program at the university. She has a TESOL degree from Australian International TESOL. For leisure, Ms. Vo likes to read books and cook for her family over the weekend.

• BA English, University of Social Science and Humanities, HCMC, Vietnam
• TESOL Certification, Australian International TESOL
• 19+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam

Tam Vuong

Ms. Tam Vuong has been named the TAS Elementary Vietnamese Studies Teacher since March 2013. In her professional career, Ms. Tam Vuong has taught Vietnamese Studies and was support for elementary ESL teachers for ten years in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.

Ms. Tam is an active teacher who enjoys everything esepecially singing and dancing with her students. She also likes to spend her free time teaching for the disadvantaged children, translating, traveling and learning new cultures.

• BA Elementary Education, Saigon University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) certificate
• 10+ years teaching experience in Vietnam

Hong Nguyen

Ms. Hong Nguyen has been named TAS Elementary School Vietnamese Studies Teacher since August 2012. Before, she has taught Vietnamese Studies for one year at AIS. Then she has worked at CIS as a Teaching Assistant for two years. Ms. Hong Nguyen hopes to achieve an interesting and enthusiastic classroom atmosphere for her students. She wants to bring all the best to her classes.

Ms. Hong Nguyen is interested in music, reading, sewing and photography. She enjoys spending her free time with children and learning new languages.

• BA Literature and Linguistics, University of Social Science and Humanities, HCMC, Vietnam.
• Certificate of Education from University of Social Science and Humanities, HCMC, Vietnam.
• Has teaching experience in Vietnam since 2009.

Amreen Bashir

Ms. Amreen Bashir is a TAS Middle-High School Social Studies Teacher (Ancient and Modern World History) since January 2015. Ms. Bashir has taught in four different countries, including Canada, France, Bangladesh and Vietnam for more than five years. She has previously taught French, Literature, AP Human Geography, World Geography, Religion, Ancient World History, Canadian History, Economics, Government and Modern World History. In addition to teaching, she is also the TAS Head of Humanities Department since August 2015.

Ms Bashir is a voracious reader of fiction and non-fiction. She also likes to spend her spare time going to the driving range, practicing yoga, and travelling the world.

• M.Ed International Education Secondary, The College of New Jersey, USA
• B.Ed Secondary History and Geography, McGill University, Canada.
• Teaching Certification by the Education Ministry of Quebec, Canada
• Teaching License from the state of New Jersey, USA
• AP Human Geography Certification, Kennesaw State University, Atlanta, USA
• 5+ years of teaching experience in Canada, France, Bangladesh, and Vietnam

Anna Fischer

Ms. Anna Fischer — New Hampshire, USA has been teaching TAS Middle-High School Social Studies since August 2015. She is returning for her second year at TAS and will be expanding the social studies department to include Psychology. She has been teaching in Vietnam for three years and has participated in activities such as tennis club, ping pong club and International Day. This year she is also looking forward to a position on the Sunshine Committee to facilitate teambuilding amongst the faculty and staff. Before teaching at TAS, Ms. Fischer taught at Vietnam Australia International School in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ms. Fischer is very active and loves to play tennis, rock climb and participate in archery club here in HCMC. She loves to travel, mountain climb and ride motorcycles. She is also an avid reader and enjoys taking drawing lessons in the city. She is looking forward to continuing her adventures in Southeast Asia.

• Florida State Teaching Certification- Social Sciences 6-12
• Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certificate (TEFL), USA
• MA History, Old Dominion University, Virginia, USA
• BA European History, University at Albany, New York, USA
• 3+ years teaching experience in Vietnam

Matthew Bailey

Mr. Matt Bailey – London, England, has been named TAS Middle and High School Social Studies Teacher, beginning August, 2016.  In his professional career, Mr. Bailey has been a High School History, Journalism, and English teacher and a college English instructor on Majuro Atoll in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Prior to teaching, Mr. Bailey worked as the Director of Communications and Legislative Affairs for the City of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Mr. Bailey has served on WASC accreditation committees, acted as advisor of the school newspaper and manager of a student band.  In his spare time, his hobbies include reading, music, traveling, writing and spending time with his family.

• Illinois State Teacher Certification, USA
• MA Journalism, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
• BA American History and Politics, University of East Anglia, Norwich, England
• Republic of the Marshall Islands Teaching Certification
• 4+ years of teaching experience in Marshall Islands, USA, and Vietnam

Thomas Alexander

Mr. Tom Alexander has been named TAS Middle-High School AP English Teacher reporting to the Head of School, beginning August 2016. In his professional career, Mr. Alexander has been an English Department Head at Al Bayan Bilingual School in Kuwait; an English and P.E. teacher at Hammarskjold High School in Thunder Bay; at Eastview Secondary School in Barrie, Ontario; taught Physical Education at St. Johns College, in Nassau, Bahamas; Istanbul International Community School in Istanbul, Turkey and Mitundu Secondary School in Lilongwe, Malawi. He has held school positions as teacher, chaired school mission statement development teams, and directed intramural programs, organized and judged speech and debate teams, updated and created new curriculum programs,

He has been a head coach for varsity volley ball, rugby, swimming, and cycling teams.  While he enjoys all sports and coaching, Mr. Alexander represented his country swimming in the 1975 Pan American Games (Mexico City) and The 1976 Olympics (Montreal). He also represented Malawi and the Bahamas playing rugby internationally.

In his spare time Mr. Alexander enjoys hiking and fishing.

• ME Curriculum Development, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
• Honors BA and BE English Major, P.E. Minor certified K-12, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
• Red Cross First Aid and CPR Workshop Certification
• AP Literature and Language certification, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Tribes Training 2016
• 34+ years of teaching experience in Canada, Turkey, Kuwait, and Vietnam

Aubrey Fowler

Ms.Aubrey Fowler has been named TAS Middle-High School English Teacher beginning August 2016. She has been a member of the TAS family from its inception in 2010. During her time at TAS, she served as both an administrator and teacher; currently she is teaching middle school English.

Prior to her arrival in Vietnam, Ms. Fowler taught both elementary and middle school students at an international school in Ecuador and also in the Massachusetts public schools in the USA, where she worked specifically with special education students. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Gordon College in 2005 and is expected to complete her Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Montana State University in 2016. Ms. Fowler has been an active member of an animal rescue charity in Saigon for the past five years and in her free time she enjoys practicing yoga, cooking new foods and exploring Vietnam and the surrounding countries with her family.

• BA of Arts in Social Work, minor Psychology, Gordon College, MA, USA
• MA of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Montana State University, MT, USA
• 10+ years of teaching experience in Ecuador, USA and Vietnam

Ilka Omdahl

Ms. Ilka Omdahl — Denver, Colorado, USA, has been named TAS Middle-High English Language Arts Teacher beginning August 2016. In her professional career, Ms. Ilka has been a teacher of English and Social Studies. Ms. Omdahl has taught in Colorado, Jakarta, and Seoul. In addition to teaching, Ms. Omdahl has held other positions: Social Studies Department Head, NJHS sponsor, Student Council sponsor, Talent Show coordinator, Newspaper sponsor, co-lead for Outdoor Education, and co-director of the school play. This is her sixteenth year as an educator.

Ms. Omdahl has studied abroad in New Zealand and India. In her spare time, she loves to practice yoga, run, write, and read. She is also an avid cinephile and traveler. 

• MFA in Film (Screenwriting Emphasis), Boston University, MA, USA
• Teaching Certification 612, Colorado, USA
• English/Language Arts, University of Colorado, USA
• BA in English Literature, University of Colorado, USA
• 16+ years of teaching experience in Indonesia, South Korea, Vietnam, and USA

Brian Boyce

Mr. Brian Boyce — Vancouver, Canada, has been named TAS Middle-High School English and Social Studies Teacher, beginning in August 2016. Along with teaching, he has worked on community construction and restoration projects and has coached debate, basketball and baseball. In the last ten years, Mr. Boyce has taught and tutored students in Canada, Korea, Thailand and now Vietnam. Mr. Boyce is interested in exploring the endless possibilities of Google Classroom.

• BA English, University of British Columbia, Canada
• B.Ed, University of British Columbia, Canada
• British Columbia Teaching Certification, Canada
• Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA), University of Cambridge
• MBA in Innovation Leadership (In progress)
• 10+ years of teaching experience in Canada, Korea, Thailand, the Middle East, and Vietnam

Dung Nguyen

Ms. Dung Nguyen has been named TAS Middle-High Vietnamese Studies Teacher since August 2009. Ms. Nguyen is an enthusiastic teacher starting her seventh year at The American School. She has taught most of the grades between sixth and twelfth grades, and has been teaching for nearly ten years.

She had three years of experience as a lecture in a university and as a teacher of Vietnamese Literature at other international schools in HCMC before becoming a member of TAS community. She has had the opportunities to work with foreigners, learn different cultures and languages from them, teach children and young adults from the ages of 6 to 22. She has been challenged to be creative, nurturing and most of all, patient. 

Her hobbies are traveling, painting, writing and reading. She spends most of her free time for these things. They make her life more enjoyable. 

• MA Linguistics, University of Pedagogy Ho Chi Minh City, HCMC, Vietnam
• BA Vietnamese Language and Literature, Qui Nhon University, Qui Nhon, Vietnam
• 10+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam

Thao Nguyen

Ms. Thao T. Huong Nguyen –Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, has been named TAS Middle-High School Vietnamese Teacher since August 2013.  With more than eight years of teaching experience at Nguyen Chi Thanh government school, it provided her with a firm foundation for teaching Vietnamese.

Ms. Nguyen has a passion for the Vietnamese language. Her education and teaching experience shows how much she wants to equip her students with good language skills. She is also a book worm who loves reading especially about Vietnamese history and foreign literature. Ms. Nguyen loves to share Vietnamese culture to her students and introduce to them the beauty of Vietnamese language.

• MA Linguistics, University of Pedagogy, HCMC, Vietnam
• BA Faculty of Linguistics, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, HCMC, Vietnam
• Pedagogical Certification, University of Pedagogy, HCMC, Vietnam
• 12+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam

Eric Rossi

Mr. Eric Rossi has been a Physics, AP Physics, and AP Environmental Science Teachers at TAS Middle-High School since August 2013. During his time at TAS, he has also taught Grade 8 Physical Science and Grade 12 Earth Science. He is also the Head of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Department, and has served on the graduation committee, played a key role in organizing the school science fair, and has performed in the school musical. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, Mr. Rossi started his teaching career in Colorado Springs, Colorado before teaching for three years in Daegu, South Korea. He also has experience in Special Education and has worked with adults with developmental disabilities.

Mr. Rossi is an experienced musician and has performed in a number of venues in Ho Chi Minh City. He spends his time traveling with his wife. 

• MA Curriculum and Instruction, University of Colorado, Colorado, USA
• BS Physics, Math Minor, Pennsylvania State University, PA, USA; MA Curriculum and Instruction, University of Colorado in Colorado Springs, USA.
• Professional Teacher License, Colorado.
• 9+ years of teaching experience in Colorado, Korea, and Vietnam

Cameron Edwards

Ms. Cameron Edwards — Lake Mary, Florida, USA, has been named the TAS Middle School Grade 6 Earth Science and Grade 9 Biology Teacher beginning August 2016. In her professional career, Ms. Edwards has taught in the USA at elementary for two years and middle school for seven years. She next took a teaching job in China in 2014 as a Kindergarten teacher and taught there for two years.

In the USA, Ms. Cameron participated in triathlons. She has completed an Ironman, three half Ironman’s and two USA Age Group National Triathlon Championships She also likes to spend her free time participating in team sports and learned how to play badminton in China. Ms. Edwards is looking forward to learning more about Vietnam and their culture.

• BS Telecommunications, University of Florida, FL, USA
• Florida State Teacher Certification in Middle Grades 5-9 Science
• 9+ years of teaching experience in USA, China and Vietnam.

Phuong Vong

Ms. Phuong Vong has been named a Science Teacher in the STEM department at TAS Middle-High School since August 2013. She has experiences teaching secondary Mathematics and Science courses. She was a member of the Middle School Graduation Committee and the Science Fair Committee. She has been organizing different field trips to raise student awareness about protecting wild animals and the environment.

Ms. Vong loves to take her daughter to the zoo to see the animals and to the beach to play. She also enjoys scrapbooking to keep special memories. She likes to go bowling and is pretty good at it.

• BS Natural Science with Biology Emphasis and Minor in Mathematics, California State University Los Angeles, CA, USA
• California State Teaching Credentials in Science and Mathematics 6-12
• 8+ years of teaching experience in USA and Vietnam 

Rebecca Tumicki

Ms. Rebecca Tumicki — Silverdale, Washington, USA, was named TAS Middle-High School Mathematics Teacher in January 2016.  This year she is teaching grade 6 math and Algebra 1.  Prior to coming to TAS, Ms. Tumicki was an Integrated Basic Education and Skills and Training instructor at Olympic College in Washington state, USA.  In her professional career, Ms. Tumicki has taught secondary for six years in Taif and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and two years in Sur, Oman.  As a Peace Corps Volunteer in Nepal, she taught high school mathematics and was a teacher trainer for two years.  Previously she has worked for over ten years as a software developer in Austin, Texas, Sunnyvale, California and Denver, Colorado.

Ms. Tumicki has been a long time hiking enthusiast having hiked in such places as Nepal, Spain and Ethiopia.  She has visited 50 countries and plans on seeing a few more in SE Asia.  In her free time she does tai chi, art and photography.

• MA Geography with concentration in GIS, San Jose State University, CA, USA
• BS Mathematics, University of Connecticut, CT, USA
• Secondary Mathematics certified by the American Board for Certification of Teaching Excellence, GA, USA
• 11+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam, Cambodia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Nepal and USA

Michael Rybachuk

Mr. Michael Rybachuk has been named TAS Middle-High School Mathematics Teacher beginning August  2016. In his professional career, Mr. Rybachuk has been a teacher at Pleasant Valley Secondary School in Armstrong BC; at the Universal American School in Kuwait; at A.L. Fortune Secondary in Enderby, Canada; and at the American School of Kuwait.  He has been Mathematics Department Chair, led an Accreditation section on Professionalism and Certification, organized back-packing trips into the Canadian Rockies, and refereed countless basketball games. He has coached JV Volleyball, grass-roots soccer, been a sponsor-teacher for practicum teachers, and was an avid fast-ball player.

Mr. Rybachuk enjoys reading historical fiction, loves all types of sports and exploring new parts of the world.  His greatest joy is building and restoring furniture in his wood-shop back home.

• MA Educational Technology, University of British Columbia, Canada
• BA Education (after), University of Calgary, Canada
• BS Applied Mathematics, University of Calgary, Canada
• Level 3 FIBA Basketball Official Certification
• 32+ years of teaching experience in Canada, Kuwait, and Vietnam

Evan Tran

Mr. Evan Tran has been named TAS Middle-High School Mathematics Teacher since August 2012. He is currently teaching higher level mathematics courses such as AP Calculus, Pre-calculus, and Algebra 2. He completed a 30-hour College Board AP Seminars in Calculus AB. He loves teaching mathematics and has a natural ability to motivate his students to maximize their academic performance. In addition, he has been part of many different committees at TAS including International Day, Christmas Day, and Science Fair Day.

Mr. Tran enjoys playing tennis on a regular basis. He also likes to spend his free time listening to music, swimming, and playing Chinese chess.

• The State of New Jersey Teaching Certificate, USA – Endorsement Mathematics (Grade 7-12), Certification Number 890151
• Mathematics (Grade 7-12) Education Certificate, The College of New Jersey, NY, USA
• MS Computer Science, Nova Southeastern University, USA
• BS Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Davis, USA
• 7+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam and USA

Elizabeth Urban

Elizabeth (Betty) Urban –Pasadena, California, has been named TAS Middle-High School Fine Art Department Head for the school year 2016-2017 and will also be teaching art to 8-12 and AP. Betty has been teaching art for 16 years Pk-12 and AP in the United States and most recently in Indonesia.

Ms. Urban started her career in Buffalo, New York at the Park School teaching art to K-8. She then moved to Los Angeles and started a career in advertising. Betty founded her own full-service ad agency and ran it successfully for twenty years before she returned to teaching.

Ms. Urban returned to teaching in 2004 at Flintridge Preparatory School (the tenth most arduous high school in America, Washington Post 2013) in La Canada, California. She taught 7-12 plus AP for 10 years and then decided to make a change and teach internationally. Ms. Urban has taught the IB and Cambridge curriculums at The Sinarmas and Jakarta Academies in Indonesia for the last two years. She successfully completed the IB PYP Making It Happen as well as becoming an IB Examiner.

Ms. Urban graduated from Pacific Oaks College, California where she earned her BA in Human Development with a Focus on Art Education. Ms. Urban also recently accepted and awarded a scholarship to attend Harvard Graduate School of Education’s PD class on “The Arts and Passion-Driven Learning” this summer.

Ms. Urban is a practicing artist who recently had a sold-out one woman painting show in Los Angeles. She enjoys creating art as well as supporting art through art associations such as The Pasadena Art Alliance and The Art Center Partners.

• BA Human Development with focus on Art Education, Pacific Oaks College, California, USA
• 16+ years of teaching experience in Indonesia, Vietnam, and USA

Nicholas Mason

Mr. Nicholas G. Mason — South Bend, Indiana, USA, has been teaching at TAS since August 2012 as the Middle-High School Music Teacher. In his professional career, Mr. Mason has taught music, both in the US and in Vietnam, for over eight years. He has been part of many different committees at TAS including International Day, awards, and various creative arts programs.

Mr. Mason is a passionate musician who enjoys all things music, specializing in pop/rock music of the past sixty years. He plays many different instruments ranging from brass family instruments in his younger years to many rock-oriented instruments. He also plays videos games, enjoys reading, watching movies, and traveling to ancient ruins across the world.

• BS Instrumental/General Music Education, Ball State University, IN, USA
• Indiana State Teacher Certification in K-12 Music Education, USA
• 8+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam and USA

Keigan Page

Mr. Keigan Page — Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, is excited to return for his 3rd year at TAS as the Middle-High School Drama Teacher. In his professional career, Mr. Page has taught MS & HS Drama and English Literature for five years in Canada, Qatar and Vietnam. In addition to his teaching he has been acting, directing, and creating theatre across the globe for over a decade. Before entering the teaching profession, Mr. Page worked and continues to work in the summer, in outdoor education across Canada using nature and the outdoors to teach science, leadership and help develop social skills within youth with special needs.

Mr. Page is active in the theatre community within Ho Chi Minh City, sitting on the steering committee for the Saigon Players. You may have seen him in past Saigon Players’ productions such as Rocky Horror, Snow White and the Seven Nguyens, Lysistrata or his directorial debut with the company in spring of 2016, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged). Be sure to keep your eye out for upcoming performances this season! When not creating theatre he spends his free time travelling & exploring the outside world and the beauty that our planet has to offer.

• BA (Honours) Theatre, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
• BEd Intermediate & Senior Drama and English, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
• Ontario Teaching License
• 5+ years teaching experience in Canada, Qatar, and Vietnam

Michael Crowley

Mr. Michael Crowley — Newburyport, MA, USA, has been teaching at TAS Middle-High School as the Physical Education (PE) Teacher and Athletic Director. He has been at the school for the last 5 years starting in August 2012.  Mr. Crowley has been teaching internationally for 29 years in Greece, Tanzania, Thailand and now here in Vietnam. He also coaches basketball, soccer, softball and wrestling at his previous international schools.

Mr. Crowley likes to travel and see new places. He also loves just about all sports especially ice hockey, American football, basketball and baseball.

• BS Physical Education, Westfield State University, USA
• Teaching Certificate PE/Health K-12, Salem State University, USA
• K-12 Massachusetts Teaching Certification
• 29+ years of coaching and teaching experience in USA, Greece, Africa, Thailand and Vietnam

Rasul-Buisan

Mr. Rasul Buisan II has been named TAS Middle-High School Physical Education (PE) and Dance Teacher since August 2009. He has been a part of the TAS family since its opening for more than seven years. Mr. Buisan has extensive knowledge in Physical Education (Sports, Dance, Health Education, Recreational and Sports Management) with a graduate of Master of Arts in Teaching Physical Education. He has more than 17 years of teaching experience.

He possesses positive working attitude, strong team-working and multi-tasking skills, successfully completes works within budget and time constraints; possesses highest degree of integrity adaptable to changing situations and flexible about working overtime geared towards achieving competence in the field of education.

Mr. Buisan is also very active in supervising after school activities. He served as coach and trainer of boys under 19 soccer team and dance production respectively. He creates and sustains a level of discipline for each individual with an emphasis on teaching respect, loyalty and sportsmanship.

• MA Teaching Physical Education, Sultan Kudarat Polytechnic State University, Tacurong City, Phillipines
• Diploma in Physical Education, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, North Cobatabo, Philippines
• BS Agriculture, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, North Cobatabo, Philippines
• Philippine Teaching License Certificate – Professional Regulation Commission
• Asian Football Confederation – “C” License Coaching Certificate
• UbD 101: Introduction to UbD – Online Professional Development Course
• 17+ years of teaching experience in the Philippines and Vietnam

James Foster

Mr. James Foster is an ESL and world languages teacher and department head at TAS Middle-High School. Beginning in August of 2012, Mr. Foster helped to develop the ESL program from the ground up and in August 2013 inaugurated the Spanish program at TAS. 

Mr. Foster began his teaching career in Austin, Texas in The United States in 2003 after graduating from The University of Texas at Austin with a BA in Spanish in 2002 followed by a brief teaching stint in Venezuela. He taught middle school Spanish and then ESL for three years before moving to China where he taught a mix of both subjects for five years. After spending a year in Egypt teaching Grade 8, Mr. Foster moved to Vietnam where he began his tenure at TAS. 

Mr. Foster enjoys expanding his knowledge of the world through reading, documentaries, and travel. On Saturdays, he volunteers to teach English with the KickStart program, which he has done for three years. 

• BA Spanish, University of Texas at Austin, USA
• Texas State Board of Education Certified
• 14+ years of teaching experience in USA, Venezuela, China, Egypt and Vietnam

Jennifer Gelinas

Mrs. Jennifer Gelinas — Annapolis, Maryland, USA, was named the TAS ESL Coordinator and MSHS IESL Teacher in August 2015.  In her professional career, Mrs. Gelinas has taught one year of ESL at TAS, five years of ESL in Maryland, and one year of reading in Florida.  She has been a member of Girls on the Run, Green School committees, and a mentor for at-risk youth.

Mrs. Gelinas loves traveling, being paddle boarding, yoga, and diving.  She also enjoys reading and painting. She is looking forward to exploring more of Vietnam.

• MA The Differentiated Classroom, Gratz College, Pennsylvania, USA
• BA Elementary Education and ESL, Flagler College, Florida, USA
• Maryland State Teacher Certification in ESL K-12 and Elementary 1-6, USA
• BS Religion with minor in Biblical Studies, Liberty University, Virginia, USA
• 7+ year of teaching experience in Vietnam and USA

Lauren Beckerle

Lauren Beckerle — USA, has been named TAS Middle-High School ESL teacher reporting to the Head of School, beginning August 2016.  In her professional career, Ms. Beckerle has been a teacher of ESL since 2010, beginning in Seoul, South Korea and moving to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in 2012. She became Head Teacher at VUS in Ho Chi Minh City in 2013. From 2013 to 2016, she wrote and presented bimonthly teacher development workshops to 40+ ESL teachers based on “universal activities and classroom management,” a series of adaptable techniques catering to multiple texts, student ability levels, classroom spaces, and available teaching resources. She also mentored new teachers one-on-one, assisting them with lesson planning, as well as offering information about expat life in Ho Chi Minh City.

 In her spare time, her hobbies include: freelance writing, theatre, singing, yoga, reiki, meditation, and travel.  

• BA Media Communications, Webster University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
• Cambridge ESOL Level 5 Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, ECC, Phuket, Thailand
• 6+ years of teaching experience in South Korea, USA, and Vietnam

Marielle Walker

Ms. Marielle Walker — Lansing, Michigan, USA, has been named TAS Middle-High School Spanish Teacher since August 2015.  Ms. Walker has worked with grades 4-12 in Michigan and in North Carolina, USA.  She has assisted in Positive Behavior and School Improvement committees, and will be co-leading Spanish club this year with Mr. Carlos Diaz.

Ms. Walker loves to read, learn new things, and enjoy delicious food from all over the world. Corgis are her favorite dogs and she plans to visit an elephant sanctuary this year.

• BA Music with concentrations in Spanish and Music Education, Western Michigan University, USA
• Michigan Teaching Certificate in Spanish and Music K-12
• North Carolina Teaching Certificate in Spanish and Music K-12
• 6+ years of teaching experience in USA and Vietnam

Nguyet Duong

Mrs Nguyet Duong, has been named the TAS Elementary Mandarin Teacher beginning August 2016. She was an officer of International Cooperation Office in Ho Chi Minh City University of Education since 2002. In her professional career, she has taught Chinese Language for children and undergraduate studentsMrs. Duong was ranked number 4 out of all graduates and have been voted the most brilliant student in June 2001 at the Beijing Language and Cultural University, China.

She was born in a family that both parents are teachers and  believes that the education industry is very fulfilling. In the past three years, she has gained a variety of teaching techniques and am confident with her classroom management for a diversity of students.

Mrs. Duong belives that being a qualified teacher needs the following factors: a passion for teaching, concern for students, patience as well as tolerance and expanded  knowledge of the subject.

• BA Chinese Language, Beijing Language and Cultural University, Beijing, China
• Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language Certificate 2013, 2014, Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages, Taiwan
• 8+ years of teaching experience in China and Vietnam

Phu Vo

Mr. Phu Vo has been named TAS Physical Education Teacher beginning in August, 2018. Regarding his professional and pedagogical experience, he has more than five years of teaching and coaching diverse groups of students from Elementary School, Middle School to High School levels at international schools.

Mr. Phu Vo enjoys working with students to introduce, promote, and develop the love of physical activities. He also loves to be the guidance of their future, to motivate them, to help them to become healthier and achieve a healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling life.

Mr. Phu Vo loves playing sports, reading, working out, laughing, and helping others.

• BPhEd, P.E. & Sports Pedagogy, HCMC University of Physical Education and Sports, Vietnam
• BA, English, HCMC University of Foreign Languages – Information Technology, Vietnam
• TEFL/TESOL (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
• Diploma in Mental Health and Human Nutrition (in progress)

Carlos Diaz

Mr. Carlos Diaz – Maracaibo, Venezuela, has been named TAS Librarian reporting to the Head of School, beginning August, 2016. In his professional career, Mr. Diaz has been a Head Librarian in the Escuela Bella Vista International IB School, a Supervisor Librarian in Zulia Public Library in Maracaibo, a Spanish Teacher in Zulia University and Marco Fabio Quintiliano School in Maracaibo and co-founder  and teacher in the Japanese Academy of Maracaibo GOEN. He has held school position as teacher, Extended Essay Coordinator, participated in School Improvement Teams, was part of the IT department, introduced gaming education to the school, developed collaborative reading and writing programs and introduced NaNoWriMo program to the school.

He has been a referee of sanshou matches, and trained Choy Lee Fut kung-fu for four years. He enjoys martial arts, and gamification in education. He also enjoy cross cultural programs and international programs as he was part of the 24th Ship For The World Youth Program in Japan (2012).

In his spare time, Mr. Diaz enjoys walking, cooking, game design, reading and table top games.

• BA Spanish Literature and Language, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
• Storytelling, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
• VANAS presenter, CIC Valencia, AASSA, Valencia, Venezuela
• SWY24 delegate, Tokyo, Japan
• Japanese Language N3 level, Japan Foundation
• Sanshou referee, Zulia Wushu Asociation, Maracaibo, Venezuela
• 4+ years of teaching experience in Venezuela and Vietnam

Emma Rackmil

Ms. Emma Rackmil, Jersey City, New Jersey, USA, has been named Grade 5 teacher in the Elementary School beginning August 1, 2017. In her professional career, Ms. Rackmil has taught 3rd grade in New Jersey, USA and 5th grade in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Her experiences also include teaching students with special needs, and teaching English as a second language to students in Princeton, New Jersey. Ms. Rackmil holds the following degrees:

• Master’s of the Arts in Teaching from Rider University, New Jersey
• Elementary K-6 Certification, New Jersey
• TESOL/TESL/TEFL Certification, Oxford Seminars
• BA in English Honors from Rutgers University, New Jersey

Ms. Rackmil is excited to return to Vietnam after completing her Master’s degree in New Jersey! She is an avid traveler and enjoys exploring, trying new foods, and learning about different cultures. Her hobbies include photography, crafting, and gardening.

Effa Zainnordin

Ms. Effa Zainnordin, Sabah, Malaysia, has been named Middle School Mathematics teacher beginning August 1, 2017. In her professional career, Ms. Effa has been a Middle and High School teacher in Hanoi, Vietnam and a Pre-University teacher in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She has been a head of invigilator for the International Primary Leaving School Examination (IPSLE) and a coach for Math Olympics in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Ms. Effa has earned the following degrees and certifications:

• BS degree in Mathematics (Hons.) at University Putra Malaysia.
• Postgraduate Certificate in Education (International) (PGCEi) from the University of Nottingham, United Kingdom.
• Teaching and Assessing Skills in Mathematics from Cambridge International Examination (CIE).
• Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics certification from Cambridge International Examination (CIE).

Ms. Effa enjoys cooking, photography and traveling.

Lafe Conger

Mr. Lafe Conger, Kennesaw, Georgia, U.S.A. has been named Preschool teacher beginning August 1, 2017. In his professional career Lafe has taught Nursery, Preschool, Kindergarten & Grade 1 in Shanghai, China. During this time period he moved between Lead Teacher & PYP Coordinator. Mr Conger holds the following degrees.

• Bachelor’s of Education from Tennessee Tech University – Cookville, TN
• Associates of Science w/ minor in Education from Pellissippi State – Knoxville, TN
• Arizona State Teacher Certification for ECE & Elementary

Lafe has lived in and around SE Asia for the last 6 years. He enjoys taking care of his body / mind through spending time in nature, practicing muay thai and focusing on personal growth and peace.

Lisa Walter

Ms. Lisa Walter, Denver, Colorado, USA, has been named Grade 3 teacher in the Elementary School beginning August 1, 2017. In her professional career, Ms. Lisa has taught Kindergarten, Grades 2 and 3 in South Korea and Vietnam. While in Vietnam, she has organized school events such as The Mid-Autumn Festival, Literacy Month, and The Science Fair. Ms. Lisa has also coordinated and led the Drama Club for grades 2-5. She holds the following degrees.

• Florida Educator’s Certificate in Primary Education from TeacherReady, Pensacola, Florida, USA.
• Bachelor of Science in Journalism from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona, USA.
• Minor degrees in Sociology and Public relations from Northern Arizona University
• TEFL Certificate

Ms. Lisa has been living and teaching in Asia for more than 6 years. In America, she spent over 6 years coaching and teaching swimming. In her spare time, Ms. Lisa enjoys travelling, snowboarding, swimming, hiking and playing with her dog, Rufus.

Emily Piersialla

Ms. Emily Piersialla has been named the Learning Resource teacher beginning August 1, 2017. In her professional career, Ms. Emily has been a self-contained special education teacher at MacArthur School in South Holland, IL for 5 years. She then taught as the Learning Resource teacher at Majuro Cooperative School in the Marshall Islands for the past 2 years. She has held school positions of teacher, PTA teacher representative, student council teacher advisor, swim club advisor, leadership team member, WASC Self Study committee chair, and WASC visiting committee chair member.

MS. Emily has earned the following degrees and certifications:

• BS degree in Elementary Education at Bradley University, Peoria, IL
• BS degree in Special Education at Bradley University, Peoria, IL
• Endorsed in Early Childhood Education
• Illinois State Teaching Certificate
• Red Cross / First Aid and CPR Certification

Megan Gallagher

Megan Gallagher, Toledo, Ohio, USA, has been named a primary ESL teacher. She has been living in Ho Chi Minh City for three years. Previous to The American School, she has worked at The Japanese School.

Megan played collegiate Division 1 at Loyola Marymount University, as well as coached several youth soccer camps. She enjoys reading, running, and traveling.

Ms. Megan holds the following degree and certifications:

• BA in English Writing from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles
• Oxfords Teachers’ Academy Course:
• Teaching Very Young Learners
• TESOL certification from Language Corps (USA)

Thomas Lupton

Mr Thomas Lupton – Kent, England, has been named TAS High School Science Teacher beginning in 2018. He has been teaching science in Vietnam for four years with experience teaching grades 6 through 12. Primarily, he has specialized in teaching Physics however he has also taught Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Before coming to Vietnam, he completed a master’s degree in Astrophysics including work as a member of the Kepler Asteroseismic Science Consortium who worked with the NASA Kepler mission. Outside of teaching, he is passionate about music, playing the guitar for over 15 years and beginning to learn the drums in early 2018. He also enjoys playing board games and sports with friends.

• MSci (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
• PGCEi, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom (In progress.)
• Teaching English as a Second Language certificate,
• Cambridge Certificates for teaching in Secondary Science, Combined Science, Coordinated Science, IGCSE Physics, A-level Physics.
• 4+ years of teaching science at middle and high school level in Vietnam.

Nicholas Compton

Mr. Nick Compton has been named Middle and High School Mathematics and Health teacher beginning August 1, 2018. In his professional career, Mr. Nick has been a teacher at the American International School of Niamey, Niger; at the Majuro Cooperative School in the Republic of the Marshall Islands; at Chuuk High School in Chuuk of the Federated States of Micronesia; and at the W-Institute English Academy in Namyangju, South Korea. Prior to teaching, he was also a certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-Basic) and a nationally certified strength and conditioning instructor through the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

He has been the head coach of both men’s and women’s basketball teams at Chuuk High School and Majuro Cooperative School.

Mr. Nick has earned the following degrees and certifications.

• BS in Exercise Science, Health, and Physical Education with an Area Concentration in Applied Health Science from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia
• Professional Teaching Certificate from the Republic of the Marshall Islands

He is also currently in progress of earning a second BS in Applied Mathematics from the Indiana University East. In his spare time, Mr. Nick enjoys doing math, reading, exercising, hiking, and traveling.

Sara Blair

Ms. Sara Blair – Toronto, Canada, has been named TAS Middle-High School English Teacher beginning August 2017. After receiving her Graduate Diploma in Education from the University of the Sunshine Coast in 2009, Ms. Blair has worked in Thailand, Canada, the Marshall Islands and Niger. In addition to teaching, Ms. Blair has been the advisor for the yearbook and school newspaper, as well as coach of the High School Girl’s basketball team.

Ms. Blair enjoys photography, especially of nature and wildlife, as well as writing and reading. At the moment, she has dreams of being published in National Geographic, and publishing her novel she has been writing.

• BA: Major in Child & Youth Studies, Minor in English, Brock University, Ontario, Canada
• Graduate Diploma in Education, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
• Ontario Teaching Certification, Canada
• Additional Qualifications in Special Education & Primary Education
• 3+ years of teaching experience in Canada, Thailand, the Marshall Islands, and Niger.

Evie Cobb

Ms. Evie Cobb has been named Grade 2 teacher in the Elementary School beginning August 1, 2017. She is originally from the USA, but has lived in and traveled throughout several countries around the world. In her professional career, Ms. Evie has taught a variety of grade levels at international schools in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam for the last 5 years.

Ms. Evie Cobb’s goal is to foster and maintain an open, honest, communicative, and supportive classroom, in which each student feels safe, secure, special, and appropriately challenged. She is very excited to join the TAS family and to work closely with the faculty and staff to ensure the best learning outcomes of her students.

Ms. Evie has earned the following degrees and certifications:

• B.A. in Anthropology with an Area Concentration in Primatology from Arizona State University, USA
• Florida Professional Teaching Certificate: K-6, The University of West Florida, USA
• Cambridge International Examinations Certification in English and Science, HCMC, VN
• TESOL Certification, USA

Christine Cash

Ms. Christine Cash from London, Ontario, Canada, has been named Grade 2 teacher in the Elementary School beginning August 1, 2017. In her professional career, Ms. Christine has taught Grades 3, 4 and 5 in Canada as well as Vietnam. She was a leader of the Curriculum Planning Committee for both Science and English at her previous school. Ms. Cash holds the following degrees:

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada.
• Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Windsor, Windsor, Canada
• Additional Teaching Qualifications in:
• Kindergarten
• French as a Second Language
• Reading

Aaron Rangoonwala

Mr. Aaron Rangoonwala, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA has been named Middle-High School ESL teacher beginning August 2017. Mr. Rangoonwala worked in the Minneapolis Public Schools for a year before moving to South Korea, where he taught ESL for 4 years. He has served as a department head and soccer coach.

Mr. Rangoonwala grew up in East Africa, studied abroad in the Middle East and has been living in Asia the past 5 years. He is excited to start exploring Vietnam. He is an active person who enjoys doing anything outside. His hobbies include rock climbing, biking, trekking, cooking and learning languages. He will quickly admit that he is a social studies nerd and that Planet Earth is one of his favorite shows.

Mr. Rangoonwala holds the following degrees:

• Washington D.C. Teacher Certification
• Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL), USA
• BA in Political Science and Anthropology from Bethel University, St. Paul, MN
• 4+ years teaching overseas

Marianna Daniels

Ms. Marianna Daniels, Madison, Wisconsin, USA, has been named Elementary School EAL Teacher beginning August 1, 2018. In her professional career, Ms. Marianna has taught Kindergarten and Grades 3 and 5 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. She was a coordinator for after-school activities and a faculty facilitator for Student Council.

Ms. Marianna enjoys reading, traveling, playing rugby, scuba diving, and surfing.

Ms. Marianna holds the following degrees:

• Bachelor of Arts in International Development degree from McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
• Post-Graduate Teaching Certificate from the University of West Florida.
• Florida State Teacher Certification

Christopher Goode

Jakob Medlin

Mr. Jakob Medlin, Iowa, USA, has been teaching at TAS since 2016. In his career as an IT professional, he worked all over the world for startups specializing in designing and developing video game software for mobile platforms. Projects he’s worked on, including the world famous Angry Birds, have been downloaded by millions of people around the world.

In his free time, he enjoys playing sports and games, reading books, dining with friends, and keeping up with the latest technology news.

• BA of Game Design, University of Advancing Technology, Tempe, Arizona, USA.
• Certified Scrum Master, Management Institute of Finland.
• CELTA Certified, ILA Vietnam.

Victor Sifontes

Mr. Victor Sifontes, Caracas, Venezuela, has been named ESL Coordinator beginning August 1, 2017. In his professional career, Mr. Sifontes began as a foreign language assistant at Highlands School in Enfield, London teaching Spanish to students from year 3 to year 6 in 2007. A year later, after his return to Venezuela, he taught Generative Grammar and Applied Linguistics at the University of Carabobo while he was an ESL teacher at Wall Street Institute in Valencia, Venezuela. In Caracas, he taught ESL in grades 5 and 6 at Institutos Educacionales Asociados (IEA) and more recently he was the ES ESL teacher at Escuela Campo Alegre (ECA) The American International School, also in Caracas, Venezuela.

When Mr. Sifontes is not teaching, he enjoys doing yoga, reading, writing, dancing, jogging, singing, cooking, listening to music, watching films, and practising his French.

• Bachelor of Education in ESL, University of Carabobo, Carabobo, Venezuela
• PD training: NWEA MAP testing, Engagement and Academic Language Development in ELLs.
• 7 years of teaching experience in England and Venezuela.

Lucia Faccini

Ms. Lucia Faccini, Maracaibo, Zulia, Venezuela, has been named Art teacher in the Middle School High School beginning August 1, 2017. In her professional career, Ms. Lucia Faccini has taught drawing and digital art classes to children in summer schools in Maracaibo, Venezuela. And has been a visiting lecturer in Vietnam Design Institute ADS in Ho Chi Minh City. She worked as a Teacher Assistant in her University during her studying years. Ms. Lucia Faccini has also been the main designer for a Japanese Language and Culture Institute in Maracaibo, Venezuela. She enjoys life-drawing, animation, swimming, traveling, and movies.

Ms. Lucia holds the following degrees:

• Bachelor in Graphic Design degree from The University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela.
• Bachelor in Sciences from Nuestra Sra. De La Merced School

Jessica Daniels

Ms. Jessica Daniels from Brookfield, Illinois, USA, has been named TAS Middle and High School English teacher starting in August of 2018. She has taught in Berwyn, Illinois, England, South Korea, and Vietnam. Most recently, Ms. Jessica Daniels was a middle school world history teacher at American International School at the Nha Be campus in Ho Chi Minh City. She previously served as social committee chair, led student council, and ran an Ultimate Frisbee club for students.

Ms. Jessica Daniels has fallen in love with the country of Vietnam and has lived in Ho Chi Minh City for four years! In her free time, she loves to play sports, cook, read, hike, travel, and hang out with her friends.

• BS in Education degree from Illinois State University with a specialization in middle school social science, science, and language arts.
• Minor in Psychology
• Illinois State Teacher Certification
• Online ESL tutor
• EARCOS ESL Conference in Seoul, South Korea, 2013

Kate Soper

Ms. Kate Soper has been named Middle and High School Drama teacher beginning August 1, 2017. In her professional career, she has been Head of Performing Arts at Central Foundation Girls’ School, London, England and at Hammersmith Academy, London, England. With a specialization in lighting design, Ms. Kate Soper has also worked at the Place Theatre, London and at Lounge on the Farm festival, Kent (both in the UK).

Ms. Kate Soper has directed a number of school musicals as well as a production as part of the National Theatre New Connections scheme and taken a show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Scotland, UK. She has led choirs at both Hammersmith Academy and Central Foundation Girls’ School.

Ms. Kate Soper has earned the following degrees and certifications:

• Drama with a specialization in technical theatre from the University of Kent, Canterbury, England.
• Post Graduate Certificate of Education, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, London, England.

Chad Niemann

Mr. Chad Niemann, Chicago, Illinois

Chad has been teaching English as a Second Language in Vietnam for 3 years as well as supporting international schools such as ISHCMC, SIC and TAS as a substitute teacher. Prior to moving to Vietnam, he had been working as a business manager in Colorado, USA and volunteering at the University of Colorado’s ESL Academy.

He enjoys traveling, hiking, camping, going to see live music, and playing sports, especially baseball and basketball. Over the summer break, he returns to his hometown to spend time with his family and attend baseball games.

• Florida State Professional Teaching Certificate Elementary K-6.
• Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certificate (TEFL)
• B.A. Business Management, Arizona State University.
• 3+ years teaching experience in Vietnam.

Nicole Tombarelli

Ms. Nicole Tombarelli, Gray, Maine, USA has been named Elementary Art Teacher beginning August 1st, 2017. She recently graduated from The University of Southern Maine, receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Education. She concentrated her studio art work in painting and she was exhibited in the Senior Show in 2015.

Her first year of teaching was in 2016 at Falmouth Elementary in the State of Maine. She worked with K-2 students in Special Education and 3-5 grade students as a teacher assistant. While at Falmouth, Ms. Nicole Tombarelli also lead adaptive art for students with exceptionalities and volunteered at after school art club. She has experience in teaching art, working at The Art Camp of New England as a Ceramics Teacher and Gray Recreation Summer Camp as the Art Coordinator.

Ms. Nicole Tombarelli enjoys serving others and traveling to new places. She has participated in three community service mission trips in Colorado, New York and Guatemala. Some of her hobbies are hiking, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and in the winter months skiing, skating and snowshoeing.

She has a passion for art and excited to be teaching at TAS.

• K-12 Art Certification.
• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Education.

Scott Johnson

Mr. Scott Johnson – Chicago, Illinois, USA, has been named the TAS Middle-High School Science Teacher beginning in 2016. He has been teaching science in Vietnam for 7 years with experience teaching grades 6 – 12. Primarily, he specializes in teaching Middle School Sciences, High School Biology, and High School Chemistry. Before coming to Vietnam, he was a lead molecular scientist in a bio-chemical rapid response program for the Department of Homeland Security, operating out of the Department of Health and Human Services in Chicago, Illinois.

Outside of teaching, he enjoys travelling by motorcycle all over Vietnam and visiting as many interesting sites as possible in this beautiful country.

• BS Microbiology & Genetics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
• MSc Biotechnology, University of Maryland, Adelphi, MD, USA
• State of Florida, USA, Teacher Certification Science 6 – 12
• IELTS Teaching Certification

Trang To

Ms. Trang To has been named the Vietnamese Studies Teacher at TAS Middle-High School since August 2017. In her professional career, she has taught Vietnamese for foreigners at VLS center (Vietnamese Language Studies) and EZ Vietnamese center before she began her tenure at TAS. Ms. Trang graduated BA in Vietnam Studies at Ho Chi Minh City University of Education and have a passion for research on Vietnamese culture and history. She is also a member of the committees organize traditional cultural events such as Moon Festival and Tet Festival.

Ms. Trang likes to spend her free time listening to music, watching movies and taking care of her pets.

• Bachelor of Vietnamese Studies, Ho Chi Minh City University of Education
• Certificate of Education from Ho Chi Minh City University of Education
• Certificate of Education from University of Social Science and Humanities, HCMC
• Over 6 years of experience and teaching at Vietnam

Elizabeth Stoughton

Ms. Elizabeth Stoughton from West Hartford, Connecticut, USA has been named Grade 1 teacher in the Elementary School beginning August 1st, 2017. In her professional career, Ms. Stoughton has taught 1st grade, as well as ESL classes for grades 2-5. She has been teaching in Vietnam for over 2 years. Ms. Stoughton has taught the core elementary subjects of language arts, science, math, and social studies. Ms. Stoughton studied abroad in Salamanca, Spain as well as Brighton, UK and loves learning new languages and new cultures. Ms. Stoughton loves to sing, dance, swim, cook and explore the world around her.

• BA in Spanish Language and English Literature from Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
• TEFL teaching certificate from Oxford Seminars

Suzanne Ede

Ms. Suzanne Ede is an ICT teacher and department head of Creative Arts at TAS Middle-High School. She began her tenure at TAS in November 2016.

Ms. Suzanne began her teaching career in West Sussex, England in 2010 after graduating from The University of Brighton with a PGCE in Design Technology. She taught middle/high school there for three years before moving to Vietnam. Ms. Suzanne served as an Elementary head of department in Ho Chi Minh City for three years before starting her tenner at TAS.

Ms. Suzanne enjoys being creative in her free time through painting, photography and website design. This year she is learning to play guitar.

• Masters of Education: Technology, Creativity & Thinking, Exeter University, England
• PGCE Design Technology, Brighton University, England.
• BA Hons Fine Art, Chichester University, England.
• Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) certificate
• 8+ years teaching experience in England and Vietnam

Francesca Flores

Ms. Francesca Flores — Austin, Texas, is joining TAS as a Second Grade Teacher, August 2018. She has been involved with Education and Mentoring for almost a decade, and has worked in South Korea, Vietnam, Italy, Spain and America. She has worked extensively with Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and 5th Grade. She has taught Science, Math, English, Writing, and Theater. In her last school, she founded a dance club and hopes to start a gardening program at TAS. She has also worked in Education Consulting and assisted International Students transition to University in America.

Ms. Flores enjoys reading, writing, dancing, live music, comedy, food, coffee, yoga, traveling and learning Vietnamese.

• BA in Spanish San Marcos, Texas, USA
• BAIS in International Studies San Marcos, Texas, USA
• TESOL Certification
• TEFL-Theater and Play
• 7+ years of teaching experience in South Korea, Vietnam, Italy, Spain and USA

Greta Behan

Ms. Greta Behan, Trempealeau, Wisconsin, USA has been named Grade 3 teacher in the Elementary School beginning August 1, 2018. In her professional career, she taught 2nd grade in Pereira, Colombia last year. Ms. Behan graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 2017 where she earned a degree in elementary and special education. Currently she is working towards her Masters Degree in ESL from St. Cloud State University. She has coached gymnastics for many years and enjoys working with kids in a sports setting. Ms. Behan has done service learning projects in Cambodia and Morocco in the past years. Ms. Behan hold the following degrees:

• BA in Elementary and Special Education from University of Wisconsin
• Wisconsin State Teaching License- Elementary Education 1-8
• Wisconsin State Teaching License- Special Education 1-8

Ms. Behan enjoys spending time with her family, friends and traveling. In her spare time she likes trying new foods, hiking, and being outside. Also, she loves to play and watch sports. She excited to be living and teaching in Vietnam this year!

Hien Vo

Ms. Hien Vo has been named TAS Middle-High School Vietnamese Studies Teacher since August 2016. In her professional career, Ms. Hien Vo used to be a homeroom teacher and has taught Vietnamese Studies for both Early Childhood and Elementary of several international schools in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.

Ms. Hien is an enthusiastic teacher who is willing to support students not only in her classes but also in other activities in school. She also enjoys singing and dancing with students in some school events. Especially, she is very open to listen to parents and students’ needs in order to support the students better. She also likes to spend her free time for helping other people, traveling and learning to improve her teaching experience.

• HCMC University of Education (2002 – 2006)

Jennifer Weeast

Ms. Jennifer Weeast is from Montana, USA. She is the 6th and 8th grade English Language Arts teacher beginning August 1, 2018. In her professional career, Jennifer has been a middle and high school English teacher in Vietnam and South Korea, and an elementary school teacher in Costa Rica.

Jennifer holds the flowing degrees and certificates:

• Master of Education In Teaching English as a Second Language Specialist Bilingual Education
• Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education K-8
• Spanish language teacher certification
• Montana Educator’s License

In addition to Jennifer’s experience teaching abroad, she has volunteered extensively including coaching a Lego Robotics League at the Boys and Girls Club in Washington, USA. Jennifer has also participated in a variety of projects with teachers worldwide. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, reading, cooking, horseback riding, surfing, and spending time with her husband and friends.

Julianne Athon

Julianne Athon, San Diego, California, has been named Middle-High School ESL Teacher beginning August 2018. After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley with a BA in English, she began teaching in New Haven Connecticut where she taught 9th grade for three years through a program called Teach For America. In Connecticut she was the teacher advisor to various clubs, including Guitar club and Dance club. She then moved to Spain where she taught ESL for three years in Madrid. While in Madrid, she earned her masters degree in the University of Alcalá in Bilingual and Multicultural Education. She has taught in Vietnam for one year is excited to continue her career at The American School. In her spare time, she enjoys playing the guitar, cooking, reading, and traveling. Julianne holds the following degrees:

• Bachelor of Arts from University of California, Berkeley
• Connecticut State Teacher Certification
• Masters of Multicultural and Bilingual Education

Kasey O’Brien

Mr. Kasey O’Brien — Spencer, Wisconsin, has been named TAS Elementary School Teacher beginning in August 2018. Since 2007, Mr. Kasey has been working in the TESOL field. He has done everything from teaching, teacher training, and managing English language centers. For the past 10 years, he has worked for a large English language school in Ho Chi Minh City, ILA Vietnam. Before teaching in Vietnam, he worked as a TESOL teacher in Prague, Czech Republic. He has taught a variety of ages, from elementary school to high school.

Mr. Kasey enjoys spending time with his family, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, reading about health and fitness, cooking, traveling, and drinking coffee.

• BA in Psychology from University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire
• Trinity Cert TESOL Certification
• Young Learner Extension to the CELTA (YLE CELTA)
• Diploma of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (DELTA) – all three modules.
• 6+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam and Czech Republic

Kenneth-Maderis

Mr. Kenny Maderis- Elko, Nevada, USA has been named history teacher for 6th and 7th grade for the academic year 2018-2019. Kenny has been teaching in Vietnam for more than six years. In his professional career he has taught young learners of all ages as well as learners with special needs. In addition to regular teaching duties, Kenny did volunteer work tutoring disadvantaged young learners at a school in his hometown.

In his free time, Kenny enjoys reading books, traveling, watching sports and spending time with family and friends.

• Post Baccalaureate in Secondary Education, Great Basin College, Elko, Nevada, USA
• BS in Marketing, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
• Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA), Cambridge University
• Nevada State educator’s license (Secondary Education- Social Studies)

Lee Chung

Ms. Mei Chung is the new TAS Elementary Grade 5 Teacher. She grew up in Austin, Texas and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Texas at Austin and became a certified teacher in 2004. She has over 8 years of teaching experience. She taught ESL, 1st, 2nd, and 4th grade. She has worked at schools in America, China, Taiwan, and Germany. She loves learning about new cultures and languages. She speaks German and Mandarin. In her free time, she enjoys reading, yoga, running, movies, cooking, trying new food, and spending time with her 2 year old daughter.

• BS in Applied Learning and Development, Minor in Educational Psychology
• Teaching certification in Elementary Education & ESL certification from Austin, Texas USA
• TEFL Certification
• IB PYP Certification (Category 1)
• 8 years teaching experience

Marc Turcotte

Mr. Marc Turcotte is born in the small Canadian town of Falher, Alberta. He will be joining our team August 1st as a performing arts teacher in the middle school. After obtaining his bachelor’s degree in Music and Second language acquisition at the Universtiy of Alberta, he quickly took of to gain experience as an international teacher. Marc has worked as a second language teacher (French and English), Music and Drama teacher in the countries of Taiwan, Japan, Canada, Switzerland, and now Vietnam.

Marc has also played in many concert bands, rock groups, and choirs. Also passionate by drama, he is a big fan of improvisation and has participated in numerous amateur theater productions. His biggest passion is definitely teaching which was ignited by teaching swimming lessons as a lifeguard in his hometown. Other passions include traveling, snowboarding, tennis and photography. He is looking forward to joining our team at TAS and inspiring future artists in Music and Drama.

Marty Charters

Mr. Martin “Marty” Charters of Virginia Beach, Virginia has been assigned to work in the STEM department as their middle school science teacher beginning August 1, 2018. In his professional career, Marty has taught elementary school, English, math, social studies, science, and health education as well as 6th, 7th, and 8th grade science and math in Virginia Beach City Public Schools in Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA. Marty also has taught computer technology to primary students in the United Arab Emirates, 7th grade math, 8th grade science, and 9th grade computer technology in Turkey, and middle school science in China. Marty also teaches private English

After school Marty has coached girls and boys sports – volleyball, basketball, and softball.

Marty holds the following degrees:

• Masters of Science of Education degree from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, USA
• Bachelor of Science degree in Geography from Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, USA
• Postgraduate Professional Teaching License from the Commonwealth of Virginia, endorsed in computer science, earth and space science, geography, middle education grades 4-8
• CELTA certificate, Level 5, in English Language Teaching to Adults from ILA and Cambridge English in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Associate of Applied Sciences degree in Computer and Information Science from ECPI College of Technology in Norfolk, Virginia, USA
• Associate in Applied Sciences degree from the State University of New York at Delhi in Delhi, New York, USA
• TESOL certificate of ESL for the Secondary Science Teacher from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in Eau Claire, Wisconsin
• Certificate from the Summer Institute on Academic Diversity at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
• Commission in the United States Navy granted from Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, USA

Outside of school, Marty has submerged himself in the local community by teaching English, teaching dance, and playing tennis with Vietnamese people in his local home community. He has also lead local school trips as well and EF Tours international trips with students from the schools he has taught at in the past.

Marty has a 29-year-old daughter who is a registered nurse at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, Virginia in the USA.

Philosophy: “Give a student an answer, he knows it for a day; teach a student how to find an answer, he knows it for a life time.”

Michael Princer

Mr. Michael Princer has been named a TAS Spanish Teacher beginning in August 2018. Mr. Michael Princer has been teaching Spanish in schools and colleges for the last 20 years. He has worked in Illinois, Wisconsin, South Korea and now, Vietnam. He holds a teaching license from the State of Illinois and has completed extensive graduate coursework in linguistics and second language acquisition theory. He fell in love with living and studying abroad as a Rotary Youth Exchange student in Mexico and has been traveling ever since. He completed his coursework for his master’s degree in Santiago de Compostela, Spain but has recently been exploring South America. Mr. Princer spent last year attending culinary school in Buenos Aires, Argentina and looks forward to getting back to the classroom. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, reading and learning new languages.

Mr. Princer holds the following degrees and licenses:

• University of Northern Iowa, M.A. in Spanish
• Lawrence University, B.A. in Spanish
• Illinois State Teaching License

Nidhi Singh

Ms. Nidhi Singh has been named as a Science Teacher in the STEM department at TAS Middle-High School, reporting to the principal beginning August 1, 2018. She is an inspiring, self -motivated and dynamic middle and high school teacher. Nidhi has been teaching Science in Vietnam for seven years with experience in teaching grades 6 to 12.

She is also passionate about YOGA and has been practicing yoga for more than 20 years. She also enjoys travelling and gardening.

Nidhi holds the following degrees and certificates

• M. Sc. Zoology, Purvanchal University India.
• B.Sc. Life Sciences and Chemistry, India
• Teaching English as a second language certificate.
• Cambridge certificates for teaching in secondary science.
• Certificate course in Yoga.
• 7+ years of teaching experience.

Renee Faubert

Ms. Renée Faubert, Toronto, Ontario, Canada has been named a Middle School Visual Arts and ICT Teacher beginning in August 2018. Professionally, in the past, Renée has taught middle school Design and Visual Arts in an independent and boarding school in Toronto, Ontario. She also taught Design at a Bilingual School in Quito, Ecuador. Renée also has four years experience in teaching in the International Baccalaureate Program at the Middle School Level.

Renée holds the following degrees and qualifications:

• Ontario Certified Teacher Intermediate/Senior Visual Arts and History
• Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
• Intermediate/Senior Divisions Visual Art and History
• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art History and Studio Art from Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada

In the past Renée has also worked as a boarding advisor at her former school in Toronto and was active in the student life program. In her spare time she also enjoys drawing and painting, cooking, practicing yoga, hiking and dance and is an Associate Member of the British Association of Teachers of Dancing in Ballet.

Shannon Grace

Tatum Kashap

Ms. Tatum Kashap has been named TAS Middle-High school ESL Teacher beginning in August 2018. She is originally from the UK, but grew up as an expat in the Middle East, and also lived in Australia after graduating from university in England.

She moved to Vietnam 5 years ago and began her teaching career in Da Nang, teaching English as a second language. Since moving to Ho Chi Minh City two years ago, She has continued to teach English to children and adults of all ages, privately, at the British Council and also at TAS as a substitute teacher.

In addition to teaching English, She’s also a qualified yoga instructor. In her free time, she enjoys making sustainable crafts, and promoting environmental awareness here in Vietnam. Her hobbies include swimming, cooking and reading, as well as traveling to explore Vietnam and its neighboring countries as much as possible.

• Bachelor of Science in Psychology, 1st class honors, University of Gloucestershire
• CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults), University of Cambridge
• TYLEC (Teaching Young Learners Extension Certificate), Trinity College London
• 5 years teaching experience in Vietnam
• RYT200 (Registered Yoga Teacher 200 Hours), Yoga Alliance

Valeryia Kalantayeva

Ms. Valeryia Kalantayeva, Vitebsk, Belarus has been named iESL Teacher in the Middle-High School, beginning August 1, 2018. In her professional career, Ms Valeryia has taught English as a Second Language to elementary and middle school students in Belarus and China for over 5 years. Along with teaching, Ms Valeryia has also worked as a freelance travel writer and a translator.

Ms. Valeryia holds the following degrees and certifications:

• BA in Chinese and English Language Studies, Linguistics and Pedagogy, Minsk, Belarus
• Teaching English as a Second Language Certification (TESOL), Arizona, USA
• Chinese Language Intensive Studies Certification, Beijing Language and Culture University, China
• 5+ years ESL teaching experience overseas

Han Tran

Ms. Han Tran – Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, has been named TAS Middle-High School Vietnamese Teacher since August 2017. Ms. Han is an enthusiastic and careful teacher. She always wrestles with a problem that almost students disregard their speeches and culture. Therefore, she focusses on education about moral awareness, national origin and precious tradition that our ancestors built in the history throughout the subject. Besides, she also cultivates experience and practical lessons for students.

Her hobbies are travelling, cooking, writing and reading.

• Bachelor of Teaching Literature – Can Tho University, Can Tho City, Vietnam
• A top excellent student of Literature Department – Course: 2007 – 2011
• 3 years: teaching, reviewing for national exams in various Middle Schools, High Schools and Learning Centers at HCMC.
• 2 years: teaching at American International School – HCMC.

Dustin Robert

A “bi-coastal” American, after growing up in Sanford, Maine, Mr. Dustin finished his Bachelor’s Degree in Southern California at UC, Santa Barbara and lived for many years in Los Angeles. After trying his hand in several fields outside of academics, he finally landed in Vietnam in 2013 and started focusing on teaching. Since then, he’s been gradually working his way up the teaching ladder while also becoming adept at coaching sports.

Recently, Mr. Dustin has completed a Mindfulness in Education teacher training at the Esalen Institute in gorgeous Big Sur, California. So, he intends on helping his students stay connected with their thoughts and expressions as they traverse the digital age.

• BA in Film Studies from UC, Santa Barbara with a focus on writing
• State of Florida teacher’s certification
• TeacherReady alumnus (University of West Florida online program)
• TEFL certified with seven years of ESL teaching experience
• Oxford University certified with an emphasis on teaching young learners
• Certified to instruct IELTS by the British Council
• Mindfulness in Education practione

Ly Nguyen

Ms. Ly Nguyen is the school counselor (social-emotional), she started this role in the beginning of November, 2017.

In her professional career, Ms. Ly has worked for three years for a nonprofit organization (Uplift Family Services). This organization partners with school districts to provide counseling services on site to schools in California. Her services involved helping high school students, struggling with depression, anxiety, and addiction problems. In addition, she facilitated group counseling meetings and educational classes for families who need guidance in parenting their children effectively. Ms. Ly later gained more experience in the special education field by working as a paraprofessional to provide teacher support in a classroom of students with Autism and learning disabilities. After arriving in Vietnam in 2016, she collaborated with a developing NGO called Hope Unending to train community leaders counseling techniques in rural provinces to raise awareness and help combat human trafficking, gender inequality, and child abuse.

Ms. Ly holds the following degrees & certificates:

• BA in Intensive Psychology/Minor in Education from UC Santa Cruz
• Master of Science in School Counseling/Marriage Family Therapy Background from California State University, East Bay

Ari Ambrose

Ms. Ari Ambrose has been named 4th Grade teacher beginning August, 2019. Originally from California, USA, Ms. Ambrose graduated from San Francisco State University with a B.A. in English Language and Linguistics. While pursuing her Bachelor’s degree, Ms. Ambrose worked in EAL classrooms as a teacher’s assistant, and facilitated English language conversation groups for international students through her university. Upon graduating, Ms. Ambrose moved to Denver, Colorado where she worked as a substitute teacher before completing her Master’s degree in Education and Human Development, as we as her Colorado State Teaching License. Ms. Ambrose has been living and teaching in Ho Chi Minh City since January of 2018, and is excited for another school year in such a vibrant, international city.

In her free time, Ms. Ambrose enjoys surfing, bouldering, and reading books in every coffee shop in the city.

Ms. Ambrose holds the following credentials:

• Master of Arts in Education and Human Development
• Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Linguistics
• Colorado State Teaching License
• Cambridge CELTA Certificate

Jacey Eikenbary

Ms. Jacey Eikenbary has been named Elementary School Visual Arts teacher beginning August 15th, 2019. Originally from a small in Ohio, USA, Ms. Jacey spent her first year teaching visual arts in Dubai, UAE during the 2018-2019 school year. Additionally, Ms. Jacey completed her student teaching in an Intermediate School in Auckland, New Zealand and upon completing her studies, she moved to Phetchabun, Thailand to teach Middle School ESL. Ms. Jacey has also spent time in Italy conducting a summer English camp for children.

Ms. Jacey holds the following degrees:

• BS from Ball State University in Visual Arts Education with a specialization in painting
• State of Indiana teaching license in Visual Arts Education (K-12)

Ms. Jacey has spent time in many countries, whether visiting or volunteering, including Nicaragua, Ecuador, Italy, New Zealand, Fiji, Cambodia, and Myanmar to name a few. She loves to explore new places as well as meet and learn about new people and cultures.

Beri Tata

Ms. Beri Tata, Newark, Delaware, USA has been named Elementary School teacher beginning August 1st, 2019. Her international teaching career began in Madrid in 2014, where she learned Spanish and taught in bilingual public schools. While in Spain, she taught English, Science, and Art for grades 1-4. In 2017, she graduated with a Masters in Bilingual Education from the University of Alcalá de Henares, where she specialized in teaching younger learners. Since arriving to Vietnam in 2017, Ms. Beri has been working with children from ages 5-6 and motivating her students to learn English through content in their various subjects. 

Ms. Beri has a passion for languages, culture, music, and food. When she’s not at school, you can find her dancing, doing yoga, reading a book, or listening to music. She spends her summers traveling, spending time with family, and helping her father in volunteer projects.

• B.A. in Foreign Languages and Literature (Spanish) University of Delaware, Newark, DE
• Masters in Bilingual Education, University of Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
• Masters TEFL Certificate 

Branden Pearl

Ms. Branden Pearl has been named Elementary School 2nd Grade teacher as of August 15th, 2019. Ms. Branden is originally from the city of Chicago, IL., then moved to Aspen, CO in her teenage years. Her passion for travel and experiencing new cultures began by spending a college semester in Seville, Spain, then living in Brazil after graduation. Ms. Branden’s work with children began as early on as 16 years of age, when she began volunteering at the local elementary school and years later becoming a mentor to at-risk teenagers. Ms. Branden began her teaching career in Los Angeles, then returned to Colorado to teach ESL and Third Grade. In August of 2017, Ms. Branden began her international teaching career, teaching Kindergarten and 1st Grade Language Arts at a private school in Turkey. She spent two years there before coming to TAS.

Ms. Branden holds the following degrees:

• Masters of Arts in Education, Pepperdine University, Culver City, CA
• Bachelor of Arts in English, Lewis and Clark College, Portland, OR
• Colorado State Teaching License in Elementary Education (K-6), English Language Arts (7-12), and Linguistically Diverse Education (K-12)

Ms. Branden is excited to join the TAS community and begin living in Ho Chi Minh City. She is thrilled to be teaching 2nd grade. In her free time, Branden enjoys running, swimming, hiking and reading.

Nicole Gabriel

Ms. Nicole Gabriel, San Diego, California, USA, has been named TAS Early Childhood teacher beginning February 2021. In her professional career, Ms. Nicole has taught Nursery, Pre-K, Kindergarten, and Grade 3 students while living in Vietnam for over five years. While attending college, Ms. Nicole pursued various volunteer opportunities abroad in Mexico working with underprivileged children and helping to protect sea turtles. This is where she realized her passion for living abroad and teaching.

Ms. Nicole holds the following degrees and certificates:

• Florida Educator’s Certificate, The University of West Florida, USA
• TEFL Certificate from TEFL International, VN
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, San Diego State University, USA

Ms. Nicole loves boxing, practicing different styles of dance, and learning about different cultures through her travels. She also enjoys hiking, photography, and eating spicy food.

Samantha Medema

Ms. Samantha Medema has been named Third Grade Teacher at TAS beginning August 1, 2019. Ms. Samantha grew up in the Washington, D.C. area, and moved to West Africa in 2016 to teach at the American International School of Niamey in Niamey, Niger. In the two years she was at AISN, Ms. Samantha was the classroom teacher for 5th-6th grades, taught Elementary specials, and coordinated MAP testing for PreK-Grade 12. She received her Elementary teaching credential through D.C.’s Office of the State Superintendent of Education in 2017. Before teaching, she worked for several years at top-rated restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Ms. Samantha holds the following degrees:

• BA from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County with a major in American Studies, concentration in Media and Communications
• Graduate teaching certificate from the Teach-Now Graduate School of Education
• Washington, D.C. teaching license in Elementary Education (1-6)

Ms. Samantha loves traveling and counts Marseille and Bali among her favorite places. She loves living in Vietnam so far, and in her free time she enjoys exploring new places in Ho Chi Minh City, practicing yoga, learning about food and nutrition, reading at coffee shops, and volunteering to help stray and shelter dogs.

Wanda Adams

Ms. Wanda Adams, Georgetown, Guyana has been named Elementary ICT teacher beginning August 1, 2019. In her professional career, Ms. Adams, for five years, served as elementary homeroom teacher in the public-school system in Guyana. For 16 years, she taught early years, Reading, Digital Citizenship and served as the Educational Technology Coach at the Georgetown International Academy.

Ms. Adams holds a BA in Elementary Education from the University of Southern Caribbean and a Teaching Certificate in Elementary from the Ministry of Education (Guyana). Though she has taken a short hiatus in her studies for her master’s degree, she plans on resuming in the spring of 2020 studying to complete double majors in Educational Technology and Literacy.

Ms. Adams loves hosting STEAM activities and playing word games in her spare time. She is very excited to join the TAS team and look forward to the contributions she will make and the expertise she’ll gain from her colleagues.

Omer Malchi

Mr. Omer Malchi has been named Special Education and Learning Support Teacher beginning August 2019. Born in Netanya, Israel, Mr. Omer grew up in New York, USA from the age of six. In 2005, Omer was accepted to the New York City Teaching Fellowship program, teaching students with autism and special needs in the Bronx, NY. Omer has lived in Asia since 2013, working as an educational advisor for an INGO in Nepal, teaching English in Japan. Prior to arriving in Vietnam, he has spent the past year trekking the mountains of Nepal, studying yoga in India, volunteering at a community center in rural Sri Lanka and as a Learning Support Teacher in Israel.

Mr. Omer enjoys learning about new cultures and new languages, helping others, practicing yoga, meditation, surfing, playing basketball, soccer and watching his favorite team Liverpool FC.

Mr. Omer holds the following degrees:

• BA in History from the State University of New York at Geneseo with a minor in Asian Studies
• MS in Urban Education from Mercy College of Dobbs Ferry, NY with a concentration in students with special needs
• New York State Professional Teaching Certification
• TEFL Certification
• 11+ years teaching experience, 13+ years in the education field

Laura Rieke

Ms. Laura Rieke has been named middle school English teacher at The American School of Vietnam. She grew up in Malawi, Africa and attended an international school there until middle school. Ms. Laura attended high school and earned her undergraduate degree in the state of Wisconsin, USA. Recently she completed her masters and is eager to utilize and share her learning. She has taught in Wisconsin, Kuwait, China, and now is excited to be in the beautiful country of Vietnam.

• Bachelor of Science in Middle Childhood-Early Adolescence (MC-EA) Education
• English Minor
• University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
• Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
• Adolescent Literacy Concentration
• University of Concordia – Portland
• State of Wisconsin Teaching License

As a life-long learner, Ms. Laura loves traveling and experiencing new cultures and opportunities. In her free time, she thoroughly enjoys reading, music and theater, outdoor activities like bicycling, hiking, and playing tennis.

Jessica Vu

Ms. Jessica Vu joined TAS in August of 2019 after having taught music at well-known International Schools in Vietnam for 14 years. In 2009, she left Vietnam to reunite with her family in the United States.

Ms. Jessica holds a bachelor’s degree in English Languages and Piano Performance. She started learning piano at the age of six. She can also play a variety of instruments including guitar, ukulele, drum and violin. She enjoys teaching her students singing, dancing and drama.

When not teaching music, Ms. Jessica enjoys cooking, listening to music, practicing yoga, trying new restaurants, shopping and spending time with friends and family.

• Bachelor of Piano Performance – HCMC Conservatory of Music
• Bachelor of English Languages – HCMC Open University

Alan Gray

Mr. Alan is a Middle School Science teacher at The American School. He grew up in a small town in Ireland and attended high school there. He earned his undergraduate degree in the University of Limerick, Ireland in 2009. He has taught in Ireland, UK, and Thailand for the past 11 years.

Bachelor of Science with Concurrent Teacher Education in Physical Sciences.

Mr. Alan is very excited to have moved to Vietnam to start working in The American School last year. It is a wonderful school with an inspirational student body. In his free time he loves reading, travelling, rock climbing, badminton, running and cycling. Since he has moved to Vietnam, he has been trying to learn Vietnamese which has given a wonderful insight into Vietnam, its culture and the struggles of learning a new language. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions at alan.gray@tas.edu.vn

Tram Vo

Ms. Tram Vo has been named middle school Vietnamese teacher at The American School of Vietnam. She grew up in Saigon, Vietnam. Ms. Tram attended high school and earned her bachelor degree and post graduate in Vietnam and is eager to utilize and share her learning. She has taught at Tran Quoc Toan middle school, Nguyen Tat Thanh University and now is excited to be at The American School of Vietnam.

• Bachelor of English Studies – Hanoi University
• Graduate Diploma in TESOL – Open University
• TESOL certificate – Cambridge University

As a life-long learner, Ms. Tram loves traveling and experiencing new cultures and opportunities. In her free time, she thoroughly enjoys reading, music and theater, outdoor activities like bicycling, swimming.

Ly Nguyen

Ms. Ly Nguyen is the school counselor (social-emotional), she started this role in the beginning of November, 2017.

In her professional career, Ms. Ly has worked for three years for a nonprofit organization (Uplift Family Services). This organization partners with school districts to provide counseling services on site to schools in California. Her services involved helping high school students, struggling with depression, anxiety, and addiction problems. In addition, she facilitated group counseling meetings and educational classes for families who need guidance in parenting their children effectively. Ms. Ly later gained more experience in the special education field by working as a paraprofessional to provide teacher support in a classroom of students with Autism and learning disabilities. After arriving in Vietnam in 2016, she collaborated with a developing NGO called Hope Unending to train community leaders counseling techniques in rural provinces to raise awareness and help combat human trafficking, gender inequality, and child abuse.

Ms. Ly holds the following degrees & certificates:

• BA in Intensive Psychology/Minor in Education from UC Santa Cruz
• Master of Science in School Counseling/Marriage Family Therapy Background from California State University, East Bay

Christopher Knutson

Mr. Chris Knutson of Santa Monica, California, USA, has been named Middle School and High School Social Studies and English teacher beginning August 1, 2019. In his professional career, Mr. Knutson has taught English at Singapore International School at Saigon South in Saigon, Vietnam. Before entering education, Mr. Knutson spent many years working in the American Entertainment Industry. He worked closely with major studios including Warner Bros., Sony Pictures Studios and New Line Cinema among others and served as Creative Executive for writer/director John Herzfeld. These experiences currently inform his educational style, particularly with reference to narrative structure and plot development in his English Literature instruction.

Mr. Knutson holds the following degrees and certifications:

• BA cum laude in English Literature from Montana State University, USA.
• BA cum laude in Film and Television also from Montana State University, USA.
• Washington, D.C. Teaching Certification.
• CELTA TEFL Certification.
• MEd – Master’s in Education (complete Fall 2019) Teach-Now, Washington, D.C.

Mr. Knutson incorporates his extensive interests in both story structure and world history in general into every English and Social Studies class he teaches and constantly works towards building a strong rapport with his students. He is an advocate of Project-Based Learning and encourages his students to develop Self-Directed Learning skills. He is excited for the opportunity to join the TAS team and looks forward to growing with the school community.

David Lauchmen

Mr. David Lauchmen, who is from Easthampton, Massachusetts, USA, has been named Student Support Services Coordinator beginning August 1, 2019.

During his professional career in education of 30+ years, Mr. David has used co-teaching, team teaching, station teaching, and push-in and pull-out models to instruct special needs students with a variety of academic, behavioural and social/emotional issues in English, math, science, history, and study skills. He taught for 19 years at a public high school in Massachusetts; 3 years at the International School of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; and was the Student Support Services Coordinator at Khartoum American School, Sudan and the American International School of Lusaka, Zambia for 2 years each. He has worked in both IB and CORE curriculum schools. He uses an experiential, inquiry-based approach to teaching and advocates for the most inclusive setting for students to develop their executive functioning skills.

Mr. David worked in The Cheshire Home in Marrakech, Morocco for 5 years creating therapeutic exercise programs for physically handicapped boys and directing the facility. He also spent many years working as a ropes course and team building facilitator for hospitals, schools and corporations.

Mr. David is married to Pam Kennedy and has 3 adult children and one granddaughter.

Mr. David holds the following degrees and certifications:

• UNIVERSITY OF SAN FRANCISCO, San Francisco, California
  2015 graduate; Master of Arts, Organization and Leadership
• WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY, Pullman, Washington
  2015 graduate; Advanced Certificate for International School Leadership
• WESTFIELD STATE COLLEGE, Westfield, Massachusetts
  1992 graduate; Master of Education, teaching certification in Severe Special Needs
• NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY, Chicago, Illinois
  1983 graduate; Certification in Prosthetics
• MACMURRAY COLLEGE, Jacksonville, Illinois
  1977 graduate; Bachelor of Science Degree, Physical Education
• CPR and First Aid certification

Jergus Stevko

Mr. Jergus Stevko, Levice, Slovakia has been named Middle School Math Teacher beginning August 15, 2019. In his professional career, Mr. Jergus has taught middle school Math in various types of schools in Brno, Czech Republic and Odense, Denmark, most notably the Montessori School Gajdosova and The International School of Brno. Mr. Jergus spent over 8 years working as a Summer camp instructor, English and Math (AP and IB level) tutor and a part-time teacher. Prior to moving to TAS, he worked in public and bi-lingual schools in Ho Chi Minh city for two years. In addition, Mr. Jergus has been involved in various enrichment programs integrating the math curriculum with introductory finance education, business basics and charity.

Mr. Jergus holds the following degrees and certifications:

• BA of Economics, Masaryk University Brno
• Masters in Education, with the specialization for Middle School Math and English, which includes a Czech teaching license.

Mr. Jergus uses his international background and various work experiences to develop lessons that connect ideas from real life and non-mathematic fields with the current standards to make learning interesting for students.

Carlos Simon

Mr. Carlos Simón Lázaro, Madrid, Spain has been named Middle School and High School Spanish teacher beginning August 15, 2019. In his professional career, Mr. Carlos has taught Spanish as a second language in Spain and in Vietnam. Before entering the world of teaching Mr. Carlos spent a few years working in the communication field, where he had the opportunity to live in China for 2 years. While in Madrid, Carlos earned his ELE teacher certification from Instituto Cervantes, and went on to teach Spanish in Barcelona. This will be the third year of Mr. Carlos teaching Spanish in Vietnam.

Mr. Carlos holds the following degrees and certifications:

• ELE Teacher Certification (Spanish as a second language) by Instituto Cervantes.
• Geography of the Spanish world: Linguistic & cultural variations by Instituto Cervantes.
• The teaching of the Spanish verbal system by Instituto Cervantes.
• Postgraduate degree in Coaching, PNL and team Leadership by the Universidad Isabel I.
• MBA in business by ESDEN.
• Degree in Communication by Universidad Abierta de Cataluña.

Mr. Carlos is excited for this opportunity to join the TAS team and looks forward to the challenges and opportunities that await.

Heeyeon-Kim

Ms. Heeyeon Kim has been named Mandarin teacher beginning August 1, 2019. Originally from Hulunbuir Prairie in North East, China, Ms. Heeyeon has been living in South Korea for nearly 10 years where she started teaching Mandarin and then moved to Vietnam in 2018. She is good at teaching students in accordance with their aptitude and developing positive teacher-student relationships to raise students’ confidences in using and speaking Mandarin.

Ms. Heeyeon holds the following certifications and degrees:

• CTCSOL: Certificate for Teachers of Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages, (Confucius Institute Headquarters, China)
• TCYL: Teaching Chinese to Young Learners, (Chinese Education Center, South Korea)
• Mandarin Proficiency Test Certificates, (Confucius Institute Headquarters, China)
• MSc Financial Management, University of Surrey, UK
• BA Accounting, Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, China
• 6+ years of Mandarin teaching experience in China and South Korea

Andrew Macdonald

Mr. Andrew Macdonald has been named Grade 7 EAL teacher beginning August 1, 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 middle school, Mr. Andrew joined The American School.

Mr. Andrew holds the following qualifications:

• Bachelor of Business (Economics) from the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia
• 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-travelled throughout Asia. He has visited Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Thailand. In his free time, he enjoys watching basketball, listening to podcasts, reading biographies, long distance running and eating pizza.     

Vy Ho

Ms. Vy Ho, Ho Chi Minh CIty, Vietnam has been named VAL teacher in the Elementary School beginning August, 2019. Her teaching career began in 2017. In her professional path, she has taught in various international schools and English centers.

Ms. Vy holds the following degree:

• B.A from Ho Chi Minh City Univeristy of Education majoring in English Translation and Interpretation
• TESOL Teaching Diploma from HCMC Univeristy of Education
• IELTS certificate (9.0 in Reading and Speaking)

She loves children and enjoys imparting them new knowledge. She loves travelling and learn about new people and culture. She usually spends her free time reading books.

Brian Malott

Mr. Brian Malott, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, has been at TAS since fall of 2018. Mr. Brian has classroom experience in many different branches of education. He has taught Kindergarten, Grades 1 and 4 in both South Korea and Vietnam. Mr. Brian has been in Vietnam since 2014. Mr. Brian has a long history of coaching in multiple sports, most notably at the Canadian University level, for the University of Guelph Gryphons Football team, a member of the Ontario Sport Conference (OUA).

• Bachelor Degree in Political Science from McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
• Minor degrees in Religious Studies and Social Studies from McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
• TEFL Certificate
• ASCA Swim Coach Certified
• NCCP Qualified Sport Coach
• 15+ years of coaching experience
• ASHI Certified in CPR, AED, & Basic First Aid Response (Adult, Child, & Infants)

Nhung Le

Ms. Nhung Le has been named TAS MSHS Vietnamese Studies Teacher since December 2018. Ms. Nhung hopes to achieve an interesting and enthusiastic classroom atmosphere for her students. She wants to bring all the best to her classes.

Ms. Nhung also likes to spend her free time reading, swimming, traveling and learning new cultures.

• MA Vietnamese Language and Culture, Ho Chi Minh University of Education, Vietnam
• BA Vietnamese Language and Literature Teacher Education, Ho Chi Minh University of Education, Vietnam
• Has teaching experience in Vietnam since 2011

Billi Connolly

Mrs. Billi Connolly — Deerfield, New Hampshire, USA, has been named Grade 5B Teacher and Upper Elementary Department Head beginning in August 2020. Since 1998, Mrs. Billi has been working in education in a variety of positions. For the past 6 years, she has worked in Ho Chi Minh City in grades K, 2, and 5. She was the Grade 2 team leader for 3 years. Before teaching in Vietnam, she taught in the United States in both public and private schools in grade levels ranging Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5.

Mrs. Billi enjoys spending time with her family including her 6 adult children and 13 grandchildren in the United States, traveling, cross-stitch, cooking and baking.

• AS in Graphic Design and Print, Mount Wachusett Community College, Gardner, MA, USA
• BA in Language Arts and Literature, Granite State College, Manchester, NH, USA
• Post-baccalaureate Certification, Granite State College, Manchester, NH, USA
• Teacher License, Elementary Education K-8, New Hampshire, USA
• Teacher License, Special Education, New Hampshire, USA

Timothy Dalzell

Mr. Timothy Dalzell – Virginia, USA has been named TAS English Department Head/High School English Teacher beginning in 2020. He has been teaching English in Vietnam for over four years with experience teaching grades 7 to 12. He also has extensive experience coaching debate and is looking forward to hosting Debate Club at TAS.

In his free time, Tim enjoys exploring different parts of Vietnam with his wife on his motorbike. He has lived abroad for the last 9 years around South East Asia before settling down in Ho Chi Minh City. Tim is also a big horror movie fan, even though they are unbearably scary to him.

Mr. Tim holds the following degrees and certifications:

• BA in Accounting and Financial Management, University of Sunderland, United Kingdom
• CELTA
• Massachusetts State Teacher Certification in 8-12 English, USA
• PGCEi, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
• MA English Studies, Ohio University, USA

Jean-Marie Balogh

• Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Communication at SUPSI (Scuola Universitaria Professionale della Svizzera Italiana), Lugano, Switzerland
• Certificate as a Web Designer at SAE Institute, Geneva, Switzerland
• Professional Certificate of Graphic Design at CSIA (Center School of Industrial Arts), Lugano, Switzerland
• Professional Certificate as an Illustrator at Scuola del Fumetto, Milan, Italy

Who am I?

I am from the Southern Switzerland, from the town of Lugano, a modern town with a fantastic lake surrounded by mountains, and it takes just 20 minutes to travel by car from the Italian border. That’s the reason why I travel to many interesting places in Italy where I received a lot of inspirations from fantastic museums and historic towns that I have visited throughout Europe.

My educational philosophy

I believe art is something that can enriches the mind and the personalities of people all around me. I think that all people have a creative side that helps them to find great ideas for amazing solutions. I believe that art is a fantastic way for our aspiring artists to express themselves, and for that reason, I am so happy to be a part of the TAS learning community.

Naima Thompson

Ms. Naima Thompson has been named TAS part-time High School Drama teacher beginning in 2020. She was born and raised in Trinidad & Tobago and studied in the USA where she obtained her B.A. in Communication Arts and her M.Ed. in International Education. Ms. Naima has been a Theater Arts and Drama teacher since 1992 and has taught in several countries around the world including the USA, Qatar, China, the UAE, and Vietnam. With a wealth of experience in education, Ms. Naima is poised and excited to bring meaningful experiences to both teachers and students alike at TAS.

• B.A. in Communication Arts, USA
• M.Ed. in International Education, USA

Anna Alfante

Ms. Anna Marie Villa Alfante has been named TAS Middle School-High School Mathematics Teacher beginning in 2020. She is currently teaching higher level Mathematics courses such as Calculus, Pre-Calculus, Algebra 2 and Geometry. She has been teaching Mathematics for more than eight years from primary to tertiary level. Earlier in her career, she served as college instructor for students taking Mathematics programs, such as College Algebra, Statistics, Trigonometry, Business Mathematics, Calculus, Discrete Mathematics and Physics in some Universities and Colleges in the Philippines. She also coached students for the Philippines Statistics Quiz for two years. She taught primary to high school Mathematics at Universal School Jakarta, Indonesia. In 2019, she transferred to Vietnam to teach Mathematics at primary and high school levels. She has also been part of Upwork.com as a freelance writer and statistician for over four years.

Ms. Anna loves reading novels, traveling, and cooking. She also enjoys photography and drinking coffee.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education, Major in Mathematics, University of Rizal System, the Republic of the Philippines
• Completed Academic Requirements for Master of Arts in Education, Major in Mathematics, The National Teachers College, the Republic of the Philippines
• The Philippine Teaching License Certificate – Professional Regulation Commission
• TESOL Certificate – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
• 8+ years teaching experience in the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia

George Connolly

Mr. George Connolly — Deerfield, New Hampshire, USA, has been named TAS Academic Technology Integrationist beginning in August 2020. For 5 years, he has worked in a Pre-K – 12 international school in Ho Chi Minh City, teaching technology and technology integration. Prior to this, Mr. George taught at several schools and colleges in the city as an EAL teacher with students ranging from Kindergarten kids to adults. Before moving to Vietnam, Mr. George worked for an online English learning program, building published lessons and content. Mr. George spent many years in the United States Marine Corp and has lived around the world.

Mr. George enjoys spending time with his family, including his 6 adult children and 13 grandchildren in the United States; traveling; playing golf, darts, and softball.

• BS in Information Technology, Charter University
• TESOL 150, AVSE, HCMC, Vietnam

Barry McGhee

Mr. Barry McGhee, from Scotland, has been named TAS Middle School-High School Mathematics Teacher beginning in 2020. He has spent six years teaching the British Curriculum in HCMC. Prior to this, he spent time teaching in China, Korea and the U.K. He has a Bachelor in Science in Physics from the University of Glasgow and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (Mathematics) from The University of The West of Scotland. Mr. Barry is interested in integrating technology into the classroom and the use of flipped learning techniques to develop independent learners who surpass expectations. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Barry enjoys spending time with his family.

• Bachelor in Science, Major in Physics, University of Glasgow, Scotland
• Postgraduate Diploma in Education, Major in Mathematics, University of The West of Scotland, Scotland

Ha Phan

Ms. Ha Phan has been named TAS Middle School-High School Vietnamese Studies Teacher since May 2020. In her professional career, Ms. Ha used to be a homeroom teacher and has taught Vietnamese Studies in Elementary School and Middle School levels for several international schools as well as public schools in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Ms. Ha is an enthusiastic teacher who is willing to support students not only in her classes but also in other activities in school. She also enjoys drawing and painting with students in some school events. Especially, she is very open to listen to parents and students’ needs in order to support the students better. She also likes to spend her free time helping other people, traveling and learning to improve her teaching experience.

• College/University Teaching Certificate, Hue University of Education, Vietnam
• BA in Vietnamese Language and Literature Teacher Education, Ho Chi Minh University of Education, Vietnam

Mayra Rodriguez Cervera

Ms. Mayra Rodríguez Cervera — Toluca, Mexico, has been named TAS Middle School-High School Spanish Studies Teacher since February 2020. In her professional career, Ms. Mayra has worked as a magazine editor, writer, proofreader, translator, copywriter and content creator. She has studied and worked in Mexico, Spain, Cuba, and Vietnam.

Ms. Mayra has a passion for cultures and languages. She has been teaching a wide range of subjects in Vietnam for more than 5 years, from English as an Additional Language (EAL) in Grade 1, 2 and 3, IELTS preparation courses, to advanced Spanish for Business and Tourism. Before working at TAS, she used to work for recognized language centers in Ho Chi Minh city, travel agencies, as well as other international schools and universities in the city.

Ms. Mayra has also taught Latin American Literature and Culture and Society in Latin America at Vietnam’s National University, Ho Chi Minh City (USSH-HCM) since 2016. She deeply enjoys traveling and exploring new places. When she is not teaching, Ms. Mayra enjoys reading, taking photos, baking, making handcrafts and learning new languages.

Ms. Mayra holds the following degrees and certifications:

• Postgraduate Studies in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)
• Bachelor’s Degree in Latin American Literature, Universidad Iberoamericana, Mexico
• Certificate of Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language, International House, Mexico
• Diploma of Cultural and Linguistic Mediation in Public Communication, Universidad de La Habana, Cuba
• Digital Photography Diploma I & II, Escuela Activa de Fotografía, Mexico
• 5+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam

Phillip Wenturine

Phillip has been an English teacher for the last seven years. He has worked in the USA, China, and Portugal, not only teaching but doing university and scholarship advising to students. He has his Bachelor’s Degree in Literature from the University of North Florida as well as his Master’s Degree in Creative Writing from Eastern Kentucky University. Phillip also completed a post-graduate Fulbright Scholarship to Portugal where he continued his studies of literature and writing alongside working in international education and administration. When Phillip is not helping students, you can find him traveling to new countries and reading a good book.

Tim Vanderpool

Mr. Tim is originally from Seal Beach, Ca., USA. He worked as a Science teacher, department chairman and instructional coach for a large urban school district in California for the first fourteen years of his career. In 2006 he moved to Tokyo, Japan, where he continued to teach Physics and developed a passion for leading curricular professional development. After nine years in Japan, he moved to Ho Chi Minh City, where he has served as a curriculum director since 2015.

Education:

• MS: Instructional Design and Technology
• BA: Physics

Mr. Tim enjoys anything that has to do with nature and the outdoors. His hobbies include surfing, snowboarding, golfing, and traveling the world to absorb other cultures and customs.

Kevin Curran

Mr. Kevin Curran has been in international education for over 25 years, and has worked in California, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan. He has been with top tiered schools in Asia and was most recently the Head of School for an International School in Japan. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in history, a Masters in Secondary Education and a Post Masters Degree in Educational Leadership. Mr. Kevin’s hometown is Laguna Beach, California, so he loves beach activities. He also has a passion for sports and played volleyball at his university. When not at school, Mr. Kevin enjoys spending time with family and traveling. He is happy to be back in Vietnam.

Adam Vetrano

• PGCE School Management & Leadership Harvard University (Cambridge, MA, USA)
• Master’s Degree: Education – Fairfield University (Fairfield, CT, USA)
• Licensed Educator – CT State of Board of Education (Hartford, CT, USA)

WHO AM I?

A New York American Native and the youngest of 5 children, I grew up in The Hamptons on the East End of Long Island, riding my bicycle through the woods, surfing the waves, and always enjoyed trading baseball cards with my classmates. After finishing my Graduate Degree and working for an Educational Non-Profit Group, I took a leap of faith and moved abroad in 2008. It has been 12 incredible years internationally (UAE, South Korea, Vietnam) and although, I miss my friends and family back in the States, I took the road less traveled and it has made all the difference in my life…

MY EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY:

In today’s global society, where information, money, opinions can be sent/shared nearly instantaneously, socioeconomic conditions are more volatile than ever. As countries look to education as a way to provide a true means of transcending poverty, prejudice, and other limitations, it has and will always be the bonds that form between students, teachers, counselors, parents and other agents of the system that instill a sense of community that promotes deeper levels of care and concern for life and all the wonders and joy that can accompany it. I believe that education provides the foundation for not only a society that fosters prosperity but one that also fosters deeper ethical values, and for all these reasons I believe that it is the most fulfilling way I could choose to spend my life…

MY PRIORITIES AT THE AMERICAN SCHOOL (TAS):

• To ensure that every student is safe, encouraged, and provided with an environment from which they can grow physically, mentally, and emotionally
• To support the entire TAS Staff, so that they can focus on instructional approaches to better communicate with students and their families
• To uphold the structures, policies, and values which are associated with TAS as a whole

FUN FACT:

• I was the 1989 Mickey Mouse Bowling League Champion

Angela Baker

• Master’s Degree in Teaching and Curriculum with an EAL Specialization – Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI, USA)
• Bachelor’s Degree in History with a Minor in Political Science – Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI, USA)
• Professional Educators License in Secondary Ed (State of North Carolina, USA)

WHO AM I?

My name is Angela Baker. I was born and raised in a small, rural farming community in Michigan, and I never dreamed I would have the opportunity to move overseas or the opportunity to work in multiple international schools. I first moved overseas in the summer of 2001 with my husband and two children. We lived in Shanghai, China, for three years. While there, I taught English at a Chinese kindergarten and loved it! In 2004 our family relocated to Chengdu, China. During our time in Chengdu, I worked as a substitute teacher, teacher aid, and organized and ran after school activities and sports. In 2007 we moved to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where I worked at my children’s school as a Saturday Sports Coordinator and served as the President of the Parent Organization. In 2010 I moved back to the US with my two children and remained there until 2015. After putting my daughter in college, my son and I returned to Vietnam, and I began working at AISVN as a Middle School Social Studies teacher. I took off the 2019-2020 school year to complete my Master’s degree, and I am thrilled to be a member of the EAL department here at TAS. I look forward to meeting our amazing students and families.

Xihua Wu

Ms. Xihua Wu is originally from Shanghai, China. She graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine with a major in clinical medicine in 2001. After 4 years working as a cardiologist in Shanghai’s City central Hospital, she realized that medicine was not her vocation, and started to introduce herself in the education area.

Ms. Xihua Wu has been teaching since 2005. She has worked with Secondary, Primary, and Early Education students. In the last 8 years, she taught in an IB school, working with different teams to develop several curriculum programs in a variety of areas such as World Language, Early Education, and Education Integration.

Ms. Wu has demonstrated experience in developing an appropriate instructional program in a learning environment that guides and encourages students to develop and fulfill their academic potential.

Education Background:

• Teach-Now International Mandarin Teacher Certificate
• TESOL for Children
• Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Medicine

Dane Lewis

Mr. Dane Lewis joined the staff at The American School at the beginning of 2021. He has spent 4 years teaching math in New York City and 7 years teaching math, science and English in Ho Chi Minh in international schools. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from a top-ten Engineering school as well as a Masters in Operations Research. Mr. Dane enjoys traveling, appreciating all the beautiful things in the world and eating new and delicious foods. He also enjoys skiing when there is an opportunity to do so, playing English word games and reading voraciously about current events in the world.

• Professional Certification in Math Education, City University of New York
• Bachelor in Physics, Cooper Union, New York City
• Master of Science in Operations Research, Polytechnic Institute of NY
• TESOL Certificate – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
• 10+ years of teaching experience in USA and Vietnam