TAS Elementary School Teachers
Ms. Laura Jean Robins
Pre-Nursery Teacher
Ms. Laura was born in London, England, and brings a wealth of experience from teaching across various curricula, including International, Montessori, and English National. This diverse background allows her to approach early childhood education with creativity and dynamism, designing engaging lessons that spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and inspire a passion for learning in young children.
Having worked with students across Early Years, KS1, and KS2, Ms. Laura has developed a deep understanding of child development and educational needs. Her background in Performing Arts, particularly in dance and drama, enhances her teaching style, integrating creative expression into lessons in phonics, mathematics, science, and other core subjects. She believes in using the arts to engage children and help them develop confidence in their abilities.
Ms. Laura also has experience working with English as a Second Language (ESL) students and is passionate about fostering an inclusive environment where all children feel supported. She tailors her approach to meet each child’s individual needs, ensuring that every student is encouraged to grow and succeed.
Her qualifications include:
- PGCE Primary and Secondary Education from the University of Sunderland
- Level 6 Diploma in Musical Theatre from the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts
- IEYC Level 1
- Level 1 – Fundamental Child Protection Training for Educators
- Prevent Online Training Course
Ms. Laura is excited to be joining the TAS team and is committed to developing each child’s learning journey in a nurturing, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment. Her teaching philosophy focuses on innovation, inclusivity, and a child-centered approach, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. Kind regards Laura
Pre-Nursery Teacher
PGCE Primary and Secondary Education, University of Sunderland
Ms. Jericha Angeles
Nursery Teacher
Ms. Jericha Ida Angeles has been named Nursery teacher beginning August 2024.
She is committed to making a positive impact on her students’ lives and has been passionate about early childhood education. Ms. Angeles took her teaching licensure certificate in the Philippines in 2010 and has been teaching in a Montessori school since then. She believes that young children thrive best in learner-centered environments where they can explore, play, and direct their own learning experiences.
Ms. Angeles holds the following degrees and certification:
- Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at St. Scholastica’s College, Manila, Philippines
- Professional Teacher License issued by the Republic of the Philippines
- PYP Category 1 Certification
- 13+ years of teaching experience
Ms. Angeles has a variety of interests that enrich her teaching practice. In her free time, she enjoys binge-watching movies and series, singing, reading books, traveling, and listening to music. These hobbies not only bring her personal joy but also inspire her to incorporate creativity and enthusiasm into her learning and teaching environments.
Nursery Teacher
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, St. Scholastica’s College, Manila, Philippines
Ms. Ana Lee
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Ana Lee, Los Angeles, California, USA, has been an Early Childhood Teacher since August 2023.
Before that, she served the school as an EAL teacher for Grade 5 in the 2022-2023 school year. In her professional career, Ms. Lee has taught English for the Yokkaichi Board of Education, Guidance Division from 2015-2019. She taught all levels ranging from kindergarten up to junior high school while helping to lead other Native English Teachers and developing the city’s English Education curriculum for kindergarten. Outside the world of teaching, Ms. Lee spent many years volunteering as an English teacher for students living in Japan from South America. She also served as a volunteer tour guide to support the local chamber of commerce and volunteered with organizations that supported orphanages in the Nagoya area. In addition, Ms. Lee has designed a curriculum focusing on teaching social skills to children in multiple grade levels while ensuring each student has their individual academic needs met.
Ms. Lee holds the following degrees and certifications:
- MEd in Teaching Multilingual Learners at Moreland University, Washington DC, USA
- BA in Japanese Language at California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
- English as a Second Language Grades Pre-K-12 Standard Teaching License from the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education, Washington DC, USA
- Early Childhood Grades Pre-K-3 Standard Teaching License from the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education, Washington DC, USA
- Qualified Teacher Status from the United Kingdom Department for Education, Manchester, England, UK
- Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language at myTEFL, West Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- PYP Category 1 Certification
Ms. Lee strongly believes that all students should be given the same opportunities to learn and grow every day regardless of their individual challenges. Through focused learning support and differentiation, she aims to help students master the learning standards for their grade level. She thinks that if each student can realize their full potential and push beyond it, they will be able to take on challenging tasks independently, become self-actualized learners, and find success in future classes. She is excited to continue working with the TAS team and looks forward to the challenges and opportunities that await.
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Master’s in Education on Teaching Multilingual Learners, Moreland University
Ms. Jessica Makona
Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Jessica Makona, from Kansas, U.S.A, has been with TAS since August 2023.
While this is her second year at TAS, Ms. Makona has over 13 years of teaching experience across various age groups (preschool to high school) and subjects (including ESL).
Ms. Makona holds the following degrees and certifications:
- MS in Early Childhood Education – Northwest Missouri State, Missouri, USA
- BA in English Literature, Teacher Education Concentration – Washington and Lee University, Virginia, USA
- Certification in TEFL/TESOL, 120 hrs – Ninja Teacher TEFL Academy
- PYP Category 1 Certification
Ms. Makona is passionate about cultivating student-centered learning experiences and being a teacher that encourages each child to see themselves as capable and worthy. She looks forward to working with all the little learners!
Kindergarten Teacher
Master of Science in Early Childhood Education – Northwest Missouri State University
Ms. Megan Rae Dickens
Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Megan from Missouri, USA started working in TAS since January 2025 as a Kindergarten teacher.
She has been teaching in Asia since 2014 teaching various age groups from kindergarten up to high school. She started teaching in Phuket, Thailand then moved to Hanoi, and now have been teaching in Saigon for the past three years.
Degrees:
- Bachelors in Child and Family Development – Missouri State University
- Post Graduate Certificate of Education – Sunderland University
- TESOL Certificate
- ieyc Certificate
“I have a passion for teaching children and creating the classroom as a safe place to learn. I love learning through hands-on experiences and play-based learning. I love making learning fun and memorable for the students.
In my free time I enjoy doing dance classes and spending time at the beach. I love finding the best coffee shops in the city.”
Thank you,
Megan
Kindergarten Teacher
Bachelors in Child and Family Development, Missouri State University
Ms. Miette Beynon
Grade 1 Teacher
Ms. Miette has been named Grade 1 Teacher at The American School beginning August 2024.
Ms. Miette is originally from Southern Ontario in Canada. Immediately after graduating from the University of Toronto in 2004, she moved to Taiwan and has been teaching and exploring Asia ever since. She has a wealth of experience working with young learners in different settings including as a homeroom teacher and in school leadership. She has taught in Taiwan, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore. Whether it was working as a teacher mentor for the MOE in Malaysia, as a Reading Specialist in Singapore, or as Academic Director in Taiwan, she thrives in collaborative environments that focus on children’s holistic development.
She holds the following qualifications:
- Professional Master of Education, Queen’s University
- University of Toronto (Political Science)
- OSSE Standard Teaching License K-3, ESOL K-12
- Certificate in in Early Education Leadership, Harvard Graduate School of Education
- International Educator Certificate for IB Qualification, University of Windsor
- PYP Category 1 Certification
- IB Certificate in Teaching and Learning (PYP), IBO
- CELTA (Pass A), Cambridge English
She believes that young children develop their understanding of the world around them when learning is rooted in their own interests, questions, and experiences. Ms. Miette strives to ensure that the learning environment is fun, engaging, encouraging, and reflects the joyful nature of the students and teachers who make it their home.
Grade 1 Teacher
Professional Master of Education, Queen’s University
Mr. Zachary Henson
Grade 2 Teacher
Mr. Zach Henson, Missouri, USA, has been named Grade 2 Teacher beginning August 2024.
In his professional career, Mr. Henson has taught a range of subjects including English, Math, Science, Computer/ICT, and Physical Education in international settings. He has held teaching positions at the Canadian International School Systems and the Western Australia International School Systems in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, as well as Unity Concord International School in Thailand.
In addition to his classroom teaching experience, Mr. Henson has served as an EAL Teacher and Grade 3 Classroom Teacher at BCIS, and coached various volleyball teams, further demonstrating his commitment to holistic education and student development.
Mr. Henson holds the following degrees and certifications:
- Master of Education in International Education (in progress), Framingham State University, USA
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Minor in Information Systems, University of Missouri – Saint Louis, USA
- Post Graduate Certificate of Education-International, University of Nottingham, UK
- PYP Category 1 Certification
- TEFL Certificate, Patong Language School, Thailand
Mr. Henson has a passion for integrating technology into education, fostering digital citizenship, and believes in providing quality and modern learning experiences for his students. He is dedicated to continuous professional development, currently pursuing a Master of Education in International Education from the USA.
In his free time, Mr. Henson enjoys coaching volleyball, participating in school events, and exploring new educational technologies. He is excited to join the TAS team and looks forward to contributing to the school’s mission and community.
Grade 2 Teacher
Master of Education in International Education, Framingham State University, USA
Mr. Kasey O'Brien
Grade 3 Teacher
Mr. Kasey O’Brien—Spencer, Wisconsin, has worked as a TAS Elementary School Teacher since August 2018, initially starting as an EAL teacher.
In 2020, he moved to be the grade 5 homeroom teacher and has been the grade 5 teacher since then. From 2007 to 2018, Mr. Kasey worked in the TESOL field in various capacities, undertaking roles from teaching and teacher training to managing English language centers. 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, running and working out, reading about health and fitness, cooking, traveling, and drinking coffee.
Mr. Kasey holds the following degrees and licenses:
- Masters in Elementary Education from The College of New Jersey (in progress)
- BA in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire
- Teaching certificate from The College of New Jersey (TCNJ)
- Certification of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS) from The New Jersey Department of Education
- PYP Category 1 Certification
- 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
- 10+ years of TEFL / English Language Training experience in Vietnam and the Czech Republic
Mr. Kasey works hard to incorporate an inquiry-based approach for students to be more involved in their learning, and become better thinkers, communicators, and researchers. He is excited to continue his work at TAS, helping children become independent learners and problem-solvers.
Grade 3 Teacher
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire
Mr. Justin Hurst
Grade 4 Teacher
Mr. Justin has been with TAS as an elementary teacher since August 2021.
Mr. Justin, from Palo Alto, California, will continue teaching Grade 4 at TAS in the 2024-2025 school year. This will be his second year teaching Grade 4 at TAS. He previously taught Grade 5 during the 2021-2022 school year at TAS, before moving to America and teaching 5th grade at KIPP Valiant Community Prep in Menlo Park, California, for the 2022-2023 school year. Before that, he taught Grade 4 at the Korean International School of HCMC from 2015 to 2021. He also taught ESL at numerous language centers and public schools after arriving in Vietnam in 2011.
Mr. Justin enjoys collecting records, listening to funk music, eating tacos, playing basketball, and spending time with his beautiful family.
Mr. Justin holds the following degrees and certifications:
- BS in History, and Political Science, University of Oregon
- Teacher Preparation Certificate, Moreland University
- Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, California, USA
- Qualified Teacher Status, United Kingdom Department for Education
- Google Certified Education, Level 1
- Certification in TEFL/TESOL, 120 hrs – TEFL Institute
- PYP Category 1 Certification
Mr. Justin believes it is important for educators to prepare future generations for the ever-changing and uncertain future that awaits them. He wants students to be unafraid to take risks and make mistakes. He knows that building strong relationships with them is key to creating a safe and comfortable learning environment that allows them to be their most authentic selves. Establishing a culture of mutual respect is necessary so that students can learn to collaborate and work together with all members of their community. It is important to nurture children’s natural curiosity so they can become committed to a lifetime of learning.
Grade 4 Teacher
Bachelor of Science with a double major in History and Political Science, University of Oregon
Ms. Lindsay Stanford
Grade 4 Teacher
Ms. Lindsay Stanford, Maryland, USA, has been named Grade 4 teacher beginning October 21, 2024. Her career in education began as an EFL teacher in Vietnam and South Korea. After several years, she returned to the USA to pursue a Master of Arts in TESOL, while also working as an assistant preschool teacher. This experience inspired her to explore student-centered educational approaches, leading her to complete Montessori teacher training after receiving her graduate degree. This newfound perspective fueled her passion for fostering independent learning and holistic development.
In 2013, she returned to Asia, where she taught in China before returning to Vietnam in 2015. Since then, she has served as a primary teacher at another WASC accredited school in Ho Chi Minh City. During this time, she has honed her skills in supporting the needs of multicultural students and differentiating instruction for English Language Learners. Ms. Stanford’s strong educational background supports her commitment to fostering student success.
- Ms. Lindsay holds the following degrees and certifications:
- M. Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, Buena Vista University, Iowa, USA
- M. A. in TESOL, Southeast Missouri State University, Missouri, USA
- Early Childhood Teacher Credential, Northeast Montessori Institute, Maine, USA
- B. A. in Liberal Arts, Charter Oak State College, Connecticut, USA
- U.S. Teaching Licenses in Elementary (K-6) and ESL (K-12)
Ms. Stanford incorporates her extensive background in student-centered learning into every lesson, striving to create an engaging and inclusive environment that nurtures the whole child. She enjoys spending her free time exploring Ho Chi Minh City with her husband, traveling to new destinations, cooking, and engaging in various outdoor activities. Ms. Stanford is excited for the opportunity to join the TAS team and looks forward to the challenges and rewards that await.
Grade 4 Teacher
Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Buena Vista University
Ms. Hinda Khogali
Grade 5 Teacher
Ms. Hinda has been working as an elementary classroom teacher at TAS since August 2021.
Ms. Hinda was born in Sudan and raised in Scotland. She taught ESL at the Posco Education Foundation in South Korea for 3 years, before returning to Scotland to earn her PGDE in Primary Education. She moved to Ho Chi Minh city in 2020. Ms. Hinda worked for a year at Lycée Français International Marguerite Duras as an English teacher in the British International Section, before joining TAS as the Grade 3 teacher. As of August 2024, she will be the Grade 5 homeroom teacher.
Throughout her career, Ms. Hinda has had the privilege of teaching a diverse range of students from different backgrounds and abilities. Her teaching philosophy centers on the belief that every student has the potential to succeed and that it is her role to provide the support and inspiration they need to reach their full potential, thrive and be themselves. Ms. Hinda strives to create a classroom environment that is inclusive, supportive, and intellectually stimulating.
Ms. Hinda holds the following degrees and certifications:
- PGDE Primary Education, University of Aberdeen
- BA Film and Media Studies, University of Stirling
- TEFL Certificate, The TEFL Academy, Scotland
- PYP Category 1 Certification
In addition to English, Ms. Hinda speaks Arabic and French. She is passionate about travel and exploring different cultures, having visited over 40 countries. She spends her free time reading thrillers, working out, watching action movies and eating sushi.
Grade 5A Teacher
Professional Graduate Diploma in Primary Education, University of Aberdeen
Ms. Alison Bottcher
Grade 5 Teacher
Ms. Alison was born and raised in sunny South Africa. She has lived and worked in Vietnam for the past eight years. Most of her teaching experience has been as a homeroom teacher for international schools, where witnessing the growth and development of her students has been incredibly rewarding. Ms. Alison’s passion for education and cross-cultural understanding has fueled her commitment to fostering a positive learning environment for all students. Her three year background in counseling has equipped her with the skills to provide empathetic support, guidance, and intervention, while her years of teaching experience have allowed her to develop effective instructional strategies. She is committed to helping students reach their full potential and building strong relationships with families and communities.
- Ms. Alison holds the following degrees and certifications:
- BA English literature Studies, Psychology and Sociology (triple major)
- American Elementary Teaching Certification
- TEFL 140 hours course
- Public Speaking and Presentation Skills (Dale Carnegie)
- Children’s Mindfulness and Yoga course
- College/Career Counseling certificate
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) certification
Ms. Alison likes to spend her free time outdoors with family and friends and strives to model a balanced lifestyle to her students. She loves cooking, exercising and reading in her free time. She hopes to inspire her students to make the most of the opportunities presented to them and to install a growth mindset. She is excited to be a part of our TAS family and she looks forward to contributing toward all her students’ learning journeys.
Grade 5B Teacher
Bachelors Degree in English literature Studies, Psychology and Sociology
Ms. Marilia Milne
Elementary and Middle School Design and Technology Teacher
Ms. Marilia Milne has been appointed to the position of Elementary and Middle School Design and Technology Teacher beginning August 2024.
As a product designer with a Master’s in Education Technology and Instructional Design, I have seven years of experience teaching IB PYP, MYP, and DP design and technology and visual arts from primary to college levels. My career across Brazil, Canada, Panama, Colombia, and Vietnam has enriched my perspective, making me a strong advocate for cultural diversity and inclusivity. I foster a student-centered learning environment, empowering students to tackle real-world problems through critical thinking and project-based learning. By integrating Design Thinking tools, I guide students in analyzing and addressing complex issues, promoting creative and innovative solutions for high-ceiling achievement.
Elementary and Middle School Design and Technology Teacher
Masters of Education Technology and Instructional Design
Mr. Jared Lucow
Music Teacher
Mr. Jared Lucow, Canadian/American, has been the ECC-ES Music Teacher at The American School since August 2022.
During his teaching career he has taught in Southeast Asia since 2009. He taught at BIS Phuket, Phuket Academy of Performing Arts, and IB MYP at UWC Thailand. He has also performed music all around the world, including Spain, Italy, France, Cuba, South Korea, Canada, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore, Vietnam, New York City and the Canary Islands. He has played guitar for over 30 years.
Mr. Jared holds the following degrees and certifications:
- Master’s in Teaching Elementary Education, from City University of Seattle.
- Bachelor of Jazz Guitar Performance at Humber College in Toronto, Canada
- Washington State Teacher Certification
- PYP Category 1 Certification
As an instructor, Jared prides himself on inspiring each and every student to help them foster their own creativity and sense of self through creating, sharing, and musical discovery. But, most of all to have fun and experience the joy of making music together. His combination of performance and teaching experience allows him to create individualized plans to help each student grow and succeed in their own way. Jared is thrilled to have this opportunity to continue to support the students and faculty at TAS.
Music Teacher
Masters in Teaching Elementary Education, City University of Seattle
Mr. Bryan Turner
Art Teacher
Mr. Bryan Turner has been with TAS since August 2023.
After growing up in North Carolina, USA, Mr. Turner began his teaching career in South Korea teaching ESL. After teaching in all grade levels for 10 years, he went back to the states and obtained his Master of Arts Degree in Teaching and obtained a teaching license for Elementary Education. After teaching in North Carolina, he went back overseas to Taiwan and taught ESL once more. However, his bachelor’s degree was in Art and he always wanted to get back to his real passion of working in the arts. Having incorporated many project-based learning activities in his teaching career, he is happy to engage with his students and share his passion for art with them at TAS. He hopes to continue to promote a creative and imaginative classroom environment where students can express themselves visually through projects throughout the year.
Mr. Turner holds the following degrees and licenses:
- Master of Art Degree in Teaching from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington
- BA in Art from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- State of North Carolina teaching license in Elementary Education (K-6)
- PYP Category 1 Certification
Mr. Turner enjoys traveling, experiencing new cultures, and tasting delicious food from around the world. In addition to exploring new places, his main hobby is woodburning popular animation characters and reading graphic novels.
through the projects throughout the year.
Mr. Turner holds the following degrees and license:
- BA in Art from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Master’s Degree of Arts in Teaching from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington
- State of North Carolina teaching license in Elementary Education (K-6)
Mr. Turner enjoys traveling, experiencing new cultures, and tasting delicious food from around the world. In addition to exploring new places, his main hobby is woodburning popular animation characters and reading graphic novels.
Art Teacher
Master’s Degree of Arts in Teaching, University of North Carolina
Ms. Dianne Buisan
Physical Education Teacher
Ms. Dianne Elizaga Buisan has been with TAS since 2015 as a Physical Education and Health teacher.
She is a dedicated teacher with a total of 15 years of teaching experience in Vietnam and the Philippines. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Southern Mindanao, Philippines and pursued her graduate studies at Sultan Kudarat Polytechnic State University in Tacurong City, Philippines.
Ms. Dianne’s colleagues admire her hardworking nature, positive outlook, and collaborative spirit, making her a valuable asset to the school community. She actively participates in after-school activities and serves as a coach for both the under 9 and under 13 badminton teams, showcasing her dedication to fostering holistic development among students.
Ms. Dianne holds the following degrees and certifications:
- MA in Teaching Physical Education, Sultan Kudarat State University, Tacurong City, Philippines
- BS in Secondary Education major in Physical Education, Health and Music, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, Cotabato, Philippines
- Teaching License Certificate
- PYP Category 1 Certification
- 15 years of teaching experience in the Philippines and Vietnam
- CPR, AED, and Basic First Aid Certificate
Beyond her professional commitments, Ms. Dianne finds joy in running and has taken part in numerous marathons, demonstrating her commitment to personal wellness and growth.
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
Physical Education Teacher
Master of Arts in Teaching Physical Education, Sultan Kudarat State University
Ms. Tam Ngo
Vietnamese Department Head & Vietnamese Studies Teacher
Ms. Tam Ngo has been an Elementary Vietnamese Studies Teacher at TAS since March 2013.
Initially starting as a Vietnamese Studies teacher and ESL Teacher Assistant. In 2017, she assumed the role of Vietnamese Department Head, overseeing the Vietnamese Studies curriculum and leading her team with vision and expertise. Throughout her professional career, prior to her tenure at TAS, she taught Vietnamese Studies and Vietnamese as a Second Language at Horizon International Bilingual School (HIBS) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Mr. Tam holds the following degrees and certifications:
- BA Elementary Education, Saigon University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) certificate
- Preschool principal certificate
- Special education certificate
- PYP Category 1 Certification
- 15+ years of teaching experience in Vietnam
Ms. Tam Ngo’s approach to teaching is deeply rooted in her love for children and her profound belief in the transformative power of language. As a parent herself, she understands firsthand the importance of language and cultural preservation. She has a boy who holds dual nationality in Vietnam and Britain, currently studying at TAS. This personal experience reinforces her conviction that proficiency in one’s mother tongue is the cornerstone of linguistic and cultural exploration, empowering students to embrace diverse languages and cultures with confidence and curiosity. Her commitment to instilling a love for the Vietnamese language ensures that students carry the richness of their heritage wherever their educational journey takes them, whether studying abroad or residing internationally.
As both a teacher and a parent, Ms. Tam Ngo is deeply passionate about inspiring her students at TAS to embrace and cherish their own home language and culture. She believes that fostering a love for one’s heritage language lays the foundation for curiosity and appreciation of other languages and cultures.
Vietnamese Studies Teacher & Vietnamese Department Head
Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, Saigon University
Mr. Loc Van
Vietnamese as a Second Language
Mr. Loc has been a teacher at TAS since August 2023.
Mr. Loc has worked as an English teacher for elementary schools at public and private schools. With a new role at TAS, Mr. Loc hopes to bring students interesting knowledge about Vietnamese as well as learn with them the unique features of Vietnamese traditions. Mr. Loc holds the following degrees and certifications:
- BA English Studies, Ho Chi Minh City University of Foreign Languages and Information Technology (HUFLIT)
- Teaching English as a second language (TESOL 120h) certificate
- Pedagogical Certificate for Teaching English in Primary School
- PYP Category 1 Certification
While working at The American School, I can see the multiculturalism between countries around the world clearly demonstrated in my foreign students. I hope I can help students in other countries understand more about Vietnamese as well as learn about the beauty of Vietnam.
Vietnamese as a Second Language
Bachelor of Arts in English Studies, Ho Chi Minh University of Foreign Languages and Information Technology
Mr. Ken Mervin Calipjo
Head Librarian
Mr. Ken Mervin Calipjo has been named Head Librarian at TAS since August 2023.
He is a passionate advocate for information literacy and a dedicated lifelong learner. With a proven track record in developing impactful library programs within international schools in the Philippines, Qatar, and now Vietnam, Ken is well-equipped to foster student engagement and promote a love for reading.
He spearheaded innovative library events, igniting a passion for books and learning. As a one-man Librarian, he revamped library spaces, streamlined services, and enhanced cataloging and acquisitions to meet the diverse needs of the school.
Ken holds the following degrees and certifications:
- Bachelor of Library and Information Science, University of the Philippines School of Library and Information Studies
- Registered Librarian, Professional Regulation Commission, Philippines
- PYP Category 1 Certification
- ECIS Level 1 Certificate in Child Protection
- Google Certified Educator Level 1
Mr. Ken loves to travel, do Karaoke, and is an avid fan of the NBA.
School Librarian
Bachelor of Library and Information Science, University of the Philippines School of Library and Information Studies
Mr. Michael Santiago
English as an Additional Language Teacher
Mr. Michael has been with The American School since August 2022 and will be the Elementary School EAL teacher for the 2024/2025 school year.
Mr. Michael Santiago was born in a small town in Pennsylvania, USA and has been living in Vietnam since 2017. He is happily married, with a beautiful young daughter. Mr. Michael’s teaching career started with the US Peace Corps. He served as a teacher in the Kyrgyz Republic where he was able to help foster an environment of inclusive and innovative educational practices. Mr. Michael has since gone on to work in various other countries in Asia such as Tajikistan, China, Laos and of course Vietnam.
Mr. Santiago holds the following degrees and certifications:
- Master of International Education, Framingham University (in progress)
- Masters of International Affairs, Concordia University Irvine
- Bachelor of Education, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
- US Peace Corps Teacher Certification
- TESOL Certificate, Concordia University Irvine
- WIDA Certified
- PYP Category 1 Certification
In his capacity as an educator, Mr. Michael holds a deep-seated commitment to sparking inspiration within every student and dedication to nurturing their innate creativity and self-awareness. Through interactive learning, collaborative activities, and exploration of diverse educational methods, he seeks to cultivate a profound sense of joy and fulfillment in the shared journey of academic discovery. Drawing upon his experience and knowledge, Mr. Michael designs lesson plans tailored to the unique strengths and needs of each student, fostering holistic growth and development in a supportive and inclusive learning environment. In Mr. Michael’s free time he enjoys writing and spending time with his family.
Language & Learning Support Teacher
Bachelors Degree, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Mr. Marc Valenti
Learning Support Teacher
Mr. Marc Valenti has been named Elementary School Learning Support Specialist beginning August 1, 2024.
Mr. Marc grew up in Chicago, Illinois, USA. He has been living in Vietnam since 2012. He first moved to Vietnam to teach English at ILA. While he was teaching English, Mr. Marc earned his Master’s in Elementary Education. He has spent the past 10 years teaching 3rd, 4th and 5th grade homeroom classes in two different international schools in Ho Chi Minh City. In the summer of 2023, he completed coursework in International School Counseling focusing on supporting students with different learning and social-emotional needs. He is excited to transition to a learning support role to help students achieve greater success in life and in the classroom.
Mr. Marc holds the following degrees and certifications:
- Master of Education from The College of New Jersey, USA
- A. from the University of South Carolina, USA with a major in Mass Communications and a minor in Theater
- CELTA English Language Certificate from Cambridge, UK for young learners
- Certificate of International School Counseling from the Principal Training Center Florida, USA
- PYP Category 1 Certification
Mr. Marc was a boat captain before he was a teacher and had training in Rescue SCUBA diving and firefighting. He worked in Hawaii, Alaska and Mexico. He enjoys traveling and has been to more than 30 countries and over half of the United States. His current favorite hobby is cooking and he is trying to master his family’s Italian spaghetti sauce inspired by his recent trip to Italy.
Language & Learning Support Teacher
Master of Education, The College of New Jersey, USA
Ms. Amy Nguyen
Learning Support Specialist
Ms. Amy Nguyen has been a TAS Early Childhood and Elementary School Learning Support Specialist since August 2022.
Originally from a small town in the state of Maryland, USA, Ms. Amy has been living in Vietnam since 2022. With a background in Psychology, Ms. Amy enhances her role in student support through a deep understanding and adept application of psychological principles.
Throughout her academic journey, she has delved into various areas of psychology including cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and educational psychology. Ms. Amy applies her knowledge and insights to provide tailored support and interventions for students with diverse learning needs. She collaborates closely with teachers, parents, and other professionals to develop individualized strategies that foster academic growth and promote social-emotional well-being.
Ms. Amy is deeply committed to cultivating learning spaces that are inclusive and supportive, ensuring that all students feel welcomed and motivated to succeed in all areas of life. She is a passionate advocate for teaching empathy and compassion to students, understanding its crucial role in shaping their character and in preparing them to become global leaders and citizens.
Ms. Amy holds the following degrees and certifications:
- BA in Psychology from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Living Works Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) Certificate
- PYP Category 1 Certification
- Currently working on her Masters in Psychology from Pepperdine University
Beyond her professional endeavors, Ms. Amy actively engages in mental health research and dedicates her time to supporting mental health initiatives and advocacy efforts through volunteering. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, working out, and singing. Ms. Amy is excited to continue her work at TAS, where she is dedicated to nurturing students to become lifelong learners.
Language Learning & Support Teacher
Master in Psychology, Pepperdine University
Dr. Yvette Thumbutu
Elementary Counselor
Dr. Yvette Thumbutu has been appointed Elementary School Counselor from August, 2024.
Dr. Thumbutu’s 27 years of experience includes being an elementary, middle, and high school teacher, as well as an elementary school counselor. Her content specialization is science, mathematics, and counseling the educational community. Her professional motto is “Creating Leaders while fostering social and emotional well-being!
Dr. Thumbutu holds the following degrees and certifications:
- EdD in Ethical Leadership- University of Saint Thomas – Houston, Texas
- MS in School Counseling- Prairie View University
- BS in Fisheries Biology- University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
- Certifications in EC-12 Counseling, 4-8 Generalist, ESL Supplemental, Diversity Equity and Inclusion
Elementary Counselor
EdD in Ethical Leadership, University of Saint Thomas, Houston, Texas