We have an incredible team of faculty members at Canadian International School of Hong Kong. Our staff are passionate about inspiring academic and personal growth in students by encouraging inquiry, and stimulating creativity and innovation. Our faculty come to us from around the world and are experienced in teaching the International Baccalaureate and Ontario Secondary School Curriculums. Take a moment to learn more about our amazing team of educators by clicking on their images below.
Staff Profiles
School category tab
Pre Reception
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Braedon SharpPre Reception A Teacher
Braedon Sharp
Pre Reception A Teacher
Originally from Toronto, Canada, Braedon Sharp received his BA and B.Ed. from the University of New Brunswick. He has recently finished his Kindergarten Specialist through the Ontario College of Teachers. Mr. Sharp has taught in Taipei, Toronto, Hsinchu, Bangalore, and Singapore. This will be his second year teaching Pre Reception in Hong Kong. He has been teaching in the early years for over ten years and believes that this is where he belongs. He feels that he is always learning when he is in the classroom and tries to play as much as his students. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Sharp is an avid triathlete and in Canada, he swam nationally and internationally. He is looking forward to continuing coaching the T-Wolves swim team at CDNIS.
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Safene KhanPre Reception A Educational Assistant
Safene Khan
Pre Reception A Educational Assistant
Safene Khan has 12 years of teaching experiences in early childhood settings. She is motivated, caring and enthusiastic about learning various teaching methods. She is a strong believer in the importance of developing a love for lifelong learning and learning through hands-on activities. Safene Khan is a registered kindergarten teacher, and a holder of Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Studies as well as diploma in Early Childhood Education.
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Alyson BrookshirePre Reception B Teacher
Alyson Brookshire
Pre Reception B Teacher
Hailing from North Carolina, USA, Alyson Brookshire holds a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education. In 2013, she accepted her first teaching position as an international teacher in Dili, Timor-Leste teaching kindergarten. It was here that she realised the value in teaching a diverse group of children and living in a community with a mixed and unique cultural identity. In 2015, Alyson accepted a position in Bangkok, Thailand teaching 3 and 4-year olds at The Early Learning Centre. Here she was trained in the Reggio-Emilia inspired approach, teaching through discovery, inquiry and play. Alyson believes in a child-centred approach and is passionate about helping children to learn and grow through relationships with others and their environment. In her free time, Alyson enjoys outdoor activities with her husband, Alex, and spending time at home with their cat, Tao. She is looking forward to living in Hong Kong and exploring the hiking trails she has heard so much about.
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Pavitra ThapaPre Reception B Educational Assistant
Pavitra Thapa
Pre Reception B Educational Assistant
Pavitra Thapa is currently studying Higher Diploma in Early Childhood Education. She is from Nepal and moved to Hong kong nine years back, since then she has been working with Early Years. Ms. Thapa loves being a part of CDNIS and sharing children's learning journey.
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Melissa LauPre Reception A/B Educational Assistant
Melissa Lau
Pre Reception A/B Educational Assistant
Melissa Lau was born in Vancouver, BC, Canada, but spent most of her early childhood in Hong Kong. She graduated with an IB diploma from Richmond Secondary School before enrolling at the University of Toronto where she graduated with a double major in neuroscience and physiology and a minor in biology. Melissa loves working with kids and believes kids learn best through discovery and play under an enriched, dynamic and inquiry-based learning environment, especially during critical periods where there is a dramatic increase in synaptogenesis and plasticity is maximal in their brains. Her goal of being an educator is to inspire more young women to get into sciences and math and to make a positive contribution to the community. She enjoys hiking, cooking and baking in her spare time and invites friends over for dinner. Her favourite desserts are banana mascarpone cheesecake, tiramisu, and of course “double-double” chocolate mousse cake.
Reception
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Kayleigh AdamsReception A Teacher
Kayleigh Adams
Reception A Teacher
Kayleigh Adams is from Surrey, UK. She obtained a BA (Hons) in primary education from Kingston University. Kayleigh began her career in a primary school in the UK where she led literacy in the Lower School, while teaching Grade 2. In 2011, she moved to Bangkok, where she developed a passion for inquiry-based learning while working at a Reggio-Emilia inspired school. Kayleigh believes that every child is competent and full of potential and loves working in an international setting with children and educators from around the world. In her spare time, Kayleigh enjoys spending time with her family and friends and exploring new places.
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Bhawana GurungReception A Educational Assistant
Bhawana Gurung
Reception A Educational Assistant
Bhawana Gurung is originally from Nepal who moved to Hong Kong at the age of 11. She completed her Certificate in Early Childhood Education from the Open University of Hong Kong. With more than six years of experience in PYP schools, she has excellent knowledge of conceptual learning and inquiry-based curriculum. Bhawana's teaching experience includes Pre Reception, Reception and Preparatory.
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Fiona Bradley-BarnardLearning Leader/Reception B Teacher
Fiona Bradley-Barnard
Learning Leader/Reception B Teacher
Fiona Bradley-Barnard attended Leeds Metropolitan University and gained a BA (Hons) degree in Childhood Studies and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education. Her first teaching post was at Thomas' London Day School in Kensington, London where she taught Grade 4 and was appointed PSHCE (Personal, social, health and citizenship education) Coordinator. After two years in London, she moved to Bangkok and joined St. Andrews International School (Nord Anglia Education) where she worked across the Primary School and held the position of Head of House. This is her second year as Early Years Learning Leader at CDNIS. Outside school, Ms. Bradley-Barnard and her husband are kept busy with their two young children. They love spending time outdoors, exploring the incredible city of Hong Kong and further afield.
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Maria HoReception B Educational Assistant
Maria Ho
Reception B Educational Assistant
Maria Ho is an Educational Assistant for Reception B. She was brought up in Hong Kong, but also spent many years living and working in Toronto, Canada. She has two children currently attending the Upper School at CDNIS, both having started from Pre Reception and Reception. Maria has worked as a Supply Educational Assistant in the Lower School for the past three years and has spent a majority of that time with the Early Years Programme. She is passionate about the kids learning through play. Her interests outside the classroom are travel, golf and music.
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Katrielle MehmetReception C Teacher
Katrielle Mehmet
Reception C Teacher
Kat Mehmet is from the UK and has a BA (Hons) Degree in Early Childhood Education (University of Hull) and a FdA in Early Childhood Education & Playwork. She is currently working towards obtaining a MA in Early Childhood Education. Kat has over 20 years of experience in the field of Early Years Education covering the areas of teaching, curriculum development, and leadership. She has held a variety of positions at International Schools both in Hong Kong and the UK and believes passionately that children learn best through play in a supportive environment guided by qualified, educated Early Childhood professionals. When not working, Kat enjoys spending time with her family here in Hong Kong, the UK and Cyprus.
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Alice WooReception C Educational Assistant
Alice Woo
Reception C Educational Assistant
Alice Woo was born in Hong Kong but spent most of her childhood in the West Coast of Canada. She has a M.A in Early Childhood Education from the U.K (Sheffield University), and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education from Vancouver, Canada. Alice has over eight years of experience working and teaching young children in both Asia and North America; such as Hong Kong, Canada and in the Philippines. Alice believes that play should be the foundational basis of learning since children learn best by doing. In her spare time, Alice enjoys hiking, painting, travelling and spending time with family.
Preparatory
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Amy KooPrep A Teacher
Amy Koo
Prep A Teacher
Amy Koo is from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and is currently a Prep Classroom Teacher. She attended York University for her undergraduate degree and Queen's University for her Bachelor of Education. She continued her postgraduate studies at the University of Hong Kong. She has taught abroad in both Hong Kong and Singapore. She has a strong passion for literacy; and the power, engagement, and innovation that technology can bring to the classroom programme.
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Helen HoPrep A Educational Assistant
Helen Ho
Prep A Educational Assistant
Helen Ho was born and raised in Hong Kong and is currently studying Early Childhood Education at the Open University of Hong Kong. Prior to joining CDNIS, Ms. Ho worked in the Lower School at Harrow International School Hong Kong and a Montessori school. Ms. Ho has always seen teaching as a fulfilling and rewarding job. She enjoys working with children because they are full of energy and curiosity. Her main goal is to always support children both academically and behaviourally in order that they make positive contributions to the community. Ms. Ho has a dog, Buzz, that has been her loyal partner. As an outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys spending her free time surfing, sunbathing, hiking, cycling and skating. Indoor activities include cooking, reading and home decorating.
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Lia MacorittoPrep B Teacher
Lia Macoritto
Prep B Teacher
Hong Kong has been Lia Macoritto’s home for 18 years, but she was born and raised in the Northern wilds of Sudbury, Canada (no, not in an igloo!). Her educational degrees are in the fields of Communicative Disorders-Speech Language Pathology and Primary Teaching (3-year olds to Grade 6). Originally planning to stay a mere two years in this unique city, each year brought new travelling adventures and an appreciation for the Chinese culture and language while Ms. Macoritto was teaching in a local school. Her teaching career at CDNIS began in Reception B in 2005. She is the proud parent of a terrific toddler and she feels so fortunate to have a life filled with children!
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Yvonne LeungPrep B Educational Assistant
Yvonne Leung
Prep B Educational Assistant
Yvonne Leung spent her early childhood in Vancouver, Canada and most of her life in Hong Kong thereafter. She studied at CDNIS for 13 years and graduated in 2010 with an IB diploma. After CDNIS, she went to the University of British Columbia in Vancouver and obtained her undergraduate degree - Bachelor of Arts, majoring in psychology and minoring in film studies. In 2017, she obtained her Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) to pursue her passion as a teacher. During her free time, she enjoys Thai kickboxing, listening to different kinds of music and spending time with her two young nephews.
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Esther IpPrep C Teacher
Esther Ip
Prep C Teacher
Esther Ip is from London, Canada. She attended the University of Western Ontario where she received her Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Childhood and Social Institutions and Psychology. Then, she obtained her Bachelor of Education with Distinction in Primary and Junior divisions. Before moving to Hong Kong, Esther taught a range of grades including Early Years and Lower Primary at schools in Toronto and Macau. She is now entering her seventh year as an international school educator. Esther is a lifelong learner who is passionate about inquiry and play-based learning, inclusive and dance education.
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Eleanor BrooksPrep C Educational Assistant
Eleanor Brooks
Prep C Educational Assistant
Eleanor Brooks is originally from the Philippines and moved to Hong Kong 28 years ago. She has two children who were born in Hong Kong who are now attending university in England. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from Central Philippine University. She has worked with the IB PYP for the last 12 years, granting her knowledge on inquiry-based learning. Her teaching experiences include working with students in Grades 2 and 3. When she is not working, she enjoys walking, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.
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Susie RichardsonLearning Leader/Prep D Teacher
Susie Richardson
Learning Leader/Prep D Teacher
Susie Richardson is from Michigan in the United States and is currently teaching Prep at CDNIS. She earned her Bachelors Degree and teaching certificate from Hillsdale College in Michigan. She worked for eight years teaching Prep and Grade 1 in Colorado, where she earned her Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Colorado. She then taught for two years in Abu Dhabi and one year in Michigan before moving to Hong Kong. Growing up in Europe and attending international schools herself, Susie strives to foster the growth of global citizens who are passionate about learning. Outside of teaching, Susie loves to travel, spend time in the mountains, and run long distance races.
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Marcia SunPrep D Educational Assistant
Marcia Sun
Prep D Educational Assistant
Marcia Sun is from the Philippines and is a Prep EA. She has a B.Sc. (Cum Laude) degree in Statistics from the University of the Philippines. After graduating, she lived and worked in Manila and Hong Kong in the IT industry and was employed in PCCW and AIA as a Systems Analyst. In 2009, she decided to switch to the Education field and worked as an EA in Carmel School of Hong Kong. In 2011, she joined CDNIS. She then completed her PGDE Major in Primary Mathematics from the University of Hong Kong. She is passionate about teaching and loves working with young kids. She has four children of her own whose ages range from eight to 20 years old.
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Gillian LittlePrep E Teacher
Gillian Little
Prep E Teacher
Gillian Little studied in England and gained a diploma in Early Childhood Education. She moved to Hong Kong in January 1994 for a holiday. Ms. Little taught 3-year olds at Victoria International Kindergarten for two years. She joined CDNIS in 1997 where she worked in Grade 1 and Prep as an Educational Assistant. In 2004 she had the privilege of opening the first Pre Reception class. Ms. Little was part of the team who developed the play based inquiry approach curriculum, allowing students to explore and discover. She visited various early years schools and designed the Pre Reception learning environment. Teaching 3 and 4-year olds is Ms. Little’s passion and it is her goal to help all students reach their potential and develop a sense of self and independence. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and the many hiking trails Hong Kong has to offer. She enjoys travelling and experiencing different cultures and cuisines.
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Valerie LittlePrep E Educational Assistant
Valerie Little
Prep E Educational Assistant
Valerie Little moved from the UK to Hong Kong in 1994 and taught at Victoria Kindergarten. She joined CDNIS in 1997 and worked with Pre Reception, Reception, Prep and Grade 1. Ms. Little has a strong interest in early childhood education. She finds working with young children very rewarding and enjoys making a difference in the lives of young children. In her free time, Ms. Little enjoys hiking, cooking and travelling.
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Leo WongPrep F Teacher
Leo Wong
Prep F Teacher
Having joined CDNIS in 2012, Leo Wong started his career as an educator in 2009 as the General Manager of a new startup playgroup in Shenzhen. This proved to be one of the best choices of his life as it brought him into the education industry. Through his time working at the playgroup, Leo realised how lucky he was to be in a position to witness how young minds learn, how children make sense of their world and grow alongside it. Leo thoroughly enjoys teaching children to become lifelong learners and seeks to help them extend learning beyond the classroom to every aspect of life.
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Shelley PaulsenPrep F Educational Assistant
Shelley Paulsen
Prep F Educational Assistant
Shelley joins CDNIS from Burnaby, BC, Canada. She has studied at Douglas College to receive her Diploma in Classroom and Community Support (Special Needs). Shelley has been working with the Burnaby School District in the primary section for many years prior to her move to Hong Kong. Shelley’s love of working in the primary years stems from seeing the amazing growth that each student can accomplish during the year. Shelley’s favourite motto is “try another way!” Shelley is in Hong Kong with her spouse and two daughters. She enjoys exploring the hiking trails with her family and travelling.
Grade 1
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Emily LobsenzLearning Leader/Grade 1A Teacher
Emily Lobsenz
Learning Leader/Grade 1A Teacher
Originally from Seattle, USA, Emily Lobsenz holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of British Columbia and a Master of Arts in teaching from the University of Southern California. She has taught internationally for the last seven years in South Korea and Angola, teaching students from five to seven years of age. Emily is passionate about creating inclusive classrooms that give children space to be creative, inquisitive, and active members of their community. She enjoys rock climbing, yoga, soccer, travel, and hiking.
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Joanne SiuGrade 1A Educational Assistant
Joanne Siu
Grade 1A Educational Assistant
Joanne Siu is from Hong Kong and is a Grade 1 Educational Assistant. She attended the Chinese University of Hong Kong where she received her Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. She has been teaching early years for more than 16 years. She is passionate about teaching and being able to cultivate a love of learning in students. Her interests outside the classroom including travelling, hiking, learning make up techniques and photography.
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Tim BrownGrade 1B Teacher
Tim Brown
Grade 1B Teacher
Tim Brown is from Hong Kong. After completing a BA (Business and Marketing) from the University of Hull and a PGCE from the University of Sunderland, Tim discovered a passion for education working as an after-school English teacher across Hong Kong, before joining CDNIS as an Educational Assistant. Tim has been at CDNIS for over five years, and strives to develop a sense of wonder and a love of learning in students. Happiest when he’s creating, you’ll find Tim writing or crafting when he isn’t teaching.
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Jey PiesGrade 1B Educational Assistant
Jey Pies
Grade 1B Educational Assistant
Jey Pies has completed four wonderful years working as a Educational Assistant and supply EA at CDNIS supporting Prep and Grade 1. She's passionate, reliable and enthusiastic. Earlier in her career, Jey was a trainer and a performance development counselor in the corporate world. Originally from Malaysia, Jey hold a diploma from HKU in Chinese Studies (Mandarin). She has two children at CDNIS, her daughter Gitanjali is in grade 10 and her son Logan is in grade 8. She loves cooking, baking, reading and loves going for walks on the trails in Hong Kong.
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May FungGrade 1C Teacher
May Fung
Grade 1C Teacher
May Fung is from Vancouver, Canada and holds a Bachelor of Education degree with a specialisation in lower primary from the University of British Columbia. May has over 15 years of international experience in both Hong Kong and Tokyo teaching a range of grades including, most recently Pre Reception, Kindergarten, and Grades 1 and 2. Being with young children is where her heart is. She believes in creating a classroom environment that cultivates curiosity, builds community and provides challenges. Outside of school, May enjoys finding different ways to enrich her family life through travel, gastronomy and appreciating nature.
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Joyce HoGrade 1C Educational Assistant
Joyce Ho
Grade 1C Educational Assistant
Joyce Ho is from Hong Kong. She spent eight years in the UK before receiving a BSc (Hons) in Business Management from University of East Anglia and a MSc in Entrepreneurship from Royal Holloway, University of London. After graduation, she came back to Hong Kong and started her career in Education in CDNIS. This is her sixth year in the school and she obtained her Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) from University of Sunderland in 2017. Joyce is passionate about travelling and enjoys swimming and cooking during her free time.
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Deborah PihGrade 1D Teacher
Deborah Pih
Grade 1D Teacher
Deborah Pih has been at CDNIS for 13 years, working as a homeroom teacher in Prep for the past 10 years. Prior to being at CDNIS she provided one-on-one therapy to children with autism and taught in a simulated kindergarten environment created for them. Born in Toronto, she is a Canadian at heart, though she straddled two worlds, having also lived in Hong Kong and Singapore. Deborah received a B.Eng from McGill University, a PGDE from the University of Hong Kong and is currently working on a master’s degree. Deborah believes the continual process of understanding her students and providing a supportive environment are the keys to helping them on their unique journey of learning.
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Shana GurungGrade 1D Educational Assistant
Shana Gurung
Grade 1D Educational Assistant
Shana Gurung is from Kathmandu, Nepal. She has a Higher Diploma in Early Childhood Education from the Open University of Hong Kong. This is her second year in CDNIS as a Grade 2 E.A. and her 14th year living in Hong Kong. Prior to working at CDNIS, she has worked at other international schools in Hong Kong.
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Stephanie HudswellGrade 1E Teacher
Stephanie Hudswell
Grade 1E Teacher
Stephanie Hudswell is from Muskoka, Canada. She attended the University of Western Ontario where she received her BA in Anthropology, and her Bachelor of Education from the University of Wollongong in Australia. She began her teaching career in Canada, before relocated to Asia. During her 18 years of teaching, she has implemented the Primary Years Programme for 14 of these years, and has worked in three different IB World Schools in both Hong Kong and Singapore. She loves fostering the innovative, imaginative and creative side of children, allowing them to experiment and explore in hands-on meaningful ways.
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Jenny YuGrade 1E Educational Assistant
Jenny Yu
Grade 1E Educational Assistant
This is Jenny Yu's first year at CDNIS and she is thrilled to be a member of the Grade 1 team. She has spent the last five years working at another international school in Hong Kong, supporting children in Grade 4 in addition to other year groups and different subjects. Jenny's favourite subject is Art and Design and she enjoys working with children and teaching them different art techniques. Away from the classroom, she enjoys travelling, movies, and spending time with family and friends.
Grade 2
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Fredda McNallyGrade 2A Teacher
Fredda McNally
Grade 2A Teacher
Fredda McNally holds a BA and B.Ed from Acadia University and a M.Ed. from Mount Saint Vincent University. Ms. McNally is a Canadian, from Nova Scotia. She has taught many years in Canada, both in Ontario and Nova Scotia. This is her ninth year teaching internationally; two years in Suzhou, China, and now seven years in Hong Kong. She has experience working with students from early years to middle years, but most of her teaching has been with 5 to 7-year olds. She believes in fostering a love of learning in her students. As a facilitator, she encourages children to be responsible for their own learning.
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Feonna FongGrade 2A Educational Assistant
Feonna Fong
Grade 2A Educational Assistant
Feonna Fong is a graduate from CDNIS! She was honoured to receive the opportunity to return to CDNIS as an Educational Assistant. After graduating from Royal Holloway, University of London, with a Management degree working in a Marketing field, she started studying again for an Early Childhood Education diploma. She completed her student teaching practicum at Yew Chung, ESF, and Small World Christian Kindergarten before rejoining CDNIS. Feonna enjoys spending her free time at tennis court, gym, church and wakeboarding in the sea!
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Sibila BoykoGrade 2B Teacher
Sibila Boyko
Grade 2B Teacher
Sibila Boyko is from Toronto, Canada and has spent the last 10 years teaching in the international setting throughout Asia. Sibila received a Bachelor’s Degree in communications and Spanish languages from York University, in Canada, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto, and a Master’s Degree in science, (educational technology, and information literacy focus) through the State University of New York, USA. Sibila feels fortunate to have a career which encourages and requires continuous learning and creativity. She is also passionate about developing critical thinkers in an environment that allows them to express their individuality and thoughts. In her free time, Sibila enjoys reading, travelling, taking pilates and yoga classes and spending time with her three dogs! Sibila has also dedicated a lot of time in the past few years to animal rescue and animal rights.
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May HoltetGrade 2B Educational Assistant
May Holtet
Grade 2B Educational Assistant
May Holtet is from Korea. She completed her BA in English Language and Literature in a Korean university and earned a Masters in Education from University of New England. Her teaching career began almost 20 years ago in South Korea and her career has taken her throughout the world as an educator. From the public school system in Canada, where she began in Early Years, to international schools in Malta, China, United Arab Emirates, Mongolia, Malaysia, and Hong Kong, May has experienced many international programmes and facilitated learning across a diverse range of students.
In her free time, May likes to play tennis and practices yoga and pilates daily. She holds a first-degree black belt in tae kwon do and advanced paid scuba certification. Her passion for music and life-long learning has led her to play the piano, flute, cello, classical guitar, and drums. Apart from English and Korean, she speaks Mandarin and is currently practicing French and Japanese.
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Aisling ConnollyGrade 2C Teacher
Aisling Connolly
Grade 2C Teacher
Aisling Connolly is Irish. For the last four years, she taught at The International School in Nice, France. She is passionate about teaching the PYP and believes in making learning authentic, so that children can connect what they learn in school to the real world. Aisling enjoys teaching mindfulness as it sends out positive energy and it helps us pay close attention to our thoughts and feelings. She enjoys being outdoors, keeping fit and travelling. Aisling is very excited about joining the CDNIS family.
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Jaye ZauGrade 2C Education Assistant
Jaye Zau
Grade 2C Education Assistant
Jaye was born in Hong Kong but went to high school in Palo Alto, California. She is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley in Environmental Design and worked in Hong Kong architecture firms as an architectural designer. She is also a CELTA certified teacher taught English as a second language in Beijing and Chengdu for 10 years training people from Olympic athletes to interior designers. She joined CDNIS in 2016 as supply teacher, shadow teacher in Grade 6 and currently an educational assistant in Grade 3. She loves cooking and traveling with her husband and hiking with their dog, Dot.
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Rachel RendallLearning Leader/Grade 2D Teacher
Rachel Rendall
Learning Leader/Grade 2D Teacher
Rachel Rendall is a passionate and experienced educator. Her earliest ambition was to be a teacher. Her pedagogical approach emphasizes inquiry-based learning and the power of positive and nurturing relationships between students and teachers. Rachel believes that challenge, kindness, humor and the freedom to make mistakes are key ingredients to a happy, productive learning environment. She has a Bachelor of Education with a specialization in students 3-8 and recently completed a Masters in Counseling from Monash University Australia. Rachel is an Australian born long time resident of Hong Kong. She has taught in Australia, the United Kingdom and Hong Kong. She is a life long learner, an art, music, reading and travel enthusiast. She has three primary school children of her own.
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Louisa LeeGrade 2D Educational Assistant
Louisa Lee
Grade 2D Educational Assistant
Louisa Lee is from Hong Kong. She started working in CDNIS as a librarian after her graduation from university. She enjoyed working with the students across the grades in primary and junior libraries, especially the little ones. So, she decided to transfer internally to perform the role as a an Educational Assistant. Louisa has the passion of teaching and assisting the students. The interaction with the students makes her understand the importance of being patient. She is so impressed to see the tremendous growth of the kids by the end of the academic year. She loves being with kids, so she spends a lot of time with her three children and likes playing tennis.
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Ryan ScottGrade 2E Teacher
Ryan Scott
Grade 2E Teacher
Ryan is Kiwi who grew up in the rural Waikato region of New Zealand. He completed a Bachelor of Education at the University of Auckland, where he specialised in Years 1-8. Ryan is passionate about the outdoors and loves spending time playing, watching and coaching a variety of sports. In his spare time, he loves to cook, read, do water sports and try unusual foods. Ryan has previously taught in New Zealand, Vietnam, China, Barbados and the Philippines.
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Amandeep BrarGrade 2E Educational Assistant
Amandeep Brar
Grade 2E Educational Assistant
Amandeep Kaur Brar is from Hong Kong. She has BA degree (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies from Middlesex University (UK), Diploma in ECE (Enlightened Early Childhood Education) from Open University HK as well as a QKT license (Qualified Kindergarten Teacher). She has been at CDNIS for over five years and prior to that was an English Language teacher at a kindergarten in Hong Kong. The joy she receives from working with children and seeing the smiles on their faces is what influenced her to become a teacher. Her interests outside the classroom include reading books, watching movies and learning foreign languages.
Grade 3
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Edward PolawskiGrade 3A Teacher
Edward Polawski
Grade 3A Teacher
Edward Polawski is from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and is the Grade 3A Homeroom Teacher. He attended Lakehead University where he received his Bachelor of Arts (Hons) and Bachelor of Education. He has subsequently lived and worked in Kuwait, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong and has been teaching abroad for seven years. He is a passionate inquiry-driven teacher and learner. He places strong emphasis on questioning the world and learning through mistakes. Edward enjoys spending time outdoors being active through running, climbing, and playing soccer.
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Elizabeth ChowGrade 3A Educational Assistant
Elizabeth Chow
Grade 3A Educational Assistant
Liz is originally from Eastern Canada and obtained a Master’s degree in Architecture from Dalhousie University. Prior to moving to Hong Kong in 2005, she worked as an architect in San Francisco. Liz has worked at another international school in Hong Kong in their Reception programme as a teaching assistant and has worked at CDNIS previously as a substitute EA. She has two daughters at CDNIS and has volunteered extensively in many areas of the school. Liz is a maker and enjoys many creative pursuits including textile arts and jewellery design and production. She is passionate about environmental sustainability.
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Ann OwenGrade 3B Teacher
Ann Owen
Grade 3B Teacher
Ann Owen graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education in 2001, and started her career in China that took her to different cities. This is her 16th year of international teaching. She has taught Early Years up to Grade 6, and is now on her 7th year in CDNIS. She and her husband, Ricky, have two girls - Arabella and Penelope. She is an optimist at heart, which she wishes to impart to all of her students. Ann enjoys writing, cooking, traveling and DIY projects. She is a visible thinker, a technology enthusiast, and has always been keen to learn more about the 21st century classroom.
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Regan NicholasGrade 3B Educational Assistant
Regan Nicholas
Grade 3B Educational Assistant
Regan came to Hong Kong in 2008 with his wife, who works at an international school, and his daughter who will be going into Year 8 this year. He is from West London, Notting Hill where he also went to school. Regan’s background is in music (vocals) and he has recorded with Big Bang and Middle Row records labels.
Moving to HK gave Regan the opportunity to re-skill and change his career path, so he applied for an Educational Assistant position at an international school and hasn’t looked back since. He finds it very fulfilling supporting young minds as they tackle the ever changing landscape that is education, wellbeing & success. Regan’s classroom experience consists of positions at other international schools supporting in the classroom, and providing 1:1 support with more intensive needs.
Since he moved to HK, Regan has worked with Y Rock, which is music company set up to help young children develop their playing, singing and songwriting skills. He has also performed live gigs at venues such as Orange Peel, Peel Fresco, Salon 10 and Picnic In the Park. Regan’s passion for music remains strong, and although he is too old to run round the stage like Justin Bieber, music is still a very big part of his life.
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Sasha RaulandGrade 3C Teacher
Sasha Rauland
Grade 3C Teacher
Coming to CDNIS from The International School of Panama, Sasha Rauland is in her sixth year of teaching elementary school. She is a third culture kid and has spent almost all her childhood overseas having attended international schools in Germany, Russia, Pakistan, Ecuador, and Azerbaijan. She graduated from Knox College, a small liberal arts college in the Midwest, with a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and Spanish, and also played for four years on the women’s soccer team. In 2016, she completed her Master’s Degree in curriculum and instruction from Concordia University in Oregon. At school, Sasha is passionate about building a strong classroom community that fosters life-long learners. In her free time, her two biggest passions are travelling and being active. Specifically, she enjoys salsa dancing and playing sports. She is eager to get to know a new culture and grow a lot professionally during her time at CDNIS.
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Anne ChenGrade 3C Educational Assistant
Anne Chen
Grade 3C Educational Assistant
Anne Chen is from Queensland, Australia. She attended the University of Hong Kong where she received her BA (English) and Post Graduate Certificate of Education. In 2002, Anne joined CDNIS as a Prepatory, Grade 1 and Grade 4 Educational Assistant and she was a Grade 2 homeroom teacher for six years. She enjoys working with young children and being able to cultivate a love of life long learning in students. Her interests outside the classroom include travelling and yoga.
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Sandra MiddletonGrade 3D Teacher
Sandra Middleton
Grade 3D Teacher
Sandra Middleton Grade 3D Teacher Sandra Middleton is from Victoria, BC, Canada. She has a BA from the University of Victoria, specializing in Primary Education, and an MA in Educational Psychology. While in Canada, Ms. Middleton worked as a Learning Support teacher at an independent school and then moved to Maui to teach Grade 1. That experience started her international teaching career and since then she has taught in Japan, the UAE, and Singapore. She is very happy to be teaching Grade 3 for a second year at CDNIS because she enjoys facilitating and supporting the students’ enthusiastic inquiry. Her hobbies include photography and travelling.
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Kevin MirchandaniGrade 3D Educational Assistant
Kevin Mirchandani
Grade 3D Educational Assistant
Kevin Mirchandani is of mixed ethnicity and is a third culture child as he has lived in several different countries throughout his life. He received his English language degree from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and also took a programme in communications and media at Korea University, one of South Korea's top universities. He believes that creativity, performance and attitude, combined with hard work, are essential parts in the learning process especially in terms of communicative effectiveness and proficiency. Mr. Mirchandani has taught mainly in Hong Kong but has also taught elsewhere in Southeast Asia. The past few years, he has taught children from kindergarten to secondary school, and also worked at a local primary school as the native English teacher (NET). Apart from education, Kevin is also a performing arts enthusiast with a strong passion for singing and dancing.
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Keren GlazierLearning Leader/Grade 3E Teacher
Keren Glazier
Learning Leader/Grade 3E Teacher
Keren Glazier is from Toronto, Ontario. She attended York University where she graduated with a BA in Sociology and a Bachelor of Education. She has taught in her home province of Ontario, Bangkok, and now here in Hong Kong. She has been part of the CDNIS community since August 2013. She has taught a variety of grade levels in her 13 years of teaching. As a teacher, she is especially passionate about forming a strong class identity and creating a positive classroom climate where all students feel confident in their abilities. Her interests outside of school include reading, hiking, cooking, and travelling.
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Jackson LamGrade 3E Educational Assistant
Jackson Lam
Grade 3E Educational Assistant
Jackson Lam is from Birmingham, UK. He was educated at King Edward’s School and graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in Genetics. He started his career working in various educational settings including STEM workshops, English language centres and most recently at a private mixed curriculum primary school. Outside of work, he enjoys various other hobbies including photography, hiking and sports.
Grade 4
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Navaz KhoryGrade 4A Teacher
Navaz Khory
Grade 4A Teacher
Navaz Khory is a Third Culture Kid who has spent the majority of her life living and teaching overseas. Ms. Khory has a BA in Health Sciences from the University of Western Ontario and a MA in Inclusive Education from Teachers College at Columbia University. She has taught various grades from Grade 1-8 at Dhahran Elementary and Middle School in Saudi Arabia, Gems World Academy, Dubai, UAE and Istanbul International Community School in Turkey. Aside from her passion in healthy living, cooking/food and travel, Ms. Khory also enjoys all kinds of sports, especially volleyball, softball, yoga and dance. She constantly encourages her students to take on an active lifestyle to become more balanced and well-rounded individuals.
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William RamirezGrade 4B Teacher
William Ramirez
Grade 4B Teacher
William Ramirez is from Seattle, Washington, USA. He graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Science in rehabilitation studies and psychology in 1995. He completed a Master’s Degree in teaching from City University of Seattle in 1998 and completed his post-graduate studies in administration from Western Washington University in 2008. He has been a teacher for 20 years, and before coming to CDNIS this August, he taught in the USA, South Korea, Romania, Bangladesh, and Poland. He also served as a humanitarian teacher in Peru, Kenya and Tanzania. William has a heartfelt passion for education and is in a continuous quest to develop himself professionally and personally. He enjoys running, yoga, guitar, travelling the world, and life’s twists and turns.
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Holly CostnerLearning Leader/Grade 4C Teacher
Holly Costner
Learning Leader/Grade 4C Teacher
Holly Costner graduated with a B.Sc. in Public Relations from Appalachian State University in her beautiful home state of North Carolina. She worked in the PR field for three years before deciding that she wanted to pursue a career that she loved, not just liked. She earned her K-6 North Carolina teaching license from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. She’s been a PYP educator in Beijing and Istanbul before joining the CDNIS community. When she’s not teaching or thinking about teaching, she enjoys reading, travelling and running.
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Natalie PrettyGrade 4D Teacher
Natalie Pretty
Grade 4D Teacher
Natalie Pretty is from a small town SW of Ottawa, Ontario. She graduated from Queen’s University with a BA (Hons) in Psychology, an International Studies Certificate, and a Bachelor of Education degree. In her B.Ed. year she was awarded a scholarship to do research/practicum abroad, which turned into a teaching position with the International School of Trieste in Italy. Following this experience, Natalie went to the Caribbean where she taught grades 3 and 4 at an international school on the island of Antigua for three years. Her next move was to Hong Kong where she landed in the city on the auspicious day of 08/08/08 and has remained ever since. Natalie values the social and emotional development of children and since being in HK she has obtained a Masters of Counseling degree, specializing in cognitive behavioural therapy. She is soon starting her 10th year of teaching at CDNIS.
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Rebecca TuplingGrade 4E Teacher
Rebecca Tupling
Grade 4E Teacher
Rebecca Tupling is originally from Stayner, Ontario, Canada. She has a BA in History (Brock University, Canada) and a Graduate Diploma in Primary Education (La Trobe University, Australia). Rebecca has been teaching for over 10 years and her teaching experiences have ranged from Early Years to Special Needs to English as a Second Language. She is an IB workshop leader and an IB school visitor. She is an avid outdoor enthusiast and enjoys cycling, hiking, camping and trail running. Rebecca is also a believer of education opportunities for all and is the director of two charity projects that promotes education in Tanzania and Canada.
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Harry ChanGrade 4 Educational Assistant
Harry Chan
Grade 4 Educational Assistant
Harry Chan was born and raised in Hong Kong and attended the University of Washington where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and Family Studies. Prior to working at CDNIS, he interned at The Neighborhood House (pre-school programme), as well as, volunteered at Sunny World School. Aside from teaching, Harry enjoys playing sports, especially badminton. He believes sports can help him to stay positive and take up different challenges in life. In his spare time, he also enjoys music and hiking.
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Swaran SidhuGrade 4 Educational Assistant
Swaran Sidhu
Grade 4 Educational Assistant
After having travelled all over the globe on ships with her Master Mariner husband, Swaran Sidhu moved to Hong Kong from Liverpool UK five years back. She lives here with her husband and two children aged sixteen and nine. She has been working at CDNIS for the past four years and is currently pursuing her Post Graduate Certificate in Education from the University of Sunderland. When she is not at work, other than spending time with her family she loves to swim, listen to music and is passionate about reading.
Grade 5
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Becky GoodwinGrade 5A Teacher
Becky Goodwin
Grade 5A Teacher
Becky Goodwin is the homeroom teacher for 5A. She is originally from the UK where she gained her undergraduate degree in Philosophy from Reading University before going on to train as a primary school teacher completing her PGCE at Goldsmiths College. Becky spent four years teaching in London before beginning her international career in Milan, Italy. During her time in Italy she discovered her love of the PYP and teaching inquiry.
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Sajinda PolawskiGrade 5B Teacher
Sajinda Polawski
Grade 5B Teacher
Sajinda Polawski is the homeroom teacher for 5B. She is from Toronto, Canada and completed her bachelor's degree from the University of Toronto and her teaching education from Lakehead University. She has been an international educator for the past 8 years, teaching at schools in China, Hong Kong and the Middle East. Sajinda is passionate about teaching and being able to cultivate a love of learning in children. As every child is unique, she strives to create a student-centred environment where they can develop into confident, courageous learners. Besides teaching, Sajinda spends her down time practising yoga and mindfulness, cooking, reading and travelling. She feels fortunate to be a part of this wonderful school, amidst the vibrant culture of Hong Kong.
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Robert MinorLearning Leader/Grade 5C Teacher
Robert Minor
Learning Leader/Grade 5C Teacher
Robert Minor is a Canadian and the Grade 5 Learning Leader. He holds a Hons BA in History from Western University, a Diploma in Education from McGill University and a Masters of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies from Buffalo State University. He has spent his entire teaching career in Asia, with the last 20 years being at CDNIS where he has taught from Grades 3-6. A passionate educator, he is always looking for innovative ways to engage young learners and prepare them for life-long learning in a rapidly changing world. Robert is a self-taught designer, builder and handyman who is very keen to help develop young innovators, problem solvers, designers and makers who are ready to change the world. His interests outside the classroom include building things, renovating flats, hiking, fitness, and travelling.
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Christine MillerGrade 5D Teacher
Christine Miller
Grade 5D Teacher
Christine Miller is originally from New Zealand and has been teaching since 1996, having graduated University with both a B.Ed. and a Diploma in Teaching. She is a qualified teacher in New Zealand, England and Hong Kong having worked as a classroom teacher in New Zealand until 2001 and then in London until 2011 when she moved to Hong Kong. She is currently working towards obtaining her Masters of Science and Technology and is passionate about providing a supportive, safe and stimulating environment that encourages children’s learning and provides opportunities for all children to experience success. When not working, Christine enjoys spending time with her family here in Hong Kong, the UK and New Zealand.
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Winnie WongGrade 5E Teacher
Winnie Wong
Grade 5E Teacher
Winnie Wong grew up in Burnaby, BC and attended Simon Fraser University for her undergraduate degree. Always the inquirer and risk-taker, she decided to head to Ontario to pursue her B.Ed. at the University of Ottawa. Winnie has taught in Japan, South Korea, and most recently the UAE. She believes learning happens when a student feels valued and safe to wonder and ask questions about the world. Besides a love for teaching, Winnie enjoys a range of activities such as running, yoga, Latin dance, and board games.
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Madeleine TangGrade 5 Educational Assistant
Madeleine Tang
Grade 5 Educational Assistant
Madeleine joined CDNIS as an Educational Assistant in 2015. She worked as a Grade 4 Teacher Assistant and substitute Teacher Assistant at Hong Kong International School for six years. Prior to this, she also worked as a Grade 1 and Reception Teacher Assistant at International Christian School for two years. She is an IRCA Certified Internal and Lead Auditor. She gained a certificate of American Red Cross Certified Standard First Aid Training in 2012 and a certificate of American Red Cross Certified Adult and Child CPR Training in 2013.
Grade 6
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Bénédicte BenoitLearning Leader/Grade 6A Teacher
Bénédicte Benoit
Learning Leader/Grade 6A Teacher
It is Bénédicte Benoit's second year of teaching in the Lower School at CDNIS, but her 15th year teaching in Hong Kong. Originally from Belgium, she considers Hong Kong home and has been living in Sai Kung for many years. She loves Sai Kung’s closeness to nature and sense of community. “Ms. B”, as she likes to be called, is passionate about inquiry and concept-based learning. She has been an IB PYP workshop leader since 2012 and has seven years of facilitating the PYP Exhibition under her belt. She holds a BA in Political Sciences, majoring in International Relations, and a Post Graduate diploma in English Language Education.
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Pamela RevermanGrade 6B Teacher
Pamela Reverman
Grade 6B Teacher
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Pamela Reverman moved across the country after high school to attend St. Mary’s College in the San Francisco Bay area. She taught in several independent schools in California before going international with her husband in 1999. They have lived in Casablanca, Mumbai, Beijing and look forward to the Hong Kong experience. She has a grown daughter living in Portland, Oregon and a son who will be in grade 10 at CDNIS next year. Pamela is excited to join the CDNIS team!
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Mark HenryGrade 6C Teacher
Mark Henry
Grade 6C Teacher
Mark Henry is currently one of the homeroom teachers in Grade 6. He joins CDNIS this year after having taught in Cambodia for the last seven years. Previously he has taught in China, Indonesia and his home country, Australia. Mark has been actively involved in the PYP programme in many of the schools he has worked and has helped to actively to improve and develop it. He has mainly taught in the upper levels of the primary, which has given him experience with the Exhibition. He is actively involved in coaching and has led school based teams in Athletics, Basketball and Rugby. In his spare time he loves to travel and over the 15 years being in Asia, has been able to explore many of the regions within SE Asia.
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Chris BrodieGrade 6D Teacher
Chris Brodie
Grade 6D Teacher
Chris Brodie is from the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. He has a BA in English from the University of Victoria, B.Ed. from the University of British Columbia, and an MA in international education from SIT Graduate Institute in Vermont, USA. He is currently in his seventh year of teaching at international schools and has taught PYP and MYP in Grades 2, 5 and 6 through 9 in South Korea and Angola. Chris is an outdoor enthusiast and loves to share his passion for the outdoors and the environment with his students. This has led him to pursue training in sustainability education, play a role in outdoor education programmes, and bring experiential education into the classroom. He is also passionate about the social and emotional development of his students, building strong classroom and grade level communities and incorporating practices which allow for student agency. As a former competitive swimmer, Chris spent his university summers as a swim coach and is always keen to be part of the school swim programme. His love for the water has resulted in his passion for surfing and he's excited to find out what Hong Kong has to offer. Chris' other interests include cooking, rock climbing, hiking, most outdoor activities, and enjoying a good book.
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Vicki CheungGrade 6E Teacher
Vicki Cheung
Grade 6E Teacher
Vicki Cheung has been an international school educator for eight years. She graduated with a Masters of Teaching from the University of Toronto. Vicki conducted her research in the importance of preserving students’ first language. She was awarded with the cum laden distinction for academic excellence while completing her Bachelors of Science degree in Kinesiology at York University. Her passions include coaching upper school volleyball, hiking, martial arts, and rock climbing. She also teaches piano in her spare time. Vicki has taught a variety of grades/subjects ranging from kindergarten, upper primary, and upper school instrumental band. She is in her fourth year teaching Grade 5 at CDNIS.
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Joy TanGrade 6 Educational Assistant
Joy Tan
Grade 6 Educational Assistant
Joy Tan graduated from Tianjing University in Precise Instrument Engineering in China. After a career as a design engineer in a watch factory in Guang Zhou, she immigrated to Australia, where she managed a department in a consulting engineering company in Sydney. She then worked in an engineering company in Singapore, before arriving in HK in 2001. She joined CDNIS as secretary of premises to assist the building of the LLAC. She has been the Grade 6 EA for seven years now and delights in supporting the teachers and nurturing a sense of order and system to supplement the students' natural creativity.
Chinese Studies
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Vera ChenChinese Teacher
Vera Chen
Chinese Teacher
Vera Chen is from Wuxi, China and is a Lower School Chinese teacher. She attended the Education University of Hong Kong where she received her Bachelor of Education (Hons) in Language Studies. She joined CDNIS after graduating in 2011 and completed her Masters of Arts in Literary Studies from HKU in 2013 and was recognised as an Apple Distinguished Educator in 2015. She has taught students from Prepatory to Grade 6 with fluency and also leads the Chinese Orchestra. She is dedicated and enthusiastic and enjoys instilling a lifelong love of knowledge in students.
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Ocean CheungChinese Teacher
Ocean Cheung
Chinese Teacher
Ocean Cheung comes from a relatively international background: he was born and raised in Hong Kong, and is also a father of two children who are half-Korean. This part has played a significant role in building up his mindset of dealing with different cultures. He has earned a BA in Chinese (second class upper honours), a postgraduate diploma in Education with credits and MA in English Studies. Ocean has been teaching Mandarin for over 15 years, and throughout all these years he has worked with students from Grades 1 to 12 and with those who speak no Chinese to those who speak Mandarin fluently. His professional experience has also covered IB PYP, MYP and AP programmes across Hong Kong and Korea. During his time ain South Korea, he organised two nationwide workshops for colleagues in the region - with participants and presenters from Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Macau and Korea.
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Karen KeeChinese Teacher
Karen Kee
Chinese Teacher
Karen Kee is from Malaysia. She holds a BA in Foreign Languages and Literature from Taiwan and a PGDE from Hong Kong. She joined the school in 2000. Over the years, she has been teaching students ranging from Pre Reception to Grade 6. She loves learning and is passionate about teaching. She believes in the power of education that can bring significant changes to one’s life and to the world. She is grateful to have a job that allows her to work with students who continue to inspire her each day. As a facilitator, she hopes that students truly enjoy the fun of learning and become life-long learners when they grow up.
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Geoff KoChinese Teacher
Geoff Ko
Chinese Teacher
Geoff Ko is a Lower School Chinese teacher who holds a Bachelor degree in Chinese Education, a Chinese Dance Education and Choreography Certificate, Hong Kong Open University’s PGSEP, and a Chinese National Language Examination Committee First Class Certificate. He also holds a Master of Business Administration degree. Apart from his abundant experience with teaching IB Chinese, he enjoys helping out with different creative and interactive activities and events at the school. Examples include: immersion programmes, exchange programmes, and Chinese New Year celebration performances. He has taught passionately at CDNIS for almost 15 years, and considers it as his second home.
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Rachel LeeChinese Teacher
Rachel Lee
Chinese Teacher
Rachel Lee is very excited to be joining the Canadian International School family. She attended The Education University of Hong Kong where she received a Master of Arts in Chinese Studies (Language Education), a Bachelor of Special Needs Degree in Education (Primary and Secondary) and her Kindergarten Teaching Certification. In 2008, she started teaching Chinese through the PYP to native and non-native students at an IB school. Rachel develops lesson plans to meet the needs of individual students, using games and multi-sensory learning activities to make Chinese learning more engaging and helping students become better, stronger learners.
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Viola LiChinese Teacher
Viola Li
Chinese Teacher
Viola Li is from Hong Kong. She has a Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics from the East China Normal University in Shanghai. She received her Bachelor of Education in England. She has been teaching in CDNIS since 2000 and has taught students from Pre Reception to Grade 6. Viola currently teaches in the Lower School. She is also a presenter at the 21st century, ACT and Apple Education workshops, sharing best practices in how to integrate technology with language learning in the classroom and beyond. Viola is passionate about music, and has conducted the CDNIS Chinese Choir, as well as being the teacher-in-charge of the ASCCA Choir.
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Peihua LiuChinese Teacher
Peihua Liu
Chinese Teacher
Peihua Liu received her formal teacher’s training at Soochow University in China between 1980 and 1984. After graduation, she taught high school History until 1988 when she moved to live and study in the UK. She studied and researched in the area of sustainable development at Coventry University and Dundee University. After receiving her Master’s degree from Dundee University in 1997, she moved to Hong Kong in 1998. She joined CDNIS in 2001 as a Chinese Studies educational assistant, and has been a Chinese Studies teacher since 2003. She enjoys her interactions with students and parents.
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Nancy MiaoTeam Leader/Chinese Teacher
Nancy Miao
Team Leader/Chinese Teacher
Nancy (Zhengjuan) Miao comes from China, and holds a Bachelor degree in Education. She has been a PYP Chinese teacher for 15 years and became a PYP Chinese Workshop Leader, a consultant and visitor to IB PYP schools over six years ago. She has always loved teaching the PYP curriculum. When you meet her, it is very clear that her favourite clothing style is Chinese traditional dress.
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Sandy TseChinese Teacher
Sandy Tse
Chinese Teacher
Sandy Tse is from Hong Kong. She has a Bachelor of Education in Chinese and Master of Arts in Linguistics. She has worked as a Chinese teacher for almost 20 years. She always aims to make the classroom the most productive and comfortable learning environment as possible. She loves customizing lessons for her students' interests, especially when it increases their classroom participation! Observing her students grow and gain confidence within the context of the Chinese language is all she can ask for! She is looking forward to sharing her passion for education and hope to instill a love of learning that will last throughout a child’s life.
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Christina WuTeam Leader/Chinese Teacher
Christina Wu
Team Leader/Chinese Teacher
Wu Xuan (Christina) is from Nanjing, China. She has a Master's degree in Teaching Chinese as Second Language and a BA in Chinese Language and Culture from Nanjing Normal University as well as a PGDE from Hong Kong University. She has taught in both local and international education systems. In 2010, she joined CDNIS as a Chinese teacher and then became a team leader in the Lower School Chinese Department. She is passionate about teaching Chinese language and culture.
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Brenda XingChinese Teacher
Brenda Xing
Chinese Teacher
Before joining CDNIS, Brenda Xing taught Chinese at HKIS for 19 years. She is originally from Tianjin, China. Brenda obtained her first degree at Tianjin Teacher University with a major in Chinese literature and her master’s degree in teaching Chinese as a second language from Beijing Language and Culture University. She loves working with students and is passionate about Chinese culture, history and society throughout teaching. Her teaching philosophy is to inspire students to not only learn Chinese, but also to appreciate Chinese culture and history. Brenda enjoys reading, travelling and writing about her personal journeys after travelling. She is looking forward to working and meeting everyone at CDNIS.
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Annie YipChinese Teacher
Annie Yip
Chinese Teacher
Annie Yip has been teaching at Canadian International School of Hong Kong since 2012. Her teaching career started in 1999. She attended City University in Hong Kong and the Education University of Hong Kong where she received her Master of Arts in Chinese (Chinese Language and Literature) and a Certificate in Primary Education (Chinese). In 2004, she started teaching Chinese through the PYP to native and non-native students at different IB schools. She became a PYP workshop leader in 2016. To help her students enjoy learning Chinese and being able to use Chinese as a medium of inquiry, Annie strives to maintain a balance between technology and a variety of teaching methodologies within the learning environment.
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Michelle ZhangChinese Teacher
Michelle Zhang
Chinese Teacher
Michelle Zhang was born in Jingzhou, China. She earned her Master’s Degree in teaching Chinese as a foreign language from Hong Kong Polytechnic University and PGDE certificate from the Education University of Hong Kong. Michelle has worked in several international schools throughout Hong Kong, teaching both non-native and near native Chinese students. She is passionate about providing a safe and happy classroom for students to reach their full potential.
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Zoe ZhouChinese Teacher
Zoe Zhou
Chinese Teacher
Zoe Zhou is from Shanghai, China. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in teaching Chinese as a foreign language and a Master’s in education, specializing in Chinese language and literature, from East China Normal University. In 2010, she started teaching Chinese to native and non-native students at international schools in Shanghai. She developed a further understanding of the IB curriculum after teaching PYP, MYP and DP students. Zoe is committed to inspiring her students a love towards language learning and fulfilling each student’s potential. She is thrilled to be a part of CDNIS community.
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Yvonne ChengChinese Educational Assistant
Yvonne Cheng
Chinese Educational Assistant
Yvonne Cheng is from Hong Kong and is a Chinese Department Educational Assistant. She attended the University of New South Wales and received her Bachelor of Law and Commerce degree in 2005. After working as a Trainee Solicitor, she decided to change her career path and joined CDNIS in 2009. She is passionate about teaching students Chinese in a fun way. Her interest outside the classroom includes travelling and Thai boxing.
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Sherry GaoChinese Educational Assistant
Sherry Gao
Chinese Educational Assistant
Sherry Gao is originally from Nanjing, China where she pursued her undergraduate degree in Chinese Language and Literature at Jiangsu University. Ms. Gao also holds a postgraduate degree specialising in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Ms. Gao previously worked as a Chinese teacher in Zhenjiang No.3 Middle School during the fourth year of her undergraduate studies. During her time at Polytechnic University, she took part in a programme which saw her teach Chinese to French students through the Internet. Ms. Gao enjoys playing the piano, running and watching movies. She is also an accomplished pianist with over 10 years of playing experience.
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Lina LiChinese Educational Assistant
Lina Li
Chinese Educational Assistant
Lina is from Xi'an, China. She is the Chinese educational assistant of Pre-reception and Reception. She has gained her BA (English) in Shenzhen University. After 3 years of teaching in China, she came to Hong Kong in 2012, where she got her MA (Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language) in The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and started her position in CDNIS. She had been a Chinese educational assistant for Prep-G6 from year 2014-2016 and now she is working with early years students. Lina is passionate about young Children's second language acquisition and play-base learning. She is currently admitted by The University of Hong Kong to gain her PGDE diploma in Early Childhood Education.
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Cindy TsoiChinese Educational Assistant
Cindy Tsoi
Chinese Educational Assistant
Cindy Tsoi was born in Hong Kong but grew up in Guangdong. After completing her undergraduate studies in Chinese and English Interpretation at Wuhan University, she received a Masters in Drama Education and English Language Teaching from the University of Warwick, UK. Ms. Tsoi began teaching Mandarin and Cantonese to students of all ages while completing her undergraduate studies. While studying for her Master’s degree, she worked as a classroom assistant at Hearsall Common Primary and Stivichall Primary School in the UK. Besides her passion for teaching and language learning, Ms. Tsoi also enjoys playing squash, practising yoga and volunteering at various schools and hospitals.
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Sunny YeungChinese & Performing Arts Educational Assistant
Sunny Yeung
Chinese & Performing Arts Educational Assistant
Sunny Yeung is from Taiwan. She has a BA and an MA from National Chengchi University in Taiwan and an MA degree in Educational Studies from Sheffield University, England. After graduating, she worked at Chinese International School in Hong Kong and Shanghai American School as a Chinese Teacher for 13 years. She took some time off to become a full-time mom and after a few years she began working as a substitute teacher. When her family moved to Hong Kong from Shanghai, she joined CDNIS and has been very happy to be part of the CDNIS community ever since.
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Connie ZengChinese Educational Assistant
Connie Zeng
Chinese Educational Assistant
Connie is from China. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Guangdong University of Technology. After graduation, she worked in banking and then moved into the field of education. She worked in two international schools in Guangzhou before moving to CDNIS in Hong Kong. Connie has attained the State University of New York (SUNY) certificate in Education Technology for International Schools and received her teaching certificate from Hong Kong University. She enjoys seeing children pursue their passions in learning. Her interests outside of the classroom include hiking, movies and running.
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Suning ZhangChinese Educational Assistant
Suning Zhang
Chinese Educational Assistant
Suning Zhang has been in education for over two decades. She started her teaching career at the 15th Middle School of Guiyang, China, where she taught for five years. In 1980, Ms. Zhang received her teaching certificate from Guiyang Teaching University. After moving to England in the late 1980s, she gained a Teaching Certificate in Early Child Education and received her Masters of Education in 1996 at the University of Manchester. After relocating to Hong Kong, she worked as an assistant to the general manager at Volksmediem Limited of Hong Kong from 1997 to 2001. Since 2001, Ms. Zhang has been an EA and sometimes a substitute teacher at CDNIS. She loves her job as an educator here, where she continues to work with passion - it's a fantastic school, with wonderful colleagues, supported parents and bright students.
Guidance
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Shelly ChutkePre Reception to Grade 3 Guidance Counsellor
Shelly Chutke
Pre Reception to Grade 3 Guidance Counsellor
Shelly Chutke is originally from India but for more than 20 years Hong Kong has been home for her and her husband and one daughter who is also a student at CDNIS. Shelly’s background is in Psychology and she holds a BA in Social Sciences from University of Delhi, India and a Master’s degree in Counselling from Monash University, Australia. She has further training in Parent Coaching, Anxiety and Depression Counselling, and Emotional Literacy. She has worked with children with special needs, counselling and helping people learn about mindfulness and meditation techniques for more than 15 years. As a counsellor, her aim is to facilitate the learning and well-being of her students and empowering them with life skills. She is passionate about continuing to educate herself by training in new techniques and programmes that would benefit the students and the school. Shelly enjoys to conduct workshops, and groups on topics ranging from conflict resolution to mind, body integration to deepening our spiritual life. Outside of work, Shelly enjoys practising mindfulness, reading, travelling, trying new cuisines, and various art forms.
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Lora LeeGrade 4 to 6 Guidance Counsellor
Lora Lee
Grade 4 to 6 Guidance Counsellor
Lora Lee holds a BA in Psychology from York University, Canada. After graduating, she worked in Hong Kong before moving to London where she earned her MSc in Developmental Psychology from The Anna Freud Centre, in conjunction with UCL, UK. After working in private practice for a number of years, she further expanded her therapeutic repertoire by completing her MA in Play Therapy from Roehampton University, UK. She is a registered child psychologist in Hong Kong with a private practice in Central. Additionally, she has worked in a number of international schools before joining CDNIS. She lives with her son, and when she isn't working, hiking or climbing challenging mountains or out-rigging, she also enjoys cooking.
Inclusion Team
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Bonnie CalanchiniLearning Leader for Inclusion Team
Bonnie Calanchini
Learning Leader for Inclusion Team
Bonnie Calanchini is from sunny Scottsdale, Arizona, USA. She attended Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona for her undergraduate studies, and Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona, for post-graduate studies. Ms. Calanchini has been teaching internationally since 2001: Taiwan (Kaohsiung American School), Venezuela (Colegio International de Carabobo), UAE (American Community School of Abu Dhabi), and Italy (Marymount International School). She has taught regular class education, special education, and English language acquisition in both Middle and Elementary School.
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Monica CostaInclusion Team
Monica Costa
Inclusion Team
Monica Costa has been teaching for 10 years. She began her career as a special education teacher where she grew up in New Jersey, USA and worked there for six years. In 2014, Monica and her husband jumped at the opportunity to begin working as international teachers in Rome, Italy. It was a wonderful experience! Then, they moved to Portugal and worked at an international school in Lisbon. They were both born in Portugal, so it was nice to return to their roots. They have a 9-month-old daughter, who they spend as much time as possible with because she is so much fun! Monica loves being a new mom and treasures every moment with her family! One of the things she has always enjoyed doing is traveling because she appreciates the diversity encountered with new cultures in new places. Now, it is a totally new experience with a baby tagging along. Monica feels very fortunate to have joined the CDNIS community and looks forward to a new school year in Hong Kong!
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Danielle WellockInclusion Team
Danielle Wellock
Inclusion Team
Danielle Wellock is from the United Kingdom where she taught for several years before moving overseas. Since moving abroad, she has lived in Ghana (Lincoln Community School) and Indonesia (Jakarta Intercultural School). Danielle has been a teacher for more than 20 years and has worked both as a homeroom teacher and a learning support specialist. Her other roles have include learning leader and advisory teacher for special school settings. Danielle continues to love teaching and learning and is especially passionate about supporting students with unique learning profiles. Her interests outside the classroom include hiking, movies, travelling, and seeing friends.
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Divya GurungInclusion Team Educational Assistant
Divya Gurung
Inclusion Team Educational Assistant
Nepalese by ethnicity, Divya was born and raised in Hong Kong and has been fortunate to have worked as a learning support teacher for 11 years. She completed her undergraduate in Social Sciences, a Masters in Special and Inclusive Education and a PGCE in Special Educational Needs Coordination. Divya is passionate about anthropology, documentary filmmaking, art and yoga. Currently, Divya is pursuing a Doctorate in Education and spends her weekends volunteering for her organisation.
Library
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Suzanne McCluskeyPre Reception - Grade 2 Teacher Librarian
Suzanne McCluskey
Pre Reception - Grade 2 Teacher Librarian
Suzanne McCluskey is from Ballarat, Victoria, Australia. She joins CDNIS from ACS Egham International School just outside London, where she was working as the PYP coordinator/teacher librarian. Prior to teaching in England, Suzanne taught in Bangkok, Munich, Tokyo, Auckland and Australia and has worked both as a classroom teacher and librarian. She holds a B.Ed and a Master’s degree in education (TESOL). Living overseas has been a wonderful experience and Suzanne is looking forward to continuing it in Hong Kong. She loves that she has met so many new people who she can now count as life-long friends. In her down time, she enjoys reading, travelling, swimming and exploring new neighbourhoods with hidden treasures of food and other delights.
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Colleen WilliamsGrade 3-6 Teacher Librarian
Colleen Williams
Grade 3-6 Teacher Librarian
Colleen Williams is originally from New Jersey, USA. She has a BA in Elementary Education from the University of Oregon and a Masters of Learning and Technology from Western Governors University. Colleen graduated from The American School of the Hague in the Netherlands so personally experienced life as an international school student. Over her 25-plus year career she has taught kindergarten and grade 1, K-12 technology, K-12 library and HS journalism. She is now in her 14th year of international teaching, having previously taught in Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Shanghai, and Vietnam. She is passionate about the power of books and a maker culture - both give kids an opportunity to learn, make decisions, problem solve, be creative and grow.
LTT
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David LarsonLearning & Teaching Technologies
David Larson
Learning & Teaching Technologies
David Larson hails from Winnipeg, Canada. He graduated summa cum laude with a B.Sc. in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin and earned an MA in Educational Technology from Michigan State University. He has worked and traveled widely in professional theater, on a Fulbright-Hays Scholarship curriculum-writing semester in Ghana, and as an Apple Professional Developer. Before he joined the Learning and Teaching Technology team and Design Department in 2012, David taught Humanities, Language Arts, and Technology in Shanghai, China, and Wisconsin, USA. What David likes most about teaching is helping students find and amplify their voice. When he’s not at his computer, you can find David behind a camera, a book, or with his daughters on a hike through Hong Kong’s many trails.
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Vivian FungRobotics & Coding Facilitator
Vivian Fung
Robotics & Coding Facilitator
Vivian Fung is from Hong Kong. She has a B.Sc. in Computer Science from the University of Toronto as well as a PGCE. After graduating, she worked at IBM Canada for two years before getting married and returning to Hong Kong. She joined CDNIS in 2011 and was a Prep EA before joining LTT department supporting teachers in technology teaching. She is passionate about advanced technology and through teaching coding and robotics, she embraces a growth mindset.
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Makky FungLTT Leader
Makky Fung
LTT Leader
Makky Fung is a Learning and Teaching Technologies Leader at Canadian International School of Hong Kong. She has a B.Ed. from McGill University and a M.Ed. from Chinese University of Hong Kong. During her time at CDNIS, she has been a PYP teacher, implemented the 1:1 iPad programme in Grades 1-3 and the 1:1 laptop programme in Grades 4-12, was certified as an Apple Distinguished Educator in 2007, launched Google School in 2013, and now she is actively involved in the development of maker empowerment, coding and robotics programmes in Lower School. Makky is passionate to help educators and students to leverage educational technology to support active, visible, purposeful, and connected learning.
Physical Education
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Marc SteinerPhysical Education Teacher
Marc Steiner
Physical Education Teacher
Marc Steiner has Honours degrees in Kinesiology and Education from the Western University and Queen’s University. He is a former two-time All-Canadian Track and Field athlete with the University of Western Ontario, and has competed at a high level in Hong Kong and in 2008 won two gold medals at the China Masters’ Track and Field Championships. Mr. Steiner has been actively involved in sports and coaching since he was a child and has a keen interest in seeing future generations gain a better understanding of the importance physical education and health play in the overall well being of the individual. He is now in his 17th year of teaching at CDNIS.
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Justin WahPhysical Education Teacher
Justin Wah
Physical Education Teacher
Justin Wah was born and raised in London, England. He has a Masters Degree (high honors) in Elementary Education, as well as a Physical Education teaching certification. Justin has been teaching overseas for the past 20 years. He has worked as a Physical Education teacher in Malaysia and The Netherlands; in addition Justin has worked as an Athletic Director in Kuala Lumpur (Mont'Kiara International School) and Community Activities Director in Bangkok (International School Bangkok). Justin is also an avid soccer coach. Along with working at various age levels, he has also worked as an assistant at two professional clubs in Asia. In addition to coaching, Justin enjoys singing and has been lucky enough to play in a few different bands in Asia.
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Laurent VillemeurAthletics Assistant
Laurent Villemeur
Athletics Assistant
Laurent Villemeur is from Paris, France. He studied engineering and received a Master’s degree in management from Université Paris-Dauphine. A former professional rugby player, Laurent is also an accomplished touch rugby player. He has won a number of national championships while representing both France and Hong Kong, and also a European championship. In addition, he attended two Touch World Cups where he won a bronze medal. Laurent is a qualified coach for the game of rugby (L2), touch rugby (L2) and netball, and is actively involve in numerous sport programmes at CDNIS.
Visual & Performing Arts
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Ashley BenusaPerforming Arts Teacher
Ashley Benusa
Performing Arts Teacher
Ashley Benusa is from Norwalk, Connecticut, USA. She completed her Bachelor of Music Education degree (Hons) at Valparaiso University in Indiana, USA and her Master of Music in Music Education from Boston University where she specialized in multicultural music education in international schools. She has been a primary school arts educator in international schools in Asia for over 10 years, teaching in Hong Kong, China and Thailand. An educator passionate about performance, Ashley is also a cellist who regularly engages in music making with various ensembles around Hong Kong.
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Kimberly ButlerDepartment Head & Performing Arts Teacher
Kimberly Butler
Department Head & Performing Arts Teacher
Kimberly Butler is from Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and teaches performing arts and band. She received her Bachelor of Music Education degree at Sir Wilfrid Laurier University (Waterloo, Ontario), a Bachelor of Education degree at Queen’s University (Kingston, Ontario) and a Masters in Curriculum and Learning at the University of Toronto. After three years of teaching grades 6, 7 and 8 as a homeroom teacher and band director, she and her husband headed off to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where she worked as a band director and Grade 8 humanities teacher for 13 years. She has taught students from Grade 4 to 12, produced and directed several musicals and conducted at music festivals in KSA. Her interests outside the classroom are baking, crafts and travelling.
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Jennifer SalvadorEarly Years Music & Movement Teacher
Jennifer Salvador
Early Years Music & Movement Teacher
In 2013, Jennifer Salvador acquired her Early Childhood Education Diploma and QKT recognition. She also studied Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Studies, which she completed in 2016. She completed courses on early childhood education, curriculum planning, special education and educational management. Her passion for music and playing instruments comes from her childhood school experiences and having a family background of musicians. Ms. Salvador believe that through music and movement children develop a sense of cooperation and togetherness, creativity, confidence, resiliency, and other developmental life skills. She would like to instill this love of creative movement, drama, singing and appreciation of music to young students.
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JoAnne SandulVisual Arts Teacher
JoAnne Sandul
Visual Arts Teacher
Hailing from Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, JoAnne Sandul is a graduate of Carleton University (BA Art History), the University of Ottawa (B.Ed - Visual Arts), Ryerson University (Diploma FSN Design & Merchandising), and is currently completing an MA, MS from SUNY (USA). Ms Sandul is an Apple Distinguished Educator (2011), and holds a specialist level teaching qualification in Special Education from Queen’s University (Canada). Prior to her employment at CDNIS, Ms Sandul served as a NET in Hong Kong and was the ESL Coordinator at the Korean International School. She was the Fashion Coordinator for LaSalle College of Canada in Manila, Philippines, an English instructor in Japan, and an Upper School Visual Arts teacher in Canada. This is Ms Sandul’s 11th year teaching in the Lower School at CDNIS.
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Carole SaundersPerforming Arts & Dance Teacher
Carole Saunders
Performing Arts & Dance Teacher
Carole Saunders is an adult third culture kid. Born in Australia, she grew up in Papua New Guinea and attended university in the United States where she gained her degree in English as well as in Elementary/Primary Teaching. Although Carole’s family returned to Australia she chose to stay abroad, working in the USA, Papua New Guinea, China, a brief stint in Australia and most recently the Sultanate of Oman. A strong background in ballet led Carole to become certified to teach in the 90s, when she served as second teacher in two schools and eventually managed her own school as a second job. While in Oman she used her skills to create, develop and run a school wide dance programme, including teaching IGCSE Dance and IBDP Dance. Carole’s personal interests range from animal rights to Star Wars.
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Aly TreziseLearning Leader for Making & Innovation Visual Arts
Aly Trezise
Learning Leader for Making & Innovation Visual Arts
Aly Trezise is originally from Australia and is the Grade 5 & 6 Visual Arts teacher, as well as the Learning Leader for Making & Innovation. She has a Bachelor Degree in Visual Arts, a Bachelor Degree in Arts Education, both through the University of South Australia, and is currently studying a Masters in Educational Leadership through the State University of New York and has recently completed the Makers-centred Classsroom course with other CDNIS colleges, through Harvard. She has been teaching internationally for 14 years in the UK, Malaysia, Tanzania, China, the Philippines and now in Hong Kong for the last three years. She also has two rather lively children in the lower school, (both of whom, are crazy about CDNIS!). A self-confessed change-maker, Aly is passionate about environmental sustainability, creativity in education and inspiring kids to be the re-designers of their world.
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Sid DewanVisual Arts Educational Assistant
Sid Dewan
Visual Arts Educational Assistant
Fascinated by physical structures and visual compositions in his adolescent years, Sid Dewan pursued his interests and attained Bachelor of Design in Interior Architecture and a Diploma in Visual Communication from University of Raffles. During his undergraduate years, Mr. Sid held multiple gigs, one as a teaching assistant. The instant spark he felt in fostering young learners aspired him to obtain TEFL certification and eventually lead his own weekend classes at ESF schools. Currently serving his second year at CDNIS, he looks forward to enhancing student engagement and their learning experience. In his spare time, Sid likes to indulge in DIY projects, street photography, films/TV shows, board sports, soccer, MMA, travelling to lesser known destinations, or merely sleeping in a hammock.
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Sunny YeungChinese & Performing Arts Educational Assistant
Sunny Yeung
Chinese & Performing Arts Educational Assistant
Sunny Yeung is from Taiwan. She has a BA and an MA from National Chengchi University in Taiwan and an MA degree in Educational Studies from Sheffield University, England. After graduating, she worked at Chinese International School in Hong Kong and Shanghai American School as a Chinese Teacher for 13 years. She took some time off to become a full-time mom and after a few years she began working as a substitute teacher. When her family moved to Hong Kong from Shanghai, she joined CDNIS and has been very happy to be part of the CDNIS community ever since.
Grade 7
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Anne BoyleFrench & Grade 7A Homeroom Teacher
Anne Boyle
French & Grade 7A Homeroom Teacher
Anne Boyle was born and grew up in Ireland but spent many years working on the west coast of Canada. She is fiercely proud of and strongly identifies with her Irish roots. She completed her BA (Hons) in German Language and Literature with a minor in French at Queen’s University, Belfast, Ireland. She found her first teaching job in England teaching French and German before moving to BC, Canada. Anne has taught almost every level from Grade 1 to Grade 12 and currently teaches MYP French and DP French Ab Initio. When she is not teaching, she likes to stay fit and loves to hike, cycle or run. If Anne were asked to describe herself, she would use three words; firm, fun and feisty.
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Raymond LooMath, Learning Support, Business Studies & Grade 7B Homeroom Teacher
Raymond Loo
Math, Learning Support, Business Studies & Grade 7B Homeroom Teacher
Raymond Loo teaches DP/MYP Business Management and MYP Mathematics. Born and educated in Toronto, Raymond received his Bachelor of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business, specializing in Accounting. He attained the Chartered Professional Accountant designation and worked as a tax professional with The Toronto-Dominion Bank, KPMG, and the Canada Revenue Agency prior to teaching. Raymond is passionate about teaching and helping his students to think critically and accept responsibility for the outcomes and consequences of their decisions. Raymond looks forward to sharing his own work experiences to help his students understand real life application of the concepts and assist them in developing their applicable skills to reach their potential in this challenging curriculum. Raymond sees the importance of applying math in everyday real life. He hopes to help the students realize this by connecting the lessons to the real world and by instilling confidence and making it an enjoyable experience. He has tremendous patience and endeavours to spend as much time as necessary to help his students learn the fundamentals as well as the extended math.
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Anthony JacksonEnglish, TOK, Learning Support & Grade 7C Homeroom Teacher
Anthony Jackson
English, TOK, Learning Support & Grade 7C Homeroom Teacher
Anthony Jackson, from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University, in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 2006 with an Advanced Major in History and a double minor in English and Sociology. Anthony received his Bachelor of Education degree from St. Francis Xavier University and obtained his teaching certification. His teacher-training focus lies within the Middle School and Secondary streams of education and his concentrations are Social Studies and English. Anthony also completed an intensive program in Middle Years Education as an addition to his current Bachelor of Education degree.
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Rachel KirchnerMath & Grade 7D Homeroom Teacher
Rachel Kirchner
Math & Grade 7D Homeroom Teacher
Rachel Kirchner is from California. She earned a degree in Environmental Science at UC Berkeley and received her teaching credentials and Master's degree in Teaching English as a Second Language from the University of San Francisco. She has worked with students in Grades 3-10 throughout her 13 years in education, but her first passion is teaching Math to middle school students. Prior to coming to CDNIS she taught in California, Bangkok, and London. She has written online lessons and a Grade 6 instructional unit in Math. In her spare time she loves swimming, yoga, playing volleyball, and spending time with her three young children.
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Charlotte NielsenEnglish, Learning Support & Grade 7E Homeroom Teacher
Charlotte Nielsen
English, Learning Support & Grade 7E Homeroom Teacher
Charlotte Charny Nielsen graduated with a B.Sc. in Biology from Yale University and an M.Sc. in Environmental Science from University of Maryland. After running her own environmental consulting firm in the United States for 10 years and working in the environmental sector on projects in Denmark and Jordan, she discovered her new career as an international school teacher. Charlotte has worked in international schools in Hungary, Qatar and Sweden. This is her fourth year at CDNIS where she teaches Grade 7 Science and English as well as Theory of Knowledge. She is also the Coordinator of the Student Advisory Programme in the Upper School. Her great passions include writing poetry and environmental advocacy.
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Brent MacEachernScience & Grade 7F Homeroom Teacher
Brent MacEachern
Science & Grade 7F Homeroom Teacher
Brent MacEachern is from New Brunswick, Canada. He graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a BA and a B.Ed. He has been teaching Humanities and Science to students in Grades 6 to 12 for more than 10 years. He is passionate about working with our youth and sparking their curiosity about our world.
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Veronica TseGrade 7 & 8 Educational Assistant
Veronica Tse
Grade 7 & 8 Educational Assistant
Veronica Tse completed her BA Hons in Business Administration and Management at Oxford Brookes University, UK. Then she found her first job in the human resources sector in Hong Kong. After working in the area of human resources management for a few years, she went back to the UK and did a master degree of human resources management at the London School of Economics and Political Science, UK. She enjoys working with the kids and this is her fourth year in CDNIS.
Grade 8
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Véronique NobertFrench & Grade 8A Homeroom Teacher
Véronique Nobert
French & Grade 8A Homeroom Teacher
Véronique Nobert is from Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada, teaches MYP French, and is the Grade 8 Team Leader. She obtained her Bachelor of Education and Certification in Educational Psychology from Université du Quebec. Prior to moving overseas, she spent eight years teaching in elementary and secondary schools in both Quebec and British Columbia. In 2011, she started teaching French as a foreign language at Concordia International School in Shanghai, China, and most recently at CDNIS for the last five years. She's most passionate about sharing the beauty of her native language and finding creative ways to engage her students. Outside the classroom, Véronique loves taking pictures around the city, discovering amazing food, hiking local trails with friends, or traveling to the many exotic destinations in and around Asia.
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Joshua LeeEnglish & Grade 8B Homeroom Teacher
Joshua Lee
English & Grade 8B Homeroom Teacher
Joshua Lee was born in Hong Kong but spent most of his childhood in Vancouver, British Columbia. He graduated with a BA in English and B.Ed. in middle school education from the University of British Columbia. He is passionate about using a variety of media to tell stories. As an avid photographer and moviegoer, Joshua endeavours to connect visual storytelling to written and help students build a voice for themselves.
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Norma Jean AdairGrade 8 Team Leader, Math & 8C Homeroom Teacher
Norma Jean Adair
Grade 8 Team Leader, Math & 8C Homeroom Teacher
Norma Jean Adair is from New Brunswick, Canada. She graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a B.Sc. and a B.Ed. She has been teaching abroad for more than 10 years. She has taught mathematics and science to students ranging from Grades 6 to 12. Norma Jean is passionate about helping our youth to reach their full academic potential so that they can make positive differences in our world.
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Robert HoltetHumanities & Grade 8D Homeroom Teacher
Robert Holtet
Humanities & Grade 8D Homeroom Teacher
Robert Holtet is from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and is the Grade 7 and 8 Humanities teacher. He received his Bachelor of Education from the University of Regina before pursuing his MA in Educational Leadership at Royal Roads University in Victoria, B.C. Prior to joining CDNIS, he and his family lived and worked in Canada, Korea, Malta, China, United Arab Emirates, Mongolia, and Malaysia over the last 20 years. He is a self-proclaimed 'life-long learner' whose focus includes extending student learning outside of the classroom through technology and integrating learning, experience and civic responsibility. His interests outside the classroom include playing ice hockey, baseball, golf, and travelling the globe. He is married and has two boys in the Upper School section.
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Mikel EchevarriaMath, Science & 8E Homeroom Teacher
Mikel Echevarria
Math, Science & 8E Homeroom Teacher
Mikel has a mission to instill a passion for lifelong learning in students by implementing an energetic and varied teaching methodology. He has experience of teaching in the public and private sector in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong. He studied Chemistry at the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, then gained a Ph.D in Chemistry and a post-graduate certificate in Education. He is active in the local Hong Kong music scene, playing in a few bands, and enjoys surfing.
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Blair CameronScience & Grade 8F Homeroom Teacher
Blair Cameron
Science & Grade 8F Homeroom Teacher
Blair is a Canadian with 17 years teaching experience across all three IB programmes including the PYP, mathematics and sciences in the MYP and DP Environmental Systems and Societies. He has worked in Toronto, Zurich, Bali and is now proud to call CDNIS and Hong Kong home. Blair holds three degrees from Queen’s University in Canada and is currently studying for his Master’s degree in Educational Technology from State University New York. Blair supervises green-thumb students in the horticulture club and has coached varied teams from soccer and volleyball to rock climbing and downhill skiing. Blair enjoys adventure sports and time spent relaxing with his family.
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Veronica TseGrade 7 & 8 Educational Assistant
Veronica Tse
Grade 7 & 8 Educational Assistant
Veronica Tse completed her BA Hons in Business Administration and Management at Oxford Brookes University, UK. Then she found her first job in the human resources sector in Hong Kong. After working in the area of human resources management for a few years, she went back to the UK and did a master degree of human resources management at the London School of Economics and Political Science, UK. She enjoys working with the kids and this is her fourth year in CDNIS.
CAS
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Gregg LeeCAS & Humanities Teacher
Gregg Lee
CAS & Humanities Teacher
Gregg Lee is from Toronto, Ontario, Canada and is the CAS coordinator. Gregg also teaches Business and Economics in the Upper School. He attended Ryerson University in Ontario where he received his BComm. Mr. Lee has also received his Masters of Science in Education from Canisius College in Buffalo, New York. He has subsequently lived and worked in Canada, Dubai and Hong Kong and has been teaching for more than 18 years. To promote the love of learning he is committed to delivering the curriculum in engaging and innovative ways. His interests outside the classroom include giving back to the community, travelling, DJ'ing, exercising and spending time with his family.
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Sherina HathiramaniGrade 9-12 Educational Assistant and Experience Week Coordinator
Sherina Hathiramani
Grade 9-12 Educational Assistant and Experience Week Coordinator
Sherina Hathiramani-Nandwani is from the sunny and beautiful island of St. Maarten in the Netherlands Antilles. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Business and Computer Information Systems from the Mount Saint Vincent University (Canada) and a TESOL Teaching Certificate. She has been working at CDNIS since 2009 and serves as the Upper School Experience Week Coordinator and Education Assistant. Her interests outside the classroom include travelling and spending as much time as she can with her daughter and family.
Chinese Studies
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Jessie AuChinese Teacher
Jessie Au
Chinese Teacher
Jessie Au is from Taipei. She has a B.Sc. degree in Chinese Literature from National Chung Hsing University in Taiwan as well as a Diploma in Education from The Chinese University of Hong Kong. She worked in Hong Kong Secondary schools as a Chinese Language, Literature and Putonghua teacher, and also as a marker for HKCEE before joining CDNIS. She is passionate about teaching and willing to explore students’ different abilities in and outside of the classroom. Her interests are reading and hiking.
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Lu ChenChinese Teacher
Lu Chen
Chinese Teacher
Lu Chen is from Xi’an, China. She has a BA (Hons) degree in Education and MA degree in Linguistics. Before joining CDNIS in 2010, she worked in China and Hong Kong as a college English teacher and also as an elementary and high school Chinese teacher. She is passionate about teaching Chinese and promoting Chinese culture, and being able to cultivate a love of learning in students. Her interests outside the classroom include travelling, reading and baking.
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Benjamin ChuChinese Teacher
Benjamin Chu
Chinese Teacher
Benjamin Chu is from Hong Kong. He joined CDNIS in 1998 and has taught in both the Lower and Upper Schools, Grade 2-12, for more than 18 years. He has a Bachelor of Education degree in Physical Education from the National Taiwan Normal University. He also attended Manchester University in the UK where he received his Master of Education degree in Physical Education as well. Before joining CDNIS, he taught in a middle school for 11 years and two years in a primary school in Hong Kong.
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Irene GuChinese Teacher
Irene Gu
Chinese Teacher
Irene Gu is from Shanghai China and is the Upper School MYP and DP Chinese teacher. She has a Master‘s degree from The State University Of New York and BA degree from Shanghai Normal University. After graduating, she worked in Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur and HK. She has been teaching Chinese as a second language for 18 years. She joined CDNIS in 2012. As an IB educator, she strives to encourage students to gain competence in an additional language with the long-term goal of multilingualism.
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Joanna HuangChinese Teacher
Joanna Huang
Chinese Teacher
Joanna Huang was born and raised in Taiwan. She has over 20 years of teaching experience. She holds the Master of Education in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language from the University of Hong Kong, and has obtained the Certificate with First Class in National Putonghua Proficiency Test. Having taught Mandarin Chinese at Canadian International School of Hong Kong since 1999, Joanna is familiar with both Ontario Secondary School Diploma and International Baccalaureate curricula. She was recognized as an Apple Distinguished Educator in 2008 and is also qualified as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Mandarin B examiner. Being an educator, Joanna enjoys the lifelong learning journey with her students.
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Cissy LiChinese Teacher
Cissy Li
Chinese Teacher
Cissy Li is from Shanghai, China and she teaches MYP and DP Mandarin at CDNIS. She holds a BA from Shaanxi Teacher’s University, China and an MA in Education, majoring in teaching Chinese as a Second Language from Hong Kong University. She has served as a Mandarin Department Head of Dulwich College International School in Shanghai for three years, a Coordinator/Grade Head for two years in ISF in Hong Kong, and a co-department Head of the Upper School Chinese Department at CDNIS for two years. She has also taught children ranging in age from Preschool to Grade 12 for more than 25 years. Her interests outside the classroom include reading, hiking, keeping fit, singing, swimming and travelling. She is very passionate about teaching and enjoys cultivating a love of learning in students.
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Cecilia WangChinese Studies Department Head
Cecilia Wang
Chinese Studies Department Head
Cecilia Wang is from Taiwan and is the department head of Upper School Chinese Studies. She holds two Master’s degrees in Chinese Literature and in Putonghua Education, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from Hong Kong University. She is also an IBDP Chinese B HL Examiner. She started her teaching journey in 1995 and joined CDNIS in 2003. She has held various teaching positions at both public and international schools in Taiwan and Hong Kong, and has also been involved in developing course syllabus and teaching materials. She is devoted to ensuring that each student has a motivating and comfortable learning experience in her classroom. During holidays, she enjoys travelling, and spending time with her family in Taiwan.
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Boris WongChinese Teacher
Boris Wong
Chinese Teacher
Boris Wong is from Hong Kong. He has a teaching certificate from the College of Education in Hong Kong and an MA in Putonghua Education from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He joined CDNIS in 2006 and has been teaching Chinese language for more than 20 years. As an IB educator, his goals include fostering students’ curiosity, inquiry and a lifelong interest in, and enjoyment of, language learning.
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Shan Shan YangChinese Teacher
Shan Shan Yang
Chinese Teacher
Shan Shan Yang is from China. She has a BA in Chinese Literature from Southern China Normal University and also received her MA in Education from The Education University of Hong Kong. Her journey in the IB started in 2002. Prior to teaching at CDNIS, she worked at another IB school as a Chinese teacher and as the primary and secondary Chinese department head. She is also an experienced IBDP Mandarin A and B examiner.
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Miyan ZhangChinese Teacher
Miyan Zhang
Chinese Teacher
Miyan Zhang is from Shanghai, China, and has taught Chinese as a foreign language in Shanghai and Hong Kong over 15 years. Miyan holds a Bachelor in English Literature degree and Master in Education degree. She is currently pursuing her EdD at HKU. Miyan is passionate about sharing the Chinese culture with students. She tries to inspire and motivate students to be inquirers when learning about Chinese culture and the language. Miyan likes to read and to travel in her leisure time.
Drama
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Dean KrawchukDrama Department Head and TOK Teacher
Dean Krawchuk
Drama Department Head and TOK Teacher
Dean Krawchuk joins CDNIS from Dubai where he previously taught MYP Theatre, DP Theatre Arts and TOK for two years at Dubai International Academy. Prior to that, he was living in Kelowna, BC having completed a BFA in Interdisciplinary Performance. There he focused on devising theatre, clowning, contact improvisation, photography, sculpture, theatre tech and more. Before living in Kelowna, Mr. Krawchuk was teaching Drama and Social Studies in his hometown of Edmonton, Alberta at Victoria School of the Arts. His first teaching job was in Barking, Essex. He has recently started working with ISTA, and is looking forward to continuing his relationship with them.
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Kristen PearsonEnglish & Drama Teacher
Kristen Pearson
English & Drama Teacher
Kristen Pearson is an Ontario teacher who loves teaching and learning in both the English and Drama departments at CDNIS. She landed in Hong Kong after teaching at schools in Morocco, South Korea, and Indonesia. Kristen attended McMaster University where she received her honours BA in English and Theatre&Film Studies, followed by a post-graduate teaching certificate in Adolescence Education at Canisius College. She is passionate about teaching and strives to create spaces and lessons that spark the critical thinking, creativity, and assertiveness of her students. Kristen's interests outside the classroom include spending time outdoors, cooking, and trying to find the best Hong Kong-style milk tea.
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Suzzie SauerDrama Teacher
Suzzie Sauer
Drama Teacher
Suzzie Sauer hails from Calgary, Alberta, and is a proud Flames fan. She holds a BA (Drama) and a B.Ed. (Drama Education) from the University of Lethbridge, Alberta, and a Masters of Applied Theatre and Dramatic Education (Hons) from Griffith University, Brisbane. She is now working on a Masters of Educational Technology from the University of British Columbia, Canada, and looks forward to continuing to pursue her academic career through publication. Suzzie has been teaching Drama for 15 years, all of which have been spent teaching overseas in England, Thailand and Hong Kong. In her spare time, Suzzie is involved in the celebratory arts at her church, and in the local dance community.
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Emma HerbertDrama Assistant
Emma Herbert
Drama Assistant
Emma Herbert was born in Hong Kong and moved to the UK for her secondary and tertiary education. During her time there, she found her passion in drama and completed LAMDA certifications in Verse and Prose, Reading for Performance and Acting. She completed her BA (Hons) in Human Communication at University of Exeter and spent a few years working within business and finance sectors. She has experience teaching early years, primary and secondary students in English and Drama. In her spare time, Emma also enjoys rock-climbing, hiking, catching up on films/TV shows and playing board games.
English
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Stephanie YoungEnglish Department Head
Stephanie Young
English Department Head
Stephanie is in her seventh year at CDNIS as a member of the Upper School English Department. She hails from Kelowna, B.C., Canada where she began her teaching career in local public schools. Following five years in Kelowna, she went abroad for a two-year stint at an IB school in Dubai. The subsequent return to Canada was short lived and after two quick years at home found herself in Hong Kong and has been here since. Stephanie received her B.Ed. (Secondary) in English and Physical Education from the University of Victoria. Shortly after she earned her M.Ed. (University of Calgary) in Educational Leadership and has recently completed additional post-graduate studies, here at The University of Hong Kong (HKU), in the field of Social Sciences: Counselling (MSocSc). Stephanie coaches U20 basketball and is a regular fixture in the fitness area demonstrating a commitment to healthy living and an active, balanced lifestyle.
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Marie BairdEnglish Teacher
Marie Baird
English Teacher
Marie hails from Canada, but feels privileged to have lived and worked as well in Swaziland, Vietnam, Thailand, China and now Hong Kong. Originally an English teacher on Canada's west coast (BA University of Saskatchewan; DipEd UBC), she developed an interest in First Nations culture and language, returning to University of Victoria to obtain a Master's degree (MA) in Linguistics, with a focus on aboriginal languages of the Pacific Northwest. She has taught IB English for many years and enjoys working with new teachers as an IB workshop facilitator, sharing a passion for language and literature, and exploring ways to make our teaching meaningful in a 21st century context. Her favourite teachers are her students and her own children. Travelling, reading, novelty, the ocean, good conversation - these are some of her favourite things.
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Lily ChanEnglish Teacher
Lily Chan
English Teacher
Lily Chan is a proud CDNIS alumna. She has a BA (English) from the University of British Columbia and Bachelor of Education (with Distinction) from Western University. She has worked in Macau, Hong Kong, and recently joined the school after teaching at the United World College of South East Asia in Singapore. She is a certified Ontario and IB educator. She is excited to share her pride of the school and her passion for learning and teaching with the school community.
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David CraigEnglish Teacher
David Craig
English Teacher
David Craig began teaching English literature at l'Université Laval in 1992, after successive careers as a symphonic musician, a soldier and forester. Since then, he has taught literature, drama, filmmaking and philosophy in Turkey, Bahrain, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Thailand. He returns to Hong Kong after an eight-year absence. Home is Chiang Mai where he - with his wife Nat (an agricultural professional) - rehabilitates spent farmland, transforming exhausted land into gardens, forests and farms. While at CDNIS, he'll be revisiting Hong Kong’s country park trails with the AYP students. Also, he's the owner of a saxophone, and dreams of playing jazz with the students. Everyone who hears David play the saxophone agrees: It is only a dream. Yet, he continues to play.
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Theresa HullEnglish Teacher
Theresa Hull
English Teacher
Theresa Hull is originally from British Columbia, Canada. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English as well as a Bachelor of Education, both from the University of Manitoba. Currently, she is continuing her education by pursuing her passion for literature as a graduate student. Theresa is also an IB examiner for both the Extended Essay and English Literature - Paper 2. Her experience as a DP teacher has been enhanced recently as she is now the proud mother of a newly minted Diploma programme graduate while her younger daughter begins the journey in August. In addition to her seemingly inexhaustible love for literature, Theresa also enjoys travelling, hiking and is an avid runner.
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Anthony JacksonEnglish, TOK, Learning Support & Grade 7C Homeroom Teacher
Anthony Jackson
English, TOK, Learning Support & Grade 7C Homeroom Teacher
Anthony Jackson, from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University, in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 2006 with an Advanced Major in History and a double minor in English and Sociology. Anthony received his Bachelor of Education degree from St. Francis Xavier University and obtained his teaching certification. His teacher-training focus lies within the Middle School and Secondary streams of education and his concentrations are Social Studies and English. Anthony also completed an intensive program in Middle Years Education as an addition to his current Bachelor of Education degree.
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Joshua LeeEnglish & Grade 8B Homeroom Teacher
Joshua Lee
English & Grade 8B Homeroom Teacher
Joshua Lee was born in Hong Kong but spent most of his childhood in Vancouver, British Columbia. He graduated with a BA in English and B.Ed. in middle school education from the University of British Columbia. He is passionate about using a variety of media to tell stories. As an avid photographer and moviegoer, Joshua endeavours to connect visual storytelling to written and help students build a voice for themselves.
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Cinder MerrittEnglish Teacher
Cinder Merritt
English Teacher
Cinder Merritt is a fourth-generation teacher from California, currently loving her 24th year of teaching. Her Bachelor of Arts degree (English) and teacher training are from California State University, Stanislaus; her Master of Arts degree (International Education) is from the University of Bath. She spent her first 10 years of teaching at the California high school from which she graduated. As an international teacher, she relished her time at International School of Beijing (eight years) and Overseas Family School in Singapore (three years), before having the great fortune to come to CDNIS (now in her 3rd year). She is passionate about debate (team coach, club advisor) and animal causes (PAWS co-advisor) and has found it rewarding to work with the UNICEF Club.
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Steve MyrdenEnglish Teacher
Steve Myrden
English Teacher
Steve Myrden has been a teacher for 31 years and has lived and taught in various places in Canada and around the world including Dubai, Japan and New Zealand. He was last teaching AP Lit, Global Topics and Journalism at the American School of Dubai. Hong Kong has been on his radar since he started teaching internationally, and he is thrilled to be joining the CDNIS staff! He is originally from Newfoundland, Canada and loves to get back to “The Rock” every summer; but his Canadian home is in Nova Scotia. Steve is a graduate of Memorial University. His wife Cait is also a teacher and will be starting her new job at another school in Hong Kong this fall. He loves to read, play basketball, hike, mountain bike, stand-up paddleboard, play guitar, ski, camp and do yoga.
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Charlotte NielsenEnglish, Learning Support & Grade 7E Homeroom Teacher
Charlotte Nielsen
English, Learning Support & Grade 7E Homeroom Teacher
Charlotte Charny Nielsen graduated with a B.Sc. in Biology from Yale University and an M.Sc. in Environmental Science from University of Maryland. After running her own environmental consulting firm in the United States for 10 years and working in the environmental sector on projects in Denmark and Jordan, she discovered her new career as an international school teacher. Charlotte has worked in international schools in Hungary, Qatar and Sweden. This is her fourth year at CDNIS where she teaches Grade 7 Science and English as well as Theory of Knowledge. She is also the Coordinator of the Student Advisory Programme in the Upper School. Her great passions include writing poetry and environmental advocacy.
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Kristen PearsonEnglish & Drama Teacher
Kristen Pearson
English & Drama Teacher
Kristen Pearson is an Ontario teacher who loves teaching and learning in both the English and Drama departments at CDNIS. She landed in Hong Kong after teaching at schools in Morocco, South Korea, and Indonesia. Kristen attended McMaster University where she received her honours BA in English and Theatre&Film Studies, followed by a post-graduate teaching certificate in Adolescence Education at Canisius College. She is passionate about teaching and strives to create spaces and lessons that spark the critical thinking, creativity, and assertiveness of her students. Kristen's interests outside the classroom include spending time outdoors, cooking, and trying to find the best Hong Kong-style milk tea.
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Danielle Van-De-BrouckeEnglish & TOK Teacher
Danielle Van-De-Broucke
English & TOK Teacher
Danielle Van de Broucke is from the U.K. She loves the literary arts and hopes to engender this same passion within her students. Danielle has a MFA in Creative Writing, a M.Ed. in Practitioner Inquiry and a PGCE, from Newcastle University. Previous teaching roles have included Head of English at Hanoi International School and Lead Teacher of Critical Thinking in the UK. In her spare time, Danielle is a Yoga Alliance certificated Yoga instructor, a keen wakeboarder and a writer.
Music & Film Studies
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Robert DachoMusic Department Head/Film Studies Teacher
Robert Dacho
Music Department Head/Film Studies Teacher
Robert Dacho holds degrees in Chemistry, Music, and Education from the University of Western Ontario. Rob taught vocal and instrumental music from Pre Reception through Grade 12 in southern Ontario. Since arriving to CDNIS in 2005, he has taught instrumental music from grade 6 through 12. He is currently Upper School Music & Film Department Head teaching grade 8, 10 instrumental music and grade 11 film. He thoroughly enjoys directing Grade 8 Band, Stage Band and Symphonic Winds with our school’s most talented musicians. Having recently completed his Master's in Orchestration for TV and Film, he is now completing his thesis for an MFA in Professional Composition and Orchestration with a completion date of June, 2018.
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Nikolai JoyceFilm & Design Teacher
Nikolai Joyce
Film & Design Teacher
Nikolai Joyce is from New Zealand. He graduated from high school in Malaysia and attended university in Australia. He holds a Master’s Degree in education and has recently begun further studies in screenwriting. For many years, he worked professionally as a photographer and then as a videographer. He worked in marketing, publications and development while teaching media related courses at international schools in Japan, Thailand and Malaysia. Nikolai was last team-teaching MYP Design in Nanjing International School’s purpose-built design centre with a product and a systems specialist. His area is digital/media design.
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Liam O'TooleMusic Teacher
Liam O'Toole
Music Teacher
Liam O'Toole is from Christchurch, New Zealand. While living in New Zealand, he gained a Double Diploma in Jazz (Ara Institute of Canterbury), a Bachelor or Music Honours (University of Canterbury), and a Graduate Teaching Diploma (NZ Graduate School of Education). After traveling and teaching in Ankara, Turkey, Liam found himself in Kansas where he gained his Masters in Music Education at Wichita State University. As a teaching assistant at WSU, his main highlights were conducting the university bands and directing the Athletic Band for the college basketball programme. As well as conducting the Wind Philharmonic and the Stage Band, Liam coaches the Girls U20 Touch Rugby team at CDNIS.
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Jessy PoMusic Assistant
Jessy Po
Music Assistant
Jessy Po grew up in Hong Kong. She holds an Arts degree from the University of Hong Kong, where she studied music theory and composition. She published her first song in 2012. Before working at CDNIS, she worked at a music production studio and taught music theory and piano in private music centres. Her favourite instrument is the trombone. Besides music, she also loves beach volleyball, handball and middle distance running. She is passionate about coaching and she tries hard to influence students to work hard and play smart.
Guidance
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Catherine IrvineGuidance Department Head (Grade 10-12)
Catherine Irvine
Guidance Department Head (Grade 10-12)
Born in Canada, Catherine Irvine graduated from Queen’s University’s Concurrent Education programme with a BA (Hons) in English Literature and a B.Ed. In addition, she obtained her Honours Specialist in English from the University of Ottawa, her Career and Guidance Counsellor Specialist from Queen’s University and her M.Sc. in Educational Management through Bristol University in the UK. Catherine has worked in education for 18 years in Canada, Belgium and here in Hong Kong. She has experience with the OSSD as an English and Economics teacher, and as a Department Head. Her IBDP experience includes teaching English Literature and fulfilling duties as a Head of Year and as a Careers and Guidance Counsellor. Catherine joined CDNIS four years ago as a Guidance Counsellor and is now in her second year as Head of the Upper School Guidance Department. She also has two children who attend CDNIS in the Lower School.
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Rob AldridgeGuidance Counsellor (Grade 10-12)
Rob Aldridge
Guidance Counsellor (Grade 10-12)
Rob Aldridge is from Oxford in the UK and holds B.Sc. (Hons) from Oxford Brookes University in Education and Sociology. He spent a decade in the UK Higher Education Sector as an admissions and recruitment officer. He worked at Brookes, UWIC, the University of Bristol and also served as the Head of International Recruitment at the University of Reading. Rob was a University Hall Warden where he gained substantial pastoral experience. He spent six years with the British Army and loves outdoor activities. He is a Duke of Edinburgh Award (HKAYP) instructor and supports the school's AYP programme. Rob joined CDNIS in 2011.
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Scott AthertonGuidance Counsellor (Grade 10-12)
Scott Atherton
Guidance Counsellor (Grade 10-12)
Scott Atherton joined CDNIS in 2014 after working as an admissions officer for eight years at Middlebury College in Vermont (USA). Originally from the state of Maine, Scott lived and worked in Vermont for many years before moving to Hong Kong. Prior to university admissions and high school counselling, Scott worked for a variety of nonprofit organizations, including the Addison County Community Trust, Salzburg Global Seminar, and part time as a radio announcer on Vermont Public Radio, among others. Scott earned his BA in anthropology at Harvard University, and is the father of two adult children, Nick and Mira. Outside of work, Scott enjoys travelling, hiking, cross-country skiing, bicycling, food and wine, music, and films.
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Maegan RobichaudGuidance Counsellor (Grade 10-12)
Maegan Robichaud
Guidance Counsellor (Grade 10-12)
Maegan Robichaud is from Kapuskasing, a very small town in northern Ontario, Canada. She has a BA (Hons) and B.Ed. from Brock University, a graduate certificate in Educational Technology from Michigan State University, and is completing a Master's degree in Educational Leadership and Management from University of Bristol. Maegan has worked as a classroom teacher, IT integrator, and head teacher before joining the Upper School guidance team at CDNIS in 2016.
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Timothy WooWellbeing Guidance Counsellor
Timothy Woo
Wellbeing Guidance Counsellor
Timothy Woo is Chinese born Canadian, born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. He received his Doctorate in social work from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in social work from York University. In Canada, Timothy has had experiences as a family service child protection worker and as the adolescent social worker in a rehabilitation hospital for children with special needs. In Hong Kong, Timothy has had experiences as a programme coordinator with an NGO geared towards youth drug education and prevention, and most recently, as a guidance counsellor at another private independent school. Timothy has two children, both under the age of three, and his passions include seeing youth be successful in any way they wish, fried food, and dodgeball, for all the wrong reasons.
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My Thanh MacGuidance Counsellor (Grade 7-9)
My Thanh Mac
Guidance Counsellor (Grade 7-9)
My Thanh Mac received her Bachelor of Arts in English at UCLA and her Master of Science in Counselling at San Francisco State University. In her undergrad and graduate programmes, My Thanh discovered her passion for youth work and community service. She has served as Head of College Counselling in a private secondary school in San Francisco, and most recently worked as a primary counsellor at Chinese International School. Currently, she helps coach the Hong Kong national team for the World Individuals Debate and Public Speaking Competition, and lectures Psychology at HKU Space. My Thanh is fluent in Cantonese and enjoys any opportunity to improve her Mandarin or Spanish. Her other interests include discussing growth mindsets, scrapbooking and discovering delicious local joints in Hong Kong.
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Lolita SchmalenbergGuidance Counsellor (Grade 7-9)
Lolita Schmalenberg
Guidance Counsellor (Grade 7-9)
Lolita Schmalenberg is from Ontario, Canada but her roots began in Bermuda. She holds a B.Sc. (Hons) from the University of Guelph and a Masters from UBC in Counseling Psychology. She is registered as a single subject teacher with BC Teacher’s Regulation. She began her career working with families as a social worker with Scarborough General Hospital, and Big Brother’s/Sister’s Canada. She has worked as a school counsellor for over 20 years in Central America, PR China and since 2010 at CDNIS. Helping young people connect with peers, resolve difficulties and become more resilient is why Lolita loves being a counsellor. Known for her easy-going nature and ready smile, Lolita enjoys hiking, good food and spending time with friends.
Humanities
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Isabelle ShorttHumanities Department Head
Isabelle Shortt
Humanities Department Head
Isabelle Shortt is from France. She has a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree (first class honours) in History from La Sorbonne University as well as a PGCE from Hong Kong University. She has lived and worked in several schools in France, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sudan. In her 17 years of teaching, Isabelle has taught French Language B, History and Geography. In addition to teaching, Isabelle has worked in various roles for the IBO including MYP/DP workshop leader as well as developing the curriculum framework for MYP Language B worldwide. She is a passionate historian, who enjoys sharing this passion with her students. Her interests outside the classroom include hiking, reading, keeping fit and spending time with her family.
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Neil AndersonHumanities Teacher
Neil Anderson
Humanities Teacher
Neil Anderson is from Caledon, Ontario, which is generally considered “farm country” just north of Toronto. He has an undergraduate degree in International Development from the University of Guelph, and earned his teaching certificate from the University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. Mr. Anderson’s previous teaching experiences include working in Dubai for two years and Beijing for four. Most recently, he taught MYP Humanities, DP Economics, and was the CAS coordinator at the Canadian International School of Beijing. If you see Mr. Anderson around, feel free to strike up a conversation with him about camping, Margaret Atwood, or the future impact of your favourite economic policies.
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Robert HoltetHumanities & Grade 8D Homeroom Teacher
Robert Holtet
Humanities & Grade 8D Homeroom Teacher
Robert Holtet is from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and is the Grade 7 and 8 Humanities teacher. He received his Bachelor of Education from the University of Regina before pursuing his MA in Educational Leadership at Royal Roads University in Victoria, B.C. Prior to joining CDNIS, he and his family lived and worked in Canada, Korea, Malta, China, United Arab Emirates, Mongolia, and Malaysia over the last 20 years. He is a self-proclaimed 'life-long learner' whose focus includes extending student learning outside of the classroom through technology and integrating learning, experience and civic responsibility. His interests outside the classroom include playing ice hockey, baseball, golf, and travelling the globe. He is married and has two boys in the Upper School section.
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Heather JablonowskiHumanities Teacher
Heather Jablonowski
Humanities Teacher
Heather Jablonowski is from many cities in Canada. She is an Upper School Humanities teacher and the Librarian's sidekick. She has her BA, PGDE, M.Ed., and is an IB examiner. She has lived and worked in Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Hong Kong and has been teaching abroad for more than 15 years. She is also an enthusiastic coach; believing that maintaining balance is key to a happy and successful life. Her interests outside the classroom include running marathons and ultra-marathons, reading, spending time with friends and travelling the world for new adventures.
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Kirk KahuHumanities & TOK Teacher
Kirk Kahu
Humanities & TOK Teacher
Kirk Kahu is from Kitchener, Canada. He has a Masters of Science in International Learning Styles from State University of New York, a Bachelor of Education from University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and History from the University of Guelph. He has lived and taught in Sofia, Bulgaria and Bangkok, Thailand and has been teaching abroad for more than 15 years. Kirk coaches varsity girls touch rugby at CDNIS. Outside of school, Kirk has captained the National Ultimate Frisbee team and played in three world championship tournaments representing Hong Kong.
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Gregg LeeCAS & Humanities Teacher
Gregg Lee
CAS & Humanities Teacher
Gregg Lee is from Toronto, Ontario, Canada and is the CAS coordinator. Gregg also teaches Business and Economics in the Upper School. He attended Ryerson University in Ontario where he received his BComm. Mr. Lee has also received his Masters of Science in Education from Canisius College in Buffalo, New York. He has subsequently lived and worked in Canada, Dubai and Hong Kong and has been teaching for more than 18 years. To promote the love of learning he is committed to delivering the curriculum in engaging and innovative ways. His interests outside the classroom include giving back to the community, travelling, DJ'ing, exercising and spending time with his family.
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Raymond LooMath, Learning Support, Business Studies & Grade 7B Homeroom Teacher
Raymond Loo
Math, Learning Support, Business Studies & Grade 7B Homeroom Teacher
Raymond Loo teaches DP/MYP Business Management and MYP Mathematics. Born and educated in Toronto, Raymond received his Bachelor of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business, specializing in Accounting. He attained the Chartered Professional Accountant designation and worked as a tax professional with The Toronto-Dominion Bank, KPMG, and the Canada Revenue Agency prior to teaching. Raymond is passionate about teaching and helping his students to think critically and accept responsibility for the outcomes and consequences of their decisions. Raymond looks forward to sharing his own work experiences to help his students understand real life application of the concepts and assist them in developing their applicable skills to reach their potential in this challenging curriculum. Raymond sees the importance of applying math in everyday real life. He hopes to help the students realize this by connecting the lessons to the real world and by instilling confidence and making it an enjoyable experience. He has tremendous patience and endeavours to spend as much time as necessary to help his students learn the fundamentals as well as the extended math.
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Dave PerryHumanities Teacher
Dave Perry
Humanities Teacher
Dave Perry is from Tamworth, England. He has a BA (Hons) degree in History and Politics (Durham University), a Master’s degree in Education (University of Western Australia) as well as a PGDE (Hong Kong University). Prior to becoming a teacher, he worked as a policeman in Scotland for 12 years. After arriving in Hong Kong in 2006, he worked at HKIS before joining CDNIS. Outside of the classroom he is a football coach who has been successfully involved with many school and local teams.
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Smriti SafayaCoordinator of Local & Global Engagement & Humanities Teacher
Smriti Safaya
Coordinator of Local & Global Engagement & Humanities Teacher
As a third-culture kid who grew up in India, China and Hong Kong, and a polyglot geo-scientist who pursued Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at UC Davis, HKU and UBC, Smriti Safaya initially shied away from a career in education. Her early plans included expanding earthquake research in the Himalayan mountains as a field geologist and representing India at the Olympics for tennis, until she found working with young people to address local and global issues through experiential education more rewarding. Still a competitive tennis player in the top league in Hong Kong, Smriti is very much at home on the court coaching the school tennis teams to capture multiple ISSFHK & SEASAC medals over the years.
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Stephen SmeedHumanities Teacher
Stephen Smeed
Humanities Teacher
Stephen Smeed in from Vancouver, Canada. He has a BA in Geography from Simon Fraser University and Bachelors of Education from the University of British Columbia. After graduating, Stephen worked in Korea before moving to Hong Kong where he has been teaching for the past 11 years. In his years at CDNIS, he has taught all grades in the Upper School in courses ranging from Humanities to DP Geography. He is also heavily involved in the planning and implementation of the Model United Nations. His interests outside of the classroom include performing improvisational theatre, playing hockey and raising his two girls.
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Kenneth TangHumanities Teacher
Kenneth Tang
Humanities Teacher
Kenneth Tang was born in Hong Kong but raised in Toronto and Vancouver in Canada. He has a B.Comm(Hons) from Rotman Commerce at the University of Toronto, majoring in Accounting and Economics and a PGDE from the University of Hong Kong. He is an OCT and a DP Examiner. He is now a DP/MYP Business Management and Economics teacher at CDNIS. Prior to embarking on a teaching career, Kenneth worked in the business sector at Ernst & Young in Toronto & Citibank in Hong Kong and enjoys sharing his work experiences with students in lessons. An IBDP graduate himself, Kenneth is eager to share his personal IB journey and support students through this challenging curriculum. His interests outside the classroom include travelling, badminton, music and never missing out on an Iced Capp from Timmies!
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Christopher TyrrellHumanities & TOK Teacher
Christopher Tyrrell
Humanities & TOK Teacher
Christopher Tyrrell is from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and is the TOK Coordinator and a Geography teacher at CDNIS. He graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Education and is qualified to teach Geography and Philosophy. He completed his Master’s degree in Buddhist Studies at HKU. He has taught for the past 12 years in Taiwan, China, and Hong Kong. He joined CDNIS in 2015. He is passionate about his subjects and continues to develop professionally as an IB examining team-leader for TOK and as an examiner for DP Geography. He enjoys outdoor pursuits, travel, and learning languages.
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Alexander WrightHumanities & TOK Teacher
Alexander Wright
Humanities & TOK Teacher
Alexander Wright is originally from Oakville, Ontario, Canada. He has a BA in International Development and Political Science, a B.Ed. in History and Politics, and an MA in Conflict Studies and Human Rights. He has been teaching for six years, and before coming to Hong Kong he was a high school history teacher in Bangkok. He has taught Grade 7-12 history, humanities, civics, as well as AP Comparative Politics and US History. Alex has lived in seven different countries and has travelled to over 60. Before teaching, he worked in human rights education for an NGO and UNESCO. He chose teaching because he thought that his experiences in various international fields would be valuable tools for learning about history and politics in the classroom. As such, he strives to instill a passion for learning about the world. He loves travel photography, writing fictional novels, as well as staying physically active through sport.
Learning Support
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Susie HeinrichLearning Support Covenor
Susie Heinrich
Learning Support Covenor
Susie Heinrich is a proud Canadian, originally from Toronto. Her BA (Hons) and B.Ed. are from Queen's University in Canada. She pursued a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction through Michigan State and a Masters in Private School Leadership at Teachers College at Columbia University. She has been in Hong Kong for over 20 years beginning at Delia School of Canada as a teacher and then developing her passion in education at HKIS as a team leader and Middle School Associate Principal. Susie then started her own education business and was a mom to her three kids before joining us at CDNIS as a Grade 5 teacher in 2015. She is thrilled to be back in schools with kids!
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Anthony JacksonEnglish, TOK, Learning Support & Grade 7C Homeroom Teacher
Anthony Jackson
English, TOK, Learning Support & Grade 7C Homeroom Teacher
Anthony Jackson, from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University, in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 2006 with an Advanced Major in History and a double minor in English and Sociology. Anthony received his Bachelor of Education degree from St. Francis Xavier University and obtained his teaching certification. His teacher-training focus lies within the Middle School and Secondary streams of education and his concentrations are Social Studies and English. Anthony also completed an intensive program in Middle Years Education as an addition to his current Bachelor of Education degree.
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Raymond LooMath, Learning Support, Business Studies & Grade 7B Homeroom Teacher
Raymond Loo
Math, Learning Support, Business Studies & Grade 7B Homeroom Teacher
Raymond Loo teaches DP/MYP Business Management and MYP Mathematics. Born and educated in Toronto, Raymond received his Bachelor of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business, specializing in Accounting. He attained the Chartered Professional Accountant designation and worked as a tax professional with The Toronto-Dominion Bank, KPMG, and the Canada Revenue Agency prior to teaching. Raymond is passionate about teaching and helping his students to think critically and accept responsibility for the outcomes and consequences of their decisions. Raymond looks forward to sharing his own work experiences to help his students understand real life application of the concepts and assist them in developing their applicable skills to reach their potential in this challenging curriculum. Raymond sees the importance of applying math in everyday real life. He hopes to help the students realize this by connecting the lessons to the real world and by instilling confidence and making it an enjoyable experience. He has tremendous patience and endeavours to spend as much time as necessary to help his students learn the fundamentals as well as the extended math.
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Charlotte NielsenEnglish, Learning Support & Grade 7E Homeroom Teacher
Charlotte Nielsen
English, Learning Support & Grade 7E Homeroom Teacher
Charlotte Charny Nielsen graduated with a B.Sc. in Biology from Yale University and an M.Sc. in Environmental Science from University of Maryland. After running her own environmental consulting firm in the United States for 10 years and working in the environmental sector on projects in Denmark and Jordan, she discovered her new career as an international school teacher. Charlotte has worked in international schools in Hungary, Qatar and Sweden. This is her fourth year at CDNIS where she teaches Grade 7 Science and English as well as Theory of Knowledge. She is also the Coordinator of the Student Advisory Programme in the Upper School. Her great passions include writing poetry and environmental advocacy.
Library
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Myrna HolmTeacher Librarian
Myrna Holm
Teacher Librarian
Myrna Holm is from Saskatchewan. She has a BA (High Hons) in French and a B.Ed. from the University of Saskatchewan, as well as an MA from North Park College and Theological Seminary in Chicago. After 14 years as a classroom teacher and teacher librarian in French Immersion schools in Saskatchewan, Myrna began her international teaching career in Ningbo, China, where she taught for two years before moving to CDNIS in 2006. Myrna has experience as a teacher librarian at all levels from Pre Reception through Grade 12 and is currently the Upper School Teacher Librarian. She is passionate about reading and the teaching of information literacy skills, and enjoys dancing, nature hikes, travel and the study of languages.
Design & Technolgy
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John StringerDesign & Technology Department Head & Computer Science Teacher
John Stringer
Design & Technology Department Head & Computer Science Teacher
John Stringer is from Fredericton, NB, Canada and part of LTT and MYP Design team. He studied Computer Science at the University of New Brunswick, then a BA and B.Ed. from St. Thomas University, and then a Masters in Educational Technology from the University of British Columbia. He became an Apple Distinguished Educator in 2008. Prior to CDNIS, he worked at the Canadian International School of Beijing (2007-2016) as a technology integrator and coach, as Design Department head, and taught MYP Design, DP Computer Science and ITGS. He is passionate about using technology to create products that have purpose, generate personal engagement, and enrich learning and understanding. John loves to read, travel, and is the proud daddy of two daughters.
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Davis ChanVisual Arts & Design Teacher
Davis Chan
Visual Arts & Design Teacher
Davis Chan obtained his BA from the School of Design of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and his MA from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is currently working on his Doctorate in Education (EdD) at Northeastern University. He had served as a Visual Arts Teacher and Visual Arts Panel Head in different schools around Hong Kong for 20 years before joining CDNIS. As an avid artist himself and in his work as an art educator, Davis has built a strong network among the local and international art communities. He collaboratively joined efforts with other art educators and enthusiasts to create and launch the first ever Outstanding Student Artist Award of Hong Kong in 2015.
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David LarsonLearning & Teaching Technologies
David Larson
Learning & Teaching Technologies
David Larson hails from Winnipeg, Canada. He graduated summa cum laude with a B.Sc. in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin and earned an MA in Educational Technology from Michigan State University. He has worked and traveled widely in professional theater, on a Fulbright-Hays Scholarship curriculum-writing semester in Ghana, and as an Apple Professional Developer. Before he joined the Learning and Teaching Technology team and Design Department in 2012, David taught Humanities, Language Arts, and Technology in Shanghai, China, and Wisconsin, USA. What David likes most about teaching is helping students find and amplify their voice. When he’s not at his computer, you can find David behind a camera, a book, or with his daughters on a hike through Hong Kong’s many trails.
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Aaron MetzDesign Teacher
Aaron Metz
Design Teacher
Aaron Metz serves as the Upper School Learning and Teaching Technologies Convenor. He is originally from Aotearoa, New Zealand and has over 12 years international teaching experience with a Master’s degree in Information Technology in Education. Aaron is passionate about progressive education and performance support in schools. He strives to foster deep curiosity in students and help them create the story of who they are as a learner and global citizen. He relishes the opportunity to help educators and administrators embrace new pedagogies for the digital age leveraging technology for transformative learning and development. When not teaching and learning with technology, Aaron enjoys spending time with his family, photography/videography, cooking and traveling. A keen sailor, mountain biker and board rider, he finds balance through adventure sports in the great outdoors.
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Saeed RahmanDesign Teacher
Saeed Rahman
Design Teacher
Saeed Rahman originates from the city of Sheffield, UK. He obtained his BSc (Hons) Degree in Computer Network Engineering from the Sheffield Hallam University in 2004. He visited Hong Kong shortly after, and fell in love with the city. In 2005, he decided to move to Hong Kong, and began working at Canadian International School of Hong Kong. He pursued his career in education by completing his PGDE in 2009. In 2012 he completed his M.Sc. in Educational Technology. He is currently in the middle of a PhD programme. His research focuses on teachers private theories (beliefs, practices, education, experiences, etc) and the impact on the use of technology in the classroom. He teaches Grades 7-10 in MYP Design Programme. He believes that providing students with opportunities to develop agency, will manifest in learning outcomes that are aligned to needs of the world we live in today.
Math
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Beata Monika PatlewiczMath Department Head
Beata Monika Patlewicz
Math Department Head
Beata Patlewicz is from Jelenia Góra, Poland. At the age of 22, she moved to Canada, continued her studies, and completed a First Class Honours in Mathematics at the University of New Brunswick, a B.Ed. at St. Thomas University, and a Master of Mathematics for Teachers at the University of Waterloo. Prior to joining CDNIS, she worked at the Canadian International School of Beijing (2007-2016) as the Mathematics Department Head, and taught MYP and DP HL/SL Math and was the Math Enrichment Coordinator at schools in New Brunswick. She has helped to organize several fundraising events to support causes close to her heart including those affected by the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, the 2013 Philippines’ Typhoon Yolanda, and the 2015 earthquake in Nepal. Outside of school she has a passion for yoga, hiking, travel, languages and technology. She is the proud mom of two daughters.
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Norma Jean AdairGrade 8 Team Leader, Math & 8C Homeroom Teacher
Norma Jean Adair
Grade 8 Team Leader, Math & 8C Homeroom Teacher
Norma Jean Adair is from New Brunswick, Canada. She graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a B.Sc. and a B.Ed. She has been teaching abroad for more than 10 years. She has taught mathematics and science to students ranging from Grades 6 to 12. Norma Jean is passionate about helping our youth to reach their full academic potential so that they can make positive differences in our world.
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Mona AmrithrajMath Teacher
Mona Amrithraj
Math Teacher
Mona Amrithraj is from Guelph, Ontario. She teaches Upper School Math and Physics. She grew up in India, where she obtained her M.Sc. in Physics from the University of Hyderabad, and a PhD in Physics from Pondicherry University. After teaching in India for four years, she immigrated to Canada and got her B.Ed. from Western University. Mona has also taught in Bahrain. She finds her passion in enabling students to be both engaged and appropriately challenged as they discover the joy of learning. Her interests outside the classroom include gardening, hiking and ballroom dancing.
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Mikel EchevarriaMath, Science & 8E Homeroom Teacher
Mikel Echevarria
Math, Science & 8E Homeroom Teacher
Mikel has a mission to instill a passion for lifelong learning in students by implementing an energetic and varied teaching methodology. He has experience of teaching in the public and private sector in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong. He studied Chemistry at the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, then gained a Ph.D in Chemistry and a post-graduate certificate in Education. He is active in the local Hong Kong music scene, playing in a few bands, and enjoys surfing.
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John FlanaganMath Teacher
John Flanagan
Math Teacher
John Flanagan is from Toronto, Ontario, Canada and is an Upper School Mathematics teacher. He attended the University of Toronto and University of Windsor where he received his BA (Math), Masters in Business Administration and Bachelor of Education. He has subsequently lived and worked in Toronto, Melbourne and Hong Kong and has been teaching abroad for more than six years. He taught Ontario curriculum OSSD math (Grades 9 – 12) for 27 years in Toronto. He is passionate about teaching and being able to cultivate a love of learning in students. He coaches cross-country running and is the advisor for the Cooking for a Cause Club. His interests outside the classroom include travelling, hiking and cycling.
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Aaron HoMath Teacher
Aaron Ho
Math Teacher
Aaron Ho is from Vancouver, British Columbia. He completed his Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Education degrees at the University of British Columbia and received his M.Ed. in mathematics from the University of Hong Kong. Aaron joins CDNIS from Renaissance College, where he taught PYP grade 3 and MYP/DP mathematics for seven years. As a committed educator who strives for continuous professional development, Aaron also works as an assessment author and examiner for the IB and a part-time lecturer for HKU. He is excited to continue learning from the CDNIS community and grow from the amazing experiences to come!
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Rachel KirchnerMath & Grade 7D Homeroom Teacher
Rachel Kirchner
Math & Grade 7D Homeroom Teacher
Rachel Kirchner is from California. She earned a degree in Environmental Science at UC Berkeley and received her teaching credentials and Master's degree in Teaching English as a Second Language from the University of San Francisco. She has worked with students in Grades 3-10 throughout her 13 years in education, but her first passion is teaching Math to middle school students. Prior to coming to CDNIS she taught in California, Bangkok, and London. She has written online lessons and a Grade 6 instructional unit in Math. In her spare time she loves swimming, yoga, playing volleyball, and spending time with her three young children.
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Raymond LooMath, Learning Support, Business Studies & Grade 7B Homeroom Teacher
Raymond Loo
Math, Learning Support, Business Studies & Grade 7B Homeroom Teacher
Raymond Loo teaches DP/MYP Business Management and MYP Mathematics. Born and educated in Toronto, Raymond received his Bachelor of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business, specializing in Accounting. He attained the Chartered Professional Accountant designation and worked as a tax professional with The Toronto-Dominion Bank, KPMG, and the Canada Revenue Agency prior to teaching. Raymond is passionate about teaching and helping his students to think critically and accept responsibility for the outcomes and consequences of their decisions. Raymond looks forward to sharing his own work experiences to help his students understand real life application of the concepts and assist them in developing their applicable skills to reach their potential in this challenging curriculum. Raymond sees the importance of applying math in everyday real life. He hopes to help the students realize this by connecting the lessons to the real world and by instilling confidence and making it an enjoyable experience. He has tremendous patience and endeavours to spend as much time as necessary to help his students learn the fundamentals as well as the extended math.
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Lucy SadlerMath Teacher
Lucy Sadler
Math Teacher
Lucy Sadler is originally from Edinburgh, Scotland but has now lived more of her life in Hong Kong. She has over 15 years teaching experience, the majority of which has been in IB schools, teaching mathematics in both the MYP and DP. Her undergraduate degree is in Mathematics but she also holds an M.Ed. in Environmental Sciences from the University of Hong Kong. When not cycling in Tai Po with her three children, she spends her free time trying to learn to read Chinese.
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Justin UnderhillMath & Science Teacher
Justin Underhill
Math & Science Teacher
Originally from Kingston, Ontario, Justin Underhill joins CDNIS as a math and science teacher. Mr. Underhill has spent much of his seven-year teaching career working at different schools around the world. Previously teaching at a boarding school in Quebec, he has also spent time teaching in Ontario, South Korea, and Belgium. In addition to these teaching positions, Mr. Underhill also spent a year living abroad in New Zealand, where he worked as a fitness trainer and played rugby, a sport he is quite fond of.
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Chris YoungMath Teacher
Chris Young
Math Teacher
Chris Young is from Cranbrook, B.C., Canada. He has an Electrical Engineering degree and a B.Ed. from the University of Victoria, and a Master of Educational Leadership from the University of Calgary. He has worked in Canada, and Dubai as a high school science and IB Math teacher before joining CDNIS in 2011. His interests outside the classroom include cycling, travelling, and spending time with his family and friends.
Physical Education
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Iain ShorttPhysical Education Department Head
Iain Shortt
Physical Education Department Head
Originally from highlands of Scotland, Iain Shortt has been teaching internationally for almost 20 years. His undergraduate teaching degree is from Moray House School of Education, Edinburgh and more recently completed his Masters in Education (Sport science and Physical Education) at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. As head of department over the past five years, Iain has overseen the development of our HPE programme and is currently working on setting up our new IB Diploma Sports, Exercise and Health Science course. When it comes to sport, he describes himself as a "jack of all trades and master of none." Iain's passion lies in outdoor pursuits and he enjoys taking part in a range of activities including competing locally in multi-hull sailing events.
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Kathryn ClouthierPhysical Education Teacher
Kathryn Clouthier
Physical Education Teacher
Kathryn Clouthier hails from the booming metropolis of Thunder Bay, Ontario. Her Kinesiology and Education degrees are from Lakehead University, where she was fortunate enough to play for the university volleyball team. Ms. Clouthier then relocated to Ottawa in order to obtain her Masters of Sports Administration, with a focus on marketing and grassroots development. She began her teaching career as a homeroom teacher at a French school in Ottawa, Ontario for five years before starting her international adventures in Shanghai teaching Upper School HPE at Shanghai Community International School. Ms. Clouthier is looking forward to sharing her passion for sport with her students, and to having plenty of laughs along the way.
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Kadie RiverinPhysical Education Teacher
Kadie Riverin
Physical Education Teacher
Kadie Riverin is from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She studied Kinesiology at Rice University in Houston, Texas where she received a full athletic scholarship to play basketball at the D1 level in the NCAA. Kadie received her Bachelor of Education (OCT trained from OISE) and is certified to teach Health and Physical Education and Mathematics at the intermediate and senior level. Before teaching, Kadie played basketball professionally in Neuchatel, Switzerland and for Team Canada. She also owned a coaching and training business that ignited her passion for teaching and coaching. Her interests outside of the classroom include cycling, cooking and reading.
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Blair SchmalenbergPhysical Education Teacher
Blair Schmalenberg
Physical Education Teacher
Blair Schmalenberg is from Ontario, Canada. He graduated from Queen’s University with a Physical and Health Education (Hons) degree and a minor degree in Biochemistry. He stayed at Queen’s to complete his teaching certification. He has been a teacher of Grade 4, Grade 8, elementary and high school Physical and Health Education, Mathematics and Science. He taught in public and private schools in Canada, a college and an international school in China before coming to CDNIS in 2010. Blair’s professional goal is to continue finding new ways of teaching P.E. and motivating students to enjoy being active. Blair loves coaching but is also a music lover who wishes he had more time to play guitar.
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Jacky ChanPhysical Education Assistant
Jacky Chan
Physical Education Assistant
Jacky Chan was born and raised in Hong Kong. In his senior year of high school, he went to the US for further education. In 2015, he graduated with honours from the University of Oregon with a Bachelor’s degree in education. Prior to joining CDNIS, Mr. Chan was hired as a cross-culture specialist at Stevenson Elementary School in Seattle where he worked with teachers to create an educational environment in which every child’s uniqueness was valued and used as an asset for learning.
Romance Languages
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Sophie BorduasRomance Languages Department Head
Sophie Borduas
Romance Languages Department Head
Sophie Borduas is a native French speaker who originates from Canada. Having completed her B.Ed. and a specialist in French Language Acquisition, Ms. Borduas spent the next 23 years teaching French to students with different language abilities and background, ranging from Kindergarten to Y13 in five different countries around the world. She has mostly taught the International Baccalaureate Middle Years and Diploma Programmes, but has also enjoyed teaching French immersion at primary levels. Ms. Borduas’ experience as a Head of Department in Tanzania and in Hong Kong saw her working with enthusiastic colleagues and engaged students and parents, which reaffirmed the importance of good communication between all to create a flourishing environment for our students.
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Anne BoyleFrench & Grade 7A Homeroom Teacher
Anne Boyle
French & Grade 7A Homeroom Teacher
Anne Boyle was born and grew up in Ireland but spent many years working on the west coast of Canada. She is fiercely proud of and strongly identifies with her Irish roots. She completed her BA (Hons) in German Language and Literature with a minor in French at Queen’s University, Belfast, Ireland. She found her first teaching job in England teaching French and German before moving to BC, Canada. Anne has taught almost every level from Grade 1 to Grade 12 and currently teaches MYP French and DP French Ab Initio. When she is not teaching, she likes to stay fit and loves to hike, cycle or run. If Anne were asked to describe herself, she would use three words; firm, fun and feisty.
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Virginia CastroSpanish Teacher
Virginia Castro
Spanish Teacher
Virginia Castro is from Spain. She attended the University of Cordoba, Spain where she received her BA (Hispanic Studies) and Bachelor of Education. She has subsequently lived and worked in Spain, Greece, Scotland and Hong Kong. She has been teaching Spanish abroad for more than six years. She has taught in Primary and Secondary schools and at the University of Hong Kong SPACE. She is passionate about teaching and using technology in the class. Her interests outside the classroom including travelling and scuba diving.
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Véronique NobertFrench & Grade 8A Homeroom Teacher
Véronique Nobert
French & Grade 8A Homeroom Teacher
Véronique Nobert is from Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada, teaches MYP French, and is the Grade 8 Team Leader. She obtained her Bachelor of Education and Certification in Educational Psychology from Université du Quebec. Prior to moving overseas, she spent eight years teaching in elementary and secondary schools in both Quebec and British Columbia. In 2011, she started teaching French as a foreign language at Concordia International School in Shanghai, China, and most recently at CDNIS for the last five years. She's most passionate about sharing the beauty of her native language and finding creative ways to engage her students. Outside the classroom, Véronique loves taking pictures around the city, discovering amazing food, hiking local trails with friends, or traveling to the many exotic destinations in and around Asia.
Science
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Darrell SharpScience Department Head
Darrell Sharp
Science Department Head
Darrell Sharp is an American science teacher with a B.Sc. in Biology (with Highest Distinction) from Indiana University and a M.Ed. with a focus on Secondary Science Instruction from the College of New Jersey. He has worked in Asia for 10 years and before joining CDNIS in 2012 worked in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Mr. Sharp is an MYP Science and DP Biology teacher with American and Canadian teaching certifications. He also acts as the department head for the science faculty. His love of learning and teaching has made him an advocate for growth mindset, personal agency, and maker culture. He endeavors to always be learning something new.
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Denise BerryScience Teacher
Denise Berry
Science Teacher
Denise Berry is from Toronto, Canada, and teaches DP Chemistry in the Upper School. After graduating from Queen's University (Kingston, Canada) with a B.Sc. (Hons) in Life Sciences and a B.Ed., she worked in microbiology and cancer research labs before moving to full time teaching in Toronto, France, India and Hong Kong.
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Blair CameronScience & Grade 8F Homeroom Teacher
Blair Cameron
Science & Grade 8F Homeroom Teacher
Blair is a Canadian with 17 years teaching experience across all three IB programmes including the PYP, mathematics and sciences in the MYP and DP Environmental Systems and Societies. He has worked in Toronto, Zurich, Bali and is now proud to call CDNIS and Hong Kong home. Blair holds three degrees from Queen’s University in Canada and is currently studying for his Master’s degree in Educational Technology from State University New York. Blair supervises green-thumb students in the horticulture club and has coached varied teams from soccer and volleyball to rock climbing and downhill skiing. Blair enjoys adventure sports and time spent relaxing with his family.
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Julie CookMYP Coordinator & Science Teacher
Julie Cook
MYP Coordinator & Science Teacher
Julie Cook is from Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and is the MYP Coordinator and a Science teacher. She first attended the University of Guelph where she received his B.Sc. (Human Kinetics) before completing a Bachelor of Education at York University. Later, she completed a M.Sc. (Interdisciplinary Studies in Education). Julie has taught high school science in Ontario as well as Sofia, Bulgaria and Bangkok, Thailand for grades 9-12. She has been teaching for over 17 years. Julie is a Middle Years Programme curriculum reviewer for the IBO as a part of the Building Quality Curriculum team. Julie is passionate about facilitating the learning of all students with the goal of making the world a better place. Her professional interests involve curriculum development and the use of data to improve education.
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Mikel EchevarriaMath, Science & 8E Homeroom Teacher
Mikel Echevarria
Math, Science & 8E Homeroom Teacher
Mikel has a mission to instill a passion for lifelong learning in students by implementing an energetic and varied teaching methodology. He has experience of teaching in the public and private sector in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong. He studied Chemistry at the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, then gained a Ph.D in Chemistry and a post-graduate certificate in Education. He is active in the local Hong Kong music scene, playing in a few bands, and enjoys surfing.
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Ryan KirchnerScience Teacher
Ryan Kirchner
Science Teacher
Ryan loves inspiring students, exploring how the universe works and helping students become reflective, focused learners. He has 15 years of experience across three continents in public, private and international schools teaching students to think like scientists. Ryan studied Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of California - Berkeley, earned a post-graduate teaching certificate and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership. He enjoys participating in physical activities, coaching, and spending time with his family.
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Eric LaiScience Teacher
Eric Lai
Science Teacher
Eric Lai, who received his degree in Physics at the University of Toronto as well as a degree in Education from Queen’s, has been working in Hong Kong since 2009. Before joining CDNIS, he worked at an IB world school for seven years, teaching IGCSE and IB Physics, as well as serving as the Head of Physics. Working at CDNIS is not completely new to Mr. Lai as he had previously done one of his teaching practica at the school, also working as a supply teacher. In his free time, Mr. Lai enjoys group activities such as badminton, card/board games, watching movies, and doing some easy hikes.
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Tracie LiuScience Teacher
Tracie Liu
Science Teacher
Tracie Liu is from Mississauga, Ontario. She graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a BSc (Hons) before completing her B.Ed. at the University of Toronto. She joins CDNIS after four years at the Canadian International School of Beijing, where she taught MYP Science and DP Biology. Her role as Science Department Head gave her the opportunity to help develop an MYP Science Fair framework. She presented this initiative at the 2016 IB Regional Conference in Spain, indulging in both her love of science and delicious tapas. Prior to teaching internationally, she spent six years teaching Biology in Ontario. Now abroad, she returns home in the summers to enjoy time with her family and watch the Toronto Blue Jays in action.
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Brent MacEachernScience & Grade 7F Homeroom Teacher
Brent MacEachern
Science & Grade 7F Homeroom Teacher
Brent MacEachern is from New Brunswick, Canada. He graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a BA and a B.Ed. He has been teaching Humanities and Science to students in Grades 6 to 12 for more than 10 years. He is passionate about working with our youth and sparking their curiosity about our world.
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Lesia PringleScience Teacher
Lesia Pringle
Science Teacher
Lesia Pringle is from Toronto. Although most of her family lives in Ontario, her heart is in Vancouver where she picked up her first dragon boat paddle and spent eight years teaching at St. George’s School. She has always known science was her passion and completed her B.Sc. at the University of Toronto, followed by a B.Ed. from Queen’s, and then a M.Ed. from the University of Calgary. Over her 22 years of teaching she has enjoyed the opportunities of being a Head of Department, Head of Grade, and Director of Academics but is now happiest back in the classroom full-time, sharing the fascinating world of science with her students. The classroom is where the magic happens!
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Kristy SemkinScience Teacher
Kristy Semkin
Science Teacher
Kristy Semkin is from Toronto, Canada and has been teaching at CDNIS since 2014. She has been teaching overseas for 11 years and has worked in five countries: Egypt, China, the Philippines, Hong Kong and Canada. Kristy is a passionate and energetic teacher who strives to make Chemistry interesting and relevant for her students.
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Justin UnderhillMath & Science Teacher
Justin Underhill
Math & Science Teacher
Originally from Kingston, Ontario, Justin Underhill joins CDNIS as a math and science teacher. Mr. Underhill has spent much of his seven-year teaching career working at different schools around the world. Previously teaching at a boarding school in Quebec, he has also spent time teaching in Ontario, South Korea, and Belgium. In addition to these teaching positions, Mr. Underhill also spent a year living abroad in New Zealand, where he worked as a fitness trainer and played rugby, a sport he is quite fond of.
TOK
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Brian HullDP Coordinator & TOK Teacher
Brian Hull
DP Coordinator & TOK Teacher
Brian Hull is originally from Winnipeg, Canada and, during his more than 20 years in education, has taught in public and private schools in Canada, Kuwait and Dubai. In addition to his experience teaching several social studies courses in Canada, since 2001, he has taught Theory of Knowledge, DP History and, at present, Global Politics. As well he has coordinated the CAS, Extended Essay, TOK, Diploma and career-related programmes. Brian has extensive examining, curriculum and online course development experience. In 2011, he co-authored the Canadian history textbook, Shaping Canada. In addition to this, Brian is a Global Politics Paper 1 examiner and a team leader for the engagement activity. He has two Bachelor’s Degrees from the University of Manitoba and a Master’s degree in education from George Mason University. Brian coaches cross-country and regularly trains for marathons. He enjoys reading and spending time with his wife and two teenaged daughters. He is also an avid hockey and Canadian football fan.
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Anthony JacksonEnglish, TOK, Learning Support & Grade 7C Homeroom Teacher
Anthony Jackson
English, TOK, Learning Support & Grade 7C Homeroom Teacher
Anthony Jackson, from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University, in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 2006 with an Advanced Major in History and a double minor in English and Sociology. Anthony received his Bachelor of Education degree from St. Francis Xavier University and obtained his teaching certification. His teacher-training focus lies within the Middle School and Secondary streams of education and his concentrations are Social Studies and English. Anthony also completed an intensive program in Middle Years Education as an addition to his current Bachelor of Education degree.
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Kirk KahuHumanities & TOK Teacher
Kirk Kahu
Humanities & TOK Teacher
Kirk Kahu is from Kitchener, Canada. He has a Masters of Science in International Learning Styles from State University of New York, a Bachelor of Education from University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and History from the University of Guelph. He has lived and taught in Sofia, Bulgaria and Bangkok, Thailand and has been teaching abroad for more than 15 years. Kirk coaches varsity girls touch rugby at CDNIS. Outside of school, Kirk has captained the National Ultimate Frisbee team and played in three world championship tournaments representing Hong Kong.
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Dean KrawchukDrama Department Head and TOK Teacher
Dean Krawchuk
Drama Department Head and TOK Teacher
Dean Krawchuk joins CDNIS from Dubai where he previously taught MYP Theatre, DP Theatre Arts and TOK for two years at Dubai International Academy. Prior to that, he was living in Kelowna, BC having completed a BFA in Interdisciplinary Performance. There he focused on devising theatre, clowning, contact improvisation, photography, sculpture, theatre tech and more. Before living in Kelowna, Mr. Krawchuk was teaching Drama and Social Studies in his hometown of Edmonton, Alberta at Victoria School of the Arts. His first teaching job was in Barking, Essex. He has recently started working with ISTA, and is looking forward to continuing his relationship with them.
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Christopher TyrrellHumanities & TOK Teacher
Christopher Tyrrell
Humanities & TOK Teacher
Christopher Tyrrell is from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and is the TOK Coordinator and a Geography teacher at CDNIS. He graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Education and is qualified to teach Geography and Philosophy. He completed his Master’s degree in Buddhist Studies at HKU. He has taught for the past 12 years in Taiwan, China, and Hong Kong. He joined CDNIS in 2015. He is passionate about his subjects and continues to develop professionally as an IB examining team-leader for TOK and as an examiner for DP Geography. He enjoys outdoor pursuits, travel, and learning languages.
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Danielle Van-De-BrouckeEnglish & TOK Teacher
Danielle Van-De-Broucke
English & TOK Teacher
Danielle Van de Broucke is from the U.K. She loves the literary arts and hopes to engender this same passion within her students. Danielle has a MFA in Creative Writing, a M.Ed. in Practitioner Inquiry and a PGCE, from Newcastle University. Previous teaching roles have included Head of English at Hanoi International School and Lead Teacher of Critical Thinking in the UK. In her spare time, Danielle is a Yoga Alliance certificated Yoga instructor, a keen wakeboarder and a writer.
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Alexander WrightHumanities & TOK Teacher
Alexander Wright
Humanities & TOK Teacher
Alexander Wright is originally from Oakville, Ontario, Canada. He has a BA in International Development and Political Science, a B.Ed. in History and Politics, and an MA in Conflict Studies and Human Rights. He has been teaching for six years, and before coming to Hong Kong he was a high school history teacher in Bangkok. He has taught Grade 7-12 history, humanities, civics, as well as AP Comparative Politics and US History. Alex has lived in seven different countries and has travelled to over 60. Before teaching, he worked in human rights education for an NGO and UNESCO. He chose teaching because he thought that his experiences in various international fields would be valuable tools for learning about history and politics in the classroom. As such, he strives to instill a passion for learning about the world. He loves travel photography, writing fictional novels, as well as staying physically active through sport.
Visual Arts
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Catharine HoVisual Arts Department Head
Catharine Ho
Visual Arts Department Head
Catharine Ho is from Ontario, Canada and is Head of Department for US Visual Arts. She attended Western University where she received a BA (Hons) degree in Visual Arts and a B.Ed. She is Ontario College of Teachers certified and most recently received a Certificate of Educational Technology from State University of New York. She taught in the American and local school system before joining CDNIS in 1994. An OSSD veteran for 23 years, this is her 11th year teaching the IB DP as well as the MYP Visual Arts programme. Catharine has two sons studying in Canada, both alumni of CDNIS. She is very involved in all aspects of the Visual Arts in the school and takes great joy in helping students realize their creative aspirations with many students earning multiple scholarships to top art universities worldwide. After school you can usually find her in the art studio working with students or collaborating with a team on one of the displays or mural projects around the school.
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Davis ChanVisual Arts & Design Teacher
Davis Chan
Visual Arts & Design Teacher
Davis Chan obtained his BA from the School of Design of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and his MA from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is currently working on his Doctorate in Education (EdD) at Northeastern University. He had served as a Visual Arts Teacher and Visual Arts Panel Head in different schools around Hong Kong for 20 years before joining CDNIS. As an avid artist himself and in his work as an art educator, Davis has built a strong network among the local and international art communities. He collaboratively joined efforts with other art educators and enthusiasts to create and launch the first ever Outstanding Student Artist Award of Hong Kong in 2015.
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Paula PasanenVisual Arts Teacher
Paula Pasanen
Visual Arts Teacher
Paula Pasanen is originally from Helsinki, Finland. She moved to the United Kingdom in 1999 where she gained her BA Arts Hons (University of Sunderland), before going on to completed her MA Media Arts (Manchester Metropolitan University) and PGCSE at UWE (University of West England). Before embarking on a career in teaching, she worked as a freelance photographer and studio assistant. She has been teaching in Khartoum, Sudan for the past two years and has a passion not just for arts but all the amazing cultures she has come across in her travels around the world. Paula believes strongly in providing opportunities to students to express themselves through art and creativity in a traditional manner, as well as in new innovative digital styles. She is looking forward to sharing her lifelong love of culture and art at CDNIS.
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Iris ChangVisual Arts Assistant & Yearbook Coordinator
Iris Chang
Visual Arts Assistant & Yearbook Coordinator
Iris Chang joined CDNIS in 2002 and is an Upper School Visual Art Assistant and Yearbook Coordinator. She graduated from Emily Carr College of Art and Design in Vancouver, majoring in Graphic Design. Iris has a Postgraduate diploma in Education focusing on Early Childhood from the University of Southern Queensland, Australia. Previously, she taught English and Art to high school students with special needs. Leading the Yearbook club, she trains editors and members in graphic design and desktop publishing and is proud that CDNIS won Hong Kong’s Print Awards 2016 for the best school yearbook. She is delighted to work with such talented professional colleagues and creative students. She loves animals especially dogs and enjoys doing arts and crafts and calligraphy.
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Yukiko WongVisual Arts Assistant
Yukiko Wong
Visual Arts Assistant
Yukiko Wong studied Education at Bunkyo University in Japan and commenced as Gr 1 & 2 Homeroom Teacher and Grade 5-9 teacher of Domestic Science at a Japanese school in Surabaya, Indonesia. After marriage, Yukiko worked at Dr. Soetomo University in Indonesia as a Japanese language teacher. When living in China, Yukiko worked as a Casual Art Teacher at YCIS Beijing, and later, at GEMS World Academy Dubai UAE, Yukiko was employed as Secondary Art Teacher assistant (Grade 6-12). Since moving to Hong Kong in 2013, Yukiko has worked as the Educational Assistant Upper School Art at CDNIS, and is a dedicated Volleyball Coach for the U16 team and is the staff supervisor of the Jewellery Making Club in the Upper School.
IB Coordinators
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Steve BrownPYP Coordinator (Acting)
Steve Brown
PYP Coordinator (Acting)
Steve is originally from Coquitlam, Canada. Graduating with a Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia, Steve began his teaching career in Kent, England. An opportunity to teach internationally took him to the Overseas School of Colombo in Sri Lanka. After three years of the best food on the continent and weekends on the beach, he moved to Beijing to teach at Western Academy of Beijing. Three years later, he moved to Hong Kong to take a position as a Grade 5 classroom teacher at Canadian International School of Hong Kong. Steve's been at CDNIS for seven years. He is currently the Acting PYP Coordinator.
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Julie CookMYP Coordinator & Science Teacher
Julie Cook
MYP Coordinator & Science Teacher
Julie Cook is from Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and is the MYP Coordinator and a Science teacher. She first attended the University of Guelph where she received his B.Sc. (Human Kinetics) before completing a Bachelor of Education at York University. Later, she completed a M.Sc. (Interdisciplinary Studies in Education). Julie has taught high school science in Ontario as well as Sofia, Bulgaria and Bangkok, Thailand for grades 9-12. She has been teaching for over 17 years. Julie is a Middle Years Programme curriculum reviewer for the IBO as a part of the Building Quality Curriculum team. Julie is passionate about facilitating the learning of all students with the goal of making the world a better place. Her professional interests involve curriculum development and the use of data to improve education.
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Brian HullDP Coordinator & TOK Teacher
Brian Hull
DP Coordinator & TOK Teacher
Brian Hull is originally from Winnipeg, Canada and, during his more than 20 years in education, has taught in public and private schools in Canada, Kuwait and Dubai. In addition to his experience teaching several social studies courses in Canada, since 2001, he has taught Theory of Knowledge, DP History and, at present, Global Politics. As well he has coordinated the CAS, Extended Essay, TOK, Diploma and career-related programmes. Brian has extensive examining, curriculum and online course development experience. In 2011, he co-authored the Canadian history textbook, Shaping Canada. In addition to this, Brian is a Global Politics Paper 1 examiner and a team leader for the engagement activity. He has two Bachelor’s Degrees from the University of Manitoba and a Master’s degree in education from George Mason University. Brian coaches cross-country and regularly trains for marathons. He enjoys reading and spending time with his wife and two teenaged daughters. He is also an avid hockey and Canadian football fan.
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Vivienne WallacePYP Coordinator
Vivienne Wallace
PYP Coordinator
Vivienne Wallace is from Wanaka, New Zealand and is one of two PYP Co-ordinators. She has a B.Ed. (Teaching) from Victoria University of Wellington, a Teachers College Diploma from Dunedin Teachers College and a TTC (Trained Teachers Certificate) from the New Zealand Department of Education. During her teaching career Viv has worked in various capacities, from Early Years through to Grade 7, in New Zealand, England, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Thailand, Sudan and Hong Kong. She also worked in publishing in New Zealand for 15 years and is a keen reader. As a keen sports follower, Viv has been an active participant in netball, swimming, basketball, athletics, tennis and skiing at different stages of her life. Viv loves to travel and is always searching for undeveloped islands to relax on during holiday times.
Schoolwide
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Ngan ChungAthletic Trainer
Ngan Chung
Athletic Trainer
Ngan Chung is from New Jersey, USA and the Certified Athletic Trainer. She attended Kean University for her Bachelor's of Science Degree in Athletic Training followed by her Master's Degree in Exercise Physiology as a Graduate Assistant at McNeese State University. After graduate school she interned for one year at her first international school in Guangzhou and then went back to the US to work at Kean University. Her passion for spreading the knowledge about athletic training internationally and providing medical care for all has brought her to Hong Kong.
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Steve DolemanDirector of Athletics
Steve Doleman
Director of Athletics
Steve Doleman hails from New Zealand and has a Master’s of Education degree from Plymouth State University (New Hampshire). He is in his 34th year of teaching, and comes from a high school physical education background. Steve has been in Asia for the past 20 years and more recently he served 15 years as Athletics/Activities Director at Shanghai American School, Puxi. Having taught previously in New Zealand, England, Switzerland and the Philippines, Steve is joined in Hong Kong by his wife, Christine, who will join another school in Hong Kong in August as their Secondary Principal. Steve and his wife have two children, James and Jessica, both of whom are trained teachers.
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Darren McHughHead of Aquatics
Darren McHugh
Head of Aquatics
Darren McHugh is from the west coast of Ireland. He studied Physical Education and Geography at the University of Limerick, Ireland and graduated in 2009. He has worked in Dublin, Ireland as a Physical Education Teacher for seven years. Mr. McHugh is passionate about promoting the participation and enjoyment of physical activity and encouraging a lifelong passion for a healthy lifestyle. He also loves to watch and play various sports, particularly aquatic-based activities such as swimming, water polo and lifesaving. Mr. McHugh also plays Gaelic football (Irish football), which is best described as a mixture of soccer and rugby.
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Rula RabayahCo-Teacher (The Hive) & Supply Teacher
Rula Rabayah
Co-Teacher (The Hive) & Supply Teacher
Rula Rabayah has been a dedicated educator for the past 21 years, 17 of which have been in the PYP in international schools. During her stay in Jordan, and while working at Amman Baccalaureate School, she received her Master's degree in Translation from the University of Jordan and taught Translation and various Language Courses to undergraduate students at the same university from 2003-2012. Her passion about the PYP had led her to seek further professional development and new learning experiences in the international community, which brought her to CDNIS in Hong Kong. Rula is currently completing her Masters in Education through the State University of New York while taking on her new role as a Making and Innovation Co-teacher. A great believer in the value of hands-on learning, and being an enthusiastic maker herself, she empowers her students by equipping them with the tools and skills that make them independent thinkers and life-long learners.
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Natalie RossTeacher on Special Assignment - Learning Coach
Natalie Ross
Teacher on Special Assignment - Learning Coach
Natalie Ross is from Brisbane, Australia and is currently a Learning Coach in the Lower School. She has both a B.Ed. in Early Childhood and M.Ed. in Inclusive Education from the Queensland University of Technology. Natalie brings a great deal experience to the school, having taught internationally at PYP schools for the last 14 years, being a PYP Coordinator and facilitating workshops for the IB. Her greatest delight is seeing students’ faces light up with enthusiasm during learning and realising the progress they have made.
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Smriti SafayaCoordinator of Local & Global Engagement & Humanities Teacher
Smriti Safaya
Coordinator of Local & Global Engagement & Humanities Teacher
As a third-culture kid who grew up in India, China and Hong Kong, and a polyglot geo-scientist who pursued Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at UC Davis, HKU and UBC, Smriti Safaya initially shied away from a career in education. Her early plans included expanding earthquake research in the Himalayan mountains as a field geologist and representing India at the Olympics for tennis, until she found working with young people to address local and global issues through experiential education more rewarding. Still a competitive tennis player in the top league in Hong Kong, Smriti is very much at home on the court coaching the school tennis teams to capture multiple ISSFHK & SEASAC medals over the years.
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John TurnerDirector of Digital Innovation
John Turner
Director of Digital Innovation
John Turner is from Melbourne, Australia. He has a PhD in Education and a Masters of Educational Studies from Monash University, as well as a Bachelor of Science (ANU, Canberra) and a Graduate Diploma of Education (Victoria teaching certificate). After working with digital for 25 years in leading Melbourne schools, John moved to Doha in the Middle East for two years before moving to CDNIS in 2011. He continues to pursue his interest in developing learning opportunities of value at the intersection of digital, curriculum and learning within school environments.
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Jaime WildeSchool Psychologist
Jaime Wilde
School Psychologist
Jaime Wilde is a school psychologist. She obtained her Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada where she also obtained her Bachelor of Arts and Education degrees. Before arriving at CDNIS in 2012, Jaime completed six years working at School District #23 in British Columbia, Canada, as a school psychologist across multiple schools and age groups. Her passions lie with helping students with personal health and overall well-being. She enjoys continuing to educate herself by researching and training in new techniques and programs that would benefit the students and school. Outside of the school, Jaime is an avid runner, loves the outdoors and enjoys exploring all that Asia has to offer.