ISHCMC AMerICAn ACAdeMy 2014 - 2015 FACulty

Kealy McCleeryI am an American and have spent most of my career in the USA. I have a Master’s degree in Biology and a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Chemistry and Biology both from Washington State University. I have over 10 years’ experience teaching high school science. While teaching high school I have taught Biology at community college level for 6 years. This is my second year teaching as an adjunct faculty member for Syracuse University (SUPA program).

Qualifications:• M.A Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington• B.A Zoology, Chemistry and Ecology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington• National Board Certified Teacher 2013

Suim ShinThis is my 4th international school and I am very excited to meet my students at ISHCMC American Academy. I have been teaching PE in Korea, Myanmar, Mongolia, and now I am here, in Vietnam. I double majored in Physical Education and Sports & Leisure Studies at Yonsei University in Seoul and got a master’s degree in International Teaching from Framingham State College in USA.

Qualifications:• M.Ed. International Teaching, Framingham State College• B.Sc. Physical Education/Sports and Leisure Studies, Yonsei University

Nathan D. BryantDean of StudentsI am an American and I have been teaching Social Studies for nine years in the USA, Dubai, Taiwan and now Vietnam. I have taught different curricula including IB, AP and now SUPA courses. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Philosophy from Fort Lewis College and a Master’s degree in Diplomacy from Norwich University. I am currently studying for my seconds Master’s in school leadership. As Dean of Students, my top priorities are to ensure that students feel safe and respected while at school, as well as foster a sense of enjoyment while attending ISHCMC American Academy.

Qualifications:• Master’s of International School Leadership/Principal Licensure, San Francisco University• Master’s of Diplomacy: Conflict Resolution Focus, Norwich University• Bachelor’s of Political Science and Philosophy, Fort Lewis College

Seth Laffin I am from the USA and have been teaching Social Studies for nine years. I have taught in Alaska, Taiwan, China and now Vietnam.

Qualifications:• M.A. Teaching, Secondary Education• M.A. American History• B.A. World History

Darren DePass I am very happy to be returning to ISHCMC-AA and look forward to the opportunity of working with a fantastic student body and further establishing us within the HCMC community. My graduate work took place at Adelphi University in the United States, and I graduated there with a Master’s Degree in Physical Education.

Qualifications:• M.A. Physical Education, Adelphi University• B.A. Environmental Studies, Adelphi University

Elizabeth Cominole School LibrarianI am from Salem, Massachusetts and hold a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from Simmons College and certification as a School Library Media Specialist. My goal as a teacher is to foster curiosity and empower students to be lifelong learners. I believe in educating the whole child through the creation of a safe, engaging, supportive and challenging school environment.

Qualifications:• Library Media Specialist, Massachusetts Department of Education• MS Library and Information Science, Simmons College• BS Hospitality Management, University of New Hampshire

Nora Matell I am from Denver, Colorado, USA. My teaching goal is for students to become good learners who have the tools to succeed even when they are no longer in my classes. I will be teaching middle school Earth Science and high school Chemistry.

Qualifications:• M.S. Geological Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder• B.A. Geosciences, William College

Duarte CarreiroI am an American Mathematics/Physics teacher and taught at an international school in Lahore, Pakistan for two years and am now on my third year here at ISHCMC - American Academy. I graduated with a Physics degree from Bridgewater State University and have a strong interest in the application of mathematics in science.

Qualifications:• B.A Physics, Bridgewater State University• Associate in Arts, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Bristol Community College

Andrew Gibson I have a Master’s degree in Science from State University of New York and a Bachelor’s degree from Trent University in Environmental Resource Studies. Hailing from Canada originally, I have worked in Korea and China at International schools. I am an active volunteer and have worked with Big Brother and Habitat for Humanity.

Qualifications:• MSc. Multidisciplinary Studies, State University of New York• Bachelor of Teaching (Secondary), University of Western Sydney• B.A Mathematics, University of Waterloo• BA. Environmental Resource Studies, Trent University

Rebecca Swanson I taught for six years in Colorado, USA before coming to Vietnam. I am pleased to be returning for my second year at ISHCMC:AA.  As a mathematics teacher, I have taught every level of math from Pre-Algebra through college-level mathematics courses. This year I am teaching Sheltered Instruction Mathematics, Pre-Algebra II, General Statistics, and SUPA Calculus. At all course levels, my goal is to increase students’ confidence in mathematics and to develop their problem solving skills. I work hard to provide a positive, caring environment in which my students feel empowered to learn.

Qualifications:• B.S. Mathematics, University of Colorado• Mathematics Secondary Teaching License, State of Colorado

Heather CarreiroCurriculum CoordinatorI am from the USA and have a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics from University of Massachusetts (Amherst) and a Master of Arts degree in English from Bridgewater State University. I have taught in Pakistan, Morocco and the United States and have experience teaching middle school through university-level students. I am an Adjunct Professor of English at Syracuse University and serve as the coordinator of the SUPA program, a concurrent enrollment program that allows high school students to take college-level courses for Syracuse University credit. Qualifications:• M.A English, Bridgewater State University• B.A. Linguistics and Middle Eastern Studies, University of Massachusetts

Eric HamiltonPrincipalI am from the United States and have been in the education field for 20 years where I have worked in South America, the United States, and most recently Vietnam. My vision as a school principal is to provide a positive, caring, and engaging learning environment for students and staff. I believe that the 21st century has brought rapid changes to the world of education make for an exciting and inspiring time to lead a school.

Qualifications:• M.A. Curriculum and Instruction, University of Colorado• B.S. Elementary Education, Math Minor, University of Delaware• Initial Principal License, Colorado

Matthew RussellI have been teaching language arts for 10 years at schools in the United States, Cameroon, and now Vietnam. I have taught students from kindergarten through grade 12 with a variety of ability levels ranging from beginning English language learners to Advanced Placement students.

Qualifications:• B.A. History and English, Texas Tech University

Lindsey SannaI am from the USA and hold a Master’s degree in English Education from Villanova University and a B.F.A. degree in Theater from NYU. I have experience teaching both EAL and English literature at schools in the United States and South America, and have had the pleasure of working with students in 6th through 12th grade.

Qualifications:• M.A. Education/English Teaching Certificate, Villanova University• B.A. English, Villanova University• B.F.A. Theater, New York University

Jessica MaleyEAL Program Coordinator I see education as the most powerful component of power, change and leadership, and I want all students to have the confidence and skills to access education effectively. Language is a key element in ensuring this access, and as a result, I am passionate about working with students to improve their language comprehension in order to help them communicate their ideas and deepen their understanding of content. I want my students to know that working hard makes a difference, making mistakes is a big part of learning, and I will always do my best to help them along the way.

Qualifications:• ESL Program Specialist, Pennsylvania Department of Education• M.A. Teaching, University of Southern California• B.A. Anthropology, Temple University

John Blofeld-WatsonI am from the UK and hold a Bachelor of Engineering Degree, (Honors Program) Electronic and Communication Engineering, from Napier University of Edinburgh, Scotland, an Advanced Certificate in TESOL, from Leicester University, England and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (International), from Nottingham University, England. As a member of the Specials Department, I teach both middle school and high school. Middle School students attend “IT Applications” classes which allow them to develop their IT skills. These skills can be transferred into other subject areas and help them use IT Applications appropriately during their school life.

Qualifications:• Bachelor of Engineering Communication• Advanced Certificate in TESOL

Cameron ArnoldMy role as a teacher is to guide my students in cultivating their knowledge, skills and understanding of the world. As an international teacher, a part of my responsibility is to help my students learn to be caring and participative members of the global community. Through positive encouragement and challenging assignments, I hope to inspire them to do their best while taking responsibility for their own learning. Ideally, education is an on-going process that continues throughout our lives, both in and out of the classroom. As an educator, I aim not only to inspire my students in their academic studies, but also to nurture their innate curiosity. I teach my students that the more knowledge they absorb and learn to apply, the more rewarding their lives will be. Last but not least, I encourage all my students to develop their critical thinking skills through classroom activities and homework.

Qualifications:• MA Linguistics, New York University• Bachelor Fine Arts, College of William and Mary

Derek SwansonIT Integration SpecialistI hold a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Colorado. My career highlights include the Implementation of Google Apps across the District and the deployment of Edmodo. A proficiency in a variety of software, including Adobe CS5, Office Suite, and Mac. The evaluation and development of training of technology equipment for schools and a presenter at various local, regional, and national events.

Qualifications:• M.A. Curriculum and Instruction, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs• B.A. History, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs

Allen Miles I am from Buffalo New York, USA and hold a Master’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies (Art, Art History, Art Education), from State University College of New York and a B.F.A. degree from Ohio Wesleyan University. I teach Art and coach basketball. My students this year will learn about the elements of art (line, shape, texture, light, color, and space) and how to analyze, describe, and use them in their art creations. Emphasis will also be stressed on the principles of design (balance, rhythm, proportion, focal points, pattern, and unity/variety). Students will also be exposed to the world of Art History to include: famous artists, their major works, movements or styles they belong to, and significant breakthroughs they may have developed.

Qualifications:• M.Sc. Multidisciplinary Studies (Art Education), State University College of New York• B.F.A Fine Arts, Ohio Wesleyan University

Van Anh Nguyen I am Vietnamese and graduated in 2003 from the University of Pedagogy, with a Bachelor’s degree in Geography. I also hold a Master’s Certificate in Elementary Vietnamese Curriculum from Saigon University.

Qualifications:• Bachelor of Geography, HCMC University of Pedogogy

Mirrell Desjardins University CounselorAs a counselor, I want to help students find their voices and tell their stories so that they can choose the best pathway for themselves after high school. High school students are approaching a transition that can be confusing and isolating because they are just beginning to realize their self-concept and self-identity. Self-concept and self- identity are key elements that influence academic and career decisions. A successful transition is more likely if students have a safe place to explore who they are. In doing so, they will choose a pathway that suits their unique personality, experience and ambition. This is how I would establish the student/counselor alliance.

Qualifications:• Master of Education, University of Queensland• Bachelor of Arts and Sciences, University of Saskatchewan• International Counselling Certificate, Lehigh University

Zhuang Wenyan I am originally from China and have a Chinese bachelor’s degree from Chinese People University. I have taught in both China, Thailand and now Vietnam from grade 6 to 12.

Qualifications:• BSc Chinese Language Arts, Renmin University of China• Mandarin Teaching and TEFL Certifications, TEFL English School• M.A Education, The College of New Jersey (in progress)

Yen Dao I am Vietnamese and have a degree in Vietnamese Literature from the University of Pedagogy.  In teaching literature, I try to build an interesting syllabus that will attract students to take part through exercises, essays and outside activities.  I vary my method between group discussions and giving lectures for a given subject or elective subject.  I continuously encourage my students to develop individual creativity.

Qualifications:• Bachelor of Vietnamese Linguistics & Literature, HCMC University of Pedogogy

Tam Huynh I am from Vietnam and hold a Bachelor’s degree in Literature from the University of Pedagogy. I aim to foster a ‘world spirit’ and an international mindset with a view to developing attitudes of tolerance, empathy and respect for their own and other ways of seeing and interpreting the world. I believe in a holistic approach to learning and wherever possible try to encourage students to discover their own links to the world outside the classroom.

Qualifications:• Bachelor of Vietnamese Linguistics & Literature, HCMC University of Pedogogy

Daniel WeaverI am a fifth generation Texan who is passionate about teaching and learning. This is my second year at this great school and I will be teaching middle school social studies and AP psychology this year. I have taught English, Spanish and social studies to all age groups in many different coun-tries over the past 23 years. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Spanish from The University of Texas at Tyler, a Master’s degree in Bilingual and Gifted and Talented Education from Southern Methodist University in Dallas Texas, and my principal certification from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches Texas.

Qualifications:• M.A. Bilingual Education, Southern Methodist University• B.A Political Science and Spanish Language, University of Texas

Scott RogalI enjoy working with musicians of all levels, from grade five beginners to high school seniors. I believe that the enjoyment of music is paramount to their motivation and success. Music is powerful, and has been shown to make the brain more flexible and responsive, ideally suited for assisting with language learning and creative thinking. Watching students learning music together, practicing music together, and, eventually, sharing their music with the world is a wonderful experience, and I love working with the great students here at ISHCMC American Academy.

Qualifications:• B.A Music Education, University of Mary• Teaching Certificate Music, Alberta

Matthew ColesI have worked as an educator, achieving strong academic results and student satisfaction leading to a role delivering ‘model classes’ to prospective students and parents. I have also performed a variety of jobs in and around higher education recruitment and overseas study which have enriched the education outcomes of both UK and overseas students.

Qualifications:• Masters of Public Policy & Administration, University of York• B.A. Politics, University of Newcastle

Matthew GollinsAthletic and Activities DirectorI believe that students learn in by constructing meaning and understanding by building on previous knowledge with rich experiential activities. School is in partnership with parents to develop a child that will be an active and influential member of society. Athletics and activities are no different; students need to build their skills from previously learnt experiences. My goal is to help give students opportunities to experience activities that they may not have had or have access to in the classroom.

Qualifications:• M. Ed. Educational Leadership, Edith Cowan University, Western Australia• B. Ed. University of Otago, New Zealand• Diploma of Teaching, Specialised in Physical Education and Outdoor Education, Dunedin

College of Education, New Zealand

Michael Gatto I have taught in my native USA and in China. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from New Jersey City University as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Arts from Ramapo College of New Jersey, and I am currently working on my Master of Arts degree in Education through the College of New Jersey (TCNJ). I currently teach Algebra 2 and Geometry at ISHCMC American Academy.

Qualifications:• M.A Education, The College of New Jersey (in progress)• B.A Mathematics, New Jersey City University• B.A Fine Arts, Ramapo College of New Jersey

Amy PennI have been teaching Drama for eight years, four of which have been internationally in Beijing and Vietnam. I have a Masters in Theatre Studies from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.

Qualifications:• MA Theatre Studies, University of London• Post Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education, University of Edinburgh

Leadership

English Language Arts

Mathematics

Science

Social Studies

Electives

Vietnamese Studies