Faculty

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Upper School Spanish A

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2013

What year did you start teaching?
1995

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
I had a couple of teachers that I really admired. I liked the contact they had with students and I am very grateful for the way they helped me during my school and college years. I thought that I could give the same support to others that I received.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
When I discovered WIS it was like I found my perfect place. The internationality, the different nationalities of teachers and students, the different languages and cultures... Even though I had just arrived from France, I didn't feel like a foreigner here. I stayed because I had the opportunity to keep learning from colleagues and students, because of the freedom we have to teach our language and culture, and for the privilege to teach students who are engaged and curious.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
My first "job" as a teacher was at 14 years old. I was teaching an adult woman to read in Spanish during my summer vacations. I made 400 pesetas a month ($3.00)!

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Middle School Design Technology & Visual Art

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2020

What year did you start teaching?
2013

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
I was always interested in art and writing growing up. When I went to college, I was an English major for a few years. I started to get bored and feel like I needed more of a creative challenge, so I switched to Art Education. I knew that I wanted to pursue my own art because it challenged and scared me more than anything else, and I also knew that I wanted to work in a community because working in isolation on my art was not good for me. Teaching art provided the community and creative challenge I needed.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
I worked in the Professional Development Collaborative (PDC) for many years while I was a public high school teacher in DC. When I discovered Project Zero and the PDC, I found an opportunity to combine ideas and theories I'd been working on for years and was inspired by new research and projects, such as Agency by Design. I wanted to take all of the things I was learning in these projects and apply them in my individual context. After years of working with WIS on these projects, I decided to come and officially work here full time. I stay because I love the community and the ability for flexible, inquiry-based, and outdoor instruction.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
In the Middle School, I feel like you are able to dream big and there are people who want to support you to make it happen. I really value my IDI role and organizing and leading affinity groups. It feels like the most important thing I do at the school.

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Upper School Spanish and Theory of Knowledge

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2019

What year did you start teaching?
2010

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
I learn so much from my students every day. Teaching makes me question my knowledge all the time and requires me to keep it relevant.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
Like many WIS students, I also grew up "between worlds." My experiences and identity are not seen as something foreign. Why do I stay? The school is welcoming, there is a great teacher community, and there is a lot of support and opportunity for growth.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
It's not a cookie-cutter school. Students come from all over the world with a variety of view points, languages, and very unique experiences.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
I learned how to drive at the age of 12 and still drive a stick shift.

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Upper School Physics

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2012

What year did you start teaching?
1977

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
I began my work career as an engineer in a multinational company, but I was not enjoying it. The company that I worked for arranged a communications exercise, during which we (the 1975 hires) were supposed to deliver a twenty minute talk on anything we desired. The presentations were filmed and a man from BBC Radio 4 would then tell us how bad our talk was. I chose to describe a project that I had worked on as an undergraduate. For the project, my team had designed and built a vehicle with regenerative braking, but we came across numerous problems that we solved in "creative" ways. A good example was when I discovered that I couldn't weld. To cover up my patchy welding, we used putty with iron filings in it. The putty looked like a weld and passed the magnet test, and we painted over the whole thing to disguise it. There were plenty more things we did to solve our problems that I described in my talk, and my descriptions of them were well received. Just prior to the presentation, the man from Radio 4 changed the rules and only allowed each person to put five words on a notecard. Many on the the group were planning to read five pages and they were in big trouble. I assumed that I should write five words and so I did, but I never looked at the card once. I had slides and broken bits of our vehicle that nicely showed the various forms of subterfuge that we carried out during our project. Anyway, the talk went really well, everybody laughed, and for the first time I enjoyed talking in front of a group. I quit the next day and signed up for postgraduate teacher training.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
To be honest, we follow my wife's career and so when she said that she was being transferred to DC, I sent my resume to every school in the area. I was lucky enough to land a job at WIS. I really like teaching here and overall, it is the best school I have taught in. My colleagues are awesome and the students are a delight. I like teaching IB DP Physics a lot, but also the schedule and resources provided at WIS give me the flexibility to plan classes properly.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
I have worked in nine schools, seven of them independent schools. In most of them, the students have worked together with the teachers and other adults in the community and WIS is no exception. There is very little of the "us and them" that was obvious when I was a student. Cooperation and a sense that teachers and students work together with common goals in mind is a feature of this school in particular.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
I like heavy rock music. I used to have waist-length hair and a braided, forked beard.

Is there anything else you would like our community to know about you?
I play golf every Sunday even in winter, but I'm not addicted to it.

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Grades 9-12 French A Standard Level; Grade 11 Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2018

What year did you start teaching?
2012

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
At first, it was mandatory when I was a graduate student at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Then the passion of teaching took over, especially when I could see the students grow in their learning or the stars in their eyes when we were exploring some topics. I also noticed that the more I taught, the more I learned from the students in terms of cultures and perspectives.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
The international identity of WIS was the key thing that made me say "yes." Coming from Ann Arbor, a small town (yet very cosmopolitan within its university campuses) had already set the tone for the diversity and the inclusion. I knew WIS would be the only place where I wouldn't be asked, "What accent is that? I love it!" when I expressed myself in English. Chances are that many of us will get more diverse accents whether while speaking in English, French, Chinese or Spanish.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
My students are brilliant and so curious that if I don't come really prepared it can be challenging. The good news is that I am also very curious and always eager to learn, so they better get prepared too, as I tell them, because I am going to bombard them with questions as well in terms of building up our class knowledge. I like to think of my classroom as a small community where I actively apply the Bantu Ubuntu's philosophy, the less complicated version being: "I am because YOU are." WIS is exceptional because it is easier to successfully create such a community than one could imagine.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
I love singing opera. My students already know that as they will always smile when they catch me humming an aria.

Is there anything else you would like our community to know about you?
I am a novelist and also a neurodivergent Cameroonian. Tout un programme!

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Middle School English

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2008

What year did you start teaching?
2006

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
From the time I was very young, I wanted to be a teacher. Growing up, I had many teachers that had an incredibly positive impact on my life, and I always hoped to do the same for my future students. When I was in high school, I wanted to become a science teacher and I took every science class my school had to offer: biology, chemistry, physics, even tropical ecology. When I got to college, though, I ended up deciding that my desire to major in theater paired more naturally with a double major in English rather than a science. Even though the subject changed, my desire to be a teacher never did.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
I was drawn to the international community at WIS. I've lived and taught overseas, and I love to travel, meet new people, and explore new places, cultures, and experiences. To some extent, teaching at WIS gives me that experience everyday in my classroom. Getting to know my students, hearing about their experiences, and learning from their perspectives is an international, multicultural gift.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
Our students are such deep thinkers. They are curious, passionate, open-minded, and empathetic.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
I love to be active. Most of my students know I love to run; I've run a half marathon every year for the last 7 years. I also love to waterski. I've skied slalom (one ski!) since I was about 10.

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Tregaron Research and Media Specialist

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2014

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
Looking back, I realize I've always been a teacher at heart. All of my favorite childhood book heroines became teachers: Laura Ingalls Wilder, Anne Shirley, Jo March, Sarah Crewe. I used to create (and then do) homework assignments for my American Girl dolls and, in Girl Scouts, my favorite part was leading activities with younger troops. School is also where I feel happiest. I love the routine, traditions, and energy of students learning how to be the best versions of themselves. Schools symbolize a purpose and vision that I value. And, let's be honest, there's something magical about back to school season. A favorite movie of mine has a line that perfectly captures this: "I would send you a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils if I knew your name and address" (Ephron 1998). I love school supplies!

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
My goal as a teacher is to empower students to become curious information seekers and thoughtful creators, who appreciate and learn from the experiences and perspectives of others. I believe an IB education is the best structure to achieve that goal. WIS's core values resonate with my own and its mission aligns perfectly with my philosophy of education, especially in its internationally-minded approach to teaching and learning.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
WIS students ask fantastic questions! As a Research and Media specialist, my job is to help students explore and investigate answers to those questions and I couldn't ask for a more engaging environment. The intellectual curiosity here generates a constant stream of learning and growth for both students and teachers.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
I watch Jeopardy! every weeknight and am excellent at the news limericks on "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!"

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Middle School Spanish

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2016

What year did you start teaching?
2006

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
What drew me to teaching was curiosity. I have always been a curious person who loves to learn. What better way to keep learning and passing on the love for curiosity than being a teacher?!

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
At WIS I feel seen and validated. My ideas are embraced and as a community we create an environment of learning that fosters acceptance, inclusivity, and diversity.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
Before working in education, I worked as public relations representative for a record label in Puerto Rico.

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Grades 8 & 10 Math; Grades 11 & 12 IB DP SL Analysis & Approaches

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2019

What year did you start teaching?
2013

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
After considering graduate school, I chose to take a year off and teach to stay in the realm of education while taking time away from my own studies. Midway through my first year, I realized how much I enjoyed working with students and chose to continue it for a second year. After two years in the classroom, I knew that I wanted to continue my career in education as a teacher.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
After five years of teaching, I was ready for a change. In looking for a new school, I was drawn to WIS due to its inclusive culture and demand for educational excellence. I appreciate the involvement that students have in our community in shaping the school culture.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
The WIS educational experience is challenging, especially during the Grades 11 & 12 IB DP program. That said, seeing the faces of students as they make their journey through the two year program is a true testament to their commitment and dedication to WIS, their own education, and their goals for their futures.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
Prior to a recent injury, I averaged running 120 miles per week and have completed multiple marathons and ultra marathons; my longest run was 52 miles.

Is there anything else you would like our community to know about you?
In addition to teaching, I enjoy the opportunity to coach student-athletes. It is a great way to work with students outside the classroom to help improve their fitness in addition to their academics. Here at WIS, I coach the boys soccer program, which has a tradition of success, and I am grateful to continue this for years to come.

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Grades 6 & 7 Integrated Science

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2012

What year did you start teaching?
2004

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
I had the best science teachers when I was a student. My teachers encouraged me to pursue science since I showed potential in science and math. I didn’t really believe that I could be a scientist until my teachers recognized that I understood challenging science content and that science just made sense to me! I love asking questions that extend learning!

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
I’m from Hawaiʻi and I’ve taught in different places around the world. WIS is definitely a unique place of learning. I love that our students are so passionate about learning. I love our students and my colleagues. I've been able to find aloha here at WIS, which is why I've stayed so long.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
WIS students have a strong sense of self and they know how to communicate their distinct perspectives and opinions. Students advocate for fairness, kindness, and respect for one another. I love it when students that I taught in Middle School become Upper School or college students and they still say "hi" to me or come visit me in my classroom (even 5+ years after I taught them).

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
My first language was Hawaiian, followed by Japanese (I am Native Hawaiian, Japanese, and Chinese). Sadly, I lost fluency in both languages when I went to school and learned English.

Is there anything else you would like our community to know about you?
I have two sons, ages 9 and 5. They are my world! I am a 2000 U.S. Olympian in the sport of Judo. I also played Division 1 Soccer at San Jose State University, while also on the San Jose State University Judo Team.

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Grades 10 & 12 English Literature (IB DP Higher Level)

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2020

What year did you start teaching?
2001

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
I think it runs in my blood. My mom was a teacher and loved her work. Plus, being the oldest of three daughters, I was always teaching my little sisters. As a student, I loved school and learning and had many influential teachers along my educational career that inspired me to go into education.

But maybe more precisely, why do I stay in teaching? The students! Working with teenagers and the complexities that come along with the adolescent years is both exciting and challenging. No two days or classes are ever the same. Engaging learners with a variety of learning styles and helping students achieve is such a rewarding job, and just one of the many reasons why I stay in education.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
Living in the DMV area for many years, I had read and knew about WIS through its reputation. It was always a school I had admired from afar for its dual language and IB program, and its commitment to outstanding professional development. When I visited, the community of students, faculty, and administrators seemed to admire and respect one another. It drew me in right away. While it wasn't easy starting in the fall of 2020 in a hybrid fashion, it made me appreciate the support of my colleagues and the WIS community even more once we started in-person.

What makes we stay? The engaged students, the supportive colleagues, and the generous community. I have so many opportunities here to grow and learn as a professional through WISSIT, the PDC, and learning groups. Learning doesn't stop at the classroom door for my students or me at WIS, but extends well beyond.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
One thing I love about WIS, is just when I think I know a student, I learn that they speak a third (or even fourth) language, or are into a K-Pop band, or play for a pre-professional soccer team, or are an exceptional hip hop dancer. WIS students are truly renaissance people, and their interests and abilities never cease to amaze me.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
I am an avid downhill skier. My father was a professional ski instructor and I grew up in Minnesota, so this meant I grew up on skis. In high school I competed on our slalom ski team.To this day, I love to ski and enjoy any chance I get to be out in the snow.

Is there anything else you would like our community to know about you?
As a parent of a Grade 1 student at WIS, it is wonderful to see what education looks like at the very beginning. Watching him form friendships, learn French, and love learning, it is easy to see why there are so many "lifers" here at WIS.

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Grades 9 &10 English; IB DP Literature I and II, Standard and Higher Levels

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2019

What year did you start teaching?
1992

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
A recession! I went to China to teach English because the United States had gone into a recession and, as a newly graduated college student, I was not optimistic about job prospects. I found out by heading halfway around the world that I love teaching and could make a decent living doing what I loved.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
A school nestled among craggy oak trees where students from all over the world discuss critical issues next to the fireplace ... WIS is a dynamic school and innovative on every level, but this picture is why I wanted to teach here and why I stay.

What do you find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
Unabashed questioning ... students are accustomed to and comfortable with asking about what is on their minds. They think carefully and are curious about systems and the world.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
I have run the New York Marathon twice, once with colleagues and once with my twin sister. I painfully under-trained the second time because I was busy planning my wedding, so my sister—determined we finish in our 'under five hours' goal—all but dragged me across the finish line in 4:59:51. We made it by nine seconds.

Current Subjects/Grade Levels
Middle School English Humanities

What year did you start teaching at WIS?
2008

What year did you start teaching?
2002

What drew you to teaching? Why did you become a teacher?
My mother was a teacher and was very passionate about her desire to bring out the best in her students and her belief that each of them had incredible potential. I found that inspiring and was so proud of her. Although I always felt teaching was my path, working at the Girls and Boys Club in a small town near my college was confirmation working with kids was something I really enjoyed. I was lucky enough to get my first teaching job in that same small town; it was a great start to my career.

Why WIS? What made you want to teach here? Why do you stay?
My own upbringing was not international at all. I didn't have the opportunity to study language until high school or travel very much. But I was always drawn to learning about other people and cultures and time periods; when I moved back to the DC area and saw an opportunity open at WIS, I jumped at the chance to work at an institution that matched my values and interests.

What do find exceptional about the WIS experience, either as a teacher or what you observe in your students?
I have always felt at home here at WIS. I find WIS students to be curious, brave, caring, and deeply thoughtful. I am constantly challenged to be better here and I am grateful for that.

What is something our community would find surprising or unexpected about you?
My first job was at a boatyard doing some very unglamorous tasks! I worked there with my brother during the summers all through high school to save money for college.