We are delighted to introduce you to our new hires this year. Please read the bios below, of the new faculty members who will be joining us soon!
High School -Middle School- Elementary School
All School
Kerry Brint (United Kingdom) -Health Office Manager
Kerry has always been passionate about nursing, declaring her career path when she was 10 years old. Her extensive nursing experience spans nearly 20 years, with specialties ranging from acute care and oncology to neurology and cardiac operating rooms. Kerry's greatest passion, however, lies in caring for children and young adults, empowering them with crucial health and well-being knowledge.
Kerry has enriched her career with significant international experience, having worked as a school nurse at the International School of Ho Chi Minh City and at North London Collegiate School in Dubai, where she opened a new clinic.
Kerry and her husband, an educator, have lived in Vietnam for the past seven years. She is excited to join the SSIS community and looks forward to leveraging her extensive experience to enhance the school’s health services and support student well-being.
In her free time, Kerry enjoys traveling around Asia, exploring new restaurants with her husband, and continuing her education in global health and infectious diseases. She is also a passionate collector of vinyl records.
Education: Master of Science in Global Health and Infectious Diseases - in progress (University of Edinburgh, UK), Bachelor of Science in Adult Nursing (University of Plymouth, UK)
NickyMcNamee (New Zealand) -Compliance and Risk Management Officer
Nickyis a seasoned finance professional with over 20 years of business experience across multiple sectors and industries, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of delivering exceptional results. Her career began as an Auditor at Ernst & Young in New Zealand, where she gained significant insights into business environments and risk management, fueling her passion for organizational improvement.
Throughout her diverse career, Nicky has held pivotal roles in several national and international firms. Her work has spanned multiple sectors, from video game creation to live entertainment to milk product manufacturing, highlighting her versatility and ability to adapt to different industries.
As the Compliance and Risk Officer at SSIS, Nicky is excited to apply her rigorous financial training and deep experience to support the school’s mission. She looks forward to collaborating with colleagues to refine processes and policies, enhancing our school’s compliance and risk management frameworks.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Nickyis passionate about fitness and well-being and loves triathlons. She is an assistant swim coach at SSIS and enjoys exploring Vietnam, where she is immersing herself in the vibrant community and local culture.
Education: Chartered Accountant (University of Waikato, NZ), Bachelor of Management Studies(University of Waikato, NZ)
High School
Mark Adams (USA) -HS Math Teacher
Growing up in a family of educators, Markhas always been driven by a curiosity to understand how things work and interact. With nearly ten years of teaching experience, primarily in South Korea at Korea International School Jeju and Cheongna Dalton School in Incheon, he inspires students through mathematical problem-solving and logic. Witnessing students apply these skills to solve real-life problems fuels his passion for education.
Mark is thrilled to join the SSIS community, drawn by our school’s commitment to holistic student growth. An earlier visit to Vietnam left a lasting impression on Mark, and he looks forward to becoming more familiar with the friendly people, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine as he becomes an active part of this dynamic community.
Beyond the classroom, Mark enjoys a life rich with activities, including skiing, scuba diving, and cooking. A skilled martial artist, Mark holds a 3rd-degree black belt in Kempo Karate. He values quality time exploring nature with his wife, Geun Yeong, who works in graphic design/marketing and shares in all his adventures.
Education: Master of Science in Teaching & Learning (Colorado State University, Global Campus), Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (Colorado State University, US)
Megan Alvarez (USA) -HS EAL Teacher
Megan Alvarez’s initial ambition was to become a photojournalist, but her path to teaching emerged when she discovered her passion for education through volunteer work. Her commitment to teaching English was solidified after impactful experiences with Syrian refugee students, inspiring her to further her expertise with graduate studies.
Megan’s excellence in teaching was recognized when she was selected as one of 16 educators nationwide to receive a Fulbright scholarship as part of the Fulbright Hays Seminar Abroad program. Her summer in Jordan, studying the nation’s history and educational systems, was a profound experience that enhanced her curriculum development skills and deepened her understanding of cultural complexities.
At SSIS, Megan looks forward to contributing to an environment that values educational and cultural exchange, and to sharing her experiences as an educator in the US and Colombia. She is excited to engage with a diverse student body and faculty, bringing her unique insights and teaching approaches to our community.
Outside of the classroom, Megan continues to pursue her passion for photography, capturing real-life moments that reflect her artistic eye. Her other hobbies include reading, hiking, and yoga, as well as spending time with her creative and active sons, Nathan (10) and Benjamin (7).
Education: Master of Arts in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (University of Colorado at Boulder, US), Bachelor of Arts in English Literature with a minor in Women and Gender Studies (University of Colorado at Boulder, US)
Chris Cheronis (USA) -HS Math Teacher
The extraordinary support Chrisreceived from teachers during an injury altered his own educational journey,inspiring him to pursue a career in education with the hope of affecting students’ lives as significantly as his teachers had affected him. His talents and passion for working with students had already begun to emerge several years prior while he was a ski instructor.
During his ten years as an educator, Chris has taught at schools around the world, including in the US, Saudi Arabia, and China, bringing a global perspective to his teaching methods. Now newly married, he will be joined by his wife, who is also an educator.
Chris is thrilled to join the SSIS community, drawn by its friendliness and familial environment. He is eager to engage with students and immerse himself in the vibrant educational culture.
As the youngest certified ski instructor at a reputable ski resort at the age of 18, Chris is still an avid outdoorsman and cherishes exploring new terrains. His love for skiing means international trips, and he’s aiming next for the slopes of Japan and South America.
Education: Master of Education (Colorado State University, US), Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine Concentration (Colorado State University, US)
Claire Crossnoe (USA) -HS Science Teacher
Claire’s passion for teaching stems from her love for science and her deep understanding of how to ignite curiosity and foster a collaborative learning environment among students. An early achiever, Claire left home at 16 to enroll in an early-entrance college program, showcasing her independent spirit and dedication to academic pursuits.
Having taught at the American International School of Abuja (Nigeria) and the American School Foundation Monterrey (Mexico), Claire brings a rich blend of international teaching experience and a commitment to student-centered learning. She is dedicated to helping students discover the intricate details of the world around them.
Claireis thrilled to join SSIS, a school community that shares her educational values, and looks forward to immersing herself in a new cultural setting, eager to learn about local traditions and, of course, the cuisine.
Outside of school, Claire enjoys cooking, listening to podcasts, watching TV, and engaging in thoughtful conversations over board games with friends.
Education: Master of Education (Trinity University, US), Bachelor of Arts in Biology (Trinity University, US), Associate of Science (Trinity University, US)
Kimberly Du (USA) -HS Science Teacher
Kimberly cherishes the dynamic classroom environment where students actively teach and learn from one another. She believes in the uniqueness of learners’ processes and is passionate about supporting their journeys.
With a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry, Kimberly brings a deep understanding of both scientific and pedagogical principles to her role. She is the first in her family to graduate with a master’s degree, a milestone that underscores her commitment to education.
Outside of school, Kimberly is an avid rock climber, even to a competitive level. When not climbing, she’s just as excited about baking, treating it as a scientific lab where she meticulously notes the outcome of each culinary experiment. Her current quest is to make the perfect chocolate chip cookies and banana bread.
Excited about living in a city her parents once called home, Kimberly looks forward to being part of and learning from SSIS’s vibrant, diverse community — perhaps contributing with a dad joke or two.
Education: Master of Arts in Teaching (Smith College, US), Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Smith College, US)
Joey Farouq (USA) -HS Computer Science Engineering Teacher
Joey finds that sparking a young person’s initiative to follow a passion is one of the most satisfying aspects of teaching. He particularly loved seeing how his Grade 11 students approached course concepts when they started an after-school coding club teaching elementary school students basic coding concepts.
Over the last 10 years, Joey has brought his passion for teaching to students in the US, Poland, and Egypt. He recently presented on Artificial Intelligence at a conference at an international school in India, underscoring his commitment to advancing the integration of technology with education.
When not in the classroom, Joey enjoys sports like basketball and diving and is looking forward to enjoying Vietnamese food and learning more about Vietnam.
Education: Master of Business Administration (University of North Carolina at Charlotte), Bachelor of Arts in Management/Bachelor of Arts in History (double major) (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill).
Katie Freeman (USA) -HS Counselor
Katie’s journey into counseling is deeply personal, shaped by her own experiences of growing up in various locations across the US and Germany, attending eight different schools, and moving during her Senior year. These formative experiences fostered a profound empathy and understanding, enabling her to connect deeply with students facing similar challenges.
Katie has spent 24 years empowering students to embrace their identities and thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. She is passionate about building meaningful connections and has enriched students’ lives all over the world, from the US to Jakarta, Singapore, and Switzerland.
Katie is excited to join the SSIS community and the friendly, supportive environment she’s heard so much about. Having previously experienced Vietnam’s rich culture, she looks forward to returning and integrating into this vibrant community and living in such a culturally rich and welcoming country.
Outside of work, Katie enjoys outdoor activities with her golden retriever, Bodhi, reading alongside her two cats, sampling local cuisines, practicing yoga, and embarking on adventurous challenges like completing a 725-km bike ride through the Colorado Rocky Mountains.
Education: Master of Arts in Counseling (Loyola Marymount University, US), Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (University of Colorado, Boulder, US)
Kerry Hofmeister (USA) -HS Social Studies Teacher
Raised in a family of educators, Kerry's path to becoming an educator was greatly influenced by his parents, who dedicated over 80 years combined to their careers in education. His father's continued involvement in coaching well past retirement age has been particularly inspirational. Kerry aspires to emulate their significant impact through his own teaching career.
With 12 years of experience as a teacher in the US, Kerry has already made substantial contributions to the educational field and looks forward to living out the values that he has tried to instill in his students over the years. This will be his first international experience alongside his wife, Kendall Williamson (incoming Grade 3 Teacher), an experienced international educator.
Outside of the classroom, Kerry is as dedicated to the success of his students as he is in the classroom. Last year he proudly led his current school’s boys' volleyball program to a #2 US national ranking.
When he’s not teaching, Kerry enjoys golfing, playing pickleball, and staying active. He and his wife are very excited to join the SSIS community and look forward to learning from and contributing to a vibrant school environment known for its dedication to excellence.
Education: Master of Educational Leadership (Arkansas State University, US), Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Education (Spring Arbor University, US).
Matthew McEwen (USA) -HS CSE Design Technology Teacher
Matthew's journey into teaching stems from a family background rich in educators and artists, though it took him some time to find his path in this legacy. With 23 years of experience, Matthew has explored various educational roles—from teaching young readers in early grades to guiding middle school students in scientific thinking. Over the last decade, he has returned to his first love of art and design, finding great joy in teaching design technology and witnessing those transformative "ah-ha" moments among his students.
Matthew has taught at The Kaust School in Saudi Arabia, American International School of Dhaka in Bangladesh, and Damascus Community School in Syria. His passion for education is matched by his enthusiasm for extracurricular activities. He enjoys traveling, playing music, diving with his family, and engaging in a wide range of hobbies, from frisbee golf to traditional woodworking. A long-time technology geek, Matthew is also adept at using CAD/CAM but appreciates the art of traditional woodworking.
Excited to join the vibrant community at SSIS, he looks forward to new teaching opportunities and exploring the new design spaces. He is eager to immerse himself and his family, wife Carrie and children Elizabeth and Sean, in the cultural experiences Vietnam offers, anticipating personal growth and new educational perspectives.
Education: Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction: Reading and Language Arts Education (University of Houston, US), Bachelor of Science in Biology (University of Houston, US)
DaisyMi (China) -HS Mandarin Teacher
Daisy's aspiration to become a teacher was profoundly influenced by her high school English teacher, whose dedication to student well-being deeply impacted her. With 18 years of teaching experience, Daisy prioritizes forming strong, trusting relationships with her students, believing that a secure and invested learning environment is essential for academic and personal growth.
Daisyhas taught at various international institutions, including the International School of Prague, Shanghai Community International School, and Shanghai Taiwanese Children School. Her commitment to excellence in education is highlighted by her students' success in the global Chinese Bridge competition, where one of her students won the top regional prize, representing the Czech Republic internationally.
With a passion for traveling, Daisy feels that traveling enriches her understanding of global diversity, enhancing her teaching with a broadened perspective. She maintains a healthy lifestyle through yoga and regular gym workouts and enjoys unwinding with a good book or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
Excited about the new chapter at SSIS in Vietnam, Daisy is eager to explore the country's rich history, stunning landscapes, and exquisite cuisine and to make meaningful connections with her students at SSIS.
Education: Master of Multidisciplinary Studies (SUNY Buffalo, US), Bachelor of English Language and Literature (Education) (Bohai University, China)
Steve Myrden (Canada) -HS English Teacher
With more than 30 years as an educator,Steve hasshared his passion for literature with students in Dubai, Japan, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and various schools in Canada and knows he chose the right career path every time he hears a student exclaim, "I've never loved English until now!"
Passionate about education, Steve co-founded a natural health and education business with his wife Cait Redmond, in Nova Scotia - allowing him to further spread his knowledge while also learning what it takes to be an entrepreneur.
Having already experienced Vietnam's rich culture, friendly people, and incredible cuisine, Steve and his wife Cait, who will be joining the Middle School, are both eager to contribute to SSIS's vibrant community.
Outside of the classroom, Steve is an enthusiast of the outdoors and the arts. He loves playing guitar, reading fiction, and engaging in a variety of activities, including basketball, hiking, and paddle boarding. An avid guitarist, he enjoys sharing his love of music - and was once in a teachers' band called "The Shoes."
Education: Bachelor of EducationSecondary Education (Memorial University of Newfoundland, CA), Bachelor of ArtsEnglish and Geography(Memorial University of Newfoundland, CA)
Shin Tsurushima (USA) -HS Physical Education Teacher
Shin’s career in physical education (PE) was inspired by his own experiences of moving to the US from Japan as a teenager without knowing English. Finding comfort and understanding in PE classes is what he thinks may have led him to become a PE teacher himself, driven to offer similar support to his students.
Joining SSIS from the American School of London, Shin has also taught at Shanghai American School, and the Anglo-American School of Moscow. He is particularly proud of having been voted as teacher of the year by his peers when he was teaching at Sunnyvale Middle School in California, as it is usually not a recognition bestowed on a PE teacher.
When not teaching, Shin is passionate about the Japanese martial art Aikido. He’s looking forward to learning about Vietnam, exploring a new culture, and embracing new cultural experiences at SSIS.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Physical Education(Syracuse University, US)
Middle School
Emily Bacolod (Philippines) -MS/HS Math Learning Support Teacher
With more than 10 years of teaching experience, Emily Ann Bacolod describes teaching as her "spring of eternal youth and joy," finding profound meaning in being a part of her students' development and achievements.
Emily's passion for education not only enriches her life but also significantly impacts her students, guiding them toward achieving their dreams, something she began early in life as an organizer of scout programs.
She takes great pride in seeing her former students gain admission to their desired universities, and is herself a graduate from the University of Santo Tomas, a prestigious and historic Catholic university in the Philippines.
Outside of teaching, Emily enjoys traveling and exploring various cultures and time with her family. Her husband, Jasper, is already a High School Math teacher at SSIS and they are the proud parents of a daughter who has already graduated from college and a son who has recently completed high school.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education Major in Mathematics (University of Santo Tomas, Philippines)
Joshua Bowers (USA) -MS Math Teacher
A teacher who thrives on witnessing the moment students grasp new mathematical concepts, especially when overcoming previous struggles, Joshualets the joy of student success drive his educational approach. This approach focuses as much on the process and perseverance involved in mastering new skills as on the outcomes.
Joshua will join Saigon South International School from the American School of Kuwait, where he has encouraged a culture of hard work and discovery in mathematics.His goal at SSIS is to contribute to its culture of excellence and to further his growth as an educator, helping students explore mathematics in innovative ways.
Eager to immerse himself in Vietnam's rich culture, it is an entirely new experience and he looks forward to exploring the traditions, cuisine, and the unique aspects of the community. Outside the classroom, Joshua also enjoys an active lifestyle, playing volleyball and tennis, going for walks, and indulging in good food.
Education: Master of Arts in Teaching (University of Pittsburgh, US), Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (University of Pittsburgh, US)
Aaron Furry (USA) -MS Music (Orchestra) Teacher
Aaron'spassion for music began in his childhood music classes, where he felt a sense of belonging and formed lifelong friendships. He became a teacher to offer those same experiences to the next generation of young learners.
A two-time concerto competition winner, Aaron has been teaching for the past five years. His versatility spans multiple instruments, including cello, saxophone, bass, clarinet, piano, and tuba. He has personal experience from playing in more than 30 musicals and nearly 80 theaterproductions.
Aaron is thrilled about the opportunity to work abroad at SSIS, make amazing music, and embrace the cultural experiences that come with living in Vietnam.
In his leisure time, Aaron loves watching basketball (Philadelphia 76ers) and hockey (New York Rangers) and enjoys playing jazz saxophone, cycling, performing in pit orchestras, and delving into complex board games. A lover of thrill rides, he has a personal goal to ride every giga coaster in the world.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Music Education (Lebanon Valley College, US), Bachelor of Arts in Saxophone Performance (Lebanon Valley College, US)
James Lumley (USA) -MS English Language Arts/Social Studies Teacher
With a commitment to exploring thoughts and ideas that lead to great changes in the world, Jamesbrings 15 years of experience to his role. As department head at his current school, Vietnam Australian International School, he’s focused on enhancing educational standards, increasing student involvement, and mentoring new educators.
Outside of his professional pursuits, James has a wide variety of personal interests, including customizing motorcycles, hosting quiz nights, and practicing stand-up comedy.
Jamesis enthusiastic about joining a team of social science educators who are committed to being influential figures in their students' lives. He looks forward to contributing to and learning from the vibrant academic community at SSIS.
Education: Master of Arts in Teaching (American College of Education, US), Post Graduate Certificate in Education (University of Sunderland, UK), Bachelor of Arts in History (Virginia Commonwealth University, USA)
Cait Redmond (Canada) -MS Social Studies
With over 30 years of educational experience and a master's degree in International Development Studies, Caitis passionate about teaching young people to understand global issues and develop critical thinking skills that turn challenges into opportunities for change.
Cait has taught in diverse locations such as Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Dubai, and Hong Kong. Extending beyond traditional teaching, Cait co-developed a Wellbeing curriculum during her time at the Canadian School of Hong Kong and has been recognized with an Innovative Research Award from the Canadian International Development Agency for master’s research in Belize.
Joining Cait is her husband, Steve Myrden, who will be teaching English in our high school. Together, they look forward to being part of a school that values educational excellence and cultural understanding.
In her leisure time, Cait enjoys hiking, vegetarian cooking, and creative projects. Her previous visits to Vietnam have left her with a deep appreciation for the country's vibrant culture and welcoming people, enhancing her excitement about this new chapter.
Education: Master of Arts in International Development Studies (St. Mary's University, CA), Cognitive Coaching Certification, Bachelor of Education (University of New Brunswick, CA).
Amanda Torti (Canada) -MS Math Teacher
Amanda'sjourney into teaching began unexpectedly when she switched her major as an undergrad and enrolled in an Educational Psychology class that required 40 hours of community service in a school. It turned into a pivotal, eye-opening experience. The lively atmosphere of the school quickly became the highlight of her week, and she decided to pursue a career in education.
With 21 years of teaching experience, Amanda has honed her skills in diverse educational environments, including eight years in Toronto, Canada, and stints in international schools such as the American School Foundation of Monterrey in Mexico, the American School of Dubai in UAE, the American International School of Mozambique, and the American International School of Vienna in Austria.
Amanda is enthusiastic about joining the SSIS community and looks forward to exploring the local cuisine, embracing the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, and seizing travel opportunities within Vietnam.
Education: Master of Education (Niagara University, USA), Bachelor of Psychology (University of Western Ontario, Canada)
Huiney Xu (China) -MS Mandarin Teacher
From a young age, Huiney was inspired by the kind and warm-hearted teachers in her life and dreamed of becoming one herself. With 18 years of teaching experience, she has realized that dream, bringing her passion and dedication to classrooms across the globe. Huiney has taught at notable institutions such as the American Embassy School in New Delhi, the Shanghai American School, and the Shanghai Community International School.
Huiney is eager to share her passion for Mandarin, engage with middle school students, and collaborate with SSIS professionals.
In addition to her teaching career, Huiney is a true adventurer and explorer, having visited all the provinces in China and 26 other countries. She looks forward to exploring Vietnam's rich culture and interesting places. In her leisure time, Huiney enjoys staying active through exercise, cooking, practicing Chinese calligraphy, and exploring new places.
Education: Master of K-12 Education (Plymouth State University, US), Bachelor of Pre-school Education (East China Normal University, China)
Elementary School
Sarah Kim (USA) -Grade 5 Teacher
Sarah's journey into education was inspired by a teacher when she was in 7th grade. The inclusive classroom and rich learning opportunities have shaped Sarah’s teaching philosophy and focus on creating a caring and inclusive environment that fosters academic and social-emotional success for her students.
With 12 years of teaching experience, Sarah prioritizes relationships and her students' developmental changes. She has actively participated in school development processes, including steering committees and curriculum development, demonstrating her commitment to positive change.
Excited to begin her journey at SSIS, Sarah places great value on SSIS’s not-for-profit model. The reinvestment in educational programs aligns with her values, enhancing her enthusiasm for contributing to this community. When she’s not teaching, Sarah enjoys going for walks, visiting local markets, and maintaining a well-organized home, finding these activities therapeutic and reflective of her methodical approach to both personal and professional life.
Sarah will be joined in Vietnam by her soon-to-be husband, Hyungwan, who works in the food and beverage industry. They are excited to explore Vietnam together, and look forward to immersing themselves in the local culture and enjoying the warm climate, a pleasant change from their previous experiences in Canada and Seoul, although she admits it may take some time to adjust to the heat.
Education: Master of Education in Literacy (American College of Education, US), Bachelor of Education (Tyndale University & Seminary, CA), Bachelor of Arts and Science (University of Toronto, CA)
Lindsay Manzella (USA/Italy) -Grade 5 EAL Teacher
An educator for nearly 20 years, Lindsayoriginally thought that teaching was just temporary and that she would end up doing something else. However, today, she can’t imagine doing anything else and loves working with English language learners.
Lindsay has enriched her extensive teaching experience with positions atinstitutions around the world, including NIST International School in Bangkok, the American International School of Budapest, the International College in Beirut, and the New York City Department of Education. Each role has deepened her understanding of the unique challenges and rewards of teaching English to diverse student populations.
Drawn by SSIS's commitment to excellence and her own love for nurturing English language learners, Lindsay is thrilled to join the EAL team at SSIS.
In her personal time, Lindsay is eager to explore Vietnam's rich culinary landscape,coffee culture, and travel opportunities, having fond memories of her previous visit in 2012. She also enjoys spending time cooking, baking, practicing yoga, taking photos, and keeping up with languages she has studied, including Italian and Arabic.
Education: Master of Science in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (Pace University, US), Bachelor of Arts in Italian (Arizona State University, US)
Carrie McEwen (USA) -Grade 5 Teacher
With 25 years of experience in the classroom, Carriepassionately creates an environment where students are encouraged to explore, question, and discover. Ms. McEwen believes that the best moments in teaching are seeing the joy of discovery or overcoming challenges and celebrating these moments of discovery and achievement as they navigate their educational journeys.
Carrie has taught in many varied environments, including the US, instilling her love of learning internationally, including at Damascus Community School in Syria, the American International School in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and The KAUST School in Saudi Arabia.
Settling in Vietnam is an exciting new chapter for the McEwen family of four, which includes Carrie’s husband, Matthew, who will join the High School as the new Design Technology teacher and their two children. She is looking forward to joining the vibrant community at SSIS and exploring the country's rich cultural tapestry. After 12 years in Saudi Arabia, the family is also looking forward to enjoying Vietnam’s lush, rainy climate.
Outside of teaching, Carrie enjoys sewing quilts and painting. She often incorporates nature into her art, especially with detailed rock paintings. Family life is bustling with two high schoolers: Elizabeth (Grade 10), a creative drama enthusiast, and Sean (Grade 9), a budding engineer fascinated by roller coasters.
Education: Master of Arts in International Education (Endicott College, US), Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education (Kent State University, US)
Nicole Perry (Canada) -ES Librarian
Nicole has always been drawn to the world of teaching and libraries. From a young age, she enjoyed playing using an easel chalkboard to conduct lessons in her room. Frequent visits to the library with her family cemented her love for books at a young age.
As a librarian, Nicole has been able to blend her passion for education with her love for reading. Her diverse educational background further enhances this, equipping her with a wide range of knowledge and skills, enhancing her ability to manage library resources and support educational initiatives.
Currently based in Ho Chi Minh City, Nicoleis thrilled to continue her professional journey in Vietnam at SSIS. She looks forward to contributing to the school’s warm, diverse community and is excited about the opportunity to work closely with students, faculty, and families.
Outside of her professional life, Nicole enjoys running, practicing yoga, and exploring new places. She loves culinary adventures, reflecting her openness to experiencing different cultures. Nicole also cherishes time spent with her dachshund, Pele, enjoying walks and shared moments.
Education: Master of Science in Information and Library Science (State University of New York, US), Bachelor of Education (Nipissing University, CA), Bachelor of Arts with minors in Religion/Culture & Human Rights/Human Diversity (Wilfrid Laurier University, CA)
Courtney Piper (USA) -ES Grade 1 Teacher
Throughout her 11-year teaching career in Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Courtney has focused on social-emotional learning, striving to connect deeply with her students. Creating safe places for all her students, regardless of abilities or learning differences, has been her “why” ever since she decided to become a teacher at the age of five.
Courtney is excited to join the vibrant community at SSIS and explore more of SouthEast Asia. She looks forward to immersing herself in the culture of Ho Chi Minh City and contributing to the positive environment at SSIS.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time in nature, particularly at the beach, and embraces a holistic lifestyle that includes meditation, reiki, and using food as medicine (she's been a vegetarian for the past 27 years). Courtney also loves to travel, often taking weekend trips to discover new places.
Education: Master's Degree in International Education (Endicott College, US),Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education, Endorsem*nt in Reading (Pacific Lutheran University, US)
Gerhard Pretorius (South Africa) -ES Grade 1 EAL Teacher
More than anything, Gerhard loves meaningful connections with students. His teaching philosophy centers around harnessing everyday activities like reading, drawing, and playing as powerful educational tools, particularly effective in his role as an EAL teacher.
Gerhard's career has been marked by a passion for cultural immersion and language exchange, with notable experiences at Hanoi International School and Vietnam Australia International School in Ho Chi Minh City. He recently embraced a new challenge by performing in the French opera “Carmen” at the Hanoi Opera House.
An avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast, Gerhard believes that well-being is at the center of any individual’s success and growth. When he’s not teaching, he enjoys hiking, cycling, and exploring nature. He also has a passion for singing, live music, and cooking colorful, healthy meals. At home, he cares for about 100 plants, reflecting his love for nature.
Education: Master of Arts in Education Leadership (The College of New Jersey, US), Master of Arts in Elementary Education (The College of New Jersey,US),Bachelor of Education (University of South Africa),International EAL Certification (Principals' Training Center)
Kendall Williamson (USA) -ES Grade 3 Teacher
Kendall's passion for teaching was sparked early on through a high school mentor program, where she discovered her innate ability to connect with students and support their academic and social growth. Her favorite aspect is getting to know students individually.
With ten years of teaching experience, Kendall has developed her educational approach internationally, starting out in Spain. She’s also taught inThailand, Guatemala, and Latvia. Most recently, she has been teaching in her hometown of Houston, Texas.
Kendallis excited to return abroad and will be joined by her husband, Kerry Hofmeister, who will join the HS History Department. The couple married this past December and are eager to embark on this international adventure together, joining the dynamic SSIS community.
In her leisure time, Kendall enjoys culinary adventures, trying new foods, and staying active with pickleball, volleyball, swimming, and reading. An interesting tidbit about her is that she once competed in the same swim meet as Michael Phelps!
Education: Master in International Education (Framingham State University, US), Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (University of Kansas, US)
Kristin Whalen (USA) -ES Grade 2 Teacher
Kristin grew up in a family of educators and has been immersed in the teaching world from a young age. With 17 years of teaching experience, she deeply values the impact she has on her students' growth and transformation.
Kristin's international teaching experience includes positions in Japan, the US, and Malawi, where she played a key role in literacy initiatives.
As Kristin prepares to join SSIS, she is excited about engaging with the school's established programs and contributing to its collaborative environment. She is especially looking forward to experiencing Vietnam's rich culture and bringing her expertise to a new educational setting.
In her leisure time, Kristin enjoys activities like pickleball, CrossFit, swimming, reading, and knitting.
Education: Currently enrolled in MasterAdd-On Elementary Language and Literacy Program (University of North Carolina, Wilmington, US), Masterin Elementary Mathematics (University of North Carolina, Wilmington)Masterin Elementary Education (University of North Carolina, Wilmington), Double Major in International Business and Spanish (Grove City College, US)
