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◎ Teachers

Jeff Walker
Principal
drjwalker@gifs.or.kr
Southwest State University – B.S. – Business Education
University of Wisconsin-Superior – M.S.Ed. – Business Education
Mankato State University – Sixth years Certification - Educational Administration
Winona State University – Ed.S. - Educational Leadership
Northcentral University – Ed.D. - Educational Leadership
St. Cloud State University – Certification- Driver Education

Superintendent – 17.5 years 
School Principal - 4 years
Curriculum Director – 3 years
School Business Manager – 3 years
Teacher of Business Education – 4 years
Teacher of Driver Education –  Part-time while I was working full time
                          + 20 years

Why did you go into education?
I started out as an accounting major but a friend of mine encouraged me to go into business education.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

....The Kids

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I look forward to working with a small group of students and staff.. something which will allow me to get to know each of them well.
Tangela Shaw
4K Teacher
mstshaw@gifs.or.kr
Le Tourneau University - MBA
Capella University – M.Ed.  
Lamar University – B.S. - in General Studies

PK - 2 Years
1st Grade - 1 Year
(Gifted + Talented Teacher / coordinator)
2nd Grade - 3 Years
3rd Grade - 6 Years

Why did you go into education?
I went into education because I realized at an early age that I was a natural. I have always been an educator.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?
I truly enjoy the feeling I get when a child finally has that "Ah Hah" moment.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I look forward to getting to know my students & parents. Also, I look forward to learning more about the culture here in Korea.

Victoria Swank
5K Teacher
msvswank@gifs.or.kr
University of Central Missouri – B.Ed. - in Elementary Education
Framingham State University - M.Ed. - Overseas Teaching

Grade PK/K – 14 years
Grade 1/2  - 8 years
Grade 3 /4 – 2 years
Grade 5/8 – 3 years

Why did you go into education?
I have always wanted to be an educator and make a difference in children’s lives. I went into education many years ago with the desire to help shape and prepare our young people who will be our future leaders. My mother had also been an elementary teacher and was very pleased that I choose to follow in her foot steps. 

What do you enjoy most about being in education?
For me the most enjoyable and worthwhile part about being in education is seeing the twinkle in the eyes of a child when they have learned something new or achieved something which they felt was beyond their capability. Seeing a child's joy in learning and being able to apply what they have learned in a variety of situations is the most rewarding part of being an educator.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I look forward to helping GIFS to grow and develop into the best school in the area by developing a standards based curriculum. My desire is to insure that our students receive a top quality education where every student will be successful regardless where they might happen to be in the future.

Jhaislanie Lewis
Grades 1/2 Teacher
msjlewis@gifs.or.kr
Mercy College - M.Ed. - Elementary Education
Sarah Lawerence College - BA - Liberal Arts

This is my seventh year of teaching at the elementary level. I have also taught English to adults at the College of the Marshall Islands and privately in the Canary Islands. I have taught grade 2,3,4 and 5. This will be my 1st year teaching grade 1. I began teaching through the New York City Teaching Fellow Program. I have since taught in India, the Virgin Islands, the Canary lslands and Egypt.

Why did you go into education?

I accidentally discovered my love of educating children when I worked for one year at Good Hope School in the Virgin Islands as a Librarian. I had the opportunity to work with a small group of both struggling and advanced readers in grades 2 and 3. I realized how much I loved working with them when I found myself more engaged in creating lessons and activities than shelving, ordering and maintaining the library.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?
I enjoy watching students grow academically and emotionally from the time they enter my classroom door in August until the time they leave in June. It is truly amazing how much their minds absorb and connect with in such a short amount of time.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?
The challenge of teaching a new grade and working in a new culture.

Lynda Jones
Grades 3/4  Teacher
msljones@gifs.or.kr
Utah State University – B.S. – Public Health/Bacteriology
Idaho State University – B.A.– Elementary Ed. (Grad.w/High Honors) Idaho State University
– 2 years Graduate Studies – Tech. Integration in Elem. Classroom.

Taught Grade 4 for 8 years in the rural community of Malad, Indaho.
Taught 10 years in large, urban, mutil-cultural school district of Garden Grove in Orange County, Southern California.
1 Year – Grades 5/6
8 Years – Grade 4
1 Year – Grade 5

Why did you go into education?

After introducing and managing a Girl Scout program in my community in Malad, Idaho, I realized I loved working with children. I returned to school to earn my teaching credential and have thoroughly enjoyed teaching ever since.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?
I enjoy building a classroom community of learners where everyone feels empowered and inspired to engage fully in their education. I try to make my instruction, interesting and fun while holding high expectations for student achievement.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I look forward to an exciting year of discovery for myself and my students. The small class size will enable us to focus on the students’ interests and unique backgrounds and do lots of hands-on learning.

Amanda Carlson
MS/ HS English
msacarlson@gifs.or.kr
  Warner Pacific College – B.A. – English major with education minor.
Summa Cum Laude

Taught 2 years middle school/high school English in the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
Student taught under IB teacher in Cleaveland high school, Portland, Oregon

Why did you go into education?
I started teaching my friends in high school with they couldn’t understand something from class. I discovered the love of helping others understand. I am excited by teaching English, because it is a subject where structure and creativity have to meet and discuss ideas daily.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

I enjoy seeing students almost at the point of frustration or almost giving up, then seeing them push beyond and most of all, seeing that glow of understanding.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I look forward to learning with students about our strengths and weaknesses and then working on our weaknesses and stretching our strengths in new directions.

Jennifer Burns
MS/ HS Social Studies
msjburns@gifs.or.kr
The College of New Jersey – M.Ed.
The University of Florida – B.A. – History and Classic

I have taught various subjects in Europe, Thailand and the USA(Florida). I have taught for a total of 17 years, with 14 of them overseas. I am certified to teach Social Studies Grade 6-12, Middle School integrated Curriculum Grades 5-9 (this includes Social Studies, Math, English and Science in the middle grades), and Exceptional Student Education Grade K-12. Although my experience ranges across grades and subjects, most of my experience is teaching grades Social Studies.

Why did you go into education?

I went into education because it is fun job! I like to be around all different age levels, teaching information and skills.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

I enjoy helping young people grow into great thinkers.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

Ilook forward to meeting students and their families, having interesting conversations with informed learners, and seeing students reach their full potential.

Lee Carroll
MS/ HS Science
drlcarroll@gifs.or.kr
Life University - D.C. - Chiropractic Medicine 
San Jose State University - M.A. - Exercise Physiology 
University West FL - B.A. - Psychology 

For 20 years, I have been teaching HS Math / Science overseas. Mostly that has been Calculus with Science on the side.

Why did you go into education?

I think that education is the most powerful way to create a better world. A world full of ethical people who like to help others. 

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

Helping the students to grow strong, confident, and realize their value in the world. 

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to create a great learning environment for our students at GIFS.

Yeseul Jun
MS/ HS Math 
msyjun@gifs.or.kr
Queen’s University – B.S.(Honors) – Mathematics and chemistry
Queen’s University – B.Ed. – Math and Science (Chemistry)
Additional Qualification: ESL Part 1 / Guidance Part 1

As a Korean-Canadian, I’m fortunate to have opportunities to learn both cultures. I studied concurrent education at Queens University. I taught grade 10 Science, Grade 10 Math and Grade 11 Chemistry. I also assisted Grade 9 ESL Mathematics.
I have experience as a receptionist/guidance from the Newcomer Reception Centre, which is part of Toronto District School Board. My job involved assessing English and Mathematics skills of newcomer students in high schools.

Why did you go into education?

Just after finishing my very first practicum in the first year of university. I realized that I truly enjoyed and loved working with students. I have strong belief that "Teaching is the profession that makes all other professions possible".

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

I enjoy working with young people. Also, watching students’ improvement during school year is a rewarding experience. It is my pleasure to share the accomplishing moments with students when they successful complete challenging tasks.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I look forward to having a wonderful year with talented students at GIFS. I am hoping to build a strong relationship between teachers, students and parents.
Kenneth Huber
ESL Teacher
mrkhuber@gifs.or.kr

Nipissing University - B.Ed. -  in Elementary Education

University of Toronto - B.A. - Russian History

University of Toronto - Tesol  Methodology

After finishing my Bachelor of Education I came to Korea and have been teaching English for around five years. I spent one year in Busan and four years in Seoul at a public school. I also helped manage a summer camp for middle school students.

Why did you go into education?
During my second year in University I did some volunteer work at a public school. It was a great experience for me so I decided to become a teacher.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?
I enjoy seeing students improve and teaching them skills they can use immediately after my classes.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?
I look forward to getting to know the students and helping feel confident enough to take part in their regular classes.

Natalie Gabbay
Counseling / ESL / Special Ed.
mrsgabbay@gifs.or.kr
 

Northeastern University – MSc. – School Counseling
Dundee University – BSc.(Hons.) – Psychology

Gyeongnam International Foreign School – MS Math / Special Education(2010-2011)
Int. School (Israel)  – 5th Grade Math Teacher
                     -Teaching Assistant (2007-2010)
                     – ESL Teacher on English Enrichment program
                       & Summer School (2008-2010)

 
Why did you go into education?

I wanted to be able to counsel children and young adults in a structured environment and to provide an easily accessible support system for them. I was attracted by the variety of tasks and range of issues that working as a school counselor involves.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

The "lightbulb moments", the moments when you can see that a child understands a concept that they did not know or understand before. Getting to know the students and their needs on a more personal level.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

Watching the continued growth of the students, here at GIFS and helping them to meet their potential.

Thomas Do
MS / HS P.E.
mrtdo@gifs.or.kr

Simon Fraser University -  B.A. - Economics

I’ve been teaching or volunteering in P.E. for over 15 years from elementary to university students. Also, I have coached many sports in recreational or competitive settings. I’ve done the class A and B for Health.

Why did you go into education?

I have always enjoyed playing and teaching P.E. For whatever the sport or activity it’s just fun to be part of. There’s an Chinese proverb 'Find a work that you like and you will never have to work.' I think P.E. is something I just like to do.



What do you enjoy most about being in education?

Meeting students that I have taught and realizing they have enjoyed it as much as I did. Most of all seeing the students change for the better, whether it be their attitudes or behaviors. Learning about others and how to be a team.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I look forward to big changes in sports activities and events. I hope for more involvement by parents and students.

Gladia Lara Mejia
Spanish 
msglara@gifs.or.kr
Universidad Autonoma de Tamaulipas – MA. – International business(Mexico)

Institute picard De Language – Spanish teacher for beginners.
Interteam, S.A. DE C.V (Mexico)
Latin Amercian N’VOCC (Non-Vessel Operating & Common Carrier.)
Worldwide Agents Network (Europe, Northern& Southern America, Asia)

Why did you go into education?

I went into education really I enjoy teaching people.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

I enjoy sharing with other people, no matter what their age. We can always share something.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I look forward to teaching the students and having a nice time sharing with GIFS Staff.

Becky Kim
Korean Teacher
mskim@gifs.or.kr
M.Ed. in English / Pusan National University - B.A. in English Literature and Language

English ;
Volunteer work for the children from Russia, Kazahstan , 2000-2002
Teachers' coordinator - English school ,2000-2002
Korean Public Middle School (Practice teaching ,1 month , 2003)

Korean
0405SY, 0506SY - GIFS
Global Language Training Center (USA Based)  - Sacheon Area
(Boeing , Bell Helicopter etc - 4 months program)

Ji Hye Joo
Art Teacher
msjhjoo@gifs.or.kr

Dong-A University – B.A. – in Arts (Craft)

2010 – Received a special award in Busan Industry design contest. 2008 – Taught Art in private academy for kindergarten and elementary students.
2008- Taught Art in Gyeongnam High School of a Art teacher for High school Students.
2007-2011 Taught Art (Water painting and Drawing) in private academy for middle school and High school students.


Why did you go into education?

I really like children and like teaching them because the Art is a very exciting subject.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I want to try very hard to develop the GIFS Art program. Also, I want to teach my classes with fun and creative ways and I would like to have positive contacts with the students.

Catherine Lee
Music
music@gifs.or.kr
 

University of British Columbia– B.A. and B.Ed. – General music-piano and Secondary Music


I’ve taught 5 years of piano lession in Canada and also played piano for my church choir and service about 10 years.

In Korea, I have taught music program from Grade 1 to Grade 8 (2years), Pre-K / K – Grades 4/5 (3 years) at GIFS.

I’m also a local representative for the ABRSM(Royal Schools of Music – International Music Certificate Program and have taught some students with ABRSM program.

Why did you go into education?

I like teaching after finishing my music (piano) degree. I’ve wanted to continue learning more about music and wanted to teach those lessons/knowledge in a classroom setting. Therefore I can expect my musical career/experience.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

I like to see when students learn something new and especially with their performance with much effort.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

In general, I’m excited to meet some new students and old ones. Hopefully I wish we could make our little band / jam session – like music this year as well as trying to learn new individual instruments.

Joy Kim
Librarian
librarian@gifs.or.kr
Dong-A University – B.A. – French Literature

MEGT College – Diploma of Child Care
Sookmyung Women’s University – TESOL Certificate
Master Degree in English Linguistics (In process)

Nursery / Preschool teacher / 1 year / Sydneyde
English Kindergarten / 1 Year / Seoul
English Camp Organizer Since 2006.
English premier Center – 6 months
Preschool teacher / 3 years / GIFS

Why did you go into education?

I got into education because I love working with children. I believe that every child can reach their learning potential. My goal is to provide the necessary support and opportunities for them to meet their highest potential.

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

When I see students enjoy learning and achieve something in my class activities, I feel I am an effective educator.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?

I enjoy learning about new cultures and meeting new people, I will take this same enthusiasm and apply it to learning more about my students and their backgrounds.

Olivier Pelanne
Profeseurs de Mission Laique Fanciase

mropelanne@gifs.or.kr

University de Bordeaux II – Licence Biochemistry
IUFM de Bordeaux - Teacher Certificate

2008-2011 Lycee Francais De Tripoli : Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5.
2006-2008 Briigade Departementale(Gironde, France) Specialised Education Schools
2004-2006 French American School of Miami : Grade 4 , Grade5

Why did you go into education?

I went into education to provide to the student to opportunity to grow

What do you enjoy most about being in education?

I enjoy being with the students.

What do you look forward during the 2011-12 year at GIFS?
I look forward to providing to my students all the contents they need to great a good peaceful atmosphere.