School Teachers

Dana buqais

Pre-KG Teacher

I am Bahraini-Puerto Rican, born and raised in Bahrain. I lived in Florida for 5 years, where I got my Bachelor’s Degree and worked for a year before returning to Bahrain. I also hold an MBA from DePaul University. I am trilingual and fluent in English, Arabic, and Spanish. I am a mother to two boys. They are my inspiration and force that helped me become the Early Childhood Teacher I am today. I get so much joy working with small children and watching them grow and learn. I feel fortunate to have this amazing professional experience and cherish every moment, with every student. 

Deanne Jackson

Pre-KG Teacher

I am Canadian and have been in Bahrain with my family for 17 years and been teaching Early Years for 15 of those years. I love working with small children and enjoy watching them learn and grow in the short time they are in my care. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading books and traveling.

Tarryn pods

KG 1 Teacher

I was born in South Africa, but I have been living in Bahrain since 2008. I have had the pleasure of teaching students from ages 2-5 years and instilling a love of learning during this time. I love to learn through exploration and discovery, learning about the amazing world around us and the fun we get to have exploring it. When I am not teaching, I can be found speeding around the karting track, building LEGO, painting or reading a good book. I feel very fortunate to work with such an amazing group of people and continue on my own journey of growth.

Sarah Clarke

KG 1 Teacher

I am originally from the Uk, but have been living in Bahrain for the last 29 years. I have been teaching and in management of Early Years education for over twenty years. Early years education is amazing and exciting, and I am so privileged to be able to teach our future leaders from the beginning of their educational journey.

Eimear peoples

KG 2 Teacher 

I’m originally from the West of Ireland but have been living and working in Bahrain for 10 years. The majority of my teaching career has focused on KG-2 and grade 1. I enjoy reading and horse riding. I love to travel and experience diverse cultures, hoping to continue to explore more of our world.

Joseph Ray

KG 2 Teacher 

I am an American, born and raised. I have taught for 18 years. I was previously a behavioral rehabilitation specialist/counselor for 2 years. I counselled kids from elementary to high school. I have a degrees in child psychology, elementary education, and early childhood. I have a Masters in Education Leadership. I have taught in 5 countries and I've really enjoyed the diversity in all the cultures I've visited.  I love to travel and learn about different cultures and countries. 

Alexandra galleguillos

Grade 1 Teacher

My name is Alexandra Galleguillos and I am from New Orleans, Louisiana. I started my teaching career in Louisiana and am thrilled to be starting my international experience at ASB in Bahrain. I am the youngest of three daughters and the bravest out of my whole family. I am bilingual with my second language being Spanish. I love trying anything and everything once because that is how I think life should be lived. 

Diana Norseen

Grade 1 Teacher

I am so excited to join the ASB team and to begin my international teaching experience in Bahrain. I grew up in metro-Atlanta, but am moving from the Washington, DC area. I leave behind my mom, siblings, 6 nephews, and 1 (very new) niece. This will be my 10th year teaching and my 7th in first grade. I believe that every child is inherently curious and capable; it’s my job to encourage, challenge, and guide them to be their very best selves!

jacqueline visser

Grade 2 Teacher

I grew up in South Africa and commenced my teaching career in Cape Town. I left at the beginning of 2005 and that is when my international experience began.  Over the past 15 years, I have worked in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Moscow, and now Bahrain.  I feel honoured to be a part of the founding team of teachers at ASB and enjoy working with our wonderful students. Over the past 21 years of teaching, I have learned that in order for a child to succeed, they need to feel safe and happy at school. It is for this reason that I ensure my classroom has a relaxed, non-threatening atmosphere and every victory is celebrated, no matter how small it may seem.   In my spare time, I enjoy long-distance running, CrossFit, travelling and reading.  

Eva Simon

Grade 2 Teacher

My goal as an international educator is to create inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments where students of all backgrounds and abilities feel safe to experiment, grow and thrive academically and socially. I am passionate about designing rich, artistic learning spaces and experiences filled with music and performance.

Megan RITSON

Grade 3 Teacher

I am originally from England, although born in Canada as both my parents were in the British Army and stationed there. I attended George Mason University (USA) for both my Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Elementary Education. My teaching career started in the US followed by 2 years in Germany and I am now happy to be teaching in Bahrain. When I am not teaching I enjoy exploring the world and finding new adventures. 

Michelle Maher

Grade 4 Teacher

I am from the United States, but have lived in England, Italy, and the Dominican Republic.  I moved to Bahrain with my husband and two sons in February 2022.  We are so happy to be a part of the ASB family and I am thrilled to join the team as a teacher. I believe in creating a safe learning environment for all students so they can learn, grow, and reach their potential. In my free time, I love to read, run, travel, and do anything outdoors with my family. 
 

Bryony Russell  

Grade 4 Teacher

I am from the south of England but have spent the last 17 years teaching in international schools around Europe and the Middle East. I am proud to be part of the ASB community, both as a teacher and a parent. When I'm not in the classroom I enjoy spending time with my family, travelling to new countries, baking and doing jigsaw puzzles (when my toddler doesn't hide the pieces!)

Bianca BRIERS

Grade 5 Teacher

I was raised in Bredasdorp, at the most Southern Point of Africa, where I lived with my parents and a younger brother, John. I have lived and taught in Bahrain for the past five years and love it here and the experiences that go along with living in the Middle East. I am a very energetic and positive person that believes a smile can change the world. I really enjoy traveling and going on adventures. My life quote is “Make every moment count” and I really give my best daily in everything I do.

Andrew Maul

Grade 5 Teacher

Although originally from Florida, I have been living outside the United States since 2008. My parents are from opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean, so I was raised with a global perspective. I have a Masters Degree from Penn State and hold both QTS (British) and US Teaching Licensure. I have been working in International schools since 2016 in Uzbekistan, Germany, and now Bahrain. It's a privilege to be in a position where I can serve as a guide to students on their own individual learning journeys and help to instill an international mindset. This forms the basis of the learning environment I like to create in my classroom. 

sarah pillay

English Teacher

Although I was born in Northern Ireland, my parents then migrated to warmer pastures and I grew up primarily in Zimbabwe with time spent in New York, Nairobi and Geneva. I studied for my Masters at the University of St Andrews in Scotland and have been in the teaching field for twenty years now. I am an avid reader, enjoy visiting art galleries and spending quality time with my family. I am passionate about my career choice and love being in the classroom and watching my students gain the same enormous pleasure that I do from a book and how it can transport you to a different place and time. 

Natasha McGlade

English Teacher

As an English language and literature graduate and lifelong lover of books, becoming an English teacher has been a natural career path for me. Teaching in Ireland (where I call home) and the Middle East since 2009, I have also completed a post graduate diploma in special educational needs. My teaching experience ranges from Junior to Senior cycle, as Head of Department and as an experienced examiner, guiding students to become motivated, active participants in their own learning. I am passionate and enthusiastic about my subject area and enjoy immersing myself in school life through extracurricular activities, specifically social innovation. I’m in a privileged position to help students see and become the change they want to see in the world. Having a real sense of wanderlust, I love to travel with my husband and three year old daughter, creating memories and experiencing new cultures.

Erica Swenson

English & Social Studies Teacher

I have been teaching middle school for 21 years. I've worked in New York City, Madrid, and rural Maine (USA). I love working on creative writing assignments, in-depth research projects, debates, and historical simulations with my students. During my free time you will find me running long distances, reading with my daughters, and finding ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Alberto Quaggiotto

Language Teacher

Originally from Italy, I started teaching languages first to adults in Italy and Spain, then volunteering with children in Indian state schools. In 2014 I gained my teaching qualification in the UK and have taught in both British and IB curriculum schools. I love the looks on my students' faces when they discover the world views that hide behind different languages (did you know that in Spanish "being a teacher" or "being happy" is not the same "being"? and that in French your mother-in-law is your "beautiful mother"?). I am curious, passionate and eccentric. My classroom will be easy to spot: hopefully the sound of my students' voices will guide you. Otherwise, it's easy! It's the one with a desk struggling to remain tidy and the door wide open; you're welcome!

Mar Lopez Diaz

Spanish Teacher

I am from Spain and I have been living in Bahrain for 2 years. I am the mother of a child. I studied law in Spain and did a Master's in Teaching. I am happy to teach Spanish to students and see how they learn and improve in practicing the language. In my free time, I like to travel, read, play golf and paddle tennis with my family and friends. I feel lucky to be a part of the ASB family and to work with such a great team of wonderful people.

James Connolly 

Social Studies Teacher

Neil visser

Social Studies Teacher

I left South Africa in 2004 to honour a two year contract in Abu Dhabi, thinking that I would be back in SA after the two years. This is my 18th year as an international educator having taught in South Africa, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Moscow and now Bahrain.  Having been in administrative positions at two schools, I find myself being drawn back to the classroom as time spent with the students is rewarding and fun. I find myself privileged to be at ASB and work with a great team and wonderful students.  ASB is a family affair as my wife and children are all part of this wonderful family. I enjoy travelling, reading, cooking and spending time outdoors.

Nader Khairellah

Head of Math & Science

I have been an enthusiastic and engaged Mathematics Teacher in international schools for twenty-three years and have taught in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Singapore, Vietnam and Mexico. I am an IB qualified teacher and as a Senior IB Examiner and Team Leader I work with the IB organisation to mark exam papers and assessments. I received my PGCE and Master’s in Education from the University of Buckingham in England. My thesis investigated how differentiated instruction positively affected EAL students’ assessment results, as well as, improving their confidence and happiness in other aspects of their school experience.  

Dermot McGlade

Math & Science Teacher

I was born and raised in Ireland and am an experienced teacher, athlete and father. Driven by progress, I take pride in providing the best education possible. I have taught across a wide range of grades, from ages 5 to 12 and variety of subject areas. I first experienced the pleasure of international teaching in Qatar and am now in Bahrain. I work at ASB with my wife and my daughter also attends this fabulous school. With my Masters in Education from the University of Ulster I seek to guide students through their own transformative learning process and be leaders in their own learning. I have a passion for mathematics and physics, am an avid reader and enjoy a variety of sports, board games and puzzles.

Michael Haddad

Maths Teacher

I am Canadian, originally from Lebanon. I am a product of an international school as I am a graduate of the American Community School of Athens. I hold degrees in electrical engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Western Ontario, and a Master in the Teaching of Mathematics from Concordia University. I began teaching on the international circuit in 1999.My first stop was at the ESOL school The American International School in Egypt, where I met my wife, Caryn Pelletier.Since then we have also taught in Ghana, Italy, Tanzania, Qatar, Vietnam and Nigeria. I have 19 years of experience teaching IB Mathematics, and I also have taught Calculus as an adjunct professor of Syracuse University as part of the SUPA program for 3 years. Caryn and I are here with our two lovely cats – Daisy and Pepe.

Alexander Djurberg

Business & Economics Teacher

I am a Business and Economics teacher with a BSc in both subjects as well as a MSc in Finance. I have over 6 years of post qualified teaching experience. In my free time, I enjoy trading FOREX and developing models for binary options. In addition I enjoy going to the gym, on occasion also providing personal training assistance and reading subject related, non-syllabus books that I encourage students to read.

Sushma Kumar

Chemistry and Biology Teacher

I am an Indian by origin, born in New Delhi, grew up in Mumbai and my hometown is in Kerala which is often referred to as “ God’s own country” because of its natural beauty. I received my Masters from University of Minnesota (major in Chemistry and minor in Biology). I have been teaching globally(India, Singapore,U.A.E., and China) at various international schools for the past 10 years. I have obtained experience in teaching IB, A-level (both Edexcel and Cambridge),AP, IGCSE (both Edexcel and Cambridge) and ICSCE. Fun facts about me – I can speak 5 languages (English and 4 Indian languages). Besides teaching, I enjoy travelling, cooking, reading and watching movies. Finally, as a teacher I would like to add my teaching philosophy; ‘ a good teacher should be a good learner in order to motivate the students’ learning’.

Saiti Datta

Physics Teacher

I am an educator from India with a training in experimental condensed matter Physics. I have a PhD in Physics from University of Florida, Gainesville, USA and have mentored and worked with undergraduate and graduate students during my career as a researcher before I started teaching high school students. I have taught in India and China before and have also been working as an IB Physics examiner. I believe that as teachers, we need to be risk-takers and life-long learners before we ask our students to be the same.

Eftal Inan

Computer Science and Technology Teacher

I've been studying computer science since high school. For the past six years, I've been teaching computer science, design, and technology in the IB MYP and DP programs. I've also spent two years in the IT and Business Analyst departments. In technology, a team and life-long learner profiles are always required. That is why I desire to educate my surroundings, students, and coworkers. My passion as a teacher is to be a content creator and influencer across multiple platforms. My motto is, "We are always on the road; we don't need a destination."

Natalie Binkin

Biology teacher and University Counsellor

I am from the UK and obtained my Master’s degree at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. I have been teaching Science internationally for nearly 15 years, having taught in the UK, Singapore, Switzerland and now Bahrain. I have worked as a deputy head of boarding with a focus on the IB and university counselling. I have three children who keep me very busy. As a family we love the outdoors with walking, skiing and attempting different water sports. I love to read and have a passion for musicals of all kind, which I will take every opportunity to teach my classes about -often breaking out in a slightly off-tune song.

Oliver meyer

CAS Coordinator 

I am a passionate Visual Arts Educator with almost 15 year’s experience teaching in Central London Day Schools.  During this time, I have taught an age range of 4-18; leading the development of two start up departments at both elementary and high school level.  I have collaborated with other departments and led trips to both the East and West coast of America, most recently we went to LA and I got to sit on Forest Gump’s iconic bench. Working with other London Day Schools, I conceived and led a series of workshops showcasing the very best of the student work, culminating with an exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery. 

Berenice Coelho

Arts Teacher

I love Art! I love everything about it- creating it, appreciating it and most of all teaching it. I "stumbled" into the teaching profession 12 years ago and I can't imagine being anything other than an Art educator now. I was born in Bahrain and have spent most of my life here, it is my second home. I have taught Elementary Art in the PYP, British and American curriculums in some of the leading schools on the island. I truly believe every child is an artist and I love being able to nurture their skills. 

David Southwick

Arts Teacher

I have been a middle school art teacher in the United States for eight years. Before teaching, I was a working artist in New York City as well as an exhibition designer for public and private institutions. When I am not teaching, I am drawing or painting, hanging out with my wife and two daughters, running, or learning to cook something new.

Enas rabaiah

Head of Arabic Department

I am an energetic and dedicated educator with extensive experience developing curriculum and delivering exceptional educational excellence in elementary and middle school education utilizing the International Baccalaureate IB Primary Years Programme (PYP).

AHMED ALRAQAB

Arabic Teacher

I graduated from Mutah University in 2002 with a Bachelor's Degree in Arabic language and literature. I also received my Masters of Art in Arabic Language from University of Jordan. Even though I have been teaching Arabic Language for more than 20 years now, I am still passionate and highly motivated to continue teaching this global language and help students come to love Arabic and even come to love the act of learning because learning is a treasure that will follow students everywhere.

Tahani khdairi

Arabic Teacher

I have been working in the educational field since 2004. I taught Arabic from 2008 to 2010 at Abdulrahman Kanoo International School and from 2010 to 2020 at Al-Hekma International School. I have taught several age groups, but mostly Early Childhood and Elementary. My profession is my passion, and my lifelong goal is to help my students enjoy the Arabic language more by making it simpler and more understandable. I like to keep my students engaged and help them learn through playing and enjoying the class together.

Iman Abboud

Arabic Teacher

My name is Iman Abboud, I come from the Republic of Lebanon. I am proud to be working at ASB as an early childhood and lower primary Arabic teacher. This will be my eleventh year in the field of teaching Arabic language and social studies for early childhood and Elementary. I have a true passion for working with our young learners, helping each child progress in all areas of their development - academic, social language and motor - is a challenge that I am honored to accept daily. I strive to create a community that nurtures this growth in a positive, fun environment.

Rahaf Kassab

Arabic Teacher

My name is Rahaf Mahmood Kassab. I’m originally from Palestine but I was born and raised in Syria so I consider Syria my home country. I have been living in Bahrain for almost 17 years and I have 3 children. The oldest is 15, the middle is 13 and the youngest is 2 years old. I have a bachelor's degree in Arabic Literature from the University of Damascus, and a diploma in education from the University of Bahrain. For the past 6 years I worked in the International School of Choueifat as a Middle and High School teacher. 

Ayat Almakhariz

Arabic Teacher

I'm Ayat Almakhariz from Jordan. I am a mother to three amazing children. I have a bachelor’s degree in Arabic Language and Literature from Aal AlBayt University. I have been living in Bahrain since 2012 and it is like my second home. Teaching has always been my passion and I am fully committed to it. Teaching the students' minds and hearts is what I aim for in my classroom and my passion for teaching inspires me to do so every single day.  

Noor taqi

Counselor

I’m a mom to three amazing boys. I was born and raised in Bahrain and completed my university studies in Montreal, Canada. My educational background includes degrees in the field of psychology & counseling. I am passionate about working with children and providing them with a stimulating environment in which to develop and set a standard for the rest of their school years.

Shawndra Bird

Middle/High School Counselor

My name is Mrs. Shawndra Bird and I’m so excited to be your school counselor. I hope you all feel comfortable to reach out to me in any way so that I can help you or your child thrive and excel in their educational experience. I will be the middle school and 9th grade school counselor. I also specialize in helping students attend universities, colleges, or military academies in the United States. This is my 16th year as an educator/school counselor where I have worked in San Diego and Los Angeles California as well as Arizona U.S.A. I earned my Master’s degree (M.Ed) at Northern Arizona University in Counseling/School Counseling and a Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in Social Services.

Kathryn Adams

English as Second Language Teacher

I am originally from the UK, where I started teaching many years ago (in Birmingham). Since then, I have worked in Kenya, Colombia (twice), Kuwait, China and Côte d'Ivoire. I have taught across the primary age-range and have more recently taught Grades 6 and 7. I have also worked as a maths coach and curriculum coordinator. I write modules of inquiry for the Common Ground Collaborative. I love helping our students to learn how to learn and ensuring that what they learn is relevant. I am particularly interested in environmental and service learning. My husband, Juan, and I have two adult children, both in the UK. As a family, we have travelled widely and are all animal lovers. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, walking, swimming and working out. I love watching sport, now that I can no longer participate!

MELISSA RANSOM

English as Second Language Teacher

I’m from Saint Louis, Missouri, USA.  I’ve been a teacher for 8 years and I specialize in teaching English to non-native speakers.  I have taught many grade levels as an ESL teacher and I also spent two years teaching as a first-grade homeroom teacher.  I love helping my students develop language proficiency and watching how confident they become as their abilities progress.  When I’m not teaching, I enjoy reading, hiking, taking care of my daughter, and traveling to new and exciting places.    

BRENDA Boehlke

English as Second Language Teacher

Great teachers in my past have inspired me to follow in their footsteps. They made learning fun and exciting, and that has been a guiding principle in my own teaching. I earned Bachelors and Masters degrees from Wisconsin, USA, in the fields of Elementary Education, English as a Second Language and Educational Technology. Being part of the founding team of teachers at ASB has been one of the most profound experiences of my 40-year career. Educating young people is my way of adding something new to the world. I feel like I create something new every time I adapt a lesson to help a child learn something that was hard for them before. I create when I build strong student/teacher bonds or uncover ideas that a student never imagined before. I create when I energize a student to take their newfound interests and skills and apply them to a real world situation. Motivating students to WANT to do that is the real craft, and creating something that wasn't there before is what I love about teaching.

Caryn Pelletier

Learning Support Teacher

I am originally from Maine, the only state with just one syllable. I have been teaching internationally for 20 years and have taught students in every grade level. My husband and I have taught in Egypt, Ghana, Italy, Tanzania, Qatar, Vietnam, Nigeria and we are very happy to be in Bahrain. I hold a BA in Psychology, a State of Maine Education Certification, an MS as a Reading Specialist and Literacy Coach, and a Post-Graduate Certification as an Inclusion Specialist. For the past 5 years I have been focusing on my passion, Special Education and I strive to ensure that all students have access to curricula content. I love baking cookies, my cats and the ocean. I am currently writing the first book in a planned series for young adults. The stories include indiginous folklore, botany, and magic, with an environmental message that incorporates real-word problems and solutions.

Amaal Budehaish

Learning Support Teacher

I am a Bahraini who spent my first 8 years living in Cardiff. I finished my GCSEs at 16 years old & immediately started working as a KG teacher, while going to college in the evenings. This really gave me a head start in the field! I’ve been a teacher since 1998; predominantly taught year 1.
After getting my Master’s in Special Educational Needs from the University of Exeter, I began to conduct Interventions for children who were struggling with reading. My main target is to help children get their reading age on par with their actual age in the shortest time possible, which in turn will make them happier and more successful learners!

Jennifer Morrissey

Teacher Librarian

I have been a teacher librarian for twenty years and received my Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Over the years I have enjoyed working with children in both public and school libraries in Boston, New York City, Vietnam, Mexico City, and now Bahrain. In all of these places I have found that reading and listening to stories are how we best connect with and celebrate all the diverse and beautiful communities throughout the world. I am passionate about creating a warm and welcoming space for all that enter the library. 

Scott Rogal

Music Teacher 

I am originally from Saskatchewan, Canada and have been teaching internationally for the past 20 years. I love music and playing various instruments. I’m partial to jazz, but enjoy all, especially live music. I play saxophone mostly, but am comfortable with clarinet, flute, trumpet, ukulele and trombone. While in Hong Kong, I learned the dizi (Chinese flute), and while in Vietnam I learned the dan tranh and dan bau (amazing instruments!). I also enjoy playing tennis, reading, movies, travelling, and spending time with family.

Alicia Pashby

Music Teacher

It is a privilege to return to Bahrain after having started my teaching career at Al Raja School in 2007, where I taught music until 2009.  Since then, I have taught and made music in Ukraine, Italy, Uzbekistan, and Germany.  I earned my bachelor's degree in Vocal Music Education from Hope College, in Holland MI (USA), and my Master's Degree in Music Education from The Boston Conservatory.  I am also a fully certified Feierabend music educator, and this permeates all that I do in my classroom.  I am passionate about building community through music, and I believe that when given the opportunity, everyone has the capacity to be tuneful, beautiful, and artful!  

Michael Balo

Athletic & Activities Director

I have been an international educator for 28 years. I have worked in Hong Kong, Thailand and Vietnam. I have been involved in sports and activities my whole life and I am passionate about giving students as many opportunities as possible. I firmly believe ECAs are the second half of education! I have two beautiful daughters which keep me busy and on my toes each and every day! I am very excited about our new journey in Bahrain at ASB!

SUIM SHIN

PE Teacher

I am originally from Seoul, South Korea but I have been teaching PE/Health in 5 countries since 2006 and I am so happy at ASB and in Bahrain. In my class we learn different games, sports, and exercises along with other wellness areas including nutrition, emotions, and positive education- gratitude, growth mindset, resilience, positive relationships, mindfulness, character strengths, and flow. I feel very fortunate to get to teach children these important topics and see them having so much fun in class. I enjoy playing tennis, practicing yoga, hiking, running, cooking, traveling, reading, and playing the violin in my free time. 

Radiah Husain

IB Coordinator

I have over 15 years of experience in the field of Education as an Administrator and a Teacher of IB Economics and Business Management. As an educator, I am committed to providing students with a dynamic and interesting learning environment in which they can grow and develop. I encourage students to enjoy learning and become self-directed lifelong learners. I like to build relationships with my students based on mentoring and the use of cooperative learning techniques to empower them as global citizens.