I am passionate about creating compassionate learning communities in which all students can thrive, innovate, and create. Students lie at the heart of their learning, and I look forward to establishing positive relationships with all of our students. I believe in inspiring learner agency, so that our students can participate in an authentic personalized learning journey. I also believe in the importance of play-based learning throughout the K-12 educational experience. Through play, we become better creators, thinkers, and problem-solvers.

Parents are an essential component of the learning journey and I believe in a partnership model in which we surround our students with a circle of support. We welcome your involvement and your voice as we work together to create phenomenal experiences for our children.

I believe that an educational experience at RVIS should allow students to thrive intellectually, socially and culturally. In order for a student to reach his/her fullest potential, our job is to create an environment which celebrates risk-taking, inquisitiveness, and sharing of ideas. Students of all ages should be empowered to take control of their learning and self-advocate in times of adversity with respect and thoughtfulness. All students have the ability to learn, and it is our duty as educators to find that which motivates, key in, and move them forward so that they become valuable, knowledgeable contributors to a global society.

The teachers have expectations to create a classroom which is diverse in delivery methods and pushes the envelope of critical thinking. Teachers are encouraged to facilitate lessons as students explore and discover the answers either individually or collaboratively. Content should come from multiple sources whether from texts, multimedia, or applicable real world settings. A strong emphasis on literacy and writing should be included across the curriculum in order to ensure that students are able to exhibit solid communication skills. Teachers should have a keen awareness of each unique individual in the classroom and develop rapport of respect and a healthy community of learners. Learning is fun and that should emanate from any great teacher.

In any leadership setting it is my goal to create an environment where mutual understandings are developed and all parties have a vested responsibility to reevaluate, reflect, and continue to strive for excellence no matter the challenges. A strong work ethic cannot be denied, but good humor and an ease of nature go a long way in promoting a workplace where people want to be.

I am thrilled to be part of the Riffa Views International School community. I believe in the importance of establishing a strong relationship with every student who crosses our threshold. My goal is to create a safe, positive and nurturing school, where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. I believe it is our responsibility as educators to help each and every child find their ‘spark’, which will ignite their fire, and give them the passion and drive to follow their dreams.

I believe children learn best when they are active participants in the learning process. Children should be encouraged to take ownership of their learning by being inquirers, asking questions, seeking answers, taking risks, and solving problems. All the while being supported by knowledgeable educators who scaffold their learning to ensure they are constantly challenged and stimulated to learn more.

I am also passionate about building strong partnerships with parents and family members. We know children learn best when home and school work closely together, so I encourage parents to be involved in RVIS life and actively support and celebrate children’s growth as they progress through the school. Together we can develop open-minded, principled, and innovative students who are ready to face any challenge they may face.

I believe children learn through experiences. Given the skills to solve problems, students become self-directed learners and are more engaged and empowered in their own education. Students that are taught these problem solving skills can learn to curiously analyze and evaluate challenges they encounter both in the classroom and in life. When the students feel safe, protected and culturally valued, they can fully explore their curiosity in their environment. My role as the curriculum coordinator is to support the RVIS teachers in creating a culture that focuses on student outcomes and results. A culture where Professional Learning Communities analyze data for informed decision-making and celebrate achievements. I am excited to bring my experiences and ideas to RVIS, lead teachers through our professional learning and support school-wide professional development.

As a member of the team at RVIS I promote a culture of international mindedness. A school in an international setting has the opportunity to teach and support diversity in education because of the unique situation of being a culture within a culture. As educators we have the privilege to help students develop their individual stories, as well as link their stories to the lives of others to build a community of learners for today and the future.

A key component to meaningful education is creating a sense of belonging and significance with all members of the community. Through student-centered decision making and collaboration, our community will not only be an effective learning environment for students but for parents and teachers as well. Whether it be a parent teaching about the world economy, or a student describing the benefits of game-based learning, a community that focuses on learning, creates a rich environment where all members have a chance to grow.

As learners, we learn best when we feel encouraged. As a school, our purpose is to create an environment where everyone is a teacher, mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities, and where members actively engage in making the greater community a better place. This not only makes everyone feel they are part of something greater, it also helps them feel like they are contributing members to the school community.

Lastly, a support system within the school to meet the community’s needs is essential. This means that each of our students have the necessary resources to reach his/her full potential, faculty and staff have opportunities to grow as individuals and professionals, and parents have access to support and resources in times of need.

Critical thinking, perseverance, creativity, and curiosity are the cornerstones students develop to become lifelong learners. Compassion, patience, empathy, and love are the mortar that holds these cornerstones in place. In my 16 years in the field of education, I have realized building the bridges to encourage learners requires both these cornerstones and mortar. I started my teaching career in 2003 teaching middle school students with diverse learning needs. The following year I began my journey with elementary students and focused on this age group ever since.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M University in 2003. I focused on learners with special education needs. I earned my Master of Education degree in Instructional Design and Technology from Texas Tech University in 2013. I am certified to teach early childhood through grade 6 all core subjects, reading specializing in grades 1-6, and special education for all grade levels Prek-12. I have taught all over Texas and in Bahrain.

My family lived in Bahrain from 2008-2013. We returned to Bahrain in 2018. I have two children who currently attend RVIS, and both have blossomed in the new environment this academic year. In my spare time I love to read, camp, and travel.

Singing, dancing, acting, talking, discovering, playing and interacting all while learning is the best way for children in the early years to learn. These are the cornerstone years of a childs life and as such are the most important time to create a strong and solid foundation. It is my desire to ensure that children do not simply learn to live in this global world but live to learn. Learn to be critical thinkers, responsible and caring citizens, and problem solvers to be movers, shakers and leaders of their time. As such, I aim to equip each child with the tools that best fits him/her which I achieve through differentiating. I learn about each child as an individual and a person thus understanding how to spark his/her curiosity for a lifetime of learning.

“You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity he will continue the learning process as long as he lives.” - Clay P. Bedford

"A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart”. My appreciation for teaching was sparked by my grandfather when I was only seven years old. As I grew older, I cherish fond memories of my grandfather’s school in India. In my neighborhood, pretend play was a routine, with my role always being a teacher. Soon after I completed my Bachelor’s degree in English literature from New Delhi, India, I continued my passion for teaching and have been in this noble profession from the past 15 years now, as an elementary school teacher. This lifelong learning has led me to pursue my Masters in Education-Curriculum, Teaching and Learning Studies degree from St. John’s, Canada.

I have had the privilege to work in reputed schools in the Eastern Province region of Saudi Arabia and actively participate in professional development offerings. By being well connected with teachers around the world, I always look forward to learn interesting and creative ways of teaching and keep looking for opportunities to present something new through workshops within and outside schools.

I continue to admire the role of technology in engaging young minds, though I truly believe "technology is just a tool. In terms of getting the kids working together and motivating them, the teacher is the most important" (Bill Gates) (Yes, I love quotes!). I show a keen interest in developing classroom libraries in order to have successful readers and writers workshops with my students.

Some of my other interests are travelling, interior designing, playing table tennis, baking, and decorating cakes.

Working at RVIS means a lot to me, it was during one of the NESA Winter workshops at RVIS three years back when I fell in love with this lovely institution with great educators. I am Super excited to join RVIS’s team in August and continue my teaching and learning journey in Bahrain!

I have been teaching in Dubai for the past 6 years. I also taught in Texas and Kansas for 10 years before that. I am married and we are blessed to have 3 sons and a daughter, which has given me lots of experience for the classroom!

I believe the classroom is a garden where every child can grow and bloom, each one in their own unique and valuable way. It is my privilege as a teacher to facilitate an engaging atmosphere where we understand that everyone learns differently, encourage one another, and embrace challenges.

I also believe that the classroom can be a special place of discovery and collaboration. We will grow in our understanding of how our choices affect others and the world around us and discover ways to take responsibility to be peacemakers and eco warriors. We will also learn, practice, and apply strategies that make learning meaningful. I consider it an honor to partner with parents in the growth and education of each child.

I have 16 years of experience in education. I began my career in Japan, as a part of the JET Programme, and I returned to the United States where I earned an M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education. Since then, I’ve worked in several countries, mostly as a lower elementary school teacher. I love learning as much as teaching, and I am now pursuing an Ed.S. in Instructional Technology with a Library Media certification. One of the things that I love most about teaching is being a part of the excitement that students have about learning. I also play sports, and have coached soccer and softball. I enjoy staying active and have recently taken up Gaelic football. I’m looking forward to joining the amazing team at Riffa Views and learning more about life in Bahrain.

My philosophy of education begins with the belief that all children can learn. Every child is born with unique gifts and talents and it is my responsibility as an educator to help my students discover their unique abilities. I love children and genuinely enjoy helping them acquire a thirst for learning. Being able to influence the future through educating children is a gift that I cherish.

I have three main goals as an educator. My first goal is to guide students into becoming lifelong learners. Secondly, I believe it is important to develop students that use critical thinking to solve problems. Lastly I desire to foster compassionate students that have respect for all people.

Learning should never cease. Research shows that the human brain has the capacity to change with learning. Trying new things and exploring topics of interest helps keep our brain healthy. I plan to create within my students a thirst for learning that they will hopefully never quench.

Our world has many complex problems. Our future leaders must employ critical thinking skills in order to enact solutions. My students will have the opportunity to become critical thinkers and problem solvers. Critical thinking happens when students analyze and evaluate evidence, arguments, claims and beliefs. They will learn how to make judgements and decisions while considering others’ points of view. They will have practice interpreting information and drawing conclusions.

Lastly, I believe people are more alike than different, yet our differences make us beautiful. It is my hope that I can impress upon my students the ability to respect our differences including cultural as well as religious and use compassion to build relationships. I understand the influence that educators have on their students, therefore all the goals that I have for my students are characteristics that I work to cultivate within myself. I am a leader by example.

I believe that students learn best in a safe, fun and caring environment and that my role as an educator is to facilitate this. I will ensure that all students can identify and explore their unique capabilities while growing socially and emotionally. As a life long learner, I believe that change is the only constant in life and with it brings a number of challenges and opportunities for growth and development. Students will be encouraged to be risk-takers and persevere through whatever they are faced with. Along with this, students will work in a respectful manner towards others while standing up for what matters to them.

I am ecstatic about learning from and connecting with my students, their parents, my colleagues and the community. It is my hope to coach the students in becoming global citizens with inquisitive minds who embrace learning and failure in order for them to grow and succeed.

I have been teaching internationally for around 17 years, I have been fortunate to work in some great schools around the world. My career has taken me to Australia, Singapore, China, UAE, Norway and now, to Riffa Views in Bahrain! Over my career I have taught across the age levels, teaching Physical Education, Design Technology and Homeroom. I have also worked as an Athletics Director and been team leader in a Physical Education department. I feel so fortunate to be in a position where I can have a positive influence in the lives of young people, who will, in the near future, be the decision makers and leaders of our world.

I am passionate about providing opportunities for people to develop and grow in a global context, to be confident and to take ownership of their own learnings and future. I value inquiry in my classroom, giving students the chance to take charge of their learning and to lead our adventures. I enjoy seeing my students achieve more than they ever thought possible, by being truly willing to explore and to take a deep approach to learning, by working together to achieve and being part of a learning team, where each student is a vital component in our success.

My broad, pre-teaching background includes time in the military, accounting and fishing. I have a real interest in things that go on around me. I am passionate about culture, travel and food - I love a good bbq! I am a mad-keen scuba diver, a huge fan of rugby and cricket, I even follow a football team. I am curious and love to try new things!

In my experience of teaching over the past eight years in China, Vietnam, and the USA, I have found that this Confucian proverb is true of every classroom: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”

My goal is to inspire students to become lifelong learners with a passion for knowledge through building a safe and collaborative learning environment where students feel comfortable to be challenged, ask questions, make mistakes, and learn from one another. Moreover, I feel that it is important to incorporate each student’s voice in what happens in the classroom, so students are able to show their expertise and help shape the learning experience.

Through addressing the individual needs of each, I strive to empower young learners to become confident, well-rounded, and successful individuals that can make meaningful contributions to their communities both now and in the future.

The classroom is a community of high achievers ready to explore the world, and only together, can we all grow.

I have taught the last 13 years in New York City, Quito, Ecuador, and Ithaca, NY in different grade levels, but mainly upper elementary. I really enjoy teaching and working with students. As a teacher, I try to establish a structured and nurturing environment with clear expectations, classroom norms, and learning standards. I believe it is important to engage students in their learning and make them involved in the learning process. It is imperative for students to learn problem solving skills, work together, and reflect on their work. I enjoy collaborating with colleagues, parents, and students to help student learning and to further my learning as a teacher. I try to be flexible in my teaching with the understanding that students learn in different ways through different processes.

Education is a lifelong journey, and in this ever changing world students need the right skills to thrive and survive. In my classroom students are provided with numerous opportunities to grow and mature as collaborators, communicators, critical thinkers, independent workers, and global citizens. They will experience an infectious enthusiasm for learning which involves hands-on inquiries, and real world situations. Since we come from different backgrounds, we can learn from each other, so students will experience the role as a “teacher” as well as a “learner”.

Parents play an important role in their student’s learning too. Learning may begin at school but it needs to be nurtured, encouraged and continued at home. I make it a priority to inform parents of the student’s ongoing progress at school so communication between the parents and teacher is vital. I want my students’ parents to feel comfortable with me and know that their comments, questions and concerns are welcomed and taken into consideration. I am in the business of molding minds for the future. I love what I do and have fun doing it!

I earned my bachelors and masters degrees in Education from Western Oregon University. I have 7 years of full time teaching experience, mostly in middle school mathematics. RVIS will be my second international position. I currently work in Vietnam, teaching middle school math and being the math department team lead.

As team lead, I have facilitated a vertical alignment of our standards and curriculum to help make sure students are covering all expected topics from 6th to 12th grade. I also created and implemented a new system to help place new students in the correct math classes. My philosophy for teaching is to engage students in their learning. I often have students out of their seats, creating their own problems, and solving real world situations to understand and explain the content. I also focus on creating relationships with my students. I’ve had many students who made great strides because they knew that I cared about them, both in and out of the classroom.

I am married to Jacob LaPlante, who is also joining RVIS in the science department. We are joined by our son, Evan, age 6, who will be entering 2nd grade. I have come to love the international community, and the close relationships with peers who become our support system. I am excited to join RVIS and meet my new family!

Greetings RVIS Dolphins Community!

My name is Jacob LaPlante and I come from the US. I was born in California but traveled as part of an Air Force family as a child. I spent most of my youth however in Oregon. I graduated from Oregon State University with a BS in Kinesiology focusing on Biomechanics and earned my Master’s degree in Teaching from Oregon State University specializing in secondary science with distinction. I have focused my teaching on physics and physical science. My educational philosophy revolves around hands-on experiential learning, collaborative constructing scientific ideas, and real-world application of content. For the last three years, I have worked at St. Paul American School in Hanoi creating a Physics program from the ground up including AP Physics. I have served for the last two years as the department lead and have gotten to help implement STEAM practices across the school.

Before education, I worked in emergency medicine and as a medical administrator for five years before falling in love with teaching secondary students and deciding to become a teacher. During my studies, I also fellowshipped at Oregon State University’s Force Lab researching biomechanics, specifically sports-related injuries and biometrics. This scientific research background is an experience I try to bring to my classroom as frequently as possible. I believe, firmly, that all people are natural scientists using different lenses that can be focused and honed to better understand our world. I’m really excited to join the teaching and learning community of RVIS!

When I think back to my high school days, the things that come to mind are the good friends that I made, the inspiring teachers that I had, and the life-changing books that I read. Joining the RVIS community, I look forward to helping shape an environment of warmth, encouragement, and intellectual rigor that students will similarly cherish for a lifetime.

As an educator, I value creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Students must learn to think creatively in order to solve the problems of the future, but also for the joy of creativity itself. I believe a lifelong passion for language and literature is best fostered through a creative approach rather than test-centered instruction. Teaching students to think critically is equally important. By thinking critically, students learn to evaluate the strength of an argument and reflect on their own ideas and assumptions, both crucial in the changing world we live in. Finally, collaboration is key to understanding others’ perspectives and growing as an individual. “Only connect!” wrote EM Forster over 100 years ago; those words seem truer than ever today.

My teaching journey has taken me from my native UK to Germany, Vietnam, the USA, and China. I am delighted to embark on the next stage of my career in Bahrain, to experience a new culture and part of the world, but most importantly to join a team of outstanding educators in a thriving learning community.

Whenever I think about education, I’m always reminded of a commercial in the 90s where the tagline was, “Nobody is good at everything, but everyone is good at something.” I have tried my best to live by these words and allow every student to excel in his/her own way. My goals in education have always been to empower individuals to be their best selves, to listen and connect to students, and encourage all to make good choices. My students often laugh that at the end of each lesson I tell them, “Be your best self. Make good choices. Don’t forget to eat your veggies.”

Upon completing my Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Religious Studies from the University of Ottawa, I moved to Toronto to pursue my career in education. I began my teaching journey while teaching for the Chess Institute of Canada and tutoring students of all ages in French. After two and a half years in Toronto, I felt I wanted to experience and discover different education systems and different views on education.

Seeing as the world is a big and beautiful place, I quickly found a teaching position in Yokohama, Japan and stayed there for four wonderful years. Whilst there I taught Grades 11-12 at an all-girls high school where the halls were filled with laughter and pride for their work.

Since August 2018, I have been teaching secondary in Bahrain. I am a certified Positive Discipline educator and I truly believe these principles are fundamental to connecting with students in order to allow them to have the best experience as students. Currently, I am completing a Master’s in Human Rights Practice and I hope to engage students in worldly discussions and help them create projects to benefit those around them. I am tremendously ecstatic to be joining RVIS this coming academic year!

“Change is the end result of all true learning.” - Leo Buscaglia

I truly believe that my job as a teacher is to guide my students through their evolution into young men and women who are able to go out into the world and be productive citizens. Science offers an amazing lens through which we can examine how we respond when challenged, how we create balance, how we distinguish between anomalies and paradigm shifts and most importantly how every voice has the ability to bring about change. Every student is different. As a teacher, it is my job to create a safe space where each student is able to demonstrate his or her growth. The focus will always be on the process as we take on challenges together. Our classroom will be one where opinions are valued, creativity is encouraged and apparent failures lead to learning opportunities.

I believe students learn best when they are having fun, so I work hard to make my classroom an enjoyable learning environment. As a result I believe students come to class with a passion for social studies, and an eagerness to learn. I am also a strong believer in the use of technology in the classroom. I therefore aim to integrate technology wherever possible, as I believe an interactive classroom is an engaging one. Furthermore, I believe this use of technology helps students to be better prepared for both college and the workplace, in a continuously globalizing world.

If you were to spend time in my classroom, it would become immediately apparent that I am a great believer in learning though self-enquiry. Accordingly, my teaching style is dominated by student-centered learning, where I guide and facilitate, rather than lecture. I think this approach to learning is even more relevant in a world of smartphones and connected classrooms, where students can research at the tap of a button.

Finally, I understand that I also play an important role in helping to develop students as honorable citizens. I do this by modeling positive behavior, while encouraging students to give back to their community. I hope the students in my classes will develop a passion for helping those who are less fortunate, both in their own communities, and globally. This applies not only to people in desperate situations, but to animals too!

I am passionate about developing internationally minded individuals who are prepared for their futures. Being knowledgeable, principled and reflective are a few key IB learning profiles that I value and strive to live by.

My teaching journey began in the United States of America, in my home state of Kentucky. As my love of education grew, new paths took me to South Korea and the United Arab Emirates. Seven years ago, I was presented with the opportunity to teach IBDP Business Management, and instantly fell in love with the IB program. For the past two years I have also been the IBDP Coordinator and Extended Essay Coordinator. As a teacher and coordinator, I have witnessed the impact that IBDP has on students’ lives and am a strong advocate of the program.

I enjoy learning about cultures, educational systems and the social structures in countries, which has guided my interest in traveling. I have traveled to over sixty countries and look forward to exploring more. I also enjoy playing various sports, working out and watching the arts.

I am extremely excited to join the RVIS family and look forward to meeting everyone soon.

Hello, my name is Sandor, I was born and raised in Hungary. I have been teaching for more than 20 years, starting in my home country and later internationally at IB schools in England and Germany.

My aim is to create unity through diversity in my classes. We learn together as a team where the importance of the individual is emphasised. Every one of us has certain skills and unique ideas, and I concentrate on these. Some students find Maths a difficult subject. However, I believe that achieving great results mainly come from positive attitude and effort, not necessarily from talent. Led by this thought I am keen to strengthen the self-confidence of my students. ‘Focus on what you are good at and be inspired by what you have already learnt! The rest will follow, just be persistent and do not give up. If you are determined to learn and improve, I will do my best to help you to reach your desired goals.’ This is what I tell to my students all the time and I am incredibly proud of their success.

The mutual care and respect that we build together, not only during the lessons but outside of the classroom, gives me strength and motivation to carry on in my profession for many years.

Greetings! My name is Courtney Richardson, and I was born and raised just outside of Atlanta, GA but developed a love for travel and adventure early on. After graduating from the University of Georgia with a BA in History, I accepted a World History position at my high school alma mater. I taught there for 2 years and loved teaching but the international "itch" took over. I have been teaching in Kuwait for the past 5 years (both World and US History as well as Psychology) and earned my Masters in Educational Psychology during that time. I have greatly enjoyed the culture, people, and lifestyle here in the Middle East, as well as all the opportunities it has afforded me.

I have a strong background in my disciplines and extensive experience in teaching them in the United States as well as internationally. I use a guided inquiry-based learning approach in all my classes. According to How Students Learn: History, Mathematics, and Science in the Classroom; 2005 from the National Research Council, teaching by telling does not work - especially for science -for most students. As part of an interactive community, students are more likely to be successful. Gaining knowledge is personal; students enjoy themselves more and develop greater ownership over their learning when they are given an opportunity to construct their own understanding. Using the inquiry-based approach has shown a significant growth in my students’ understanding of the chemistry concepts based on the SAT and AP scores. It is my goal to promote the best intellectual, technological, and ethical learning experiences for my students and to guide them to become effective contributors to the global society.

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” -Benjamin Franklin

Involving students in learning is what art is all about. It is the greatest reason why I love my job, and why I think students walk out of my classes feeling that they had a hand in their own learning. And why is it so essential that students have the opportunity to step into an art class? I will tell you: Because through art, students as young as kindergarten age learn to use basic shapes to create a drawing which also helps their handwriting and fine motor skills. Students of all ages learn refinement of visual-spacial abilities, the willingness to experiment and make mistakes, how to learn and adapt from those mistakes, and grow exponentially in the process. Constructive criticism, self-expression, creativity, embracing diversity, appreciating beauty, observation, and reflection are all taught in my classroom. Add to this the knowledge of art history, culture, and numerous artistic skills and techniques and you have an essential part of a well-rounded education.

Before becoming a teacher, I worked at Injaz Bahrain (Junior Achievement branch in the Kingdom) for years. In those years I was so inspired by the students whom I had met from various schools. It was then that I realized I wanted to be a teacher and now I cannot see myself being in any other position. I taught Art at Shaikha Hessa Girls School for almost 3 years and before that I taught at the Royal University for Women.

I believe that the Art classroom is a place where students relax and explore interesting ideas freely. This helps them trust themselves and realizing their own mistakes. I love seeing students proud of their own art work and showing it off to their peers, especially when they come up to me and say ‘I cannot believe I did this’. Yes, you did!

I’m originally from Massachusetts, but I have spent the last 15 years living around the world, mainly in Central Asia and the Gulf. I have been teaching music in international schools for 6 years, and before that I was working as a flutist in a chamber orchestra. I play the flute and have a passion for the flute, choirs and of course teaching music. In my free time I enjoy working out, cooking good food and reading.

As a Learning Support teacher, I believe that all children have equal capacity to learn and deserve the opportunity to reach personal success. Educators should remember that every student is unique and they deserve activities that are engaging to their strengths.

Teaching is important to me because I am able to be a part of a child’s learning and growth throughout their school career. It’s a wonderful feeling to be with children and see their faces light up when they discover something new and exciting.

Education should inspire and motivate; it should be a positive and personal experience; and should promote a sense of purpose, global citizenship and social responsibility.

I believe students learn best when they can relate learning material to meaningful experiences, such as life outside of school, experiences with family, and culture. What students learn in school should also be tied into real-life so that they can see the relevance in learning. A teacher’s enthusiasm and passion for learning is something that influences students’ attitude toward education.

Students learn best when they feel safe, engaged, challenged and cared for. Research has shown that classrooms which cultivate a feeling of acceptance and lack of judgement tend to have a high percentage of students who exhibit positive learning behaviors. Student achievement is strongly affected by teacher expectation.

As an educator for more than a decade in international schools, I have experienced firsthand the diversity, rich cultural experiences and challenging curriculum delivered by these institutions. With my background in special education in both the United States and abroad, I strive to create a learning support program in which all the above is true. I believe in creating an environment where students are able to show their strengths and engage in learning strategies that make them an active participant in classrooms and the community. With my extensive educational training and experience in learning support, I expose my students to the science of learning to improve the way they learn. In this way, they are supported in becoming independent, self-aware, lifelong learners.

I am so thrilled to be teaching and coaching EAL at RVIS. I am passionate about helping students of all ages become better learners, and my mantra in the classroom is “We’re never finished, just ready for our next challenge!” Teaching English as an Additional Language is all about meeting the individual students where they are and building their confidence in the language so that they can move forward and achieve their full potential.

Originally from Ohio, I started my international career (and flew for the first time!) almost 28 years ago when I moved to Bulgaria as a Peace Corps Volunteer. Since then I have had the privilege of teaching English Language Learners in Bulgaria, Peru, Kuwait, South Korea, Syria, Nigeria, and Pakistan. I have a BA in Education from the University of Akron, and an M. Ed. in International Education from Endicott College. After years of building EAL programs in international schools, I moved into my current position as assistant principal and curriculum coordinator where I have had the pleasure of leading our team through MSA accreditation. While I have enjoyed working as an administrator the past five years, I am especially excited to be returning to my first love of teaching EAL. I am also looking forward to sharing my love of cooking, music, and learning with everyone at RVIS!

Twenty-five years! As a young graduate student at NYU (MA, Near Eastern Languages and Literature), I never imagined doing ANYTHING for 25 years. Now, I can’t believe how quickly the time has passed and how fortunate I am to have found a profession that I can’t imagine not doing.

During the 25 years I have worked in education, I have been very fortunate to find myself involved in opportunities that were not only rewarding, but key factors in my professional and personal growth. From Ramallah (Palestine) to Las Vegas and Baltimore, and (finally) a return to the Middle East (UAE), I have been given the opportunity to teach, lead departments, write curriculum, plan student activities, spearhead professional development, and work as a secondary school assistant principal. There is no doubt that all of these amazing experiences have helped prepare me for my new position as the Level 5 Director, at RVIS.

As an educator, I believe in educating the whole child. This includes the development of intellectual, social, and emotional skills. I believe that critical skills taught in the classroom are most successfully attained and best applied when enhanced by activities and experiences outside of the classroom. I think this is true for adults, as well, and I hope to bring many new and exciting activities/experiences/opportunities to the RVIS and greater communities.

I am a Nationally Board Certified Teacher, middle years literacy, and hold endorsements in English Language Arts and Theatre Arts. Since 2004, I have worked in education. First, as a director and choreographer for a youth theatre pre-professional training company. Second, as the Drama Department Head at Explorer West Middle School in Seattle, WA. Most recently, as part of the founding upper school faculty at the International School of Morocco. I made this change because I want to step up to the same challenge that I give my students, "keep challenging yourself and growing." For me, this meant that I left my classroom of ten years and exchanged it for a rewarding position building the secondary education program at the International School of Morocco. I am now happy to be joining Riffa Views International School in Bahrain.

I hold a Master of Arts in Teaching (K -12) from Seattle Pacific University, a Master of Fine Arts in Arts Leadership from Seattle University, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performance from Naropa University. Prior to a career in education, I was a professional juggler; I performed at street fairs and festivals, private and corporate parties, and many other special events. At the height of my career, I auditioned for Cirque du Soleil and became a Cirque Certified Artist (essentially waiting on their casting shelves for a director to need a juggler like myself).

I am passionate about the world and want to make a positive change in the community around me. The best way I can do that is through arts education. I believe in the power that the arts have - to enhance creative capacity, to serve as a mirror and a forecast for society, to develop civic and community engagement, and to foster confidence in the individual.

I am a professional school counselor, having worked with students of all ages throughout my 14-year education career. In 2009 I earned my masters in school counseling from Georgia Southern University in the United States, after which I worked in Savannah, Georgia as a private high school Director of Guidance and College Counseling. More recently, for three years I worked as an independent educational consultant in Rome, Italy. I advised families regarding high school matriculation, course selection, and university admission.

A past member of the National Association of College Admission Counselors (NACAC), and associate member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), under my consultation students have been accepted at colleges and universities of varying levels including top-tier schools such as Yale, Stanford, Dartmouth, Notre Dame, MIT, UC Berkeley, and UVA.

I believe an effective school counseling program is based on trust and caring among individuals through professional and ethical interactions. As school counselor, my goal is to provide useful information and educational opportunities to those looking to advance their knowledge.

Prior to working in education, I had a career in engineering. I earned my bachelor in Mechanical Engineering at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.

I am truly excited to be leading the RVIS Athletics and Activities programs at RVIS. I have been involved in education for 23 years, both in the UK and Internationally; working in US, UK and IB programs as a teacher, middle manager, senior leader, Director of Sport and most recently as a District Director of Athletics and Activities.

The one constant is my teaching and coaching philosophy; my core belief that students should feel safe, confident and happy in school. I am passionate about creating psychologically safe learning environments where all children can succeed and be afforded pathways for success. I believe that words such as commitment, character, honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, pride and trust are values that we should role model for our students. Students should be encouraged to become risk takers who model compassion and empathy. I believe that students should be exposed to as many opportunities as possible, where possible, and I look forward to working with the entire RVIS community to achieve this.

I have had a successful playing and coaching career. I was fortunate to experience International Sport playing rugby for the English RFU age group teams as well as the English Universities representative team. I played cricket to a high level, representing the East Midlands and Harborne 1st X1. I also played several other school sports at County level, including basketball, volleyball and football.

Whilst working in International Schools, I have coached volleyball and basketball at all levels and have been fortunate to have been involved with many Championship teams. I have also coached rugby at almost every level; from coaching the men’s 1st XV Kuwait rugby team, to the U9 team on Saturdays at mini-rugby, and the school 1st XV. I have spent quite some time as the player/coach of the Kuwait cricket team and the school’s junior teams.

Outside of school, my main interests revolve around hanging out with friends and family, watching live music and sport, talking rugby and cricket, and more recently hacking my way around the Golf course!

I am very excited at the opportunity to be a part of the dynamic team at Riffa Views International School. I am a Physical Education teacher with 18 years of experience, having taught in Australia, England, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. I have experience in teaching students across all age groups from Early Childhood through to High School and I have held several positions of Leadership during my career. For the last two years I have taught in a specialist school in Australia teaching students with mild to severe intellectual disability, associated disabilities and students with autism spectrum behaviours.

I hold a Bachelor of Physical Education and a Master of Educational Leadership degrees. I am currently completing a Master of Specialist Inclusive Education through Deakin University. I am a dedicated, hardworking and innovative teacher that is always striving to motivate students to do their best and extend their own personal limits. I constantly try and stay up to date with the latest research in education and incorporate the latest technology into my lessons.

Not only do I enjoy seeing students thrive during my classes, I also love to see students being involved in physical activity and extending themselves outside of the classroom. I am extremely passionate about extra-curricular activities and giving students the opportunity to experience the benefits that participation in sport and fitness activities can offer.

Teaching experience: I am a Physical Education educator with 14 years of experience, 4 years in the UK teaching AS and National Diploma level courses to 16-18 year olds and 10 years in international schools in the Middle East teaching National curriculum physical education, GCSE and AS level.

I have worked as the Athletic Director at an American curriculum school in Kuwait for 2 years after which I moved to work at an English curriculum school teaching PE, GCSE and AS level examination classes as well as coaching high school students in Soccer, Basketball and Volleyball. During my time there I was also a Head of Year to a year group of 230 students for 5 years. I currently work in Sweden as the Assistant Principal for a private international school and am very excited to join RVIS in the new academic year.

Coaching experience: I have extensive coaching experience and success in Soccer, Volleyball and Basketball and am passionate about reaching out to all children to increase their love for sport as well as linking sport and exercise to long-term health and well-being. I truly believe in conveying a sport for all culture and that every child can achieve their true potential regardless of how high that is.

Accomplishments: My claim to fame is scoring against the Estonian national soccer team during a friendly while they were training for the European championships. I also played against Borussia Munchen Gladbach, as well as many other English league football clubs. Before becoming a teacher, I was in the British Army and served in Iraq during the gulf war. During my military career, I specialised in physical training and injury rehabilitation.

Family: I am the proud father of 2 children (18 and 15 years of age) although they will not be accompanying me to Bahrain. In my spare time, I am passionate about helping those with injuries return to full activity again.

Hi there! This is me, Ahmad Ali, I earned my Bachelor of education from Alexandria University, Egypt.

My major is Arabic ( Language and literature ), however, I can teach any subject in Arabic.

I used to work in an international setting before coming to Bahrain. My job was to teach Arabic to foreigners from all over the world. I’m a Google Certified Teacher, Apple Teacher and a leader in the convergence between literacy and technology. As a middle school teacher, I redefined my Arabic classroom as not only a place to learn about Language & literature, but also explore how technology is shaping the future of communications. I continue this exploration as a consultant focusing on technology, literacy, differentiation, and systemic change.

My students call me Mr. Google as we’re always very engaged with (Google) & (Apple) technologies in the classroom daily! I believe that I can make the change happen locally and internationally.

I studied at the New York Institute of Technology, where I earned both a bachelors degree (BA), and a masters degree, in Business Administration (MBA). While studying in university, I worked various roles within several different departments of AMA Group in order to identify my strengths and passions. I later got the opportunity to join one of Bahrain’s leading Accounting and Business Consultancy firms, BDO Jawad Habib, within the Career Progression Program; part of the national projects set up by Tamkeen to help develop the Bahraini workforce. I maintained the management position for 4 years, building on my skills and acquiring a depth of knowledge in connecting thousands of employees with the appropriate training courses to match their needs.

My educational philosophy is to give students the tools to innovate and create and to explore their ideas and passions in a safe and comfortable environment. The Learning Commons provides students the opportunities to do just that, making my job even more fulfilling. I am extremely excited to be taking on the role of Learning Commons Coordinator for the next school year and I hope to continue the amazing work done at the LC.

-