EYP Faculty
Elementary Faculty & Staff
Early Years Program
Debbie Ann Pryce
My role is to educate, motivate and holistically develop our youngest minds. I joined the Hurricanes family in February 2018, on the Early Years teaching team.
What stands out most for me at AISK and continues to do so, is the ratio of students to teachers in every class and working with a dynamic team of educators that stimulate critical thinking in our students. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Child Care and Development and a Masters of Science degree in Early Childhood Education and Teaching Early Childhood Teachers. I have always had a passion for teaching and training others. My parents speak of me at playtime teaching dolls and other toys to pass their exams. That desire has stuck with me since then.
In my spare time you will find me dancing, playing netball or more recently racing and playing football with my own children. I am always inspired by the motto "not for school, but for life we learn".
Angela Curtis
My absolute passion for children and helping with their growth and development led me into teaching, and to AISK, and it has kept me here for 11 years. I have been a part of the AISK family since 2010, and what an amazing experience it has been.
Since then I have been a Teaching Assistant with the Early Years Program. While supporting the dynamic and creative teachers at that grade level, I was motivated to pursue my teaching degree at The Mico University where I successfully obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education in September 2020. What stands out to me the most at AISK is the diversity of cultures and activities, and the resources that are available from a physical and human standpoint. The experience at AISK has been wonderful! In addition to my profession, I enjoy nature in all its glory and tending to my birds and dogs.
Kindergarten
Kim Edwards
I wanted to be at the best school on the island and be afforded the opportunity to constantly grow as an educator and I joined AISK in August 2010. AISK is a family school, people greet each other by their first name regardless of their position, the community has a personality and everyone is free to express themselves.
In this environment there is joy, hope, creativity, curiosity, knowledge and constant change - yes, change! New and constant change in education prepares students for the future.
I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood training at Nova Southeastern University, in Florida. I went on to teach Kindergarten at Liberty Elementary while preparing students in Grade 4 and 5 for the FCAT. I joined AISK 11 years ago and started the EYP department and now teach Kindergarten.
My mother encouraged me to follow my passion from an early age and would always brag to anyone, “Kimberley is going to be an amazing teacher!” I like to make learning full of fun and inspire students to open their minds. I believe that children can achieve so much more if they learn early of their potential and are given opportunities to explore their curiosity.
I enjoy crafting and organizing creative events for children in my free time. My second home is the beach. I try to go to the beach at least twice for the month to unwind and recharge. I also enjoy going for early morning runs on the weekend. I am a nature lover and can always be found Googling another family adventure or observing animals.
Meleshia Cohen-Alexander
My inspiration to teach came from knowing that I am able to assist with the fostering and enhancing of children’s development and potential. I joined the AISK family in September 2011 where I was given the task of caregiver for the children in the After School Care Program. I am currently a Teaching Assistant in Elementary School, where I have worked with students across various grade levels. This is a role I am honored to have for 9 years.
AISK is a beautiful campus. It is an International school that is tech savvy, air conditioned and offers differentiated learning and support for those in need of such service. What a blessing! How could one not want to work here? The staff is very welcoming and supportive. Their warmth and passion to motivate and empower students to become critical thinkers and just be themselves is what made me want to work at this school.
I am NCTVET certified in Early Childhood Care and I hold a certificate in Human Exceptionalities from Mico University College.
Here at AISK, I am able to pursue my own dream of acquiring a degree in Early Childhood Education so that I may be more skilled in education pedagogy. This school is my home away from home. I learn from my peers and grow with each experience. I get to showcase my creativity doing some of my favorite things like art, poetry, singing and dancing, but my most favorite things to do are putting together jig-saw puzzles and being silly with my kids.
Specialists
- Counselor: Marie Reynolds
- Chad Lambert
- Spanish: Leydis Gonzalez
- Visual Art: Betty White
- PE: Coach Dexter McFarlane
- Aquatics: Kerri-Ann Steer
- SWIMMING: DAVID BROMFIELD
- Lifeguard: Khavezra Harrison
- I.T. and STEM Integration Specialist
- Performing Arts: Sarah Silvera
- Debra Valentine - Student Support Director
Counselor: Marie Reynolds
Working with young people provides the opportunity for me to support them socially and emotionally so that they can develop the ability to bounce forward through challenges, love themselves, and be the gift to the world that each one is. I’m delighted to be a member of the AISK family since August 2020 as the Elementary and Middle School Counselor, working with students from EYP - Grade 8.
Prior to working at AISK I had the opportunity to conduct observations in a number of AISK Elementary classrooms. I was impressed with the exploratory and cooperative learning I witnessed, and the way in which children are empowered to think critically, express their ideas and direct their own learning. I could see that each child and his or her unique qualities are valued and cultivated. I wanted to be a part of that.
I have a Master’s in Clinical Social Work and I am a Registered Associate Professional Counsellor. I also have a Master's in Interdisciplinary Studies - Counselling Psychology emphasis, and graduate studies in Child Development.
I enjoy music and singing, and I am one of the cantors at the local synagogue.
Chad Lambert
Seeing the use of the words AISK family is the exact reason why I was sold on working here. I joined AISK as the High School Counselor in August 2021. The warm, nurturing environment that you feel as soon as you walk through the gates, in addition to the emphasis on social and emotional learning as well as the support are what made me feel that joining the team would be a mutually beneficial experience.
I hold a Masters in Clinical Psychology and have been working in private practice for over 3 years. My inspiration comes from my passion for understanding and helping others to understand human behaviour. Observing young people learn about themselves and others, helping them to navigate their lives and watching them grow into better versions of themselves are extremely rewarding for me. Something interesting about me is that I am an avid tennis fan. I’ve been to the US Open and I used to play competitively, but now I only play for fun.
Spanish: Leydis Gonzalez
AISK stimulates and shapes each and every aspect of the students’ development. This institution suits all student’s needs and helps them to become capable, critical thinkers with an overall preparation that allows their perfect integration into this changing world. This was the outstanding attribute that made me feel eager and excited about becoming an AISK team player.
AISK was the opportunity I was looking for to grow and widen my professional horizons and impart my knowledge and love for my native language to students across different age groups. I joined the AISK team in August 2020 as the Elementary School Spanish teacher; a position which I enjoy and feel very passionate about.
I have a Master’s Degree in Foreign Languages from the University of Pedagogical Sciences “Blas Roca”, in Cuba. My teaching experience began in Cuba in 2014 and has continued in Jamaica, where I have been since 2017. Being able to provide the students with knowledge, skills, and habits they will benefit from and use to become successful is the most satisfying and rewarding outcome of teaching.
One fun fact about me is that I love arts and crafts and thoroughly enjoy integrating them into my lessons.
Visual Art: Betty White
I am inspired to tap into the ‘gateway’ children have to a world of unlimited imagination. Children love to ‘Free draw’ where all the stories inside come tumbling out as visual images. I am grateful to be in a position that helps to foster a continued appreciation of its value. I began teaching at AISK in August 2006 and currently teach Elementary Art from EYP - Grade 5.
I am a Graduate in Fine Arts- Painting- from The Edna Manley School of the Visual and Performing Arts and I have a Masters Degree in Art Education from Ohio State University.
I initially came to AISK to fill in for an art teacher who unavoidably had to leave due to an emergency. During that first year I taught Kindergarten to Grade 12. I quickly realized I wanted to focus on teaching Art to the Elementary students, so when I was asked to continue teaching at AISK I gradually and happily transitioned to that specific role.
I am appreciative and impressed with the investment AISK puts into the Arts which includes the working space we are given, the budget for materials, as well as the showcasing of the student’s work. I am inspired to teach Art because I have observed that the Arts, both Visual and Performing, are a natural language that children use to express themselves even before beginning formal education. I am also inspired to teach a subject that is constantly engaged with creative thinking.
From the early years, children have an ease and familiarity with drawing, painting, movement, singing, make believe drama - all of which gives them access to their inner world without much direction from adults, and helps to anchor a healthy interior space.
An interesting fact about me is that I am a twin. Art and Yoga are my favourite hobbies.
PE: Coach Dexter McFarlane
Exercise, sports and being healthy are very important to human development. AISK has ensured that programmes are put in place to assist students in these areas and to develop holistically. I have nearly twenty years’ experience teaching Physical Education at the elementary level and have continued in this position at AISK since 2005. I hold a Diploma in Physical Education, a Bachelor of Science (BSc.) in Middle Grades Education and a Master of Science (MSc.) in Sports Administration.
Having been at AISK for more than 16 years, I enjoy working with the small classes, which I believe enables the students to express themselves and maximize their potential for learning. Additionally, my passion for healthy living and being active allows me to thoroughly enjoy teaching and sharing this interest with students.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with family members and friends, as well as listening to audio books and watching documentaries.
Aquatics: Kerri-Ann Steer
My inspiration to teach stems from the fulfillment of students learning a life skill that is fun and enjoyable. My journey as the Aquatics Manager and swimming coach at AISK began in 2018. My first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (Hons), from Howard University, was awarded in Political Science with a minor in Psychology. My Master of Science degree, from The University of the West Indies was awarded in Psychotherapy. While I have spent some of my career in the corporate arena, my entire life has been centered around the element of water and the sport of swimming. Those qualifications include certifications from The Fédération Internationale de Natationand, The American Swimming Coaches Association as well as being a certified and licensed lifeguard.
The magnet that drew me towards AISK was being involved with a swimming program that was in its infancy stages of development. Additionally, the warmth of the community, teachers and a learning environment where students are encouraged to embrace every aspect of themselves through determination, sacrifice and resilience was also undeniable. Lessons learned in the corporate world coupled with my knowledge and experience in psychology and competitive swimming allows me to guide students in their achievements. To see students, marvel with pride at their accomplishments when they have triumphed is truly amazing.
One interesting fact about me is that I not only represented my club in international meets, but also my country, Jamaica, accumulating several accolades including a swimming scholarship to Howard University. Hobbies include reading and having spontaneous adventures.
SWIMMING: DAVID BROMFIELD
As a small community in size but big in heart, AISK allows me the ability to work with enthusiastic students to unlock their athletic potential. My name is David Bromfield and I have been teaching PE and Swimming at AISK since 2018. I have a BSc. in Sports Sciences, a Masters in Business Management and I am a Level 2 certified coach by the World Swimming Federation (FINA).
When I am not teaching young minds, I find comfort in reading, watching sports and playing video games.
Lifeguard: Khavezra Harrison
I teach because I’m absolutely in love with seeing growth and development. It's just a wonderful feeling watching someone grasp and apply something that they didn’t know how to do before. Taking on the role of the Lifeguard at AISK for the past two years has been a rewarding experience.
I joined the team in March 2019, having been a certified lifeguard for the past sixteen years working in International hotels such as The CourtYard Marriott Hotel, The Pegasus Hotel and The Hilton Hotel to name a few. I was eventually promoted to Lifeguard Instructor, allowing me to become a part of the team responsible for training new Lifeguard candidates as well as renewal of lifeguards across the island. I am also a FINA (International Federation of Swimming) and ASCA (American Swimming Coaches Association) level certified swim coach for sixteen years. I am also a certified Pool and Spa Operations manager for the past eight years.
I have a love for photography and drama, but unfortunately I don’t get a chance to explore them both in the way that I would like.
I.T. and STEM Integration Specialist
My heart’s desire is to leave an indelible mark on the lives of the future generation. My journey at AISK began in 2010 where the door was opened for me to be a substitute teacher. I transitioned into a teaching assistant role, then a teacher in the regular Elementary classroom and became the Information Technology Specialist for the Elementary School beginning August 2012.
As I was completing my Masters of Arts in Teaching Degree (MAT) at Mercer University in the U.S. my heart yearned for home and I recognized that AISK was the institution that would afford me the opportunity to not only use the skills I had garnered in my studies, but also capitalize on my experience as a student growing up in Jamaica. I truly wanted to make a positive impact and provide students with well rounded experiences that would influence them for life. That passion has not changed as I engage in activities with enquiring minds each day. My role as an I.T. Specialist has also afforded me the opportunity to aid in the professional development of fellow teachers and staff.
Outside of my professional career, I thoroughly enjoy writing and hope that someday in the near future I will be able to write children’s books.
Performing Arts: Sarah Silvera
AISK has always been a school that I admired as it truly prioritizes the whole child. I joined the AISK family in 2005 and have had many teaching roles at this institution including elementary classroom teacher and elementary, middle and high school theatre arts teacher. Developing the ‘whole child’ is the focus of our teaching and learning and the foundation of any successful student.
I hold a Masters of Education degree and I am honored to have a positive, inspiring impact on children’s lives. I love music and dance. I have written and performed my music in the Caribbean, USA, Africa and Europe. I also have a passion for fitness and yoga.
An interesting fact about me is that although I was born in Jamaica, I spent my elementary and high school years in Trinidad and have a strong “Trini” accent.
Debra Valentine - Student Support Director
Meet the Elementary principal
Casimer Badynee
I believe education and the learning environment must meet the needs of children. This is my first year at AISK as ES Principal; however it is my 16th year as a school administrator. I started teaching in 1987… thirty-four years ago. I’m originally from Detroit, Michigan and spent the last 12 years in Chicago, Illinois. I settled in Jamaica in late July 2021, along with my wife, Julie and son Caz. This is our first international experience. We are enjoying the people, culture, and beautiful climate!
Fundamentally, to be a learner one needs a child-like wonder about the world. Children are natural learners and teachers. I believe that children are essentially curious and organically seek to connect their learning to personal passions. Children seek to build a knowledge base to help them interpret the world around them. Children want to be understood, want to belong, and want to connect to their world. A classroom must meet the needs of each individual student.
In my initial conversations with the AISK Interview Committee, I discovered that my philosophical beliefs in learning clearly matched AISK’s beliefs. Teachers and administrators on the committee openly shared the importance of nurturing positive student-teacher relationships and building a learning environment that inspires unique learners. Once on campus, I witnessed everything that the committee shared with me. I observed teaching staff connecting with students, supporting unique learning environments for all types of learners, and instilling a joy for learning in every child.
I am very comfortable in learning environments. I have plenty of experience as a school principal. I love learning and I spent the last 20 years completing a Masters of Arts degree in Education and a Masters of Science degree in School Leadership. I continued my formal education and earned a doctorate degree in School Leadership from Seton Hall University in New Jersey. My doctorate degree can be described as a culmination of my experience, curiosity, resilience, and family support. I attribute my success to my love of learning and the love I received from my family.
I have always loved cooking and baking. The COVID pandemic motivated me to perfect some of my favorites: pizza crust, almond biscottis, and soft tortillas. I’ve also enjoyed recipes of my Polish heritage- pierogies (dumplings), golabki (stuffed cabbage), nalisniki (crepes), and other specialty foods. In fact, I discovered an old Polish cookbook that survived a few generations and inspired me to integrate new Jamaican ingredients found on the island such as sweet potatoes, scotch bonnets, brown sugar, and rum!
I also love being a part of my family- I enjoy the company of my wife and son. I think one of my most cherished titles is “dad.” I love everything about fatherhood - the worries, joys, frustrations, excitements, and challenges that seem to be a part of every situation and activity. As a family, we enjoy our time together; exploring the world around us through food, entertainment, tours, activities, and sights. I enjoy everything an adventure has to offer when I’m with my family. Our “Jamaican Adventure” was a family decision and seems to epitomize our sense of exploration of the world around us!
I am thrilled to be on Island sharing this experience with my family and interacting with both Jamaicans and other internationals. Navigating many of the Jamaican stores, restaurants, institutions, and other attractions has been an adventure in itself. The warmth and graciousness of Jamaica is evident! My family and I look forward to exploring the Island beyond Kingston and meeting new people!
Katie Edwards Admin Assistant
I joined the AISK family in November 2013 in the capacity of Administrative Assistant to the Elementary Principal and Elementary teachers. I am a qualified personal assistant and have over 30 years of international experience over a wide range of sectors.
I am Jamaican born but lived in the UK for over 18 years and have travelled extensively, including a “dream come true” 12 months back-packing trip around the world in 2002-2003. I truly enjoy being back in Jamaica and particularly working at AISK. Its population of both Jamaican and international staff students creates a really wonderful multicultural environment.
Watching children grow and observing how they learn everyday inspires me, particularly in the amazing environment we have here at AISK. Through music, dance, art, just to name a few, the look of pure joy when they can be truly who they want to be and learn valuable lessons across the board never ceases to amaze me. Their lightbulb moments always bring me joy.
Apart from enjoying running and watching great movies with friends, for those who don’t know, I am also a semi-professional singer. I do love to see the look on people’s faces when listening to me sing for the very first time. Music is my joy second only to my family!!
I am based in the Elementary School Office and am here to help and support you in any way I can, so please feel free to reach out.