Middle School Faculty
To ensure our school hires only the most qualified teachers, each is hand-selected not only for their excellence in their subject matter or division, but for their personality, their curiosity, their alignment with the ADLP, and their empowerment of others. All of the faculty and staff at AISK undergo rigorous background checks, and a hiring process that has continually brought us the best and brightest educators available globally.
Middle School Faculty & Staff
- Math
- English
- Science
- Social Studies
- Creative Arts
- Modern Language
- Strategies of Success
- Guidance Counselor: Chad Lambert
- Student Support
- Physical Education
Math
Tonya Busse
As the middle school math teacher at AISK, I am absolutely inspired by my students’ willingness to take academic risks and consistently challenge themselves in the classroom. AISK provides the perfect platform for this transformative work. The school captured my attention through our shared philosophy that empowering confident learners requires each student to be seen, heard, and valued.
One quote I wholeheartedly embrace and teach by is, 'You should be far more concerned with your current trajectory than with your current results.' - James Clear, Atomic Habits. This philosophy guides my teaching approach, encouraging students to focus on progress over perfection.
My educational journey has been a diverse one. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Psychology, a Master’s degree in Exercise Science and Sports Nutrition, and a Secondary Math endorsement. Beyond the math, I enjoy running, volleyball, and exploring Jamaica!
English
Danielle Azan
When I first applied to teach at AISK I really appreciated the community feel and the new approaches to education that the school embraces. I joined the AISK family in January 2012 and have been here since! Currently I teach all of MS English and am also the MS Coordinator. I have a B.S. in English and Secondary Education and an M. Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, both from the University of Maryland, College Park.
I personally did not really enjoy English as a high school student and so I garner great joy in bringing a new generation into the mysteries of English and imparting my love of the subject. The best moments are when students cannot wait to tell me about a new book they have read or to see their reactions when they make real world connections to the fictional characters/worlds we explore.
An interesting fact, (though it is one all my students are aware of) is that I am an avid video gamer. Lesser known is the fact that I did Varsity track and swimming in high school.
Enrique Ruiz
Science
Social Studies
Creative Arts
- Music: David de Geus
- Drama: Brian Johnson
- Visual Art: Lisa Imamura
- Dance and Movement: Dr. Sade Bully-Bell
Music: David de Geus
AISK is an inspiring community that prepares young people for the future and makes room for students to develop their collaborative, creative and communication skills. I am a music educator and choir conductor with a degree in Jazz piano and Music Education from the City College of New York. I have worked in music my whole life: as a piano player, educator, arranger, musical theatre director, composer and choir conductor. I have been teaching music in local and international education for 15 years and have taught in Ghana, New York City and the Netherlands. I joined the AISK family with my wife and 2 daughters in August 2020 to start and teach a new music curriculum schoolwide, including the new IB Music course.
The reason I love working at AISK is that we understand that music education and the rich musical culture of Jamaica can play an exciting role in that! I aim to design opportunities for our students to grow as human beings, develop musical skills, and become confident and creative members of a colourful society.
In my free time I love to play or watch football and my favorite hobbies are DJ-ing, cooking and playing board games with my family.
Drama: Brian Johnson
Visual Art: Lisa Imamura
I teach MSHS & IB art. Teaching is truly my calling, and I feel grateful everyday to work with young artists. My art studio is a place for EVERYONE and I love seeing students access their creativity, develop skills, and express themselves. I have always loved art and majored in Visual Arts at Gonzaga University in the US. I fell in love with teaching a few years later in Zambia, where I was a community health educator for the Peace Corps. There I met my husband and we now have two beautiful boys. I earned my master's degree and K-12 teaching certificate in Art and Visual Culture Education at the University of Arizona as a Peace Corps Fellow. I taught art for 7 years at Flowing Wells High School in Tucson before moving to Kingston. AISK is such a wonderful place to teach. I really appreciate their student centered approach, fervent support of the arts, and focus on community. I am thrilled to be a part of the AISK family!
Dance and Movement: Dr. Sade Bully-Bell
The diversity of the school as well as the culture of inclusion and the attitude that ANYTHING is possible is what drew me to AISK. I joined the school in August 2021 as the dance teacher. Since being here I have met a faculty of teachers who truly care about students and their learning, and teachers who simply embody and exude positivity, even in a difficult time.
I have been dancing since age 4; taking after-school dance at the Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts as well as the then-called Tony Wilson School of Modern Dance (now The CDT School). At age 13, I became the youngest dancer to become a member of The Company Dance Theatre with whom I danced for the next 12 years. While dancing in Jamaica I was pursuing a Medical degree at the University of the West Indies, but upon completion moved to New York City to pursue a career in my true passion; dance. I continued to study dance at the Ailey School before being invited to perform with the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Afterwards I went on to become principal dancer at Garth Fagan Dance, where I spent 6 years touring, performing and teaching with the company and its affiliated school. I’ve taught dance residencies throughout the boroughs of New York City, as well as master-classes and workshops across the US, in parts of Europe and throughout the Caribbean. I am excited to bring my passion for dance and love for teaching to the AISK community.
The joy I see in children's faces when they get a step or perform a dance for others, as well as the shifts I see in a child’s confidence and self-esteem as they become more proficient in dance truly inspires me to teach.
I am also the new artistic director of the dance company CDT and it’s affiliated dance school - The CDT School.
Modern Language
Spanish and French : Lisa Camarta
French: Arielle Bernard
I am absolutely passionate about the teaching and learning of foreign languages. I joined the AISK family as a French teacher in 2017 and I currently teach Middle School, High School and IB French. My main objective as an educator is to inspire students to expand their horizons by showing them the benefits and opportunities associated with learning a foreign language.
The international nature and cultural diversity of AISK initially sparked my interest as this is a good catalyst for forieng language education. However, being here for four years, I love the environment created by our team to foster a holistic, supportive and positive learning environment for our students.
I am a proud graduate of Shortwood Teachers’ College, where I received a teaching diploma (Hons.) in French and Spanish as foreign languages and a Bachelor’s degree (Hons.) from the University of the West Indies in French education. After completing my Bachelor’s, I followed my passion for French to its origin, France, where I taught English as a second language at the high school and middle school level in the region of Orléans-Tours. While there, I also completed my Masters (Hons.) in the teaching and training course design of English and French as foreign languages from the University of Montpellier in France.
During my spare time, I love reading, playing video games and catching up with my favourite T.V series. I consider myself a lifelong learner and I am always searching for new activities and strategies to improve the quality of learning for my students.
Spanish and French - Sekhet Foster
I believe that learning and speaking foreign languages are essential to being successful in the world today. I joined AISK in 2016 as a MSHS teacher of World Languages (Spanish and French). I was impressed by the fact that as an international school, AISK embraced all nations and focused on inclusiveness, a focus they maintain today. I have a BA in French and Spanish from the University of the West Indies, Jamaica and am in the process of completing my MA in Translation.
I’ve taught in France and Ethiopia and have travelled extensively to Spanish speaking countries, including Spain, Mexico and Cuba on various field trips. Throughout my 20 years experience teaching foreign languages at both local and international schools, I’ve completed IB Spanish training at IB workshops in Atlanta, Georgia and recently an IB French B workshop in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
I enjoy reading, doing yoga, hiking, knitting (when I have time) and reasoning with my three sons.
Strategies of Success
Vanessa Taylor
AISK’s ethnic and cultural diversity, and it's progressive curriculum made me want to teach at this institution. I started teaching at AISK in August 2010. Currently I teach Middle School Strategies of Success, but I taught Middle and High School English in my earlier years. I have been an educator for two decades and have a BA in English, a Diploma in English Education and a MS In Literacy Education. I am inspired to teach because each day I learn something new and am grateful to have the opportunity to help to shape the next generation.
I love to travel, read and spend time with my family and friends.
Dr. Sade Bully-Bell
The diversity of the school as well as the culture of inclusion and the attitude that ANYTHING is possible is what drew me to AISK. I joined the school in August 2021 as the dance teacher. Since being here I have met a faculty of teachers who truly care about students and their learning, and teachers who simply embody and exude positivity, even in a difficult time.
I have been dancing since age 4; taking after-school dance at the Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts as well as the then-called Tony Wilson School of Modern Dance (now The CDT School). At age 13, I became the youngest dancer to become a member of The Company Dance Theatre with whom I danced for the next 12 years. While dancing in Jamaica I was pursuing a Medical degree at the University of the West Indies, but upon completion moved to New York City to pursue a career in my true passion; dance. I continued to study dance at the Ailey School before being invited to perform with the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Afterwards I went on to become principal dancer at Garth Fagan Dance, where I spent 6 years touring, performing and teaching with the company and its affiliated school. I’ve taught dance residencies throughout the boroughs of New York City, as well as master-classes and workshops across the US, in parts of Europe and throughout the Caribbean. I am excited to bring my passion for dance and love for teaching to the AISK community.
The joy I see in children's faces when they get a step or perform a dance for others, as well as the shifts I see in a child’s confidence and self-esteem as they become more proficient in dance truly inspires me to teach.
I am also the new artistic director of the dance company CDT and it’s affiliated dance school - The CDT School.
Guidance Counselor: 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.
Student Support
Meet the MS Student Support Team
- Student Support Director: Debra Valentine
- Michelle Luck
- Jenise Allen
- iRISE Student Support : Erika De Rienzo
- Strategies of Success and PPS : Yolanda Lee
Student Support Director: Debra Valentine
I have the privilege of working with and leading the vibrant student support team. At AISK, the student support department comprises learning support, English as an additional language and counselling.
The team members are qualified and highly motivated professionals who work hard at supporting students in ways that allow them to be their best selves and to reach their academic potential. Special education is my passion and I believe strongly in creating supportive learning environments that allow all students to be successful in reaching their goals. Leading the student support team provides me with opportunities to challenge myself professionally and personally, and the best aspect of the job is working with a team of professionals who inspire me to be my best, every day.
Michelle Luck
Education is an opportunity to provide young minds with the guidance, compassion, and values necessary to make this a better world. I currently work as the MS/HS Learning Support teacher at AISK. I have been involved with the AISK since 2003, when my eldest son started in EYP. In 2009, after working as a substitute teacher, I took on a full-time position as an elementary teacher before qualifying as a STEM/Math teacher in 2017.
Before teaching in Jamaica, I taught upper elementary for seven years at an international school in South America. I am Canadian qualified and hold a Master of Education degree. My family’s affinity to the Caribbean allowed us to relocate to Jamaica, which has been our home for the past 18 years. Teaching at AISK has allowed me to work with a dynamic group of teachers, passionate about creating a learning environment that values diversity. AISK encourages professional learning communities that enable its teachers to gain new skills, fostering enthusiasm in the learning process. I have been committed to my profession for over two decades and will continue to help students to develop holistically.
When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy participating in anything that keeps me moving, running, traveling, or trying something new.
Jenise Allen
I am excited to join the AISK team as the MS Student Support Teacher. With over 15 years of experience as a K-12 Special Educator, my journey has encompassed a diverse range of educational settings. Specifically, I dedicated eight years to serving as an Elementary Special Ed Inclusion Teacher in the US, followed by seven years as a MS Support Teacher at an international school right here in Jamaica. My educational background includes a Master's Degree in Cross-Categorical Special Education and a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education.
As a special educator, one of my greatest sources of fulfillment in the classroom is witnessing that pivotal moment when a student truly comprehends a concept. There is nothing like seeing that "aha" moment when he/she connects the dots and can draw real world connections. These are the moments that fuel my passion for teaching. What immediately caught my attention when considering AISK as my new learning environment was their unwavering commitment to their core values, their mission statement and their pedagogical approach. AISK’s emphasis on inclusivity, the cultivation of critical thinking, nurturing creativity, and fostering collaboration resonated with me, igniting my enthusiasm to connect with and contribute to the AISK Experience. When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, going to the beach, reading, and staying informed by keeping up with current events.
iRISE Student Support : Erika De Rienzo
Strategies of Success and PPS : Yolanda Lee
Greetings AISK, I’m Yolanda Lee. I hold over 25 years of experience in counselling, management, and mental health. My educational journey includes a Masters degree with distinctions in counselling and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Sociology, both from the University of the West Indies, Mona.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I'm captivated by dolphins; their beauty, playfulness, and intelligence resonate deeply with me. I'm excited to join a team of like-minded individuals dedicated to shaping the future leaders. At AISK, I'm committed to fostering holistic growth and emotional well-being, making a meaningful impact on both individuals and our society as a whole. I look forward to our journey together!
Physical Education
Meet the Athletics Team
- Dexter McFarlane: Athletics Director
- PE and Swimming: Matt Lucas
- Aquatics: Traci Callender
- Lifeguard: Khavezra Harrison
- MS/HS PE : Kenneth McClintock
- Tonya Busse
Dexter McFarlane: Athletics Director
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.
PE and Swimming: Matt Lucas
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.
Aquatics: Traci Callender
Lifeguard: Khavezra Harrison
MS/HS PE : Kenneth McClintock
Tonya Busse
Meet the Middle School Principal
Dr. Christie Powell
It is with a great deal of excitement that I warmly welcome you to AISK for the 30th celebration year; it presents a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our history and look to the future with unbridled optimism. Excitement and promise abound!
As a lifelong international educator and leader and the newly appointed MS/HS Principal, I come to the AISK community with a deep belief in the power of community, of education, and in the potential and promise of young people. There is not a day that I am not grateful for the gift of working with them and for them.
What I have already found impressive about AISK is the unwavering and joyful commitment of the community to the mission, vision and values of the school. What better place for all of us to be our best and continue to grow into our potential than in a community genuinely committed to excellence through actions rooted in integrity and respect.
In such a community, we will all be inspired and empowered to learn, to grow, and to serve. I can’t wait!
I look forward in joyful anticipation to an amazing year ahead with all of you. My door is always open, please stop by.
Denise Campbell Admin Assistant
I have been the Administrative Assistant to the Middle & High School Principal since 2014. I have a Degree in Management with a minor in Marketing from the University of Technology. I spent most of my working life in Human Resources in the Manufacturing & Finance sector and have happily moved to the Educational sector since 2008.
Having been at AISK for the past 6 years I marvel at just how important the environment and encouragement of teachers can make a significant difference in the learning for a student. I think AISK provides that environment where our students are allowed to be their best selves resulting in student confidence that makes all the difference. A rigid space does not work for everyone and genuine student care is important. This is what inspires me. That I can be here to make the learning experience different or better for my students gets me excited to don my “Mother Hen hat” and just be there. I truly love my job!!
One interesting fact about me is that I love love love to dance. Reading and Sewing are my favorite hobbies.
We believe:
- Students thrive when they know they are cared for;
- Students reach greater heights when they know the adults around them hold them accountable and believe in possibilities;
- Students rely on the adults in their lives to create the best environment for learning;
- Students do not get to choose to underachieve;
- Students have a voice, they have things to say and are heard.