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
- Student Support
- Physical Education
- Guidance Counselor
Math
Mark Forgeron
The small size of the school, the transition in the math curriculum from American traditional courses to integrated mathematics, and the warm weather of Jamaica are the things that inspired me to want to teach at AISK. I was teaching in Rome, Italy during the 2020-2021 school year, but I was looking for a subsequent teaching opportunity. I began my AISK adventure. at AISK in August 2021 to start my AISK adventure.
I am primarily the middle school math teacher at AISK, as I teach all math sections in grades 6 through 8. But I also teach one section of Strategies of Success for 9th grade. Once we are allowed to start up our after school activities program, I do hope to be involved with sports and coaching.
I have a BS in Economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a MA in Secondary Mathematics Education from the University of Connecticut. I was a three-year Peace Corps volunteer in Gabon in central Africa, and I have both my MYP Category I and Category II certifications. But most importantly, since 1984, I have continuously taught mathematics for students in grades 6 - 10 in international schools all over the world. I have worked with all cultures of students and with all types of learners, having taught in American and International schools in the USA, Gabon, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Chile, Senegal, Italy, and now Jamaica.
The engagement of young learners when they believe they can get better in math and then apply their knowledge as true young mathematicians. The pride, happiness, or sometimes just relief that I see in students as they build their math skills and understand how these skills apply to their lives.
I ride my bicycle 4 km each way to school every day, but I do not count that as my exercise for that day. I still have to go for a run or have a workout later in the day!
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.
Science
Jeanne Smith
It is in diversity that we find our threads of commonality are woven into one beautiful tapestry we call humanity. AISK epitomises inclusiveness, embracing the richness of diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and it is for this reason that I, Jeanne Smith, joined the team in August of 2021. As a teacher of middle school science and IB environmental Systems and Societies, I have the opportunity of a global reach through my vocation, positively impacting young minds from many lands and backgrounds, fostering the development of their science and engineering skills, while also leaving an indelible mark on their lives as I seek to contribute to their robust educational experience.
A graduate of the University of the West Indies, Mona, I hold an undergraduate degree in pure and applied sciences, a Master’s degree in biological sciences and a graduate diploma in science education. Having taught extensively across the sciences, I am a multidisciplinary science teacher with experience in teaching at both the secondary and tertiary levels of education. I have served in Jamaica and also in the USA teaching high school sciences. While in the USA, I was a participant in their Fulbright Program, which allowed me to serve as a cultural ambassador in South Carolina. While in the USA, I participated in courses including Differentiated Instruction through Winthrop University in South Carolina, and Project-based Learning with the Buck Institute of Education. I am also a teacher educator, having lectured and written courses in biology for the Bachelor of Education program at a university for teachers here in Jamaica. Additionally, I have been an examiner both for Caribbean high school exams and student teachers pursuing teaching certification through the Joint Board of Teacher Education in Jamaica. As an educator, I have a keen interest in helping students enjoy science and make real-life connections; I am also have an academic interest Social and Emotional Learning, particularly teen suicide prevention, as well as teacher evaluation processes.
One fun fact about me, is that being a hobby historian and also a geographer, I am a tour guide trainer and I also act as a tour guide whenever I have the opportunity. I conduct tours in Jamaica for students at all levels, and enjoy working with international students as they present interesting perspectives in keeping with their own culture and diverse experiences.
AISK promises an exciting teaching and learning experience in a culturally diverse setting. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with both faculty and students from different cultural backgrounds, optimally facilitating the reciprocity of the vocation: ‘as we teach we should learn, and as we learn we should teach!’
Social Studies
Creative Arts
- Music: David de Geus
- Visual Art: Michaela Marusak
- Dance and Movement: Dr. Sade Bully
- Drama and Theater Arts: Harold (Randy) Moss
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.
Visual Art: Michaela Marusak
Art is truly my passion! I am the new HS/MS Art teacher this school year 2021-2022. I am an international teacher that has taught all around the world in countries such as Kuwait, Cyprus, Thailand, Israel and Bali. Throughout the pandemic I felt so far away from home and my family in Texas, United States. As I contemplated a change from living in Indonesia, my goal was to find an international school that was close to home, and there happened to be an opening at AISK. Perfect!
I received my Bachelor of Science undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin - Stout and my Master of Fine arts Degree from the University of North Texas. I have been teaching Art for 36 years at all levels; from Early years through to University, but found a good fit teaching at the HS/MS level. I also discovered that I really enjoy teaching IB Visual Art. I am also an IB Visual Arts examiner. I feel a real connection to the HS/MS aged child and feel I can help this age group grow as people.
I have been involved with Art from a young age, art camp, after school art clubs, attended an Art school during HS called The Minneapolis Art Institute and studied Art at University. I was in the 7th grade when I realized that I wanted to be an Art teacher when I grew up after I was inspired by an Art teacher named Ms. File. I am an avid hiker and go on walks with my husband most mornings before school to get my blood flowing.
Dance and Movement: Dr. Sade Bully
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.
Drama and Theater Arts: Harold (Randy) Moss
Research into the school and initial interviews with the administration left me excited about the school’s vision and mission. I joined AISK in August 2021. After a few weeks here, it is clear that the school lives up to both and certainly embraces the definition of “One Love” as a celebration of unity and inclusion. As a Middle School and High School Theatre Teacher, along with celebrating life through exploring, making and presenting theatre, I believe my subject offers students five of the most important life skills. Developing Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, Confidence and/or Leadership Skills is the goal of every activity we do in class and in school wide drama productions. I have been teaching since 1978 and have taught internationally since 1990. I did my undergrad studies at the University of North Carolina and my Masters at Oxford. I am an examiner for the IBO and a workshop leader and consultant for the The International Schools Theatre Association. Outside of the classroom or working in theatre, I love playing golf, being a partner to an amazing wife, being Dad to two wonderful daughters, and Pop to my eleven grandkids.
Modern Language
Spanish: Gregory Gordon
Teaching is profound and is a noble calling. I joined the AISK family in 2020 as a part-time Middle School Spanish teacher, a role which has expanded to my being blessed to serve in the High School in the past few months. As an I.B. trained Spanish teacher with E.S.L. (Celta Qualifications), multilingual voice actor, actor, (James Bond- No Time To Die), producer, musician and interpreter in both Spanish and Japanese. AISK offers an environment where a few of my international experiences garnered through having lived in Japan or having studied and taught in Thailand, translates to the potential for a synergistic exchange of knowledge. Teaching can be tough sometimes but when that spark hits and the success of succession occurs before your eyes, it is humbling and most rewarding.
I have represented Jamaica in swimming and was invited to the U17 national football squad in my teenage years. I play many sports well and have been enjoying learning how to surf in the past year.
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.
Student Support
Meet the MS Student Support Team
- Student Support Director: Debra Valentine
- Michelle Luck
- Dania Daley
- Jennifer Krouwel
- Sophia Williams
Student Support Director: Debra Valentine
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.
Dania Daley
As educators, we are trained to step back and look at what students CAN DO, and then we begin to build on the rich cultural and language experiences that they take to the classroom.
I’ve had the opportunity of teaching English as an additional language to Elementary, Middle School and High School students since 2017. I read for a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literatures in English at the University of the West Indies. Thereafter, I completed a diploma in Education with a concentration in Double English at the Shortwood Teachers’ College. Since then, I have completed a Master of Science in Reading and Language Arts from K-12 at Central Connecticut State University which has qualified me as a Literacy Coach and or Reading Specialist. I have over 10 years of successful classroom teaching experience as a teacher of English Language, English Literature, Communication Skills and teaching English as an additional language. Since I have continued my teaching career at AISK, I have benefited from the wide range of cultural and teaching diversity which has strengthened my core skills as an educator. The various levels of differentiation and individualized instruction that are at the heart of our EAL program has strengthened both students and teachers alike.
My interests and passions are in language, linguistics and speech development and I get to do this every day. At AISK I get to be a part of positions that facilitate the sharing of cultures, languages and the corporation of individuals in a global community. One interesting fact about me is that I love gaming and reading picture books.
Jennifer Krouwel
Sophia Williams
Physical Education
Meet the Athletics Team
- PE and Swimming: David Bromfield
- Aquatics: Kerri-Ann Steer
- Lifeguard: Khavezra Harrison
- MS/HS PE : Kenneth McClintock
- Dexter McFarlane: Acting Head of PE & Athletics
PE and 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.
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.
Lifeguard: Khavezra Harrison
MS/HS PE : Kenneth McClintock
Dexter McFarlane: Acting Head of PE & Athletics
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.
Guidance Counselor
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 am a Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Associate Professional Counselor. I earned the Master of Social Work from New York University, and the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies - Counseling Psychology emphasis from CGST. I have also done graduate studies in Child Development at Sarah Lawrence College in New York.
I enjoy music and singing, and I am one of the cantors at the local synagogue.
Meet the Middle School Principal
Chris Walker
My work in education began as a PE and Maths teacher in the UK where I worked for three years. Following that, I moved to an American International School in Budapest, Hungary, where I worked as an Athletic Director. After four years in Hungary, I moved to Amman, Jordan where I worked as a PE teacher and Athletic Director and also taught TOK ( Theory of Knowledge). After three years in Jordan I took a year break, during which I cycled from the UK to Turkey, and then took up a position in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia teaching PE. After two years I moved to Caracas, Venezuela with an aim to move into administration and following a period of working as a PE teacher and Athletic Director I became the assistant principal and IB Co-ordinator and eventually the MS and HS Principal. After nine years in Caracas, I moved to work in an international school in the UK where I worked for six years as the High School Principal. During my time in Venezuela, I began a Masters Degree in International Education at Bath University, UK, which I completed when I returned to England.
My approach to education is holistic and I believe in a rounded education that not only focuses on academics but on all aspects of a student’s development. I find the IB programs and philosophy a great way to achieve this and have enjoyed working in schools that are committed to an all-round education. My desire is that every child succeeds whilst being conscious that success means different things to different people. It is therefore important we help students find ‘the best fit’ when deciding on courses and academic programs and provide each child with educational opportunities that allow each of them to be challenged and motivated and to learn in a safe and secure environment. An environment that not only promotes academic excellence but also recognizes the need to promote physical, social and emotional well being.
Having spent most of my career working in physical education I have always had a passion for sports and enjoy football, rugby, skiing, golf, and long-distance cycling. I am an avid reader and enjoy trying to play the guitar, and both my wife (Tania) and I enjoy cooking. Our two children are both now studying at Universities in the UK but both enjoy the prospect of visiting Jamaica during their vacations, and who wouldn’t!
Denise Campbell Admin Assistant
I have been the Administrative Assistant to the Middle & High School Principal since July 1, 2014. I possess 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.