OUR TEAM

WE INTENTIONALLY CALL EVERY TEACHER A LEARNING DESIGNER.

They are passionate, highly-qualified international educators hired for their experiences working in progressive educational models worldwide. They work collaboratively in Design Teams, using their diverse talents and skills to create and deliver high impact projects and deep learning experiences for students.

COHORT 5 -6 LEADER

Jonathan Campbell

COHORT 5 -6 LEADER

Jonathan Campbell

Jonathan Campbell is our  Cohort 5-6 Leader. After growing up on a pear orchard in Perth, Australia, Jonathan’s claims to fame are that he knows all the world capital cities and that in 2004 he was nearly a state Monopoly champion, coming 6th in Western Australia.  

Jonathan has a Bachelor of Education degree from Murdoch University, Australia along with an Advanced Diploma of Film & Television.

His first teaching job was teaching French, Art, Drama, English & Social Studies at his former high school, which led him to becoming a middle school teacher in both public and private schools in Australia and around the world. He has spent 15 years working in middle schools in student leadership programming and experiential education.

Jonathan believes in student leadership and empathy for the modern learner.
"In a complex and diverse world, I can't think of anything more important than putting that in the front and center of a progressive education that creatively supports our youth to develop their confidence and write their own future," he says.

DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM AND LEARNING

Suzanne Kitto

DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM AND LEARNING

Suzanne Kitto

Suzanne Kitto, our Director of Curriculum & Learning, is a Kiwi who has spent almost two decades living and working at international schools in Asia - Japan, Vietnam, Singapore, and Thailand, with her child, Sam, in tow.  

Suzanne started her career as a Japanese Second Language, English and Social Studies teacher in New Zealand before being introduced to the International Baccalaureate, specifically the Exhibition year of the PYP. Wanting to share her experience, Suzanne became an IB workshop leader and school visit team member. She has led professional development workshops at conferences all around Asia. 

Suzanne has long held beliefs that education systems are flawed, favoring satisfying bureaucratic and political agendas over the best interests of the learner. She became particularly interested in learner-driven pedagogy when given the opportunity to pilot a self-directed learning model at the International School Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam in 2017. 

Suzanne’s hope is that VERSO will provide an environment where transferable skills are at the forefront of learning and the traditional university to track is merely one option among many when transitioning into life beyond school. 

COHORT 9-12 LEADER & LEAD DESIGNER

Thomas Tran

COHORT 9-12 LEADER & LEAD DESIGNER

Thomas Tran

Thomas Tran, our Cohort 9-12 Leader and Lead Designer, is a multi-disciplined educator coming from a background in product design and architecture. Before entering the education industry, he created design experiences for some of the world’s leading brands such as Microsoft, Samsung, Gatorade, The North Face and more. His move into education saw him as a Director of Innovation Center where he supported schools in the development of ‘innovation spaces’ and their creative programs. He has since been consulting with schools around innovation and design in Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, China and Hong Kong.  Thomas has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Industrial Design from the Cleveland Institute of Art. He also possesses a certification in English Language Teaching holding Cambridge’s Certificate of English Language Teaching to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA). He has 3+ years of industry experience in design and 5+ years of education experience. An artist at heart, nature lover, and avid traveler, you can find Thomas often on top of mountains doodling the scenery and landscapes in the distance.

EARLY YEARS 4-5 LEARNING DESIGNER

Chandler Audette

EARLY YEARS 4-5 LEARNING DESIGNER

Chandler Audette

Chandler Audette (Cha Cha), our EY4-5 Learning Designer from the US, has been an Early Years educator for the past six years, beginning her career shortly after graduating from the University of Hawaii. She has experience teaching students from 1-6 years old. 

As an educator, she has a passion for child development and enriching the minds of little learners through play-based learning, student agency, and mindful experiences. 

Cha Cha puts a strong emphasis on forming positive relationships with her students, teaching team, and the parents of her students, as she believes that it is essential in creating a learning environment and community, where students feel valued and confident enough to take risks and be their authentic selves! 

She was born and raised in the small town of Washougal, WA. She grew up on a cattle ranch in the Columbia Gorge, which cultivated her passion for community and the outdoors, both of which are present inside and outside of the classroom. She believes learning happens through experiences.

As a designer, she focuses on designing stimulating environments and provocations, both indoors and outdoors, giving learners the freedom to explore and discover their own passions and interests, and of course the power to connect with and contribute to their community.

PERFORMING ARTS AND MUSIC PROJECT LEARNING DESIGNER

Graham Baines

PERFORMING ARTS AND MUSIC PROJECT LEARNING DESIGNER

Graham Baines

Graham Baines, our  Performing Arts and Music Project Learning Designer, is a passionate educator who has worked internationally for almost 20 years. Music has always been a big part of his life and he’s been playing the drums for many years, in many bands, as well as composing, mixing and mastering electronic music for most of his adult life. He has worked on solo tracks and collaborated with people from all over the world on a variety of projects, including a collaboration that topped the BBC Radio 1 online charts. Graham has been on a mission to revolutionize the way we teach and learn performing arts through individual inquiries and the promotion of learner agency. This was inspired by his experience facilitating the ‘PYPx’. He has been sharing the joy through Twitter, as well as presenting the vision at the East Asia Regional Council of Schools(EARCOS) conference held in Bangkok in 2019. Graham recently has spent time in Melbourne, Australia,  to assist a PYP school in re-imagining their performing arts program. Before moving to Bangkok, Graham taught at Vientiane International School  in Laos.

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Yupawan Baines

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Yupawan Baines

Yupawan Baines (Coco), our Early Years Learning Assistant, is passionate about teaching arts and crafts to learners.

She taught at Vientiane International School in Laos for 7 years and was also a  substitute teacher throughout the school. Prior to that she worked in government administration in Thailand. 

Coco has a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business from Ramkhamhaeng University, a Master’s Degree in English for Career, and a TESOL certificate from Thammasat University. 

STUDENT SUCCESS LEAD DESIGNER

Sapphira Beaudin

STUDENT SUCCESS LEAD DESIGNER

Sapphira Beaudin

Our Student Success Lead Designer, Sapphira Beaudin, is Thai-Indonesian and grew up in an international school in Bangkok.  She is married to a French-Canadian , raising 2  active and adventurous daughters in a multicultural family.

Sapphira has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Family & Social Relations from University of Windsor, Canada and a Master of Science in Counselling Psychology from Assumption University, Thailand. After 16 years of school counseling, she is a firm believer in encouraging student autonomy, competence and connectedness to find a balanced, sense of direction using growth mindset and inquiry-based learning strategies.

Sapphira is an avid rock climber and loves spending time in the great outdoors hiking, diving, kayaking, and surfing.

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER SCIENCE SPECIALIST

Matthew Bonnell 

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER SCIENCE SPECIALIST

Matthew Bonnell 

Matthew Bonnell is from the United Kingdom and has is a  learning designer focusing on all that is STEM education. He has taught Science, Mathematics, Computing, Robotics & Design Technology at schools across the globe. He has  experience in developing the curriculum and leading a team to deliver a project based learning approach at a school in Bangkok. He has created National events like the VEX robotics tournaments in Thailand and has a real passion for anything creative, making or tinkering.

Matthew has a Bachelor's degree in Control Systems Engineering from University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, and a PGCE teacher qualification from Cardiff Metropolitan University. He taught for over 12 years in schools.

With a passion for creativity, Matthew loves to spend time composing, and working in the studio as a producer to create music. He can play many instruments including the piano, guitar, clarinet, drums, and ukulele. He also has a strong sense of adventure, and loves going trekking, cycling, climbing, camping, and often spends his holidays on multi day adventures with friends and family. He also has a two-year-old daughter who keeps him pretty busy!

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER SCIENCE SPECIALIST

Joseph Brown

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER SCIENCE SPECIALIST

Joseph Brown

Our 9-12 Cohort Learning Designer Joseph Brown has been evolving his  understanding of content delivery and classroom environment for 9 years with 14 years of coaching athletics in the United States. He previously spent 4-years  in China building a STEM program and growing his academic leadership. During this time, his understanding has evolved towards patterns, parallels, and connections.

No matter the scenario, music, sports, or academic performance, there are skills used that transcend and can be used for future success. Risk-taking and perseverance can provide learning opportunities, and reflection can be an effective way to articulate the growth made and determine the next steps to continue one's personal journey. 

Students are capable of achieving more than they can imagine, says Joe, who is excited to be at VERSO because "together we can cultivate an environment that guides and supports personal voice and choice so all students can reach their full potential."

C3-4 LEARNING DESIGNER

Ronen Cohen

C3-4 LEARNING DESIGNER

Ronen Cohen

Ronen Cohen, our C3-4 Learning Designer, is originally from Jerusalem, Israel. He loves playing with technology and making all kinds of things. He believes that kids learn best when they feel safe and are treated with respect and kindness; when they understand what is expected of them and can use their strengths and interests to envision and create; when they have a say and a choice in what they learn; and, when they feel a part of a community. There's no better place to build such a community than at VERSO!

Ronen has 17 years of teaching experience in the lower school level, a BA in Elementary Education, an MA in Educational Technology, and certifications in Talented and Gifted Education and School Makerspaces.  He is also a Google for Education Trainer and an Apple Teacher.

Ronen has been traveling, teaching and living abroad since 1999 (in Taiwan, Thailand, USA, Ghana, India, Ethiopia, and Tanzania).

WELL-BEING LEARNING DESIGNER

Shanna Comerford

WELL-BEING LEARNING DESIGNER

Shanna Comerford

Our Well-being  Learning Designer Shanna Comerford is from New Zealand and has been teaching for 17 years in the UK, Qatar, China, Egypt, and Vietnam.

She understands living a healthy and balanced lifestyle is imperative and aims to inspire others to lead active lives and develop skills to support a healthy lifestyle. She understands that well-being is not just about physical health, but encompasses the personal, social, and emotional aspects of a person's life, and wants to guide students on this journey.

She is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment that promotes well-being and sets VERSO learners up with healthy habits and coping mechanisms as they become young adults, and beyond their schooling
adventure. 

Shanna is also an experienced curator of student-led exhibitions and has a wide range of interests and passions including sports, music, and enjoys long walks with her dog.

ATHLETICS DIRECTOR

Garrett Cutler 

ATHLETICS DIRECTOR

Garrett Cutler 

Garrett Cutler is our Athletics Director. Originally, from New York, USA, this is his 11th year teaching abroad.  He started his teaching career in East Hampton, NY, USA for 5 years.  He then moved to Phuket where he taught for 5  years before teaching in Bali, Indonesia for the 3 years at Green School.  

Garrett’s favorite part about being an educator is showing students how to be passionate about having a healthy lifestyle.  He feels that there is nothing better than being able to help someone discover a love of physical activity in their own way.

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER MATH SPECIALIST

Michael Delfino 

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER MATH SPECIALIST

Michael Delfino 

Before teaching, our 9-12 Cohort Learning Designer Michael Delfino worked as a firmware engineer. He has a BS and MS degree in Computer Science from the University of Kentucky and Georgia Tech, and a Master’s in Secondary Math Education. He has taught in Kentucky, Bangkok, and New Delhi.

Since he got into teaching, he’s wanted to do things differently. The first school where he taught was centered around project-based and experiential learning. He loves collaborating with other educators to break down perceived walls between subjects and is a big proponent of having students engage in authentic work, bringing guests into the classroom and getting kids out into the community as much as possible. Most recently, he was teaching IB Computer Science and while he gained valuable experience, he’s happy to be joining a school where he’ll be able to iterate on his approach to teaching and learning in an environment that embraces design thinking and experimentation.

Michael is originally from Louisville, Kentucky and has two children, ages 10 and 12 years and enjoys reading, writing, swimming, guitar, board games, and playing and developing his own video games. When he was making the transition from an engineer to a teacher, he got into performing stand up comedy as a way to get comfortable performing for crowds.

COHORT 7-8 LEARNING DESIGNER

Alan Dexter

COHORT 7-8 LEARNING DESIGNER

Alan Dexter

Alan Dexter is our Cohort 7-8 Learning Designer who has been teaching science and technology in Thailand for the last 8 years. During this time, he has been developing learning experiences based on STEM, gamification and inquiry-based learning.  He has experience with Singaporean, Thai, American, and British curriculums and has taught ages 10 to 18. years. For the past 3 years, he has been teaching IB Physics and Design Technology using project-based learning, focusing on robotics and coding. 

He has also helped run Thailand's regional VEX IQ robotics competition for the last 2 years. 

Dex believes what makes teachers great is a passion for their craft. Passion and enthusiasm in the classroom are infectious. He is excited to join VERSO, sharing his love for science and technology with his students and colleagues.

Dex graduated from Kingston University, Surrey in the UK in 2010 and, during this time, took part in a placement abroad carrying out lab-based research, some of which has been published in a scientific journal.  After gaining management and teaching experiences he went on to complete his Qualified Teacher Status. 

When Dex is not taking apart household devices and blasting water rockets onto roofs, he has a long list of activities he likes to engage in: long-distance cycle touring, powerlifting, running marathons, climbing, boxing, ice skating, diving, freediving and climbing mountains.  He is constantly bullied by his two rescue dogs, who he has allowed to develop the bad habit of waking him at 4am in the hopes of receiving a snack.

C3-4 LEARNING DESIGNER

Sarah Donaldson

C3-4 LEARNING DESIGNER

Sarah Donaldson

Sarah Donaldson, our C3-4 Learning Designer, is from Canada and has been in education as a teacher, instructional coach, and associate principal for 23 years. She holds a Master's degree in Education in Literacy and a Bachelor of Education degree in Primary and Junior Education (K-6) from Nipissing University, Canada, and a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) degree in Educational Psychology from Wilfrid Laurier University, Canada.

 

Sarah has taught in Brazil, Canada, and South Korea. She is a strong believer that young people have the ability to make our world a better place and that all  learners deserve to belong in their learning spaces and feel valued and loved for who they are. When learners truly know they belong as their authentic selves, they can reach their social and academic potential and support others in doing so as well, she adds.

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER CREATIVE ARTS SPECIALIST

Gideon Doron

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER CREATIVE ARTS SPECIALIST

Gideon Doron

After graduating from the University of Southeastern Philippines with a Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, our 9-12 Cohort Creative Arts Specialist Gideon Doron began working as a web developer and graphic designer for a US-based business solution company. He worked his way up from there, progressively pursuing his passion for art education. He taught secondary art and coached students for competitions before relocating to Thailand. He also volunteered as a core member for the Davao Graphic Designers Community, where they organized events to nurture and showcase their local artists and designers' talents.

He has also worked as an Art and Design teacher and department head at an international school in Bangkok. He is now pursuing a Master's Degree in Education, majoring in Arts Management. Learning and sharing diverse arts, cultures, and stories and promoting them through visual arts bring him great joy and he is excited to do the same thing with VERSO students.

EARLY YEARS 2-3 LEARNING DESIGNER & EARLY YEARS COHORT LEADER

Nicholas Garvin

EARLY YEARS 2-3 LEARNING DESIGNER & EARLY YEARS COHORT LEADER

Nicholas Garvin

Nicholas Garvin (Nick) is our Early Years 2-3 Learning Designer and Early Years Cohort Leader who has worked in six of the seven countries he has lived.

Nick has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Walsh University, Ohio, USA and an associate degree specializing in Early Childhood Education from Stark State College, USA. He is also a Google Certified Trainer and a Google Certified Educator : Level 1 & 2, a Common Sense Media Certified Educator and an Apple Certified Teacher w/ Swift Code Certification.

An adventure-seeker, Nick has gone shark diving in South Africa, bungee jumping in Cyprus, and skydiving in the US. He attributes his career in education to his grandfather.

COHORT 5-6 LEARNING DESIGNER

Arthur Hall

COHORT 5-6 LEARNING DESIGNER

Arthur Hall

Arthur Hall, our C5-6  Learning Designer is from United States and has taught in international schools in Thailand and Myanmar, and an elementary school in New Zealand. 

In his previous school, he was responsible for creating English language arts, math, science, and social studies lessons following the AERO (American Education Reaches Out) standards and using units of inquiry to support an interdisciplinary, project-based learning approach.

Arthur holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Indiana University, USA and a Cross Cultural, Language and Academic Development Certificate from Stanford University.

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER HUMANITIES SPECIALIST

Yi Lin Huang

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER HUMANITIES SPECIALIST

Yi Lin Huang

Yi Lin Huang brings her Social Science background and her passion to work with adolescents and young adults to VERSO. 

Her journey began in 2015, when she volunteered to teach refugee children and youth in Bangkok. Since then, she has led undergraduate student leaders at the University of British Columbia (UBC) to advocate for issues on human rights and discrimination. She has also facilitated language workshops for newly resettled immigrant families in Canada. From her experience working with various socioeconomic and cultural populations, she believes that empathic and resilient mindsets are crucial for adolescents to thrive as global citizens.

As a third-culture individual, she is committed to nurturing learners by developing their empathy and resilience to thrive in our multicultural, rapidly changing world.

Yi Lin is Hong Kong-Taiwanese and completed her MSc in Public Policy at the University of Edinburgh and her BA in Sociology & Psychology from the University of British Columbia (UBC).  

COHORT 7-8 LEARNING DESIGNER

Dan Hyman

COHORT 7-8 LEARNING DESIGNER

Dan Hyman

Dan Hyman, is our Cohort 7-8 Learning Designer for STEM. He is passionate about science, engineering, design and technology,  and maths.

He has been an Education Leader working in international schools for 6 years, and before that as a high school physics teacher in a large leading UK independent school.

Dan has a MSc in aerodynamics and BSc in physics and space science, and has worked extensively in this industry, supporting engineering and manufacturing companies in the UK and Europe.

Dan lives with his family (his wife, 2 daughters, and 2 lovely dogs) in Bang Kaeo, and loves travelling extensively in Thailand and beyond.

He enjoys reading, riding his Honda Rebel motorcycle, climbing, biking, playing football, having a round of golf, or eating in the huge variety of amazing places in Bangkok!

LOWER LOOP LEADER

Cushla Jones

LOWER LOOP LEADER

Cushla Jones

Cushla Jones,  is our Lower Loop Leader.

As well as being a Deputy Principal in her home country of New Zealand, Mrs. Jones has held leadership roles as a Curriculum Coordinator, Elementary Assistant Principal and Head of Lower School. In addition to working in New Zealand she has also worked in China and Japan.

She served the Marist Brothers International School in Kobe for 8 years and was the former Elementary Assistant Principal at St. Mary’s International School in Tokyo prior to joining VERSO. 

Mrs. Jones holds a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) from the University of Waikato in New Zealand, and a Masters in Educational Leadership and Change from The Education University of Hong Kong.

She has a strong background in instructional leadership, curriculum development and helping teachers grow professionally.

CHINESE LANGUAGE LEARNING DESIGNER

Clover Lin

CHINESE LANGUAGE LEARNING DESIGNER

Clover Lin

Clover is a fully qualified teacher of Chinese and English, with experience as a Chinese Immersion Homeroom Teacher at an international school in China, and most recently as a Teacher of Chinese at a school in Bangkok.

Clover holds a Master's degree in Teaching Multilingual Learners from Moreland University, USA, as well as a Bachelor of Business English from Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, China.

She enjoys trekking, rock climbing, and playing volleyball and tennis.

COHORT 1-2 LEARNING DESIGNER

Maheshika Mackenzie-Baker

COHORT 1-2 LEARNING DESIGNER

Maheshika Mackenzie-Baker

Maheshika Mackenzie-Baker (Myshi), our C1-2 Learning Designer, is a passionate educator with 12 years of experience working with children.

She holds a degree and Masters in Psychology, specializing in Child Development, from the University of Dundee. Her dissertation research was published as the first study of its kind. Myshi's research also led her to explore the impact of adults on children's lives, inspiring her to become a teacher.

Originally from Sri Lanka and Scotland, Myshi and her husband moved to Thailand in 2012. She obtained her postgraduate degree in Education from the University of Nottingham in 2015 and spent 6 years as the Early Years coordinator at a prestigious IB school in Bangkok. While her passion started with early years children, she now enjoys working with older learners in lower primary.

Beyond teaching, Myshi is a devoted mother of two and embraces life to the fullest. She loves spending time with her family, taking on fitness challenges, and exploring the diverse offerings of Bangkok.

Myshi believes in trying new things and visiting new places. She is thrilled to be part of the VERSO team and fully supports its mission, vision, and values.

DIRECTOR OF EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION AND DATA PROTECTION OFFICER

Dr. Rolly Maiquez

DIRECTOR OF EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION AND DATA PROTECTION OFFICER

Dr. Rolly Maiquez

Dr. Rolly Maiquez is our Director of Educational Technology & Innovation and Data Protection Officer tasked with leading, planning and implementing the educational and operations technology at VERSO. 

Rolly holds a Doctorate in Education, a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology, and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. He is also an Apple Distinguished Educator (class of 2010) and is involved with VEX Robotics.

Rolly believes in the affordances that technology can potentially provide in the educational setting. He is involved in several projects around the school to help improve and streamline educational general operations. He hopes A.I. could do more to help in tasks and add more fun in the process.

Hidden talent: He can play the keyboard and his original composition was selected for the South Pacific Games in Guam in 1998.

EARLY YEARS 4-5 LEARNING DESIGNER

Joleen Manning

EARLY YEARS 4-5 LEARNING DESIGNER

Joleen Manning

Joleen Manning, our Early Years 4-5 Learning Designer, is from the east coast of Canada but has been living in Asia and working in education for over 2 decades.

She believes that the magic formula for children's education are child-centered discovery activities that encourage collaborative work, with time for guided reflection to enable learners to connect with their own learning.

She began her journey in education teaching ESL in Indonesia before moving to China where she completed a postgraduate in TESOL and traveled around Asia delivering teacher training programs for various UK educational publishers.

Joleen has had experience teaching all ages of learners, from nursery to adults and, after completing her Master of Education in 2015, has been teaching primary years in international schools in China and Thailand.

Joleen loves to create; with fabric, paint or reclaimed items and in her free time is frequently covered in bits of fabric and thread.

UPPER LOOP CAREER AND UNIVERSITY GUIDANCE COUNSELOR

Greg Mason

UPPER LOOP CAREER AND UNIVERSITY GUIDANCE COUNSELOR

Greg Mason

Greg Mason, our Upper Loop Career and University Guidance Counselor, is from the United States and holds a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Counseling Psychology, a Master's degree in Social Work and a Bachelor of Science degree in Child Development. 

Prior to joining VERSO, he spent 7 years as a University and Career Counselor at an international School in China, where he created and maintained a comprehensive college counseling program for students and families and served as a member of the secondary leadership team.

His professional journey began as a therapist and social worker before becoming a college counselor in China and Japan. He has created and taught a personal health curriculum to sophomores, and developed evening and after school events related to university admissions, parenting education, and 21st century skills.

He describes himself as a lifelong learner and that his top VIA (Values in Action) character traits are honesty, fairness, and judgment. He has a soft spot for ice cream, enjoys workout videos on YouTube, tiny house living, stressing over the stock market, and consumes a large amount of true crime media!

He believes that there is a right university fit for all students, and his goal is to inspire our learners to be an advocate for their future selves. 

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER CREATIVE ARTS SPECIALIST

Joseph Mercurio

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER CREATIVE ARTS SPECIALIST

Joseph Mercurio

Our 9-12 Cohort  Learning Designer Joseph Mercurio was born in Melbourne, Australia and raised in Fremantle, Western Australia. When he was in China, he taught Production Arts (Technical Theater), Personal and Professional Skills in the Career related Pathway program and managed all events at Western International School Shanghai,  campus as Theatre Technical Manager.  

Joseph has a BA in Performing Arts and a Masters of Education.  He designed, developed and delivered a three year undergraduate program for the Victorian College of the Arts at the University of Melbourne.  He was awarded the 2016 Faculty Teaching Award for his innovative student focused technology centered teaching practice from the VCA University of Melbourne.

His belief in creativity, communication, and creative problem solving combines with the knowledge that every person has a superpower and unlocking that creative potential will allow students to flourish.

Joseph has worked and travelled across the world as both an educator and professional lighting designer/technical director.  He is also a passionate cook with a devotion for pizza, focaccia, and sourdough (among other food).

With over 15 years of teaching experience including Adult workshops, Secondary, Vocational, and University, Joseph brings a diverse range of knowledge to VERSO.

EARLY YEARS 3 LEARNING DESIGNER

James Murphy

EARLY YEARS 3 LEARNING DESIGNER

James Murphy

James Murphy, our Early Years 3 Learning Designer, is from the United States. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Temple University College of Education and Human Development , Pennsylvannia.

James has been working as an international educator for seventeen years in Bangkok and most recently at The Western International School of Shanghai.

James believes that learning should be fun and is an advocate for play-based learning and student agency. James is excited to be a new member of the VERSO community and is so happy to be back in Thailand again!

James considers himself a global citizen and loves to travel and see the world every chance he gets.

Fun Fact: James has visited 45 countries so far and still has many more to visit on his bucket list!

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER HUMANITIES SPECIALIST

Christina Nagle

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER HUMANITIES SPECIALIST

Christina Nagle

Christina Nagle (Chrissy) is our 9-12 Cohort Learning Designer Humanities Specialist. She spent four years as the Head of Humanities at a British curriculum school in Bangkok. Chrissy is a huge advocate for project-based learning, having worked as a multi-disciplinary teacher on two continents (so far) after gaining her BA in History from the University of Liverpool and a PGCE in Citizenship from the University of Leeds, United Kingdom.

Chrissy has spent her life as an educator, agitating for changes to the way humanities skills are developed in young learners and how these skills are valued by schools and employers. Chrissy believes her role is to prepare students to enter the world as rounded and passionate global citizens by helping them to develop the skills to ask the right questions about the world around them. 

As we live in a huge, interconnected web of systems that all affect one another, it only makes sense to help students to learn in a way that embraces that. Traditional teaching and exam-based assessment does not adequately prepare learners for life outside of the classroom. A big part of helping young people to make a difference in the world will be changing the way they are taught to understand it.  

C1-2 LEARNING DESIGNER

Jose O'Donovan

C1-2 LEARNING DESIGNER

Jose O'Donovan

Jose is half Irish and half Spanish and has lived in many different countries. When he was a child, he grew up in different countries in Africa and went to international schools before going to University in England.

He has worked in The Seychelles, Malaysia, and Thailand. He believes that learning should always be fun and enjoys learning alongside his students.  He loves integrating technology in education and inspiring students to be as creative as possible.

Jose is also a Seesaw Certified Educator and an Apple Distinguished Educator. His passion for educational technology has led him to lead technology in a number of schools as well as work as a technology coach.

THAI LANGUAGE PROJECT LEARNING DESIGNER

Pattawan Panchai

THAI LANGUAGE PROJECT LEARNING DESIGNER

Pattawan Panchai

Pattawan Panchai (Pat) is our Thai Language Project Learning Designer Pattawan Panchai with 8 years of teaching experience. She was a volunteer teacher at Wat Thai in Los Angeles, USA, before she began teaching in international schools. Pat grew up in Northeast Thailand and loves spicy food, Mor Lum (Northeastern-style music) and is fluent in the Isan language. Pat has a Bachelor of Education in Thai language and Counseling Psychology and Guidance from Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. She loves teaching, is interested in cultures, enjoys collaborating, and believes in lifelong learning. She enjoys traveling, reading books, practicing Muay Thai, and feeding stray animals.

STUDENT SUCCESS LEARNING DESIGNER (EAL - Middle Loop)

Maria Pannakan

STUDENT SUCCESS LEARNING DESIGNER (EAL - Middle Loop)

Maria Pannakan

Maria Pannakan is our Student Success Learning Designer (EAL-Middle Loop) who has lived and worked in Thailand for almost 25 years. She fell in love with the calm attitude of the Thai people as well as a warm life under the sun. During this time, she worked in international schools supporting learners to develop language and content skills. She is passionate about multilingual language development and considers the learners’ languages and cultures as a valuable resource.  Maria has a Bachelor of Laws Degree from the University of East London, and a Graduate Diploma in Elementary Education from The College of New Jersey.  Prior to joining VERSO, Maria worked in an international school in Malaysia, where she supported students to develop language skills through an inquiry based curriculum.  She loves to support students taking action and ignite their curiosity to find their own passions.  Maria speaks Thai and enjoys supporting animal welfare in Asia, especially elephants and local animal rescue shelters.  She is a mother to two young adults and a few dogs and cats!  She loves playing games, kayaking and snorkeling around Thailand's beautiful islands.

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Ryan Persaud

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Ryan Persaud

Ryan Persaud, our Head of School,  has over twenty years of experience as a teacher, coach, and leader in international schools.

 

He began his professional career as an ESL/EAL teacher in South Korea in 2000 before returning to Canada to obtain his teaching credentials. Ryan was the Instructional Program Leader (K-12) at Halton District School Board, Canada, where he coached and facilitated the professional development for K-12 staff on creating inquiry-based lessons and units of study with a DEIJ (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice) lens. 

 

In 2014, he returned to Korea International School in Seoul, as a classroom teacher before quickly being promoted to the role of Assistant Director of Teaching and Learning where he developed school wide systems, such as the Assessment Policy and the Climate and Culture Policy and created a Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Cycle to guide professional learning and standardize curriculum review. Ryan also worked with a variety of grade level and department teams around developing transdisciplinary units of study within a project based learning framework.

 

In 2018, he joined the International School of Curitiba in Brazil as the Director of IT and Innovation where he planned, designed, and implemented a Design and Innovation Center, a new Student Information System, a new Learning Management System, and a new Admissions System. He also developed his team's expertise in Stanford's Design Thinking Framework. In 2020-2021, Ryan took on the role as interim Head of School and facilitated the development of the school's strategic plan for 2022-2027.

 

Ryan completed his education in Ontario, Canada. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier University, a Bachelors of Education and a Master's degree in Education from the University of Toronto, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership degree from the University of Western Ontario.

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Vorapitcha Petcharanont

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Vorapitcha Petcharanont

Vorapitcha Petcharanont (Nungning) our Learning Assistant, graduated from Silpakorn University's Faculty of Arts, with a  major in Japanese and a minor in English. She started her career as a childcare coordinator at Club Med Phuket where she discovered her  passion for working with kids.

She also became a teacher assistant at “Khu Khanan parallel hybrid homeschool”, where she learned about project-based learning and child development. 

Nungning loves traveling, swimming, and yoga.

STUDENT SUCCESS LEARNING DESIGNER

Wit Pilunthanakul

STUDENT SUCCESS LEARNING DESIGNER

Wit Pilunthanakul

Wit Pilunthanakul is our  Student Success Learning Designer  and has worked as an international Learning Support Teacher in Australia and Thailand for more than 10 years. A true third culture kid who found a passion for supporting individuals with educational needs,  Wit believes in the concept of education for the future, the idea that the walls of any classroom do not confine education. Instead, the purpose that students learn in interdisciplinary project-based learning inspires creativity, individuality, and confidence.

Wit has a Bachelor of Science in Neuropsychology from the University of Westminster in London, UK, and a master’s degree in Teaching (Secondary) specializing in Gifted Education from the University of Melbourne, Australia. He is also a certified Management of Actual or Potential Aggression (MAPA) trainer from the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI), UK. 

Wit has created, designed and piloted an Alternative Day Class Program, which is a uniquely crafted program designed for children and young people with different abilities who are better served by learning within the framework of a mostly individualized program.  Wit has a strong passion for 21st century tech or aka Mr. Gadget.

He loves to travel with his family and be exposed to historical architectural design. He enjoys water sports, motorsports, and obstacle sports.

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Warunee Premo

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Warunee Premo

Warunee Premo (Amy), Middle Loop's Learning Assistant who also supports the Visual Arts program,  is a multi-disciplined educator with experiences in design, communications, and education.

She started her career at British Council Thailand where she grew from teaching assistant to managing the company’s relationships with stakeholders and supporting operational teams in five partner schools across Thailand.

She then joined a creative industry at an American non-profit organization where she designed marketing materials and managed advertisement campaigns, branding, print publications, and communications. The role gave her opportunities to support Thailand’s education through raising funds for the underprivileged student scholarships program which brought her back into the education industry.

Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, a Certificate of Traditional Arts and Crafts in Sculpture, a Diploma of Fine Arts, a Diploma of Craftsmanship in Clay Flowers Making, and a Certificate of Art and Inquiry Teaching by MoMA.

Amy is a mother of two beautiful teenagers who are raised with love and taught to respect who they are. She enjoys spending her free time with her children, making a mess trying to build something, learning, gaming, or just embodying a cat mom.

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER MATH SPECIALIST

Dr. Heidi Rhodes

COHORT 9-12 LEARNING DESIGNER MATH SPECIALIST

Dr. Heidi Rhodes

Our 9-12 Cohort Learning Designer Math Specialist Dr. Heidi Rhodes, is from Washington, USA. She  previously taught in Guangzhou, China, and has a strong background in mathematics instruction, educational leadership, and curriculum and instruction. Heidi likes to say that she became a teacher in grade 9 when her Algebra teacher helped her to understand what it meant to really learn - to ask questions, seek connections, find patterns, and justify reasoning with evidence. When she tutored her friends, she realized that much of her education was about reciting answers rather than developing understanding. Her entire career as a teacher, instructional coach, mathematics and learning specialist, and curriculum coordinator has been centered on furthering her own understanding of what learning entails and working with adults and students to do the same.

Heidi demonstrates lifelong learning, earning her Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, a Master’s degree in curriculum and instruction with educational leadership credentials, and a PhD in mathematics and science education. 

When she isn’t working or studying, she loves to quilt and knit, spend time in nature, and  travel. Heidi is married with two grown children. Having lived in China three times since 1988, she and her husband are very excited to be moving to Thailand and to be working at a school that is as passionate about providing real learning experiences for kids and adults as she is.

EY4-5 LEARNING DESIGNER

Maria Ruiz

EY4-5 LEARNING DESIGNER

Maria Ruiz

Maria is from Spain but has been living overseas for the last ten years. She believes learning should always be fun, engaging, and child centered. She is passionate about integrating technology in the classroom and STEAM-based projects.

Maria has a degree in Marine Biology and a postgraduate certificate in education. She has taught in Early Years and Primary classes in four different international schools in Seychelles, Malaysia, and Thailand.  She has had the unique opportunity to lead the technology department in some of her previous schools as well as to create maker spaces for the kids to enjoy and get creative.

Maria loves diving and snorkeling as well as spending time at the beach with her family, making sand castles with her two sons, and paddle boarding!

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Emi Sekiguchi

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Emi Sekiguchi

Emi Sekiguchi is our Learning Assistant with over 10 years of teaching English and Japanese. She has a bachelor’s degree in Social Welfare from Tohoku Fukushi University in Sendai, Japan and a TTCE (Teaching To Children English) program certificate from King George International College in Vancouver, Canada. She has also taught in an online  English school for 2 years. Emi grew up in Bangkok and appreciates the generous and caring nature of the Thai people. She is glad to be back to her second home with her family. She has two daughters joining VERSO and loves to spend her time with them doing exercises, singing and cooking.

STUDENT SUCCESS LEARNING DESIGNER (EAL-LOWER LOOP)

Munira Tejpar

STUDENT SUCCESS LEARNING DESIGNER (EAL-LOWER LOOP)

Munira Tejpar

Munira Tejpar is our Student Success Learning Designer (EAL-Lower Loop). Born and raised in Kenya, Munira started her teaching career in 2013 at an IB world school in Mombasa, Kenya where she taught grade 1 through the school's bilingual language program. After Kenya, she taught in Vietnam, Laos, and Bangkok.

Munira holds a Bachelor in Education from the University of South Africa. She believes in developing strong connections with her learners as when they feel seen, heard and valued regardless of their language background, learners thrive!

Munira is passionate about equipping her learners with the critical thinking and language skills necessary to flourish in our ever changing world, preparing them to be global citizens who appreciate and embrace diversity.

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Ezra Thampraporn

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Ezra Thampraporn

Ezra Thampraporn our  Early Years Learning Assistant has been working as a teacher assistant for the past 13 years in several schools.  She holds a bachelor’s degree in Education, majoring in Early Childhood, from Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok.  She is interested in innovative teaching techniques, enjoys traveling and jewelry designing.

COHORT 5-6 LEARNING DESIGNER

Traci Toothman

COHORT 5-6 LEARNING DESIGNER

Traci Toothman

Traci Toothman, our Middle Loop Learning Designer, is an experienced International Educator who believes in the power of service learning, community involvement, and sustainability.

She is passionate about education technology and innovation that ensures people and nature thrive.

She is a lifelong learner who has an MEd in International Education, a PGDE in Global Teachers Studies, an IB PYP Educator Certificate, a BA in International Studies-Japanese, and is a SENIA Certified Educator.

Traci is an avid traveler who loves culture, language, and healthy food. You are likely to see her around talking about her fabulous daughter, swimming, doing pilates, or drinking matcha!

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Ha Trinh

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Ha Trinh

A volunteering experience at a local art center in Hanoi, Vietnam  saw Ha Trinh, our Learning Assistant,  change her career from finance and banking to education. Working at a risk center in an art center, Ha was inspired to help people discover things about themselves that they had not known. She strongly believes that at VERSO, the sky's the limit for anyone who wants to do something different in education. Ha has a BA in International Finance and Banking from Foreign Trade University, Vietnam and a MA in Multidisciplinary Studies/ International Learning Styles, with a focus on Social Emotional Studies from the State University of New York, USA. Ha also holds a  Mindfulness Teaching Certification from Mindful Schools, CA, USA.

UPPER LOOP LEADER

Jarret Voytilla

UPPER LOOP LEADER

Jarret Voytilla

Jarret Voytilla, or J, is our Upper Loop Leader who began his teaching career in the Sciences, and slowly over time transitioned into the realm of Humanities. In 2011, he made a life-changing decision, and joined Think Global School, a nonprofit globally traveling boarding school. He spent the next 9 years homeless and exploring the wonders of the world, as well as the possibilities of what a school could be when learning is unfettered from the constraints of physical walls and standardization. The Think Global odyssey helped shape him to become a versatile, flexible, and innovative educator and a compassionate and empathetic human.

After serving for over a decade in the IBDP world, he considers himself to be a transformed educator whose purpose is to advocate for the evolution of education into something personalized, relevant, and authentic. In an interconnected world of easily accessible artifacts of knowledge, he believes that one's academic success is no longer a reflection of what information one is able to consume, memorize and repeat. The skillsets of knowledge application, collaboration and evaluation are what our children truly need for tackling the new challenges and complexities that will arise in their future.

That is why he joined the team here at VERSO.

J holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Alberta, Canada, a Postgraduate Certificate Education (International) and a Masters of Arts  in Education from Nottingham University.

MIDDLE LOOP LEADER

Chad Walsh

MIDDLE LOOP LEADER

Chad Walsh

Chad Walsh, our Middle Loop Leader, is an experienced international educator. After completing his degree and teaching in Australia, he has spent the last 20 years working as a teacher and administrator across the globe with positions in Australia, Europe, Africa,  and Asia. Up to now he has held teaching and leadership positions in 7 different countries. This is his second time in Bangkok. His educational philosophy has been influenced by strong pedagogical mentors that he still connects with from time to time.

Chad embraces new opportunities for learning, reflection and growth. His passion as an educator lies in developing connected and meaningful relationships.  

Chad believes learning should be inclusive, flexible, challenging, and fun.  He believes that  our role as educators is to inspire and empower learners to explore and discover who they are by providing them with authentic experiences. He believes that promoting a culture where students learn to struggle, fail, and make mistakes is essential. 

Chad is excited to gear up for year 2 at VERSO and build a school where there is a rich and rewarding culture of collaboration among colleagues and learners. That way, learning at VERSO can be vibrant, meaningful, and relevant for everyone

THAI LANGUAGE PROJECT LEARNING DESIGNER

Joe Watcharachotewisit

THAI LANGUAGE PROJECT LEARNING DESIGNER

Joe Watcharachotewisit

Joe Watcharachotewisit is our Thai Language Project Learning Designer with 20 years of teaching experience. Extremely knowledgeable in Thai culture and the traditional ceremonies,  Joe has organized and supported countless Thai traditional events in international schools where he previously taught. Joe completed his Bachelor of Education from Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok. He loves to encourage learners to take pride in their language and to share with them lifelong learning experiences. Joe loves playing golf with his friends, cooking Thai food and is an avid fan of MasterChef

EARLY YEARS 2-3 LEARNING DESIGNER & COHORT 1-4 LEADER

Emma Weston

EARLY YEARS 2-3 LEARNING DESIGNER & COHORT 1-4 LEADER

Emma Weston

Our  Early Years 2-3 Learning Designer and Cohort 1-4 Leader Emma Weston has taught children ages 2-14 years in  London, Taipei and Bangkok and has a strong understanding of child development, knowing where the children are going and where they have come from.

A passion for developing teachers to be the best they can be has followed Emma throughout her career. This began with her setting up an Early Years Network group in London where teachers were invited to join and host different workshops. Emma has also presented in a Foundation Stage JAWS workshop in Indonesia and hosted teacher CPD (Continuing Professional Development) in Bangkok alongside Early Excellence. 

Originally from the UK, Emma attended the only university in the world to offer Citizenship alongside Primary Education as a BA degree, which allowed her to continue to place character education at the heart of her practice. 

In her spare time, Emma loves spending time with her two children and husband in the jungle, trekking and camping under the stars.

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Sunantha Wongchaiya

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Sunantha Wongchaiya

Sunantha Wonchaiya (Muay), is the Early Years 4-5 Learning Assistant.

She describes herself as a  lifelong learner, always learning together with the children especially in arts.

Muay graduated from Ramkhamhaeng University's Faculty for Arts, with a major in Mass Communication and a minor in Political Science.

She has been in the field of education for 3 years now and is  happy and excited for what happens each day.

She loves cooking, traveling, and watching Korean movies and  spends her free time reorganizing her home from time to time.

 

CHINESE LANGUAGE PROJECT LEARNING DESIGNER

Jack Zhao

CHINESE LANGUAGE PROJECT LEARNING DESIGNER

Jack Zhao

Jack Zhao is our Chinese Language Project Learning Designer with 18 years of teaching experience not only in Chinese, but also in other subjects such as English, Math, Social Studies and Science in kindergarten - grade 6, and Special Education Gifted Program.   

Jack has a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Western Ontario and a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Shanghai Jiaotong University.

He is passionate about language learning and loves to share his professional teaching pedagogies as well as his personal learning experience with students. 

As a global citizen who has travelled to or lived in more than 50 countries, Jack loves Thailand and the Thai people. Other than teaching, he loves playing soccer and tennis.

INTERESTED IN JOINING OUR TEAM? WE’RE ALWAYS ON THE LOOK OUT FOR INNOVATIVE EDUCATORS!