Specialist Faculty

English Specialist

I truly enjoy teaching. I discovered the value of teaching while watching students use their imagination, curiosity, and creativity to grow both academically as well as emotionally in the school environment. My goal is to provide quality opportunities for students to learn, cultivate their own intellect, and be motivated to apply the knowledge they gain in the classroom.It’s exciting as an educator to be associated with a school whose mission is to encourage children to be culturally aware and productive citizens in a diverse world. I’m honored to have colleagues from such rich backgrounds, and to be teaching students immersed in language.

English Specialist

I have always known I was born to be a teacher. Nothing brings me more satisfaction or inspiration than the vast potential children embody and their daily curiosities and accomplishments.I feel extremely fortunate to be a member of this community. Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” I am confident that the vision and values taught to students at The International School prepare children to become thoughtful, responsible members of a global society. Our future is in good hands.

English Specialist

I am excited to be teaching in a multilingual and multicultural school. After learning a second language and participating in a study abroad program, I found a passion for language and culture. Working at TIS allows me to teach in my native language while also supporting foreign language education. Each day, I find myself inspired by the children and families of the TIS community. I couldn’t ask for a more wonderful place to work!

Librarian Media Specialist

The part I like most about being a librarian is finding just the right book for a reluctant reader and seeing his or her eyes light up with excitement as he or she later recounts their favorite parts of the book to me. The very, very best part is when he or she asks for another book!I have fond memories of sitting in a small classroom in Sweden as an eighteen-year-old surrounded by classmates from Iran, Turkey, Britain, Chile, Canada, and other countries, as we as a group took on the task of learning the Swedish language. It was an exciting time for me. I continue to value this gift of a broader cultural awareness and understanding. Working at The International School is an exciting opportunity for me to combine my work as a librarian with my love of languages and other cultures.

Art Specialist (1st through 5th grades)

I enjoy working with others through art, inspiring them, nurturing creativity, and seeing my students excited about art. The process of creating art is very rewarding and therapeutic. Art enriches our lives in many ways, and sharing this process with others is necessary. I feel that art is an essential facet of any school curriculum.There are many aspects of TIS that I enjoy. The atmosphere is open, caring and accepting. The diversity of the community is refreshing and it feels like family. I particularly enjoy teaching the students here. They rise to meet the challenges put forth and demonstrate great talent and enthusiasm. It is a great pleasure to be at a school such as TIS.

Music Specialist

As a musician, one of the most rewarding and challenging jobs I can have is to help students learn, appreciate and perform music. It is wonderful working with teachers who truly enjoy teaching and are committed to providing an excellent education for the students.

Physical Education Specialist

The PE classes at TIS are usually between 12 and 19 students and run for a full 45 minutes. I believe these two factors are eminently important to the strong results I am seeing here at TIS.With a 45 minute class period, there exists ample time to physically condition children for increased strength, aerobic development, and agility, as well as provide a secure environment to develop small and large motor skills needed for various sports. I believe the PE environment includes socialization as well as citizenship, which I work to foster.Having three young daughters of my own enables me to combine the perspective of both teacher and parent in the classroom.The environment at TIS is wonderful. The small classes and support of the parents help make TIS a special place. The children continue to rise and meet new challenges with enthusiasm and effort.

Physical Education Specialist

I love those moments of discovery for students when they take something I had to offer as a teacher and makes it theirs. When I see how something is understood, I learn as a teacher.The International School is a thriving multicultural environment and it is interesting for me simply to be around people from so many different countries and backgrounds.

Art Specialist

I taught 6 to 8 year old children for 3 years in Cadiz. Afterwards, I decided to move to The International School in Portland, and now I’m enjoying being here! I like TIS because of the school’s diversity and the respect that is given to all the different cultures. It is a place where children can learn and smile at the same time - that is special!