Member Presenters

Explore how to authentically connect elementay classroom learning with dance and drama in this hands-on workshop. Engage your students by kinesthetically exploring and expressing key concepts through movement and performance. You'll leave with practical examples and strategies to integrate into your lessons, helping students deepen their understanding while having fun. Perfect for educators looking to bring creativity and active learning into their classroom!

Biography:

Sam Abernethy grew up immersed in dance, drama, and music, fueling her passion for the performing arts. After earning her degree in elementary education, she transitioned into specialty performing arts, dedicating the last 16 years to creating programs that engage elementary students through artistic expression. Sam's expertise lies in integrating dance, drama, and music into the classroom, helping students connect with learning in creative, meaningful ways.

We will explore the Universal Design for Learning framework, focusing on how it optimizes learning for all students. Participants will discover how UDL guidelines can reduce barriers by providing flexible approaches to curriculum and instructional design. We will examine practical strategies for implementing UDL principles, fostering inclusive learning environments, and improving student outcomes. Learn to create engaging, accessible content that supports diverse learners and promotes equitable educational experiences.

Biography:

I am an educator and lifelong learner, dedicated to having a positive impact on my learning community. Over the past sixteen years, I have taught a variety of elementary levels in six countries. I hold a B.A. in English Literature and an M.A. in Elementary Education. Committed to ongoing growth, I have a graduate Principal Certificate from The College of New Jersey and a certificate in Instructional Leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. I am passionate about cultivating a positive and caring learning environment that inspires and empowers all learners.

This workshop examines both different methods for delivering content in the classroom and provides you with take home materials that can be used the moment you return.  I’ll show you the Concept attainment and Picture-word inductive models, and a few constructivist learning techniques I’ve designed on my own.  All researched-based!  And while I have used them in the visual arts classroom, I’ll show you how they can be adapted to other subjects too.

Biography:

Devin Allen the teacher-artist-musician currently residing at Seoul Foreign School.  He’s developed teacher and learning strategies for art, TOK, design, ICT and more and employs them in the classroom himself.  Originally from Ohio, he’s spent his career in East Asia and North America, somehow taught himself Chinese and is a classroom teacher.

This workshop combines neuroscience, culturally responsive teaching, and Reggio Emilia principles in early childhood education. Drawing from Zaretta Hammond’s research, it offers strategies to enhance critical thinking, scaffold learning, and address inequities. Educators learn to create culturally reflective environments, foster learning partnerships, and support inquiry-based approaches. The goal is to nurture young learners’ curiosity and independent thinking through relationship-focused teaching, helping all students reach their full potential.

Biography:

Lola Alvarez, originally from Barranquilla, Colombia, is a Reggio Emilia-inspired consultant and coach at Shanghai American School. She has 38 years of early childhood teaching experience in international schools, including Colombia, Egypt, and China

Join this hands-on workshop to explore effective strategies for creating a safe, culturally responsive health class. Equip yourself with a toolkit of resources designed to foster curiosity, diversity, and belonging for students and their families. Empower your teaching and enhance student confidence and engagement in health education!

Biography:

Dani Anthony is an experienced Health and Physical Education teacher currently serving as a Middle School Health Teacher at Shanghai American School. With a Master’s in Educational Wellbeing and extensive expertise in inquiry-based learning, Dani is dedicated to fostering inclusive learning environments. She emphasizes student-centered learning and providing real-world learning engagements. Dani actively engages in professional development and collaboration to enhance educational practices.

The workshop will be a guided introduction to PowerBI, a powerful data management and visualisation software that is typically included in Office365 packages bought by schools for teachers. It can help collate classroom data and make it more accessible and useful. Teachers will get an introduction to what it can do, then a guided work through to create a few different visuals with a provided data set to develop a basic understanding of the software. 

Biography:

Lannee has been working in data in various school settings since qualifying in 2018, and has taken the lead on school data in three different international schools in China. For the last three years, they have worked as a data specialist in Guangzhou, coaching teachers in the use of classroom data and helping their school move towards becoming a data driven school.

This workshop is designed for middle and high school educators of all subjects who want to teach video production, either as a stand-alone unit or integrated into another content area. We will cover how to structure a video unit, teaching best practices, cinematography and editing techniques, and how to assess student work. By the end of the workshop, participants will be ready to guide their students through the entire production process.

Biography:

Julia Benton is in her 11th year of teaching and has worked with students from 6th grade through the university level. She currently teaches the IB curriculum at Seisen International School in Tokyo, Japan where she loves guiding students in creating documentaries, useful robots, and architectural models. She feels lucky to teach design as it is an amazing means of self-expression, advocacy, and community development. Julia holds a BFA in Media Journalism and an MA in Teaching.

Adam Bernard makes a case for learning the fundamentals of perspective in order to create compelling images which open up pictorial space to communicate ideas, concepts, identities and narratives. See how you can introduce some threshold learning moments which your students will love and be able to use indefinitely.

Biography:

Adam Bernard is an British IB educator, currently teaching PYP visual art at Seoul Foreign School. He is also an examiner for the Diploma Program. Before moving into this role, he taught art in the MYP, DP and British curriculum in Bangkok and Doha. Adam was previously a London-based graphic artist and illustrator before moving into education. He continues to be an active artist, creating oil paintings and ceramics for self expression and to connect with communities. Adam’s personal mission is to ignite within his students, a deep passion for creative expression and visual communication.

This workshop will explore the essential processes of listening and analysis, which are vital for musicians and music enthusiasts alike. Participants will reimagine how we learn and represent musical knowledge, emphasizing versatility and global perspectives. We will investigate intuitive methods for notating sound and apply both traditional and innovative tools to a diverse range of music, including oral traditions, alternative tonal systems, and technology-based compositions. Through hands-on activities and collaborative discussions, attendees will gain new insights into the richness of music from global contexts and develop skills in analyzing sound in inclusive and creative ways.

Biography:

Lauren is the Director of Performing Arts at SAS Pudong in Shanghai, China. She is an experienced PYP, MYP and DP music and theatre teacher who is committed to developing vibrant arts communities. She is passionate about creating opportunities across age levels to engage in authentic, collaborative and inspiring creative experiences. Lauren has experience teaching in the United States and in international schools in Nigeria, South Africa and China. She has worked for the past 12 years in curriculum development for the IBDP Music Syllabus and is a workshop leader and examiner in IBDP Music.

The workshop offers a structured framework for participants to engage deeply with photographs, encouraging critical thinking and fostering an appreciation for interpretation across various contexts. Through guided discussions and activities, attendees will explore the nuances of visual storytelling, enhancing their understanding of how context influences meaning.

Biography:

I am a Visual Arts Teacher with a Master of Visual Arts degree and over 20 years of experience in IBDP, MYP, IGCSE, and A-level school settings. I have served as an Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) Supervisor Team Leader, focusing on Process Portfolio marking, as well as an Examiner for Comparative Studies and Extended Essays. In addition to teaching visual arts, I am also a dedicated volleyball coach, combining my passion for art with a commitment to fostering teamwork and discipline in sports.

Combining research on the impacts of trauma on the brain and development, and practical strategies to support engagement, this workshop will outline how trauma impacts learning and self-regulation, and give participants clear and practical strategies that they can use to make their classes safer and more engaging for all learners.

Biography:

Chris Brain is a teaching and learning leader, instructional coach, and teacher. He has taught across a wide scope of settings, from public schools in Australian refugee resettlement communities to international schools. Chris is passionate about using contemporary education and psychology research to create practical strategies that teachers can use in the classroom.

The purpose of the workshop is to help teachers deepen their understanding of the connection between feedback and growth mindset. We will discuss strategies for implementing feedback that fosters a growth mindset, and participants will learn how to provide actionable, constructive feedback that encourages student resilience, curiosity, and self-improvement. Finally, participants will explore accessible digital tools that can be incorporated to provide timely, personalized feedback that supports students' academic growth.

Biography: Niocie Browne, originally from Guyana, has been an educator for 22 years, with experience at the American School in Guyana, Congo Brazzaville, Burkina Faso, and Taiwan. Her international background has shaped her inclusive teaching approach, connecting with students and teachers from diverse cultures and fostering a global outlook. Niocie holds a Master’s and Doctorate from Walden University. As a DP Mathematics Teacher and HOD she enjoys working with students and adults alike. Recently, she's developed a passion for leading professional development workshops.

Join us for “Which Robot Do We Want? The Right Robotics for Your School” to explore the exciting possibilities that robotics bring to K-12 classrooms. This hands-on workshop covers popular robotics platforms, with guidance on selecting the best fit for your school. We will discuss the advantages, challenges, and creative applications of different platforms—plus, share tips to maximize student engagement and learning. If there’s time, we will experiment with some LEGO Spike Prime kits and have a robot race.

Biography:

Mike Bycraft has been teaching for 19 years. He teaches robotics and technology at the International School Bangkok. Previously, he taught robotics and engineering at Korea International School for 8 years. Prior to moving abroad he taught robotics, AP and IB sciences in the United States. He holds a Masters in Learning, Design and Technology. He is a certified Google Innovator. He has presented at Learning2, Google, EARCOS, and KORCOS on makerspaces, robotics, project-based learning, and Dungeons & Dragons.

Are you looking for ways to assess students on their process and the product?  This workshop explores assessment as a collaborative journey that empowers students to tell their own stories to demonstrate learning in authentic, human-centered ways. Based on research by Shimmer and Vardabasso, this session invites educators to go beyond the traditional and instead approach assessment through the lenses of standard mastery and competency development. Join me in learning about a more empathetic approach to assessment.

Biography:

Courtney has worked as an international Middle school and High School educator for the last 22 years, currently teaching at the American School in Japan. For the previous two years, she has worked as part of a team to design and implement a holistic approach to the 9th-grade program that combines English, Social Studies, Biology, Wellness, and Advisory to create transdisciplinary student experiences.She's passionate about student agency and contextual learning.

A filmmaking workshop for teachers new to film and video production in the classroom. Participants will learn about camera options, lighting techniques, composition principles, and editing basics through engaging discussions and visual examples. It aims to equip educators with foundational knowledge to enhance their storytelling skills and inspire creativity in their classrooms. Ideal for teachers seeking to incorporate film and video into their teaching strategies.

Biography:

Robert has been teaching since 2007, with experience in the UK, Singapore, and now Indonesia. Specializing in Grades 9 to 12, he has a strong background in Film, Media, and IT subjects, and has taught iGCSEs, A-Levels, and the IB curriculum. As an IB examiner since 2021, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his classes. Robert is passionate about practical filmmaking and photography, inspiring his students to explore their creativity through hands-on projects and real-world applications.

This workshop will offer an interdisciplinary experience, focusing on both the performing art of dance and the technical aspects of filmmaking. Participants will learn how to creatively explore and express emotions through dance, while also capturing those expressions through film techniques such as camera angles, lighting, and movement. It integrates both physical expression and digital storytelling, allowing students to explore new forms of self-expression.

Biography:

Carolyn Chan is a dedicated Canadian International Teacher with expertise in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). With a strong background in the performing arts, Carolyn has taught and inspired students both in Canada and internationally, creating a rich and dynamic learning environment. Passionate about bridging creativity and emotional development, She has worked with students and coaches who have appeared on popular shows such as So You Think You Can Dance and World of Dance.

A discussion about diversity, equity, and inclusion in physical education. In this presentation, I will discuss context, wider responsibilities, and how we can get there as physical educators. 

Biography:

Dominique Dalais is the head of physical and health education at UNIS Hanoi. A former DEI Lead and experienced racial equity facilitator, he has led DEIJ workshops for IS Geneva, ISS, and AIELOC (2024) and served as a keynote speaker and panelist on DEIJ-related areas.

An IB MYP workshop leader, Dominique also consults with schools globally, delivering tailored workshops in physical & health education. He manages the Facebook groups and websites ‘International Teachers of Colour’ and ‘Physical and Health Education in the MYP’, supporting collaboration through webinars and online discussions.

This session is for those who are already familiar with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and are interested in exploring ways to design evidence of learning flexibly. We will explore the types of learning intentions and how to use them along with success criteria as an instructional tool.  We will showcase a single point rubric, an evidence of learning map and instructional routines that offer evidence as learning.  Participants will engage in a self-differentiated design experience and receive and provide peer feedback on their designs. 

Biography:

Jennifer has over 28 years of teaching and leadership experience in the United States and Asia. Since 2014, has served as an elementary principal and PK-12 Director of Curriculum and Professional Learning in Hong Kong ( HKIS) and Bangkok (ISB).  Her background in curriculum, instructional practices, and assessment spans both primary and secondary years. She is devoted to ensuring that all learners are empowered members of their learning communities and they feel safe and valued. Jennifer is a design thinking leader who is future driven and diligently stays curious!  Currently, Jennifer is an educational consultant with Novak Education and SeaChange Mentoring.

Explore the vital role of peace education in transforming classroom dynamics, school culture, and student interactions. This presentation highlights effective peace education practices from Korea and around the world, providing educators with practical strategies to foster empathy, resolve conflicts, and create a more inclusive learning environment. 

Biography:

Hello! I am a 6th-grade social studies teacher at Seoul International School. I am originally from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Before moving abroad, I founded a group called Educators for Peace and Justice where we connected like-minded educators in monthly discussions on different topics. I am excited to share more about Peace Education with you!

In this interactive workshop, you'll discover how to integrate the music and stories of current-day and historical musicians into your lessons. Participants will explore strategies for using musical artists as meaningful connection points to help students better understand, express, and celebrate their own and others' identities. Through hands-on activities, you'll curate culturally responsive playlists, design provocations with a beat, and facilitate discussions harmonizing student experiences with the "soundtrack" of our shared narratives. Shower singer / or not, all are welcome.

Biography:

Brandon has taught Choral Music, Drama, and Performing Arts and is currently in his 5th year at the Western Academy of Beijing. Prior to WAB, he was a high school Choir/Drama teacher in the US and a PYP music teacher at Dresden International School in Germany. Notable learning experiences include studying folk music in Hungary this past summer at the Kodály Institute in Kecskemét, continuous study of Feldenkrais Method / kinesthetic movement, and background of training in vocal performance/opera.

Discover how BandLab, free, cross-platform software, empowers students to explore their creativity in composing. Learn to create templates for rap songs (Grade 6), pop and rock song covers (Grade 8), and original songs (Grade 10). Explore cross-disciplinary applications, such as using BandLab for language arts presentations. Join us for a hands-on experience and practical tips, including tools, tricks, and shortcuts to streamline the creative process. Ideal for music teachers and those who use recorded presentations or podcasts. Register at www.bandlab.com before the workshop.

Biography: 

Jack is a music teacher at GESS (German European School Singapore). He has been teaching MYP, DP, band, choral, and general music for about 25 years. He has been using BandLab for the past few years with great success as an additional tool to develop musicianship in instrumentalists and singers.

This workshop delves into the art of interdisciplinary instruction, guided by insights from a hands-on action research project on the subject. We’ll explore proven best practices rooted in research and dive into creative strategies for designing and implementing interdisciplinary learning experiences. Special focus will be given to navigating common planning challenges, with dedicated time for teachers to brainstorm and begin crafting their own interdisciplinary plans.

Biography:

I'm Dennis Dow, a secondary social studies teacher from Kentucky, USA with 15 years of experience in education. With a Bachelor’s in History Education and a Master’s in Secondary Education, I’m always exploring ways to bring a multidimensional approach to my classroom. Now teaching at Gyeonggi Suwon International School in South Korea, where I live with my wife and daughter, I’m passionate about interdisciplinary instruction. I believe blending subjects helps students make cross-disciplinary connections, creating a richer learning experience that brings concepts to life in powerful ways.

Educators will explore how to cultivate creativity in their early elementary classrooms. We'll define creativity and discuss strategies to nurture imaginative thinking, prioritizing the creative process over the final product. Participants will engage in open-ended art projects and creative centers, sharing resources to enhance learning experiences. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas to enrich their teaching practices and inspire creativity in their students.

Biography:

Ciara is an early childhood educator with six years of classroom experience, currently in her second year at SIS. Specializing in music and art, she is dedicated to fostering creativity and self-expression in young learners. Ciara believes in the power of the arts to enhance cognitive and emotional development, and has led workshops that empower educators to integrate creative practices into their teaching. With a passion for inspiring imagination, she is committed to enriching the educational experience for both students and fellow educators.

This workshop emphasizes the importance of teamwork, listening, and vocal cohesion as we build a rich and balanced choral sound. Participants will engage in interactive group activities that highlight the balance between technical precision and emotional expression, culminating in a collaborative performance that celebrates the power of united voices. Whether you are a seasoned singer or new to choir, this workshop offers a vibrant space to grow, connect, and elevate your musicality!

Biography:

Vincent is an accomplished musician and Upper School Music Teacher at Forest City International School in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. As a Tenor 2 with the University of San Agustin Troubadours, he has led the choir to numerous awards over the past decade. He also sings with The Mescolando Voci and directs choirs at The Philippine Independent Church. A passionate educator, he has conducted workshops and founded Iloilo Choirster to support charitable causes. Additionally, he performs in local Broadway productions and teaches piano and voice, inspiring the next generation of musicians.

Fostering cultural awareness in the classroom is essential for developing globally minded and empathetic citizens. This workshop explores innovative strategies to integrate cultural connections into your curriculum, while enhancing student participation and promoting lifelong learning. Participants will engage in creative storytelling, investigation, and collaboration techniques. Drawing on my educational journey and a Reggio Emilia inspired approach to secondary classrooms, this session equips educators with practical tools to create a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment within Visual Art. This workshop contains hands on strategies to enrich your classroom’s cultural identity.

Biography:

Aura Evans is a secondary art educator at Saigon South International School, Vietnam, with six years of experience. Aura is an artist, teacher, and explorer with a passion for textiles and cross-curricular learning. Her educational and artistic practices are inspired by the world around her. She finds joy in traveling to learn new techniques, styles, and traditions. Aura believes that art is an exchange of lived experiences and is capable of speaking many different languages.

Pop-Up Choir is for people to enjoy singing without the long-term commitment typically associated with joining a choir. Participants will be given a framework for design and preparation of a Pop-Up Choir event. They will then be guided through an example rehearsal, demonstrating how to effectively promote and lead a session. In a school setting it can be used as an effective recruitment tool and as a powerful community builder amongst students, parents, and staff.

Biography:

Jenn Forsland is a passionate choral and vocal specialist from British Columbia, Canada. She is in her third year as Director of Choral Music at Ruamrudee International School in Bangkok. A distinguished graduate of the music education program at the University of Victoria, Jenn trained classically as a vocalist, pianist, and conductor and has performed and taught throughout Canada, Thailand, and the UK.  In 2019, she received the Amy Ferguson Award from the BC Choral Federation for technical excellence.

I would like to share my experience of using the Gears Bot Robotics Simulator (https:// gears.aposteriori.com.sg/) to teach robotics and how it has become an invaluable tool for more effectively teaching students robotics and getting them more adept at coding and ready to build and code the physical robots.

Biography: 

I teach Design at the Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) and I am also the Learning Leader for MS Design at WAB. I have been teaching for 20 years and have taught in the UK, Korea and China. I love teaching Design and helping my students to develop their creative and critical thinking skills in a range of different learning environments whether that is the Workshop doing Product Design, creating graphics in 2D 3D and VR environments or Robotics.

The workshop highlights GarageBand's ability to engage students in an ongoing inquiry into orchestral instruments, encouraging them to discover each instrument's unique qualities. We will explore how GarageBand acts as a valuable companion, intrinsically motivating learners to develop reflective and effective practice habits. Ultimately, GarageBand empowers students to strengthen their creative thinking skills and bring their musical ideas to life within a band environment.

Biography:

Shane’s passion for music began as a student conductor, where he discovered the power of interpreting and communicating music through performance. After completing a bachelor’s degree in performance, he realized his true purpose was to inspire and educate others. Shane pursued a master’s degree in education, leading music lessons and CCAs that focus on developing music literacy, creative thinking, and the innovative use of technology in music. Today, he continues to foster young musicians’ growth, encouraging them to explore their creativity, collaboration, and digital tools, making a lasting impact on the next generation of musicians.

Understanding artistic behavior is key to engaging elementary students in music education. This workshop will explore what artistic behavior is, its importance for young learners, and how teachers can foster it. Participants will examine key traits like creativity, expressiveness, and collaboration, discussing their role in music learning and overall child development. Hands-on activities and teaching strategies will be shared to inspire students and nurture their artistic expression, habits, and mindset.

Biography:

In 2016, she embarked on her international journey as an IB PYP Music Teacher in Iraq. This path led her to thrive as a Musical Director in India and take on the role of IB PYP Coordinator in Turkey. Embracing her commitment to education, she became an IB Programme and Evaluation Leader, an IB Workshop Leader, and a NEASC accreditation visitor. Today, she inspires young minds as a lower primary music teacher at Mont Kiara International School. With a passion for snorkeling, scuba diving, sports, reading, and creating educational content, she empowers teachers to fully explore the IB PYP.

This workshop introduces practical ways for middle and high school teachers to use Google Sheets or Excel for managing classroom tasks, organizing data, and streamlining workflows. Participants will explore essential features such as conditional formatting, formulas, and automation, with step-by-step guidance on how to apply these tools to enhance teaching effectiveness. The focus will be on practical tips and techniques accessible to both beginner and intermediate users. One tip could just change your life!

Biography:

Matt Halter is an English Language Arts teacher with over a decade of teaching experience across grade levels at schools in the U.S., China, and currently South Korea. With a passion for leveraging technology to enhance teaching, he specializes in using Google Sheets to automate tasks, manage classroom data, and improve efficiency. Matt also teaches the Yearbook course, applying these organizational systems to improve both student outcomes and productivity. In his free time, he is working toward an Ed.D. in Instructional Technology and enjoys travel, golf, and purchasing Apple products.

In our vast, changing educational platform, enhancing and promoting student engagement is at the core of educators with the privilege of delivering enriching learning, bringing transformation, and impacting their students. Join us as we explore and delve into understanding how we define student engagement (our common understanding, drawing from research) and what good practices/toolkits/ strategies we could take away to enhance, transform, and cultivate our learners' to be inspired while engaged in their learning.

Biography:

Christiana is an Early Childhood teacher with a Master of Education in Education Studies and a PGCE in Early Years from the University of Northampton (UK). She also has a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Education Studies from the University of Bedfordshire (UK) and certifications in Event Management, TEFL, and TESOL. Since beginning her teaching career in 2015, she has taught in England, Qatar, and China. Outside of teaching, Christiana enjoys writing and publishing (in the UK), reading, traveling, dancing, singing, listening to music, and being involved with event planning.

This workshop will explore practical strategies for integrating technology and computer science across various STEM subjects. Participants will learn how to design interdisciplinary projects that enhance students' understanding of complex concepts, using coding, robotics, and digital tools. The focus will be on fostering creativity and real-world problem-solving while building cohesive STEM programs. By the end, educators will leave with actionable ideas to make their curriculum more engaging, interconnected, and relevant in today’s tech-driven world.

Biography:

Faisal Hassan is a Head of Computer Science with over 20 years of experience, specializing in STEM education, esports, and networking. He is dedicated to empowering students with essential digital age skills, integrating algorithmic thinking and STEM concepts into curricula. Faisal holds certifications up to Cisco CCNA3, Cybersecurity, and DevNet Associate. His teaching methods foster creativity and problem-solving, preparing students for success in the modern world.

Join us for an empowering session designed to enhance your expertise and make a lasting impact on the health and performance of the female athletes in your care. This comprehensive program covers crucial topics such as hormone tracking, the importance of sports bras, recognising and addressing RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport), managing low energy availability, reducing injury risk, and promoting pelvic health. Gain direct strategies and resources to effectively teach students and athletes, ensuring they can manage symptoms and maintain their well-being now and as they grow.

Biography:

Fran Howarth, a High School PE teacher at International School Manila for 12 years, holds a Sports Science degree and a background in personal training. Formerly the PE program leader, she now focuses on female physiology, integrating this research into her curriculum and leading workshops for students, coaches, and parents on female health and performance.

In this engaging workshop, you’ll discover how voice acting serves as a powerful gateway for students to enhance their drama skills and become more confident performers. Explore a trans-disciplinary, project-based audio-book unit where students learn to use their voices as instruments to bring stories to life. With tools like GarageBand and iMovie or other editing software, they create incredible audio-books of some of the most beloved and well-known children's books for the entire school-wide community! 

Biography:

Daniel Hwang is a passionate theater educator and director at Concordia International School Shanghai, where he leads middle and high school drama programs. With a strong commitment to integrating technology and the arts, Daniel has developed innovative projects that empower students to explore their creativity and build confidence. He believes in the transformative power of storytelling and strives to create inclusive learning experiences for all. He is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of performers and fostering a love for the arts.

Unlock the power of technology to revolutionize your storytelling, character design, and performance art! In this hands-on workshop, you'll use AI image generators, Keynote, and ARMakr to create dynamic characters, backdrops, and augmented reality experiences. Bring your scenes to life with animations using DoInk. Perfect for movement, backdrops, storytelling, sculptures, and more. Bring your iPad, stylus with: DoInk, Keynote, ARMakr, and Canva Pro (if possible). No iPad? Watch the tutorials & explore later!

Biography:

Rebecca has taught art from K-12 in Australia, UK, UAE, China, Ghana and is the MS art teacher at SSIS, Vietnam. She is an Apple Distinguished Educator (2019), Apple teacher, COETAIL graduate, Learning2 Leader, and Google certified teacher. Rebecca is a passionate artist and teacher who has been developing strategies to incorporate iPads daily in her classroom. Her professional goals are to redefine her classroom through the use of technology by mixing paints with pixels, traditional with digital, connecting and collaborating globally, and developing authentic learning experiences.

This workshop will introduce educators to new media art and equip them with the tools to incorporate it into their curriculum.

By participating in this workshop, educators will gain a deeper understanding of new media art and the potential of Touchdesigner to bring new possibilities in creative expression into their classrooms. Participants will leave with resources, tools, and hands-on experience to inspire their students to explore their creativity and develop 21st century learning skills.

Biography:

Joel Jayamohan is an award-winning artist and educator from India.

He believes that students should engage with a variety of innovative materials and ideas to develop their creative confidence and expression. As a practicing artist, Joel is very aware of the creative process, and it helps him guide his students through the process of inquiry, the inception of ideas, incubation, accumulation of skill, and execution of an idea into an artifact.

Joel is currently the department chair of Art and Innovation at Taipei American School.

Working Interdisciplinary has been a large focus of the International School of Yangon over the last few years. Through this work, the combination of music and books to engage both subjects has really been a highlight. During the workshop, we will look at 4 books we have used in our classes and 4 different strategies to connect literacy and music. These strategies will also connect social-emotional concepts, science, and storytelling.

Biography:

Bekka is a music teacher at The International School of Yangon and Athletics, Arts and Activities Coordinator.  She has been working as a music teacher for 19 years.  She has been inspired by the Dalcroze and Kodaly approaches to music and tries to inspire students to love music.  She believes that music should be fun, social, engaging and exploratory.  Passion inspires and through inspiration we learn.  Having already presented for groups like AMIS and local music workshops, she is excited to share what she is doing currently at ISY.

Utilizes the power of improvisation in drama to foster spontaneity, focus, and connection among classmates and teachers in any subject area classroom. Through playful activities inspired by Viola Spolin, the Shakespeare of improvisation, participants will physicalize ideas, trust their intuition, engage the audience, and enhance critical thinking.  Human interaction and face-to-face communication is a necessary skill. This safe environment promotes personal freedom, non-judgmental collaboration, and meaningful relationships, empowering all to explore new ideas and perspectives.

Biography:

Eddie is a top-performing arts educator recognized for his excellence in communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and conflict resolution. An alumnus of DePaul’s Theatre School and Second City, he possesses expertise in creativity, classroom management, and curriculum development. His commitment to empowering students through the arts has made a significant impact on their learning experiences, promoting both personal and academic development in the classroom. He teaches middle school drama at SAS Pudong.

The child is the artist. What do artists do? The classroom is the child’s studio. Learn how these guiding principles of Teaching for Artistic Behaviour (TAB) can transform your classroom to support student agency and inquiry in visual arts. Through TAB young artists can grow as inquirers who can advocate for their time, materials and develop as practicing artists. Come see how TAB can be implemented in a rigorous visual arts program.

Biography:

Susan is an artist-teacher who is originally from Guyana, but grew up in Toronto, Canada. She has been living, learning and teaching in South Korea and China for over 25 years. She is passionate about visual arts, student-led inquiry and agency in the early years. Currently, Susan is a PYP Visual Arts teacher at Shekou International School in Shenzhen, China.

This workshop explores how artmaking can cultivate a sense of identity in students, and be used as a mechanism for developing thinking skills. I will demonstrate how four key structures— identity exploration, development of learning skills, cross-curricular integration, and the use of interactive exhibition spaces— are intentionally applied across grade levels to foster meaningful learning experiences. Participants will gain insights and strategies for leveraging art to develop students who are globally and environmentally conscious.

Biography:

Valentina Kranjec Rosenzweig has been an Elementary Art Teacher at the International School Manila for the past five years and is currently the Program Leader. She previously worked at the American International School of Zagreb where she taught ES Art and MS Digital Art. She is invested in designing learning experiences that support the discovery of personal identity and the development of student agency. She is committed to fostering thinking skills and sees children as competent contributors to their school communities who use exhibitions to advocate for issues they feel strongly about.

Who does the musical thinking and decision-making in our classrooms and ensembles? The students? The teacher/director? Both? In what proportion? This session will provide practical examples and specific strategies for designing inquiry processes to increase student responsibility for musical thinking in musical classrooms and ensembles. These carefully scaffolded guided questioning techniques can be used year after year in your music classroom. After seeing sample inquiries, participants will learn a process for creating inquiry pathways for their own classroom. Applies to PK-12 general and ensemble classrooms, as well as across arts disciplines.

Biography:

TBA

This hands-on experiential expressive arts session engages participants with the text of Diamond by Rihanna (revised for school use). The workshop encourages exploration beyond traditional text analysis, using various artistic modalities to foster dialogue and personal meanings. This enhances performance, improves connections between the performer and the audience, and nurtures the performer’s social-emotional learning. By the end, participants will apply the skills learned to enrich their engagement with text analysis in their own context.

Biography:

Samuel is a music educator with over 20 years of experience and holds two master's degrees. He has taught in the US, China, and Hong Kong and is currently at Green Oasis School in Shenzhen, China. He integrates expressive arts coaching to facilitate students' exploration of various artistic modalities, fostering creativity while nurturing their souls. He is also pursuing a PhD in Expressive Arts at the European Graduate School in Switzerland.

Inspirational & motivational presentation of how the 100's of failed auditions, as well as the trying times in my life,  eventually led to success. This will also lead to an engaging, informative presentation on how Dancing is a Dark Horse and the power of teaching children dance gives them the outlet to express themselves.

Biography:

Jason Lee is a professional dancer of over 20 years from New York City. Has participated in World tours, and stage shows with performers such as Alicia Keys, Nelly Furtado, Ashanti, Austin Mahone, etc... Has been in films, TV shows, and in national ads such as Step Up, SNL, Nike, Intel, Dr. Pepper. Current choreographer of theatre shows and dance teams at Seoul Foreign School in Seoul, South Korea.

Discover how to guide young children in producing their own opera! This hands-on workshop explores the process of composing music, writing texts, and designing costumes and stage sets with children. Drawing from three successful productions with preschoolers (ages 5-6), it highlights the power of creativity, teamwork, and artistic accomplishment. Learn how to empower children to become composers, playwrights, and designers of their own theatrical masterpiece.

Biography:

Felix Leuschner is a musician, composer and educator. He blends experimental electronic noise, classical and industrial sounds with a passion for storytelling. Inspired by artists like Aphex Twin, Yves Klein, and Helmut Lachenmann, Felix explores the fusing art forms in both music and teaching. Having composed operas for opera houses like State Opera Munich and State Theatre Kassel, Felix develops creative teaching frameworks for music and theatre education. He guides students to create multi-disciplinary performances.

This session equips teachers to boost student engagement through gamification in their curricula. Teachers will play various games that can be tailored for different activities, age groups, and subjects. You'll leave with customisable resources ready to implement in your own teaching practices.

Biography:

Having taught in various schools across Asia, I have shaped curricula to meet the specific needs of student learning. My dedication to continuous professional development stems from the belief that enhancing educators' knowledge and teaching practices leads to more meaningful student experiences. Collaborating with an exceptional team, I have helped transform the curriculum into a conceptual PE program, moving beyond content as the primary focus. I am currently in my fourth year of an EdD program at the University of Stirling.

This is a practical workshop on adapting 3 teaching practices with the power of AI, employed and proven useful in his classrooms. The practices leverage the advancements in multimodal generative AIs, including text and image generation, and simultaneously delivering AI literacy education to students in the classroom. Teachers attending the workshop will work together with each other and the presenter to redesign part of their existing routine or lesson plans.

Biography:

Yuqing is a secondary school Math and Statistics teacher. He is also a fellow of International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence under UNESCO, Slovenia. He is a cross-curriculum designer preparing students for a rapidly changing time. As an advocate for AI integration with traditional classrooms, delivering sample lessons, workshops and professional development sessions to local and international teachers. As the Head of AI in school, he also works closely with the industry to develop the AI infrastructure for his school and others.

This workshop will delve into the transformative power of theatre, particularly improvisation, in nurturing students' resilience, vulnerability, and self-awareness. Through engaging improv games and exercises, participants will actively explore and develop essential skills that can be applied both on and off the stage. By the end of the workshop, participants will have a deeper understanding of how improvisation can foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment while cultivating personal growth and emotional intelligence.

Biography:

Sarah Macdonald is a dedicated theatre educator currently teaching at Korea International School, Pangyo. With a BA (Hons) in Drama and Theatre from Royal Holloway, University of London and an MA in Applied Theatre, Sarah is passionate about harnessing the power of theatre to promote health, well being, and community. Her belief in the transformative nature of the arts drives her to advocate for the arts and their integral role in personal and societal growth.

Explore effective strategies for integrating technology in play-based early childhood education. This workshop provides practical tools to enhance digital literacy while maintaining the essence of hands-on, experiential learning. Participants will discover how to use digital tools to support creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking in young learners, ensuring technology complements play-based methodologies."

Biography:

Itzel Madero Hernandez is a dedicated early childhood educator currently working at The International School Yangon in Myanmar. With over six years of international teaching experience, she holds a Master’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies from SUNY Buffalo State, specializing in international learning styles. Itzel is passionate about integrating digital literacy into play-based learning and creating inclusive, innovative learning environments that encourage creativity and critical thinking in young learners.

This workshop provides a practical framework for schools to build or revitalize a culture of service. Through storytelling and interactive activities, participants will:

•  how one school successfully transformed its service culture.

• Identify existing service practices and clarify expectations.

• Develop a shared vision and language around service.

• Analyze their school's strengths and weaknesses regarding service learning.

• Create actionable steps to foster a service-oriented culture aligned with their school's mission.

Biography:

Originally from France, I moved to Switzerland when I was 14. Before moving to Busan last year, I lived in Japan for about 20 years. I have been in international education for 13 years. I started my career as an early years teacher and then an elementary school teacher. I then moved to teach Individuals and Societies, and I am currently the MYP coordinator at the International School of Busan.

Participants in this workshop will have the opportunity to explore the uses of GarageBand to create soundtrack music. The workshop includes considerations for scaffolding and prep to help students find success in this learning experience as well as handy tips when using GarageBand.

Biography:

Robert Mclean is an international musical educator from Newnan, GA, USA. A saxophonist and flautist by training, he excels at instrumental music, having specialized in woodwind and brass music. After receiving a bachelor's of music in music education, Mr. Mclean has gone on to teach music at both the primary and secondary level at international schools in both Ecuador and China. He is passionate about fostering a love for music by delivering culturally relevant and interesting curriculum, and strives at cultivating community relations to meet that goal.

How can we empower every child in the classroom to excel in every task to realize their full potential?

Designing effective scaffolding is crucial for removing barriers to learning. In this session, we will explore strategies that support students in achieving aspirational goals through a range of scaffolding processes that guide them toward success. Participants will leave with a comprehensive understanding and a practical toolkit of scaffolds and strategies they can incorporate into the curriculum.

Biography:

I am Arushi Mehta, Head of Year 1 and Primary Teacher with over 12 years of experience in EYFS and Key Stage 1. I hold a master’s degree in education and a CELTA qualification. I mentored young entrepreneurs (Years 7 to 9) at the Young Founders Summit 2019 in Beijing and supported India’s first all-girls team at the F1 in Schools World Finals 2020 in the UK. Passionate about inquiry-led teaching and pastoral care, I create nurturing environments that inspire student learning. I take pride in staff development, fostering a collaborative community that promotes personal and professional growth.

This workshop explores the use of masks, specifically Trestle Masks, as a dynamic tool for helping students express emotions and foster empathy while creating theatre. Participants will engage in activities that enhance physical movement and improvisational skills through verbal and non-verbal communication, leading to improved storytelling, emotional intelligence, and` collaboration. Teachers will learn effective strategies for facilitating role-playing and collaborative theatre projects, encouraging an understanding of diverse perspectives.   

Biography:

Stacy Ohrt-Billingslea is a DP/MYP Theatre teacher in Singapore with extensive experience in theatre education. She has served as Head of Drama at Yakima Valley College, Adjunct Professor at the University of Montana and regional chair for the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival’s Playwriting Program. Her expertise includes applied theatre, arts integration, acting, directing, playwriting, and devising, all of which she uses to create meaningful and impactful educational experiences.

Transforming a group of individual singers into a choral ensemble can be a challenge. This session serves as a toolkit for both experienced, new teachers and school leadership on how to build a choir program and refine the details of the process. Mark will share his experience and tips regarding Solfege, Tone, Voicing and Repertoire to help enhance your secondary choral classroom experience.

Biography:

Mark Palombo received his Bachelor’s in Music Education (K-12) from UL-Lafayette and his Master’s Degree in Choral Conducting from Louisiana State University. He has taught for 14 years in the secondary classroom: 12 years in Houston, Texas, earning multiple UIL Sweepstakes trophies, and two years running the Vocal Music and DP Music program at Concordian International School. He is happily supported by his longtime husband and their two adorable, fluffy cats.

In Beyond Basics: AI-Powered Education, participants will delve into transformative AI integration in education, moving beyond basic tasks to explore creative applications across the SAMR scale. This workshop will unpack AI's paradigm shift, equipping educators with strategies to foster innovation, deepen student engagement, and elevate learning experiences. Teachers will discover AI tools to transform teaching methods and unlock new educational possibilities beyond routine worksheet generation and menial tasks.

Biography:

David is a seasoned educator in DP Physics, Science, and Mathematics, with over 12 years’ of experience in international schools across Ghana, Mongolia, and Cambodia. Proficient in IB, Cambridge IGCSE, and A Levels, he blends rigorous academics with innovative methods to create dynamic, engaging learning. David integrates cutting-edge technology, leading workshops on AI to boost student engagement and teacher productivity. Committed to future-ready education, he supports schools in advancing tech-enhanced learning.

This session presents an approach for advancing data literacy in schools, from data illiteracy to a data-driven culture where teachers act as researchers, actively using classroom data to refine and personalize their teaching practices. Participants will learn how to start small, leveraging existing data already being collected and using affordable tools like Google Sheets, Looker Studio and AI language models for visualization and analysis. The session emphasizes simplifying data use, fostering collaboration, and integrating data insights into teaching practices in a manageable way to improve student outcomes.

Biography:

Alfredo is a Lower School Technology and STEAM Coach at Taipei American School. A Maker, and Seymour Papert devotee, his interests and abilities lie in the areas of Physical Computing, multimedia creation, data science and computer languages. Alfredo has worked with teachers and students in the UK, Spain, the Philippines, China, Vietnam and Taiwan. An Apple Distinguished Educator, part of his work as a technology and innovation specialist focuses on supporting educators in creating innovative, future-ready classrooms.

In this session, Christine (Min Jeong) Park, a current Elementary Music teacher, will guide educators on integrating performing and visual arts with global citizenship education. Teachers will create community songs, explore local music traditions, and design world music passport activities. This workshop provides a resource toolbox to help educators implement practical global citizenship education strategies through music, arts, and diverse cultural topics in their classrooms.

Biography:

Christine advocates for fostering a community of global citizens in the classroom to bless the world. A vibrant teacher of Music, English, and Humanities, she is registered in Hong Kong and Korea. With a deep passion for international development, she has partnered with numerous NGOs and nonprofit organizations. Holding certifications in global citizenship education and international development, Christine is currently advancing through an M.Ed in Comparative and Global Studies in Education and Development at The University of Hong Kong.

In the book, ‘The New Classroom Instruction that Works’, strategy 2: Goal Setting and Monitoring, when combined with strength-based coaching techniques helps teachers guide students by setting clear, personalized goals aligned with their strengths. Strength-focused questions encourage self-reflection, enhance motivation, and help students track progress. This approach empowers students to use their unique abilities to overcome challenges, stay engaged, and achieve success, fostering continuous growth and self-awareness.

Biography:

Sherry Peng has over a decade of experience teaching in local and international schools in Singapore, specializing in the IBPYP bilingual program for students aged 5 to 9. Now an Academic and Well-Being Coach for Grades 8 and 9, she helps students and families unlock their potential through personalized coaching and goal-setting. Sherry is currently pursuing her ICF certification as a mindset coach.

The Perceived Organizational Support Theory claims that if members of an organization (students) perceive that the organization (teachers and administrators) cares about their well-being and values their contributions and efforts, that morale, well-being and outcomes will increase.  Findings show a higher increase in Eastern Cultures than Western. (Eisenberger, 2020) By performing an in-house study of 150 Myanmar students that have endured stressors from COVID to a military coup, we show an increase in these variables over a span of 8 weeks, with very little effort needed by teachers and administrators in implementing the POS model.

Biography:

Chip Phillips, MA in Counseling, has been working overseas as a Social Emotional Counselor and College and Career Counselor since 2007 in Mexico, USA, Albania, Guatemala, China, and Myanmar.  In these positions he has always used data driven practices in order to best serve his student and teacher population.  He believes a healthy culture of well-being for teachers and students is the foundation for creating lifelong learners and a culture that believes in creating purpose and meaning in education for all students.

In this session, teachers will discover effective methods for integrating physical activity into various subject areas, including math, science, language arts, and social studies (INSOC). Practical, real-world examples and strategies will be shared, empowering teachers to implement them in their classrooms right away. Additionally, educators will leave with a better understanding of how movement enhances not only physical health but also cognitive function, academic achievement, student engagement, and overall well-being.

Biography:

Lee is a member of the Physical & Health Education department at the International School Ho Chi Minh City inVietnam, and has experience in fostering interdisciplinary connections and authentic co-curricular experiences.

Explore how Visual Arts, mindfulness, and inquiry-based learning can cultivate a culture of care within Southeast Asian classrooms. This workshop will share practical strategies from the Australian International School (AIS) that integrate values of self-expression and critical thinking with principles of community and respect. Participants will learn to use High-Impact Teaching Strategies to foster empathy, self-regulation, and emotional intelligence, empowering students to become compassionate, globally-minded citizens.

Biography:

As an experienced art educator and head of department at the Australian International School (AIS), I am dedicated to fostering emotional intelligence, global citizenship, and creative thinking in my students. With a focus on integrating art, mindfulness, and inquiry-based learning, I bring practical strategies and insights to Southeast Asian contexts. My work emphasizes empathy, self-expression, and community—values that help students navigate diverse perspectives with care. I am committed to equipping educators with tools to cultivate emotionally resilient learners prepared to connect across cultures.

Here’s a polished version of your message with minor adjustments for clarity and flow:

Asking a young student to improvise in music can be a daunting experience, and the same can be true for us as music teachers when tasked with teaching them. But don’t worry—you’re not alone!

In this workshop, I will share my experiences and provide participants with fun strategies for teaching improvisation to young musicians. Creativity is front and center!

The workshop will cover a variety of topics, including:

• Kodály and Orff rhythm syllables

• The pentatonic and major scales

• Using Orff xylophones for improvisation

Biography: 

I am a music teacher with over 20 years of experience, passionate about music education, and believe that all children, regardless of their abilities, should have the opportunity to experience the joy of music.

I completed my Master’s in Music Therapy, with a concentration in working with children with Autism, and have developed a number of strategies for teaching music to them. I strongly believe in implementing various music teaching methods (such as Orff and Kodály) to accommodate different learning styles.

This hands-on workshop showcases Scratch programming as a tool for interdisciplinary learning and amplifying student voice. Perfect for any experience level, it offers practical techniques in applying Scratch to various subjects, including Science, Art, and Math. Discover how Scratch fosters engagement, creativity, and critical thinking through interactive projects that empower students to express ideas, collaborate, and think critically. Join us to unlock Scratch’s potential in your classroom and inspire student-driven learning!

Biography:

Andre Quimpo has dedicated 24 years to education, with significant experience as an Art and Design teacher, blending his passion for ed tech and design thinking to foster innovative learning environments. An Apple Teacher, Google, Seesaw, and ISTE Certified Educator, he stays at the forefront of educational technology. Outside the classroom, Andre is a drummer, father, and husband.

Incorporating yoga for children can have profound benefits on their physical and mental wellbeing. This session is designed to engage participants in exploring the benefits of Yoga Asanas (Physical Postures) for strength and flexibility, Pranayama (Breathing Techniques) to support emotional regulation and stress management, and meditation for improving mindfulness and relaxation in children between 7 and 11 years old. The workshop will provide practical strategies that can be implemented at home or in school.

Biography:

Anijamol Rajesh has been teaching Physical Education at Canadian International School Bangalore for 15 years. In her 20 years of total teaching experience, she has grown skills in developing and implementing effective physical education programs for elementary students. She has a deep passion for inspiring young children to develop lifelong habits of wellbeing and physical activity.

In this workshop, participants will discover how content-rich curriculum can include purposeful and meaningful language connections. Learn strategies to empower multilingual learners so they can access content through structured literacy. Map out units to include language structure, vocabulary and language functions. Understand how vocabulary instruction needs to focus on depth, develop effective use of model texts to support multilingual needs in the classroom.

Biography:

Francoise has been teaching for over 16 years specializing in additional language education. She has taught in Japan, Canada and in China since 2017. She has worked in a few IB schools as a homeroom teacher, literacy coordinator, EAL teacher, coach and team leader. Francoise has her Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education and Master's of Education. She holds a teaching license in elementary education as well as her Structured Literacy Certificate from the Center for Effective Reading Instruction.

Reimagine art history lessons with active, student-centered approaches that foster engagement and critical thinking. This workshop explores creative techniques designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding. Leave with practical, adaptable methods to help students build personal connections with art history.

Biography:

Rae Reyes holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Education and a Master’s in Family Life and Child Development. Ms. Reyes began her career teaching preschool. Her journey then led to IB schools, where she taught elementary, art, and IB Visual Arts at Cebu International School, Chinese International School Manila, and currently in Tsukuba International School in Japan. In addition to teaching, Rae Reyes has worked for Scholastic Books as a program consultant and developed curriculum and policy frameworks for schools.

The Learning Environment has been said to be ""the third teacher"". How can a learning environment enhance the learning that is happening in a certain space? How can learning space enhance collaboration, flexibility and community building? Come and learn more about some design elements that can enhance your learning environment for the wellbeing and belonging of your students. You will also get to audit your own learning environment for better learning for all!

Biography:

Maija is originally from Finland where she completed her Master’s Degree in International Education. International teaching has taken Maija around the world and she has worked in Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, India, Belgium, the USA and currently in Indonesia. In addition to a teacher's certificate, Maija also has a Diploma in Interior Design and Decoration. Over the years she has collaborated with Education Design International and runs workshops for students, teachers and parents about learning spaces and their impact on learning.

Tired of the same old discipline tactics? Join Ashleigh Ryan, the Middle School Dean of Students at Stamford American International school, to discover a fresh, restorative approach to classroom behavior that goes beyond punishment. In this hands-on session, we’ll dive into effective strategies that empower you to build trust, de-escalate conflicts, and encourage student accountability—all while strengthening your classroom community. Gain practical tools you can start using immediately to respond to behavior in ways that foster growth, respect, and connection. 

Biography:

I have over 12 years experience in pastoral care. I am passionate about fostering student well-being and creating a positive, supportive school culture. Originally from New Zealand, my journey in Singapore over the past six years has focused on building relationships and trust, understanding the profound impact we have when we see students beyond their behaviors. At Stamford, I've led the development of a comprehensive social-emotional learning curriculum and observed a positive shift as our teachers and students adopt a restorative approach to behavior.

A non-traditional approach to teaching students how to draw, focusing on negative space enhances students’ critical thinking, stimulates creativity, and helps students see connections between line, shape, and space. Using the tools of the trade, this hands-on drawing workshop explores ways art teachers can incorporate negative space-teaching into their existing drawing lessons. Recalcitrant young artists taught using this technique, report a greater level of conceptual understanding, self-satisfaction, and enjoy drawing for the first time.

Biography:

Mrs. Sapp has a Master’s Degree in Art Education. She has been teaching art for 24 years and has taught in four countries across three continents.

This workshop will be a sharing of a journey of exploring culturally responsive practices in the performing arts, as an institution and as a music educator. Participants will leave with tools and framework, some concrete ideas for the classroom, a community of reflection and practice, and at least one shift in practice that allows your program to thrive through maintaining its ethos while also being (and because of being) culturally responsive.

Biography:

Hanako is an international music educator who continuously questions and explores creative learning in and through the arts. She has taught maker-oriented, inquiry-based, and Orff-inspired elementary and secondary general music classes and interdisciplinary courses. She received her B.M. Music Education and Performance from the University of Miami Frost School of Music and received her Ed.M. Arts in Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She was selected as one of ASCD+ISTE’s 2023 Emerging Leaders.

Our students and teachers have a powerful recording device in their hands pretty much at all times. Why not leverage it for learning? This workshop empowers teachers with practical strategies to use filmmaking as a creative approach to help students engage with content, collaborate, and express their understanding in a wide range of subjects areas.

Session Objectives: 

• Explicitly tie UDL principles for engaging diverse learners with filmmaking

• Demonstrate ways to use film for modeling learning

• Experience intentional engagement with smartphones beyond consumption to creation

• Learn powerful filming techniques to engage learners

• Create and have fun

Biography:

Todd Sills's career in visual storytelling began with directing films focusing on the trans community and housing insecurity, leading to acclaim at over 150 film festivals. His work extended to advocacy, collaborating with organizations like the ACLU, Sierra Club, and Planned Parenthood. His corporate tenure included roles as a video producer and director with companies like Google, Salesforce, and Facebook. Recently, Todd co-authored an e-book on Universal Design for Learning (UDL) with Katie Novak and currently teaches Language and Literature at the Vientiane International School.

This hands-on session, designed for PYP educators, explores integrating the Design Thinking Process into classrooms to foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Participants will learn the five stages: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test. Through interactive activities, educators will gain strategies to guide students in identifying real-world problems, brainstorming solutions, and developing prototypes. By the workshop’s end, educators will leave with practical resources and renewed passion for empowering young learners with a design-focused mindset.

Biography:

With over nine years of experience as an IB PYP Educator, Simran is deeply committed to nurturing a lifelong love of learning in young minds. Her journey has led her through several esteemed IB schools across India, where she’s taught students from early years through Grade 5. Currently, Simran contributes to Bali Island School, drawing on diverse training to craft immersive learning experiences. She is certified in Reggio Emilia and Early Childhood education, with added expertise as a CIS Evaluator, Design Thinking Educator, and Makerspace facilitator.

In this interactive workshop, participants will delve into practical learning activities that bring storytelling to life in the PE setting. Engage in hands-on experiences that showcase the power of narrative to enhance student engagement, foster creativity, and promote physical literacy across different age groups. This is an opportunity to unlock the potential of storytelling in PE and learn how to weave captivating tales that inspire and energize students at every stage of their primary school journey. Join us for an enriching and interactive workshop that promises to ignite imagination and elevate the impact of storytelling in physical education.

Biography:

Zack Smith has been an international early childhood educator since 2005. He taught preschool homeroom and early years PE at Shanghai Community International School between 2005 and 2014. From 2014 to 2024, he was an early years PYP PE teacher at the KAUST School in Saudi Arabia. In the 2024-25 school year, he is excited to take on a new challenge in upper elementary PE at Korea International School Jeju. As an educator, Zack is dedicated to foundation skill development, transdisciplinary learning, and student empowerment through innovative and continuously evolving pedagogical strategies.