David Chamberlain

Email: david.chamberlain@sjajeju.kr

I’m married to my wonderful wife and we have a son in high school at SJA. We love Korea and have been living here on and off since 2002 and calling Jeju home since 2022.

My teaching passions are focused around maths and language arts, particularly reading and gaining knowledge and understanding of complex issues through texts. Additionally, I have a passion for experiential learning, doing and trying things. Heading outside the classroom and visiting and exploring the surrounding area exposes the learners to real life challenges and issues which inspire inquiry. Alongside this, I enjoy supporting extra activities for the learners especially sports in which children can develop their personal skills.

Outside of school, I kayak regularly. If it’s too cold or rough to hit the water then I’ll likely hike/run a trail instead. I also play sports including volleyball, futsal, and ultimate frisbee. I play these with great enjoyment rather than skill.

Juhee Park

Email: juhee.park@sjajeju.kr

Hello My name is Juhee(Lily) Park. This is my second year at SJA. I’m excited to support and guide third-grade students. I was born in Yeosu, Jeollanam-do, which has a beautiful ocean. I have been living in Seoul since I was 5 years old and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing and Global Media from Soongsil University. Previously I spent 1 year as a writing teacher for early elementary students in Daechi-dong where I dedicated myself to fostering critical thinking skills in children.

My early education at Rygaards International School in Copenhagen greatly broadened my global perspective. Participating in a Danish exchange program allowed me to experience diverse cultures and educational approaches. These experiences have been instrumental in enhancing my ability to understand and connect with students.

As an educator I will strive to help each child reach their full potential. I am committed to leveraging my experience and passion to provide the best possible educational environment for students. I look forward to working with SJA teachers, students and parents to achieve great things together!

Melissa Ferris

Email: melissa.ferris@sjajeju.kr

I am returning for my eighth year at St. Johnsbury Academy and to my 23rd year of teaching elementary students! Many of my teaching years were devoted to primary elementary students in Colorado, USA. While teaching in Colorado Springs, I was awarded my Masters of Arts in Teaching Integrated Natural Sciences from Colorado College.

My husband John and I have enjoyed taking classes in Korean, including a watercolor class at the 한경면 Community Center. When I’m not trying to figure out Korean sentence structures, I enjoy cooking, eating, discovering new delicious foods, being outside to explore nature, and connecting with people from all over the world. I am looking forward to yet another amazing year filled with adventures and discoveries here at SJA, Jeju!

Jeemin Lee

Email: jeemin.lee@sjajeju.kr

Carolyn Higgins

Email: carolyn.higgins@sjajeju.kr

Hello Everyone!

My name is Carolyn Higgins and I am thrilled to teach grade 3 again this year. This is my second year at SJA and I am excited to continue on this educational journey with a great community. I have been in the education field for about 20 years in various roles. 

I believe that school should be a safe place for students so I strive to create a welcoming and positive classroom environment full of energy. I also believe that students should have a voice and choice in the classroom, so guiding students to become independent learners is a goal of mine.  This year I am looking forward to getting to know the families, growing, being challenged and learning alongside my students. Please do not hesitate to contact me as I strive to keep an open line of communication between home and school. Effective communication between home and school will help our children reach their full potential.

~Enjoy the Unknown~

Soyoun (Kelly) Lee

Email: soyoun.lee@sjajeju.kr

Hello everyone,

My name is Soyoun Lee (Kelly), and I’m excited to join SJA as the new Grade 3 Assistant Teacher. I truly enjoy working with people and love engaging in fun and active activities with students. I have a deep interest in animals and the environment, and I believe these passions bring a fresh perspective to my teaching.

I spent about two years living in Hong Kong and have traveled extensively—there’s hardly a country in Europe I haven’t visited! These wide and diverse experiences have given me a global outlook, which I hope will positively influence and inspire our students.

I’m looking forward to working together, learning from all of you, and contributing to our vibrant school community.

Thank you!

Jacob Von Seth

Email: jacob.vonseth@sjajeju.kr

Hello, my name is Jacob Von Seth, and I’m thrilled to be starting my 5th year teaching here at SJA! This is my 17th year of teaching students internationally. Last year, I completed my Master’s in Elementary Education at Missouri State University.

Since my first days of teaching, my passion for working with children has only grown. I feel that this passion has continued to flourish at SJA. As a teacher, my goal is to have students take ownership of their learning and be inspired to push themselves daily. I think it is most important for students to build positive relationships with other students and teachers, while developing strong foundations in the English language. In my classroom, all students have a chance to grow at their own pace through diversified learning.

When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending my time hiking, traveling, and being with my family. In my mind, Korea is like my second home since I have lived here for most of my adult life. Being from a small town in Wisconsin, life in Jeju really reminds me of my own hometown. 

Feel free to contact me if you want to discuss any concerns or questions you may have. It is important for us to collaborate to find the best way for the children to get the most out of their school experience at SJA.

Hyeji Boo

Email: hyeji.boo@sjajeju.kr

Hello! My name is Hyeji Boo, and I am excited to join SJA Jeju as a 3rd Grade Assistant Teacher.  I was born and raised here in Jeju, but after high school I spent several years in Seoul, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Hankuk University of Foreign Studies. I explored different cities and careers before discovering my true passion in learning and teaching. Witnessing how children grow, discover, and learn — including my own — is one of the most rewarding experiences, and I look forward to being part of those special moments every day.

Outside of the classroom, I love spending time with my family camping, hiking, and traveling. I also enjoy trying new experiences, cooking, and sharing delicious meals together.

I am thrilled to meet all our new learners and begin this exciting journey together!