Middle School Faculty

Meet the Middle School Faculty and Staff

Curriculum
Middle School Faculty
MS Course Guide
MS Counseling

Curriculum
Middle School Faculty
MS Course Guide
MS Counseling

What brings it all together?
A faculty focused on growth and continuous improvement.

Meet the Middle School Faculty and Staff

Stacy Keevan

Middle School Principal

Stacy Keevan

Middle School Principal

Stacy Keevan is originally from Brooklyn, New York, USA. Stacy has lived and worked as both a teacher and leader in the states of Georgia and Florida, USA, and in Hong Kong.

Stacy has an Educational Specialist (Ed. S) degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Lincoln Memorial University, Tennessee; a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from Piedmont College, Georgia, and a Bachelor's degree in Elementary and Special Education from Flagler College, Florida.

Outside of work, Stacy enjoys traveling and immersing herself in other cultures, reading and writing, and spending time with her family and friends.

Stacy is most inspired by her students, people that are optimistic and motivated, and by her husband and their two daughters.

Email:MS_Principal@kis.ac

Paul Boland

Middle School Associate Principal

Paul Boland

Middle School Associate Principal

Paul Boland is from St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada, but most recently worked in Geoje, South Korea. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History and a Bachelor of Education from Memorial University of Newfoundland. He is currently undertaking a master’s degree in Educational Leadership. Paul joined KISJ in 2017.

I think everyone should read Long walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela and The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank.

Outside of school, I most enjoy ice hockey, golf, and camping with my family and friends.

I'm inspired by my two children and goodwill.

Email:MS_AssociatePrincipal@kis.ac

Elizabeth Cooper

Middle School Instructional Coach

Elizabeth Cooper

Middle School Instructional Coach

Elizabeth Cooper is from Port Angeles, Washington, USA, but most recently worked in Guangzhou China. She holds a master's degree in STEM Curriculum and Instruction from Adam's State University and a bachelor's degree in Education with a science specialization from the University of Minnesota- Morris. Elizabeth joined KISJ in 2022.

I think everyone should read Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card and The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Outside of school, I most enjoy hiking, photography, and cooking.

I'm inspired by seeing new places and exploring in nature.

Email:MS_InstructionalCoach@kis.ac

Tonya Kammer

Middle School Learning Specialist

Tonya Kammer

Middle School Learning Specialist

Tonya Kammer is originally from the central California coast but has spent most of her professional career in the Puget Sound area of the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Ms. Kammer has a Master's degree in Special Education from Western Governor's University, a Bachelor degree in Journalism from the University of Oregon, as well as multiple certifications in structured literacy. Moreover, Ms. Kammer has completed her 200-hour certification in teaching mindfulness and yoga for students through the Yoga Alliance. Ms. Kammer joined KISJ in the 2025-2026 school year.

Ms. Kammer would recommend that everyone read “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Just Can't Stop Talking” by Susan Cain. For students, she recommends the companion book,” Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverted Kids”, by the same author.

Outside of school, Ms. Kammer most enjoys walking, yoga, opera, live theater, reading, and language learning.

Ms. Kammer is inspired by the simple gratitudes in life, from the first sip of morning coffee to the last page of a good book.

Email:tkammer@kis.ac

Ji Youn (Anjee) Shin

Middle School Counselor

Ji Youn (Anjee) Shin

Middle School Counselor

Anjee Shin is originally from Daegu, South Korea, and has worked as a counselor in South Korea and New York in the United States. Most recently, Ms. Shin worked for the Jeju Office of Education before joining the KISJ team. Ms Shin has a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from Rutgers University and studied English Education at the College of Education. Ms. Shin joined KISJ in the 2024-2025 school year.

Ms. Shin would recommend that everyone read “Living, Loving and Learning” by Leo F. Buscaglia. She was impressed by its insights on education, people, and learning. A line that Ms Shin remembers the most is “Love yourself, accept yourself, forgive yourself, and be good to yourself, because without you, we would all lose many wonderful things.”

Outside of school, Ms. Shin enjoys walking with her family, reading, and drawing.

Ms. Shin is inspired by people who can see beauty and deep meaning in even the smallest things.

Email:jeeyshin@kis.ac

Jonathan Stubbs

Middle School Counselor

Jonathan Stubbs

Middle School Counselor

Jonathan Stubbs is originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, but has lived on Jeju since 2018. Mr. Stubbs has a Master's degree in Counselor Education from the College of New Jersey, and a Bachelor degree in Psychology from Temple University. Mr. Stubbs joined KISJ in the 2025-2026 school year.

Mr. Stubbs would recommend that everyone read “East of Eden” by John Steinbeck and “Blood Meridian” by Cormac McCarthy.

Outside of school, Mr. Stubbs enjoys listening to music, playing the saxophone and guitar, and traveling to new places.

Mr. Stubbs is inspired by those who seek to help others, better themselves, and anyone just trying to make the world a kinder place to be.

Email:jstubbs@kis.ac

Aaron Allooh

Grade 6 Mathematics

Aaron Allooh

Grade 6 Mathematics

Aaron Allooh is from Akron, Ohio, but most recently worked in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education, with an emphasis in mathematics, from the University of Akron. Aaron joined KISJ in 2019.

I think everyone should read How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.

Outside of school, I most enjoy traveling, yoga, basketball, and running.

I’m inspired by my grandmother, who overcame hurdles and became one of the first women to work for NASA.

Email:aallooh@kis.ac

Jocelyn Conte

Grade 6 English

Jocelyn Conte

Grade 6 English

Jocelyn Conte is a New York native who has taught in a range of educational settings across New York, North Carolina, Spain, and Turkey. She earned her Bachelor’s degree with a double major in Adolescent Education and English from SUNY Oneonta and her Master’s degree in Literacy from the University at Albany. Mrs. Conte joined KISJ in the 2026–2027 school year.

Mrs. Conte would recommend that everyone read “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint Exupéry and “Parable of the Sower” by Octavia Butler.

Outside of school, Mrs. Conte enjoys reading, playing guitar, cooking, and seeking out fresh air and open water. She is fueled by a steady supply of curiosity and hot tea.

Mrs. Conte is inspired by creative works, courageous souls, and communal tables.

Email:jconte@kis.ac

Casey Furuya

Grade 6 Science

Casey Furuya

Grade 6 Science

Casey Furuya is originally from Beaverton, Oregon in the United States but worked in Nine Mile Falls, Washington, Albany, Oregon, and Stayton, Oregon before joining KISJ. Mr. Furuya has a Bachelor degree in Secondary Education with an endorsement in the Natural Sciences from Eastern Washington University. Mr. Furuya joined KISJ in the 2026-2027 school year.

Mr. Furuya would recommend that everyone read "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro and "The Catcher In The Rye" by JD Salinger.

Outside of school, Mr. Furuya enjoys running, playing guitar, playing retro games, and scrapbooking.

Mr. Furuya is inspired by self made people who put everything into their passions.

Email:cfuruya@kis.ac

James (Jim) Hale

Grade 6 ELL Specialist

James (Jim) Hale

Grade 6 ELL Specialist

James (Jim) Hale is from Buffalo, New York, United States, but most recently worked in Bangkok, Thailand. Mr. Hale holds a Master's degree in TESOL from the State University of New York at Buffalo, and a Bachelor's degree in Secondary English Education from the State University of New York College at Buffalo. Mr. Hale joined KISJ in the 2020-2021 school year.

Mr. Hale feels everyone should read “The Princess Bride" by William Goldman.

Outside of school, Mr. Hale enjoys traveling with his wife and daughter, playing guitar, cycling, reading historical non-fiction, cooking, and following my American football and ice hockey teams.

Mr. Hale is inspired by the natural world around us and by seeing students making connections between what they are reading to their own lives.

Email:jhale@kis.ac

Lynnette Kyle

Grade 6 Social Studies

Lynnette Kyle

Grade 6 Social Studies

Lynnette Kyle is from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, USA, but most recently worked in Hong Kong SAR China. She holds a bachelor degree in Education with specialization in social science from Crown College in Minneapolis, MN. Prior to teaching at ICS she has previously taught in Brazil, Egypt, USA, Kazakhstan, Argentina, Indonesia, Korea, and China. Lynnette joined KISJ in 2022.

I think everyone should read How to Be a Perfect Person in Just Three Days by Stephen Manes.

Outside of school I most enjoy reading and watching Science Fiction & Mysteries, arts & crafts, and playing with my dog. I also love spending time with family and friends with a great cup of coffee.

I am inspired by people who take the time to listen and care.

Email:lkyle@kis.ac

Mikal Cabrera

Grade 7 Social Studies

Mikal Cabrera

Grade 7 Social Studies

Mikal Cabrera is from North Bergen, New Jersey, in the United States of America. Mr. Cabrera worked in Trenton, New Jersey and his hometown of North Bergen prior to joining KISJ. While getting his Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education and History at The College of New Jersey, Mr. Cabrera worked as a middle school teacher at KISJ for a semester as part of a study abroad program! Mr. Cabrera joined KISJ for the 2026-2027 school year.

Mr. Cabrera would recommend that everyone read "The Return of Martin Guerre" by Natalie Zemon Davis and "A Narrative of the Life of David Crockett of the State of Tennessee" by Davy Crockett.

Outside of school, Mr. Cabrera enjoys cooking, hiking, spending time with family, and listening to music.

Mr. Cabrera is inspired by the indomitable will of the human spirit, and our ability to find art in everything.

Email:mcabrera@kis.ac

Michael Chu

Grade 7 Mathematics

Michael Chu

Grade 7 Mathematics

Michael is from Los Angeles, California but most recently worked in Beijing, China. He holds a Master's Degree in Education from Framingham State University and Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from University of California, Riverside. He is certified as a Mathematics and Physical Education teacher. Michael rejoined KISJ in 2023.

I think everyone should read The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People but really, anything that makes you want to read.

Outside of school, I'm an amateur triathlete who loves all things outdoors including just sitting outdoors.

I'm inspired by anyone who finds success by sheer discipline and determination.

Email:mchu@kis.ac

Benjamin Hoult

Grade 7 English

Benjamin Hoult

Grade 7 English

Benjamin Hoult is from Kaipara, New Zealand, but most recently worked in Porto Alegre Brazil. He holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the Auckland University of Technology in Auckland. Benjamin joined KISJ in 2022.

Outside of school, Benjamin most enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring nature and taking opportunities for adventure. He trys to inspire his creative side and balance life with solid friendships.

Benjamin is inspired by people who are passionate about what they do. He believes that we have just as much to learn from the generations who will follow us as the generations who have gone before us.

Email:bhoult@kis.ac

Jefferson Krause

Grade 7 ELL Specialist

Jefferson Krause

Grade 7 ELL Specialist

Jefferson Krause is originally from San Francisco, California in the United States. Mr. Krause has a Master's degree in Educational Administration from San Francisco State University and a Bachelor degree in Government from Pomona College. Mr. Krause has previously taught in public schools in California for many years as well as at international schools in Guatemala and Dubai. Mr. Krause joined KISJ in the 2023-2024 school year.

Mr. Krause loves reading! A few books he would highly recommend are "Teacher Man," by Frank McCourt and "A Walk in the Woods," by Bill Bryson.

Outside of school, Mr. Krause enjoys being outdoors as he loves hiking, tennis, nature, and adventure travel.

Mr. Krause is inspired by people who go out of their way to help others, especially children. He is also inspired by those who speak out against injustice without using violence, such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr.

Email:jkrause@kis.ac

Jenny Pham

Grade 7 Science

Jenny Pham

Grade 7 Science

Jenny is from New Orleans, Louisiana in the US, but most recently worked in Busan, South Korea. She holds a master’s degree in Education and a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry, both from Louisiana State University. Jenny joined KISJ in 2021.

I think everyone should read "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Outside of school, I most enjoy doing yoga, cooking for my friends and family, and being in nature.

I’m inspired by my colleagues, whose dedication and passion for their craft motivates me to be a better version of myself everyday.

Email:jpham@kis.ac

Tania Campbell

Grade 8 ELL Specialist

Tania Campbell

Grade 8 ELL Specialist

Tania Campbell is from New Zealand and most recently worked in Seoul. She has a master’s degree in education from The College of New Jersey, a master’s degree in anthropology and a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of Otago. She also holds a graduate diploma in teaching from the New Zealand Graduate School of Education and a CELTA certificate from Cambridge English.

I think everyone should read Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl.

Outside of school, I most enjoy writing, reading, and cycling around beautiful Jeju.

I’m inspired by people who strive to make a positive difference in the world.

Email:tcampbell@kis.ac

Kayla Hsing

Grade 8 English

Kayla Hsing

Grade 8 English

Kayla Hsing is originally from Cupertino, California, United States. Ms Hsing has been an educator, reading specialist, and coach for the last eight years and is excited to continue her teaching journey in Jeju, South Korea. Ms. Hsing has a Master's degree in Education from Loyola Marymount University, and a Bachelor degree in English and Teaching English as a Foreign Language from Cal Poly Pomona. Ms. Hsing joined KISJ in the 2025-2026 school year.

Ms. Hsing would recommend that everyone read Pablo Neruda’s “The Book of Questions” and Shel Silverstein's “The Missing Piece”.

Outside of school, Ms. Hsing most enjoys baking and cooking for friends and family, reading, cafe hopping, learning new skills, and spending time with her family.

Ms. Hsing is inspired by the curiosity of her students, watching her new baby discover the world, and the endless possibilities that come with learning about new people and places!

Email:khsing@kis.ac

Jordan Olson

Grade 8 Social Studies

Jordan Olson

Grade 8 Social Studies

Jordan Olson is originally from Washington State in the United States. Most recently Jordan has been living in Vilnius, Lithuania and Chengdu, China.

Jordan has a Master of Arts in the teaching of Social Studies from Teachers College, Columbia University in New York, and a Bachelor or Arts degree in History from University of Washington in Seattle, Washington.

Outside of work, Jordan enjoys reading in a cozy cafe or spending time outdoors hiking or skiing.

Jordan is most inspired by people who are passionate! She loves listening to people talk about their hobbies or topics that they are excited by.

Email:jolson@kis.ac

Lori Principe

Grade 8 Science

Lori Principe

Grade 8 Science

Lori Principe is originally from Chicago, Illinois, in the United States. She began her career as an outdoor educator after graduating from college. Mrs. Principe later transitioned into classroom teaching in the United States and then worked as a science educator in Taiwan. Mrs. Principe holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Eastern Illinois University. Mrs. Principe joined KISJ in the 2026–2027 school year.

Mrs. Principe would recommend that everyone read "Till We Have Faces" by C.S. Lewis, "Girl with a Pearl Earring" by Tracy Chevalier and "Uprooted" by Naomi Novik.

Outside of school, Mrs. Principe enjoys walking in nature, reading and writing, and playing board games.

Mrs. Principe is inspired by beauty in nature, seeing people enjoy life, and communities coming together to do good.

Email:lprincipe@kis.ac

Rebecca Purcell

Grade 8 English and Social Studies

Rebecca Purcell

Grade 8 English and Social Studies

Rebecca Purcell has spent most of her life in California in the United States. Ms. Purcell has taught in Hawaii, California and New York. Ms. Purcell has a Master's degree in Political Science from the University of California-Davis, and a Bachelor degree in Economics and Political Science from California State University, San Bernardino. Ms. Purcell joined KISJ in the 2025-2026 school year.

Ms. PurcellI usually recommends whatever books she is currently reading, which are “Uncommon Grounds”, “My Brilliant Friend”, and “Wicked”.

Outside of school, Ms. Purcell most enjoys distance running with an audio book playing, exploring her neighborhood on a walk with her husband, and baking with whatever ingredients are local and seasonal.

Ms. Purcell is inspired by her children, the beauty and power of nature, and a meal thoughtfully prepared.

Email:rpurcell@kis.ac

Alistair Watt

Grade 8 Mathematics and Science

Alistair Watt

Grade 8 Mathematics and Science

Alistair Watt is from Auckland, New Zealand. This is Alistair’s first international teaching role. Although, Alistair has over nine years of experience as a teacher in New Zealand.

Alistair has a Master of Science degree in Mathematics Education; a postgraduate degree in Applied Mathematics and a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Mathematics and Psychology from the University of Auckland.

Outside of work, Alistair enjoys golf, mini golf, football (soccer) and spending time with friends.

Alistair is inspired by Janine Hinton who runs the Saving Hope dog rescue in Auckland, NZ and puts her entire soul into saving abandoned and neglected dogs.

Email:awatt@kis.ac

Diane Yum

Grade 8 Mathematics

Diane Yum

Grade 8 Mathematics

Diane Yum is from Torrance, California, USA, but most recently worked in Seoul, Korea. She holds a bachelor's degree in education with a concentration in Mathematics and a single subject credential in Mathematics from California State University, Long Beach. Diane joined KISJ in 2023.

I think everyone should read The Traveler's Gift by Andy Andrews.

Outside of school, I most enjoy spending time with my family, playing golf, traveling, and reading.

I'm inspired by people who have a positive mindset, my two children and challenges in life.

Email:dyum@kis.ac

Thomas Capranica

Middle School Science

Thomas Capranica

Middle School Science

Tom Capranica is from Charlotte, North Carolina, but has most recently worked in Korea in both Jeju and Daegu. Mr. Capranica holds a Bachelor's degree in Physics (Secondary Education) from Appalachian State University. Mr. Capranica joined KISJ in 2021-2022 school year.

Mr. Capranical would recommend that everyone read “Siddhartha” by Herman Hesse.

Outside of school, Mr. Capranica most enjoys spending time outdoors, biking, swimming, ultimate frisbee, and cooking.

Mr. Capranica is inspired by honest people and good music.

Email:tcapranica@kis.ac

Samuel Barrett

Middle School Music (Band)

Samuel Barrett

Middle School Music (Band)

Samuel Barrett is originally from Circle Pines, Minnesota, in the United States. Prior to joining KISJ Mr. Barrett worked as the 7th-12th grade band director in Barron, Wisconsin. Mr. Barrett has a Master’s degree in Music Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Mr. Barrett joined KISJ in the 2026-2027 school year.

Mr. Barrett recommends that everyone read the "Inheritance Cycle" by Christopher Paolini and the "Witcher" novels by Andrzej Sapkowski.

Outside of school Mr. Barrett enjoys long hikes, lifting weights, live music, cooking tasty meals, and the occasional video game.

Mr. Barrett is inspired by passionate colleagues, beautiful scenery, and students who never give up.

Email:sbarrett@kis.ac

Benedict Dingle

Middle School Drama

Benedict Dingle

Middle School Drama

Benedict Dingle is from Woodstock, New Brunswick, Canada. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Acting from Dalhousie University, and a bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Toronto. Benedict joined KISJ in 2014.

I think everyone should read The Hunchback of Notre Dame by Victor Hugo, and William Shakespeare’s Richard III.

Outside of school, I most enjoy being near, on, or in the ocean.

I’m inspired by the simple, everyday kindness of others.

Email:bdingle@kis.ac

Paul du Toit

Middle School Digital Photography and Videography

Paul du Toit

Middle School Digital Photography and Videography

Paul du Toit is from Bloemfontein, South Africa but moved to Jeju Island nine years ago. Paul is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Education from the University of the People, California, USA. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education with specializations in Geography and English from the University of South Africa. Paul joined KISJ in 2021.

I think everyone should read The Shack by William P. Young.

Outside of school, I most enjoy photography, videography, and making music. In addition, my family and I love camping around beautiful Jeju island. I also try to have a BBQ at least twice a week.

I’m inspired by my family and the amazing community at KIS.

Email:pdutoit@kis.ac

Naomi Geidel

Middle School Physical Education

Naomi Geidel

Middle School Physical Education

Naomi Geidel is from Denver, Colorado, but most recently worked in Bangkok, Thailand. She holds a master's degree in Education from Concordia University, Irvine and a bachelor's degree in Health & Physical Education from Concordia University, Seward. Naomi joined KISJ in 2023.

I think everyone should read Keep Going by Austin Kleon and The Crossroads of Should and Must: Find and Follow Your Passion by Elle Luna.

Outside of school, I most enjoy outdoor activities, creative projects and wandering streets I've never been.

I'm inspired by others who continue to challenge themselves, create beauty in the world and care for others well.

Email:ngeidel@kis.ac

Tianna Gilliam

Middle School Music (Choir)

Tianna Gilliam

Middle School Music (Choir)

Tianna Gilliam is from Colorado, USA. She has taught choir in Taiwan, India, the USA, and most recently in El Salvador.

Tianna holds a master's degree in Music Education with a specialty in choral/vocal pedagogy from the University of Kansas as well as bachelor's degrees in Music and Spanish from Presbyterian College in South Carolina. Furthermore, she has published several papers in academic journals on best practices in choral education.

Outside of work, Tianna enjoys spending time with her husband, Luke, and their dachshund, Sage. You can find them hiking, reading, or trying new foods.

Email:tgilliam@kis.ac

Kyle Kresge

Middle School Music (Orchestra)

Kyle Kresge

Middle School Music (Orchestra)

Kyle Kresge is originally from Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA. He has spent the past nine years teaching Music in Guangzhou and Hangzhou, China.

Kyle holds a master's degree in Music Performance from Penn State University, and bachelor's degrees in Music Education and Music Performance from Ithaca College, NY.

Outside of work, Kyle enjoys cooking and eating delicious food, making music with friends, and enjoying time outside with his family.

Kyle is inspired by new discoveries, whether it be new music, new recipes, or new travel destinations - he enjoys finding hidden gems throughout life.

Email:kkresge@kis.ac

Christopher Leman

Middle School Physical Education

Christopher Leman

Middle School Physical Education

Christopher Leman was born and raised near Chicago, Illinois in the United States. Mr. Leman studied Health and Physical Education at Northern Illinois University, and also has a personal training license. After several years of teaching and coaching, Mr. Leman moved west where he continued his career in the hot Arizona sun. Mr. Leman then made the move across the ocean, teaching in Seoul in 2020 and Hanoi, Vietnam in 2022. Mr. Leman joined KISJ in the 2025-2026 school year.

Mr. Leman would recommend that everyone read “The Comfort Crisis” by Michael Easter and “Best Loser Wins” by Tom Hougaard; two great books on life and the importance of mindset.

Outside of school, Mr. Leman enjoys hiking, travel, working out, watching and playing basketball, and reading.

Mr. Leman is inspired by the quality people in his life and those who challenge themselves and others to dream big.

Email:cleman@kis.ac

Kara Kunciw

Schoolwide Substitute Teacher

Kara Kunciw

Schoolwide Substitute Teacher

Kara Kunciw is from Amherst, Massachusetts, but most recently worked in Kuwait. She holds a bachelor's degree in Education and Child Study from Smith College. Kara Kunciw joined KISJ in the 2023-2024 academic year.

I think everyone should read "The Outsiders" by S.E. Hinton and "A Gentleman in Moscow" by Amor Towles.

Outside of school, I most enjoy reading, photography, travel and movies.

I'm inspired by nature, meeting new people, great food and conversation.

Email:kkunciw@kis.ac

Michael Lee

Schoolwide Substitute Teacher

Michael Lee

Schoolwide Substitute Teacher

Michael Lee is from Muskegon, Michigan and raised in Lansing, Michigan and Manhattan, Kansas, but most recently worked in Daegu, South Korea. He holds a master's degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Pittsburg State University and is currently working on a master's degree in Science Education from Montana State University. He also holds a bachelor's degree in Biology, Sociology, and Science Secondary Education from Kansas State University. Michael joined KISJ in 2022.

I think everyone should read "To Kill A Mockingbird" by Harper Lee and "The Drug Hunters: The Improbable Quest to Discover New Medicines" by Donald Kirsch and Ogi Ogas.

Outside of school, you can find me more often than not at a gym. On the other hand, outdoor activities with a healthy dose of Vitamin D is my other favorite hobby.

I'm inspired by 'suddens': sudden bursts of laughter with my students, 'A-ha's from classwork, and surprise gratitudes given to staff, faculty, students, and parents/guardians.

Email:mlee@kis.ac

Jiayi Lu

Schoolwide Substitute Teacher

Jiayi Lu

Schoolwide Substitute Teacher

Jiayi Lu is originally from Xi'an, China. Prior to joining KISJ, Ms. Lu had spent a lot of time working in Omaha in the United States and Busan in South Korea. Ms. Lu has a Master’s degree in Foreign Language Teaching and Acquisition from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and a Bachelor degree in English from Xi'an International Studies University. Ms. Lu joined KISJ in the 2024-2025 school year.

Outside of work, Ms. Lu enjoys rock climbing, playing LEGO and doing pilates.

Ms. Lu is inspired by the people around her, especially the creativity of her students, interesting friends, and thoughtful families.

Email:jlu@kis.ac

Dominic O’Driscoll

Middle School Design Thinking and STEAM

Dominic O’Driscoll

Middle School Design Thinking and STEAM

Dominic O’Driscoll is from Bay Bulls, Newfoundland, Canada, but most recently worked in Nova Scotia, Canada. Dominic holds a Bachelor of Arts in French, as well as a Bachelor of Education with a conjoint diploma in Technology Education from Memorial University of Newfoundland. Dominic Joined KISJ in 2023.

I think everyone should read the book Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari

I most enjoy spending time with my family.

I am inspired by seeing my children and students learn and grow.

Email:dodriscoll@kis.ac

Christian Rodriguez

Middle School Visual Art

Christian Rodriguez

Middle School Visual Art

Christian Rodriguez is originally from Texas, USA. Christian has been an art teacher in Texas for seven years and is excited to continue to teach art now in Jeju, South Korea.

Christian holds a bachelor's degree in Studio Art from The University of Texas at Brownsville now known as The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

Outside of work, Christian enjoys hiking and both digital and film photography, as well as spending time with family and friends as well as traveling and experiencing new places, especially nature.

Christian is inspired by her family and those closest to her, and is also inspired by the goodness and kindness in others and by nature all around her.

Email:crodriguez@kis.ac

Jonathan (Bo) Blake Shaw

Middle School Robotics and Engineering

Jonathan (Bo) Blake Shaw

Middle School Robotics and Engineering

Jonathan Shaw was born in Gadsden, Alabama in the United States but most recently worked in Alabama teaching science and coaching robotics teams. Jonathan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in General Science Education from Auburn University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Auburn University Montgomery. He has over twenty years experience as a classroom teacher. In addition to teaching science, he has coached robotics teams for ten years. Bo joined KISJ in 2018.

I think everyone should read Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss.

Outside of school, I mostly enjoy spending time with family, riding my motorcycle, DIY projects, and attempting to play tennis.

I am inspired by my family and seeing students succeed.

Email:jshaw@kis.ac

Nicole Shin

Middle School Spanish

Nicole Shin

Middle School Spanish

Nicole is from Auckland, New Zealand. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Spanish, and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching, both from The University of Auckland. Nicole joined KISJ in 2023.

I think everyone should read The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan and The Bible.

Outside of school, I most enjoy spending time with my friends and family, doing some outdoor activities, going to markets, pottery, videography, exploring good cafes/restaurants and watching TV.

I'm inspired by all the wonderful people I have around me, the beauty of nature and random acts of kindness.

Email:nshin@kis.ac

Eric Sobolik

Middle School Philosophy, Economics and Speech

Eric Sobolik

Middle School Philosophy, Economics and Speech

Eric Sobolik is from Fargo, North Dakota, USA, but most recently worked in California, USA. He holds a bachelor's degree in Economics from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Eric joined KISJ in 2022.

I think everyone should read Remembrance of Earth's Past Trilogy by Cixin Liu.

Outside of school, I most enjoy hiking and playing chess.

I'm inspired by making connections.

Email:esobolik@kis.ac

Sarah Watson

Schoolwide Substitute Teacher

Sarah Watson

Schoolwide Substitute Teacher

Sarah Watson is originally from the State of New Hampshire in the USA but has also lived in China and South Korea. She holds a master’s degree in School Librarianship from Rutgers University and a bachelor’s degree in Asian Studies from Bard College. Sarah joined KISJ in 2022.

I think everyone should read without fear of judgment.

Outside of school I most enjoy outdoor activities and making things.

I’m inspired by things that make the world a better place.

Email:swatson@kis.ac

Eun Ah Ko (Ellen)

Korean Social Studies

Eun Ah Ko (Ellen)

Korean Social Studies

Eun ah, Ko is from Jeju, Korea. She holds a Bachelor of Education in Major of Social Studies education from Jeju National University, and joined KISJ in 2014.

I think everyone should read Spread your wings by Joachim de Posada.

Outside of school, I most enjoy traveling, playing with my family and watching sports.

I'm inspired by: ‘Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.’ -Helen Keller.

Email:eako@kis.ac

Mi-jeong Kang (Catharina)

Korean Social Studies

Mi-jeong Kang (Catharina)

Korean Social Studies

Mi-jeong Kang is from Jeju, South Korea. She holds a bachelor’s degree in History and social studies from Jeju National University. Mijeong joined KISJ in 2011.

I think everyone should read River Boy by Tim Bowler or Momo by Michael Ende.

Outside of school I most enjoy being with my three sons, walking the road to keep moments and writing memories, watching movies.

I’m inspired by: ‘We will laugh more, we’ll love more, we’ll see the world. We just won’t be so afraid.’ - Last Holiday (movie)

Email:mjkang@kis.ac