Shawn Vento, Head of School

Shawn Vento is from Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Physical Health and Education from the University of Toronto, a master’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with Educational Leadership from SUNY Buffalo State and a professional certification with Ontario College of Teachers. Shawn joined KISJ in 2015.

I think everyone should read Stephen R. Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

Outside of school, I most enjoy spending time with family; camping, hiking, fishing and most of all, laughing!

I’m inspired by the words of Helen Keller, “Character can not be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”

Julia Snider, Director of Teaching and Learning

Julia Snider is originally from Sydenham, Ontario, Canada, but has spent her educational career abroad; first in Honduras and then Kuwait before coming to South Korea. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from McGill University, a bachelor’s degree in Education from Queen’s University, a Master in Education with a concentration in Assessment and Evaluation from Queen's University, with a professional certificate and principal's certificate through the Ontario College of Teachers. She is currently a doctoral student in the field of Educational Leadership at Western University. Julia joined KISJ in 2017.

I think everyone should read Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner, Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and What is the What by Dave Eggers.

Outside of school, I most enjoy spending time with my husband and our two sons, exploring the world through travel, being outside and doing yoga.

I'm inspired by people who push themselves to continually learn and grow, and people who choose to do good in the world.

DK Hipkins, Director of Educational Technology

DK Hipkins is from Newport, Virginia, USA, but most recently worked in Santiago, Chile. He holds an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Regent University, a masters degree in Computers in Education from Shenandoah University, and a bachelor's degree in History from Shenandoah University. DK joined KISJ in 2019-20.

I think everyone should read Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Outside of school, I most enjoy designing and printing 3D models, cooking, brewing, following baseball, and spending time with my family.

I'm inspired by the miracle that is this amazing universe, a really good cup of coffee, those who do the right thing even when it's not popular, and especially my wife and kids who bring me immense joy.

Michelle Cave, Director of Human Resources

Michelle Cave is from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. She holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Government from the University of Queensland, a Graduate Diploma in Education from the Queensland University of Technology, a TEFL-C from Columbia University, and is currently undertaking a Master of International Education (School Leadership) at Curtin University. Michelle joined KISJ in 2014.

I think everyone should read My Place by Sally Morgan.

Outside of school, I most enjoy traveling and seeing new places with new experiences, photography, hiking, swimming, and playing softball.

I’m inspired by random acts of kindness—one person can make a difference.

Margaret Patton, Dean of Boarding

Margaret is originally from Glastonbury, Connecticut, but most recently worked in Boston, MA, USA. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Political Science from Emmanuel College. Margaret joined KISJ in 2019.

 I think everyone should read The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod, and the Harry Potter series by JK Rowling.

 Outside of school, I most enjoy spending time in nature, hiking, yoga, games, good company, learning new things, and traveling.

 I’m inspired by quotes, mentors, positive energy, acts of kindness, practicing stillness, and the joys of everyday life.

Lucas Oren, Athletics Director

Lucas Oren is from Edgerton, Wisconsin. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, 6–12 licenses for Science and ESL from the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, and a Master of Science: Professional Education (MSPE) from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Lucas joined KISJ in 2013.

I think everyone should read The BFG by Roald Dahl.

Outside of school, I most enjoy cheering for the Wisconsin Badgers, Milwaukee Brewers, and Green Bay Packers; playing basketball, riding mops, bicycling, traveling, and trying new/strange food.

I’m inspired by life.

Bill Rago, ELL Coordinator

 Bill Rago is from Bristol, Pennsylvania. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education/Early Childhood Development from Temple University, an M.S.Ed. in TESOL from the University of Pennsylvania, and recently earned a Professional Certificate in Educational Leadership from The College of New Jersey. Prior to landing at KISJ in 2016, Bill taught in Seoul, Korea and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. 

I think everyone should read Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass by Frederick Douglass.

Outside of school, I most enjoy spending time with my family outdoors, playing sports, playing music, and fishing.

I’m inspired by underdogs.

Su Jin, Student Support Services Coordinator

Su Jin is from Fairfax, Virginia, but most recently worked in Tianjin, China. She holds a master's degree in Family Counseling from Texas Woman's University, and a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas Woman's University. Su Jin joined KISJ in 2020. 

I think everyone should read Mother’s Reckoning by Sue Klebold. 

Outside of school, I most enjoy cooking, hiking, and spending time with my son.

I'm inspired by people who feel enthusiastic about their life and family, and who share their enthusiasm and positive energy with others.