That Day Parents Came Back!

Last Friday, the International School of Qingdao joyously welcomed parents of Early Childhood  (ECC) and Elementary students to campus for the annual Meet the Teachers event. We were thankful for a chance to meet face to face, show parents their children's classrooms and enjoy each other's company over snacks and coffee.  

The Meet the Teachers event offers parents a glimpse into the inner-workings of the International School of Qingdao and a chance to see what their children experience every day. It also helps teachers and parents Connect - one of our LifePlus 9 Qualities, demonstrating a value for others and the relationships that we build.  

This year, we welcomed two new Grade 5 lead teachers: Ms. Sonya Johnson and Ms. Ashley Faulkenberry. Read on to learn more about their qualifications and approach to teaching. 

Ashley Faulkenberry 
Ph.D. Curriculum & Instruction, Liberty University in progress 
M.A. Education, Southeastern 
TESOL Certificate 
Total Years Teaching: 3 

Why do you love teaching?  
Because I love seeing people learn and grow. It brings me joy. I love seeing lives transformed. 

What made you want to teach at an international school? 
The opportunity to teach students from around the world. 

Describe your ideal classroom environment in a few words. 
A classroom that is fun and inviting and interactive. A place where students feel safe and are eager to learn. 

Why did you choose the them of "Mosaic" this year and what is the value for your students? 
The theme mosaic came to me during the staff training when we were asked to take a few minutes of solitude. I want to teach the students to embrace their differences and that great things can come from working with people who are different from us. I want the classroom to be a place where we celebrate our differences, work together as a class family, and learn from each. So, I thought mosaic was the best representation of these lessons I wanted to teach the students. 

Sonya Johnson 
M.Ed. Special Education (General Curriculum), University of West Georgia 
TEFL and Highly Qualified Certificate (Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Science) Grades P-8 
Total Years Teaching: 18 

Why do you love teaching?  
I aim to bring an open mind, a positive attitude, and high expectations to the classroom each day. I believe that I owe it to my students, as well as the community to bring consistency, diligence, and warmth to my job in the hope that I can ultimately inspire and encourage such traits in my children as well. 

What made you want to teach at an international school? 
I have a passion for teaching and traveling, so teaching at an International School allows me to pursue both passions. 

Describe your ideal classroom environment in a few words. 
I want my students to feel safe and secure in a fun, collaborative, and engaging environment. 

Why did you choose the them of "Mosaic" this year and what is the value for your students? 
I want them to believe in themselves that they can accomplish anything, no matter the challenges. 

Ms. Sandy Qu is an anchor to the Grade 5 team, going into her tenth year at the International School of Qingdao and her third year with Grade 5. She will assist both Lead Teachers and offer support to students in both classes. 

Sandy Qu 
B.A. Accounting, Qingdao University 

Why do you love teaching?  
Our Kids are amazing! You give them a small hint, and you will get a color map from them. Actually, I'm not teaching, instead I'm studying together with the kids and learning a lot from them. 

What benefits and challenges do you anticipate this year with such a big class? 
I know there’ll be lots of challenges for me this year. It is the first time I will work with two classes in one grade level. But I’m sure the 3 teachers can serve G5 well, and I’m very excited to be with two professional teachers and have the chance to know all the students in both classes. 

What is one thing you want the students to take away from Grade 5? 
This year I want every student in G5 to find their academic, physical and social strengths, and use them to make achievements here and get ready for Middle School.