Faculty & Staff

David Pattison, Head Principal

Home Country: USA

Qingdao has some similarities with Southern California where I spent my first 18 years. I like having both the mountains and the ocean nearby, and I love teaching students about the ocean and how to scuba dive. I’ve been a teacher or principal in schools for 24 years, 16 of them in Asia and the Pacific. My wife and I have three children in their 20s living in the USA.

Education:
~MA, School Administration, Azusa Pacific University
~BS, Youth Ministry, Barrington College

Nitta Song, High School Principal

Home Country: USA I was born and raised in Busan, Korea until I was 13 years old. Then my family immigrated to the United States. I went to a middle school in Washington State and then moved to Anaheim, California. My first teaching job was teaching Korean and Biology at Cerritos High School in Southern California. Before coming to Qingdao in 2007, I had taught Biology, Chemistry, and 8th Grade Physical Science at Whitney High School in southern California for 6 years. I have three children, Jina, Hana, and Isaiah. The best thing about teaching is how much fun I can have with young people.

Education:
~Administration Certification, University of California, Fullerton
~M.Ed., Educational Leadership, Biola University Teacher Credential, University of California
~BS, Biological Sciences, University of California - Irvine

Raul Harri, Middle School Principal

Home Country: Australia

I’m a Finnish/Australian. I was born in Papua New Guinea, and grew up in PNG, Australia and India. I speak four languages and enjoy running, sailing, playing tennis, chess and scrabble. I’ve taught English, social studies and drama in several schools in Australia, Taiwan and Mainland China. I have a wonderful family - my wife (Marjaana), my two boys (Riki and Esa) and a daughter (Amy). We have lived in China for 12 years now and love it here!

Education:
~M.Ed., TESOL, University of South Australia
~Bachelor of Education, English Literature, University of Canberra

Carl Post, Elementary Principal

Home Country: USA

I am currently beginning my 8th year in China. I fully enjoy living and working in Qingdao. My children have lived in Qingdao since birth and my oldest attends ISQ. I am originally from Chicago where I met my wife. Some of our favorite things to do in Qingdao are to laugh, cook and read. My goal is to get students, staff and parents to read. If you are ever on our campus I would love to give you a tour of our Elementary Library and show you some of my favorite books.

Education:
~Master of Business Administration, Olivet Nazarene University
~BS, Elementary Education, Physical Education, Valparaiso University

Angela Patterson, Curriculum and Professional Development Coordinator

Home Country: United States of America

Before moving to China, I lived and taught 4th grade in Texas. Since arriving at ISQ nine years ago, I have taught 4th grade, 6th grade English and Social Studies, and High School Classical Studies. I started the girls’ soccer team, served as National Honor Society advisor, and chaired the School Improvement team. Currently, I am working as the Accreditation (WASC/NCCT) Coordinator, as well as coordinating curriculum for the school and professional development for the staff. In my spare time, I enjoy reading good books, hanging out with students, playing around with my cool camera, and traveling the world!

Education:
~M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, Indiana Wesleyan University
~BS, Interdisciplinary Studies, Texas A&M University

Damian Tapley, Head of Student Services

Home Country: Australia

I grew up in the sunbaked city of Perth, Western Australia. But have spent the last eight or so years in China with my young family. I’ve worked in schools as a youth worker for the last ten years, with the focus being on helping kids make the most out of their overseas “growing up” experience.

Education:
Graphic Reproduction, Perth Metropolitan College of TAFE

Marcella Kubalsky, Director of Communications
Admissions, Marketing & PR

Home Country: USA

I grew up on an island in the beautiful Puget Sound, in Washington State, in the USA. I have had the privilege of traveling and living in several places around the world, but I enjoy living in Qingdao, China the most! I live here with my husband, Kevin, and our two amazing kids, Payton and Hattie.

Education:
~Master of Arts, Linguistics/ Education, Seattle Pacific University
~Bachelor of Arts, Religion / Pastoral Ministries, Vanguard University

Vickie Lee, Korean Liaison

Home Country: USA

I was born in Korea but when I was 14 years old moved and grew up in California. I majored fashion design, but studied Early Childhood Education after my second daughter was born. I love to listen to music and enjoy singing and dancing with young children. I have two daughters and I love China - especially Qingdao!

Education:
~AA, Early Childhood Education, Mt. San Antonio College
~AS, Fashion Design, Los Angeles Technical College

Nancy Duan, Admissions & Marketing Assistan

I was born and raised in Qingdao. I graduated from Xi'an Fan Yi University, majoring in Business English. I like reading and singing. This is my second year at ISQ. I love this school! I also love to see the students smile.

Education: ~Xi'an Fanyi University

Nancy Wang, School Receptionist

Home country: China

I was born in Liaocheng. I had been living in Qingdao for 7 years until I went to Holland and worked there for a year as an Au pair. While I stayed there, I got to visit several other European countries like Bel-gium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourger and Vatican. I like learn-ing about different cultures and languages. I love their delicious food, too. I love reading and listening to music. I worked in a kindergarten for 5 years as an English teacher and I loved it. I am excited to work in ISQ and I’d like to know all of you.

Education: English, Ocean University

Patrick Kwok, Student Services / Middle School Counselor

Home Country: Hong Kong & Canada

I was born in Hong Kong. I am a youth worker and I am passionate about working with young people. I believe that young people need to know who they are and how are they going to contribute to the people around them. Thus, I sincerely hope that students in ISQ would study for a purpose and gradually connect their life missions with the needs of the society.

Education:
~Master of Christian Studies in Marketplace Theology, Regent College, Vancouver, Canada
- BA, Business Administration in Information Technology Management, Trinity Western University, Vancouver, Canada

Amy Westby, Secondary Counselor

Jay Lee, Events Coordinator

Home Country: Korea

I was born, raised and educated in Korea. I moved to Qingdao in 2006 with my husband and two children. I have worked as an Education Advisor in China for 4 years. In my free time I love to play with my kids and go for walks in the suburbs with my family.

Education:
~BA, Home Economics Education ~BA, English (TESOL) ~AA, Clinical Laboratory Science

Bean Logsdon, Student Services / High School Counselor

Jennifer Brown, MUN Teacher

Home Country: USA

I claim both Colorado and Florida as my home in America; Colorado because that’s where my family lives and Florida because that’s where I lived for several years before I moved to China. I’ve taught 4th grade, 6th grade, almost every type of High School history, English, Drama, Yearbook and Model United Nations. I love living in China, Qingdao specifically (in spite of the lack of Diet Coke), because of the wonderful people, opportunity to travel, variety of cultures and easy access to one of my favorite sports, ping pong. Things I’m passionate about would include music, getting to know people, learning new things and volleyball. Being at ISQ has taught me many things over the last two years and I can’t wait to see what’s next!

Education:
~BS, Elementary Education, Baptist Bible College, Springfield, MO

Shine Shi, High School Teacher

Home Country: China

I was born in Qingdao and grew up here. I love teaching high school students, sharing the happiness of learning with them and experiencing the busiest, craziest high-school years with them. I believe that if I keep staying with the high-school students, my mind will remain sharp and I can never become old.

Education:
~M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, Indiana Wesleyan University
~BS, Food Science and Technology, Ocean University

Sapphire Li, High School Teacher

Home Country: China

I was born in Qingdao and have been lived here my whole life. One interesting thing that I have found is that almost all the foreigners in our school know more places in Qingdao than I do! Now I think you can tell I’m not a person who goes out much. Yes, I spend most of my free time at home reading, which sounds like I must be a knowledgeable person. Unfortunately, that’s not true. Maybe it’s because I don't have that much free time. I love teaching at ISQ. Teaching makes me grow. Education:
~BS, Math Education, Qingdao University Teachers College

Chris Dentel, Head of Social Studies Department

Home Country: USA

I am from the United States (most recently North Carolina) and have been married to my wife Melissa for 7 years. We have a daughter, Esther, who is older than one but possibly younger than two depending on when you are reading this.

Education:
~BS, Business Administration, Toccoa Falls College

Chris Thompson, Head of Mathematics Department

Home Country: USA

Though born in New Hampshire, my home has been Oregon for the majority of my life followed by China which I first visited in 1986. I tremendously enjoy the privilege of teaching the wonder of math to young people and using the technology of today to make it all that much more relevant and real.

Education:
~BS, Mathematics, Oregon State University

David Park, Bible Teacher

Home Country: USA

My life is certain ways reflects the plight of our TCK students here at ISQ. I was born in Korea, raised within a traditional Korean household in Los Angeles, learned to speak German, had three children - one on each coast of the U.S. and in between - before moving out here to China. It's hard to name a home! But I know who I belong to and where my destination is and that's all that matters. It's my privilege to pass that along to the students here at ISQ. I enjoy teaching the one book, the Bible, that never changes regardless of how quickly the world changes.

Education:
~M.Div., Capital Bible Seminary
~BA, English & American Literature, University of California

Jenny-lea Blanks, English Teacher

Home Country: South Africa

I began my teaching career at an all boys school 13 years ago in South Africa. I moved to Qingdao, China to teach at ISQ in January 2005. I am passionate about teaching and find joy in interacting with and learning from my students.

Education:
~M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, Indiana Wesleyan University
~Higher Education Diploma, Cambridge Certification
~BA, English & Education, University of South Africa

Jonathan Winn, Head of Biblical Studies Department

Home Country: USA

For as long as I can remember, I have always enjoyed living and working in cross-cultural settings. Perhaps growing up in a very multicultural region (Washington, D.C., USA) was a major factor. I also spent time during my high school years doing service trips in Mexico and Chile. When it was time to make a decision for college, I chose the school with a solid program in both Anthropology and Biblical studies. During my years in college I did a one year internship teaching in China, and it was then that my passion for teaching began. My wife Alyssa and I have 2 girls, Eliana and Talia and are awaiting a son, Biru, through adoption. This is now my 8th year teaching at ISQ and my family considers Qingdao our home.

Education:
~M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, Indiana Wesleyan University
~BS, Cross-Cultural Studies, Toccoa Falls College

Dale Budensiek, Bible Teacher

Home Country: USA

I grew up enjoying the beautiful Rocky Mountains in the state of Colorado, U.S.A. I have been teaching youth for eight years in Oklahoma and Colorado. My wife and I have one hilarious little boy. Therefore, I greatly enjoy spending time with them and friends. If you combine hanging out with them on a sailboat, even better.

Education:
~BA, Pastoral Ministries, Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Rick Herzog, Head of Science Department

Home Country: USA

I come from Seattle, Washington USA and have lived in Qingdao since 2008. I’m married and have 4 kids. I enjoy teaching science because it gives me an opportunity to explore the order and “amazingness” of the world around us. I also get to play with cool toys and make pretty colors with chemicals. In my spare time I like to hang out with my family, hike, and read.

Education:
~Master in Teaching, Seattle University
~B.Pharm., Pharmacy, Washington State University

Chris Crady, High School Teacher

Home Country: USA

I was born and raised in Kentucky. After graduating with my Master's degree, I spent three years in the Philippines (2001-2004) as a teacher. When I returned to the the States I continued teaching, got married in 2007, and moved to China in 2009. Currently, I teach AP English Language, as well as 9th and 12th grade English at ISQ.

Education:
~Master of Education, University of Louisville
~BA, English, University of Louisvile

Kathryn Vasquez, English Teacher

Stephanie Thompson, Social Studies Teacher

Lisa Budensiek, Director of English Language Support Services

Home Country: USA

~M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, Indiana Wesleyan University
~BS, Elementary Education with Kindergarten Endorsement, Indiana Wesleyan University

Beth Shimer, English Teacher

Home Country: USA

I was born and raised in Ohio in the United States. I am the oldest of five and our family remains really close even as we spread out all over the world. I love teaching middle-schoolers; every day is an adventure filled with comedy, drama and everything in between. My students change so much through the course of the year and I love being along for the ride. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy relaxing with a good movie or book.

Education:
~BS, Middle Childhood Education, Cedarville University

Jane Ymas, Science & Mathematics Teacher

Home Country: Philippines

I was born and raised in the Philippines “pearl of the orient seas”. I love gloomy days, sweets and pasta, and I dislike sunlight, mayonnaise and pickles. I have experienced teaching almost all subjects and all grade levels in my 9 years of teaching. I taught Bible, Music, Arts, P.E., Math, Science, Computer, and Language Arts to varied grade levels (1st – 10th grade) in the Philippines for 3 years. In the year 2004, I moved to Northern Mariana Islands – Rota, and taught 4th to 9th graders. This is the place where I met my husband Christian Ymas. I moved here to China one year before he did, and we love everything about China – people, weather, places, and language. I am currently teaching Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1 & 2, and Science 7 & 8, and I love it!

Education:
~M.Ed., Indiana Wesleyan University (In progress)
~BS in Secondary Education, Mathematics, Philippine Normal University

Judy Guo, Secondary Teacher's Assistant

Home Country: China

I studied English as my major at Qu Fu Normal University and Shandong University of Science and Technology respectively. I love learning languages because I love people and languages allow me to get to know people and relate to them. I also love playing sports with my students. I think the most rewarding thing for a teacher is to see the amazing changes and improvements in the students.

Education:
~BA, English, Shandong University of Science and Technology

Kelly Liu, Secondary Teaching Assistant

Home Country: China

~Master of Engineering, Chemistry, Qingdao University
~BS, Physics Education, Qingdao University Teachers College

Nathan Greene, IT Teacher

Home Country: USA

~BS, Computer Science, University of Texas at Dallas

Timothy DeKoninck, Middle & High School Science Teacher

Home Country: USA

I grew up halfway between Lansing and Detroit, Michigan as the oldest of seven siblings. From a very young age I had my heart set on becoming a pilot and living overseas, even going so far as to earn my pilot’s license. After marrying the woman of my dreams and working in healthcare for a year, I experienced a clear call to come teach in China. I am passionate about instilling a love for creation and learning in my students and greatly enjoy showing them how the world ‘fits’ together. My dream someday is to attend medical school and work in some underserved area of the world.

Education:
~BS, Biology/Pre-Med, Cedarville University

Lisa Fenton, English Teacher

Home Country: USA

I grew up in North East Texas, and when I speak, most people ask me where I’m from. I’ve joyfully taught middle school students for 8 years, 6 years in Texas and 2 years in China. I look forward to going to work everyday because middle schoolers are so much fun. When I’m not teaching, I love spending time with my 10 year old son, Ethan.

Education:
~BS, Christian Ministry, East Texas Baptist University, Marshall, Texas

Amanda Yuan, Secondary Teacher's Assistant

Home Country: China

~BA, English Education, Taishan University

Simi Bhullar, Secondary Science Teacher

Since coming to ISQ, I have learnt that I am what they call, a “TCK” – Third Culture Kid. I am a Punjabi/Indian by race born in Malaysia. When I was 10 years old, my family migrated to Australia where I have spent most of my life. I come from one of the most beautiful cities in the world – Perth, Western Australia. I had to transition from an Asian education system to a Western education system which was not easy but yet exciting for me. After completing my Graduate Diploma in Education, I worked as a teacher in a private secondary school in Perth. I taught middle school science and high school Biology and Chemistry. I totally love teaching and find it to be most rewarding. I especially count it a privilege to be part of the ISQ family where I work with wonderful and caring staff and, great students who are always so cheerful and enthusiastic. My purpose as a science educator is to teach students to be independent thinkers who know why they believe what they believe.

Warren MacLeod, Math Teacher

Zack Barron, Social Studies Teacher

Stacey DeKoninck, 1st Grade Teacher

Home Country: USA

I grew up about an hour outside of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania and was born right smack in between two other siblings. I love working with children and have been teaching for the past four years. My teaching experience ranges from places like Nairobi, Kenya to the suburbs of Detroit. I love to sing, bake, and spend time with my family. My husband Tim and I have been in China for the past two years.

Education:
~BA, Early Childhood Education, Cedarville University

Joanna Xu, 1st Grade Teacher's Assistant

Amy Keller, 2nd Grade Teacher

Home Country: USA

I was born in Colorado, but I grew up in New Mexico. Because of growing up there, I love spicy green chile* and hot air balloons. I came to China right after I graduated from Cedarville University in 2004. I love working with young children and having fun with my class.

*Chile is not spelled wrong…that’s how we New Mexicans spell it!

Education:
~BS, Early Childhood Education, Cedarville University

Crystal Wang, Second Grade Teacher's Assistant

Karen Anderson, 2nd Grade Teacher

Home Country: USA

I am from a small agriculture town in Ohio, United States. I love the city: all the people, shopping, restaurants and the constant motion. When I began my sixth grade year in school, it was at my sixth school. I moved many times growing up, so I’m a great packer and really enjoy getting to know new areas. I have known that I wanted to be a teacher since a very young age, so I absolutely love being in a classroom teaching eager and curious young minds!

Education:
~BA, Early Childhood Education, Cedarville University

Arry Wang, 2nd Grade Teacher's Assistant

Home Country: China

I was born, raised and educated in this beautiful city Qingdao. Before I worked in ISQ, I once taught English in a college. My hobbies include travelling, reading, drawing, music and art. I have been working in third grade for four years and I love my third grade kids so much! I love this school because I have a sense of belonging.

Education:
~BA, English, Qingdao University

Lily Anderson, 3rd Grade Teacher

Home Country: USA

I was raised in Virginia Beach, in the USA. During second and third grade I lived in Tokyo and attended an international school there as my parents taught English. After studying elementary education and media at Huntington College (Indiana) and working in the US for a couple of years, I moved to Zhengzhou in the province of Henan to teach English at a Chinese university. I greatly enjoyed my work there, but I missed working with children and teaching other subjects, so in 2009 I moved to Qingdao to work at ISQ. I have a cat and I love to read, bake, and knit. I also love dark chocolate.

Education:
BS, Elementary Education, Huntington College

Catherine Sun, 3nd Grade Teacher's Assistant

Home Country: China

I am from Henan province , the center of China.There is long history in my hometown. But since I moved to Qingdao by following my husband, I was amazed by the ocean and beach. I have a very cute daughter. I enjoy reading, swimming and playing chinese chess, but to be with kids and teaching them is my favorite thing.

Education
~Business English, China Agriculture University

Angela Davidson, 3rd Grade Teacher

Home Country: USA

I was an elementary teacher in Texas for 4 years before coming to China. I enjoyed coming to China in the summer time to teach English to middle school students and company employees. In fact, I liked it so much that I decided to bring my daughter here to live and teach here permanently! I enjoy learning about China and getting to know my new city with Chinese friends.

Education:
~BS, Biblical Studies, Moody Institute

Bronwyn Liu, 3rd Grade Teacher's Assistant

Home Country: China

~BA, English Education, Inner Mongolia Normal University

Loretta Crady, 4th Grade Teacher

Home Country: USA

I was born and raised in Kingsport, Tennessee. After I graduated from college, I returned to Kingsport and taught 5th grade in a private school. My first trip to China was in 2004, and I also came in 2005 and 2006 to teach at a summer English camp. I got married in 2007, and moved toLouisville , Kentucky where I taught 6th grade and 4th grade. I came back to China in 2009.

Education:
~M.Ed., Pensacola Christian College
~BS, Elementary Education, Pensacola Christian College

Alice Yang, 4th Grade Teacher's Assistant

Home Country: China

I was born and raised in Muling, Heilongjiang Province, which is a very cold place in China. After graduating from college, I came to Qingdao, the beautiful coastal city. But it’s a little bit strange that I feel even colder in Qingdao’s winter. It’s my fourth year at ISQ. I love working with kids.

Education:
~English, Taijing Economic Trade College

Ben Westby, 4th Grade Teacher

Ann Liu, 4th Grade Teacher's Assistant

Home Country: China

I was born and raised in Qingdao. I graduated from Qingdao University, majoring in Math. I like reading, traveling and thinking. I love learning languages because it helps us know the world well. And I am very excited that I can work here.

Education:
~BS, Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, Qingdao University

Joshua Altmanshofer, 5th Grade Teacher

Home Country: USA

I was born and reared in the heartland of America: Omaha, Nebraska. I miss the huge skies and the thunderstorms. However, I have gladly traded them to participate in ISQ’s work in China. I firmly believe in what our school stands for, and I’m excited to be part of this community. My heart is shaped for 5th graders and it is my goal to see them grow into interesting, passionate human beings. I get excited about learning, and it is my goal to model learning for my students. My passion is to ask better questions and tell better stories.

Education:
~M.Ed., Indiana Wesleyan University (In progress)
~BS, Biblical Studies, Toccoa Falls College

Lisa Li, 5th Grade Teacher's Assistant

Home Country: China

I was born and grew up in the countryside of Taian City which is famous for Mount Tai. After 15 years’ school education, I finally began my new life in Qingdao. Working in lower elementary school here at ISQ has been my first job ever. I always love interacting with kids with a sense of humor. During my free time I love singing and talking with friends. Recently I have fallen in love with hiking.
Education:
~BA, English Education, Taishan College

Blake Hedrick, 5th Grade Teacher

Home Country: USA

I have had the privilege of working at ISQ for many years. It has been a training ground for multiple students and I cherish the part I have played in nurturing their lives. I joined ISQ back in 1996 when it first opened (when it was known as QMIS) and have enjoyed watching it grow into the incredible school it has become today. Teaching children is a great responsibility and honor and I enjoy watching them mature into the intelligent, well-balanced, compassionate young people they were meant to be and I enjoy seeing them reach some of their potential!

Education:
~M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, Indiana Wesleyan University
~Master of Arts in Teaching, Columbia International University
~BA, Bible & Christian Education, Columbia International University

Linda Liu, 5th Grade Teacher's Assistant

Home Country: China

~BA, English, Shandong University of Science and Technology

Erica Hiscoe, English Language Support Teacher

Home Country: USA

~BS, Elementary Education, Indiana Wesleyan University

Diana Wu, English Language Support Teacher

Home Country: China

I was born in Lanyang and moved to Qingdao when I was in 6th grade. I enjoy reading, baking and all kinds of outdoor activities.

Education:
~Two Year Associate's Degree, International Trade, Shandong Economic University

Kara Howell, English Language Support Teacher

Edith Chu, Secondary Art Teacher

Home country: Canada

When I was two years old, my family immigrated to Canada. I grew up in Edmonton, Alberta and was one of few Chinese in my school. Sometimes when I had difficulty communicating with my Grand-ma in Chinese, I would draw pictures to explain. I think art is a powerful way to communicate across cultures.

Education:
~Bachelor of Education, University of Alberta
~Bachelor of Fine Arts, University of Alberta

Ron Brace, Head of Fine Arts

Will McDonald, Music Teacher

Home Country: USA

I grew up in a military family, therefore, I am from many places. My birth country is Germany, but my passport country is the United States. My interests are quite varied, primary of which are my family, music (of course), the fine arts, computers, languages, China, and fantasy football. I have lived and taught in China for nearly a decade. I absolutely enjoy teaching and investing into the lives of students.

Education:
~M.Ed., Curriculum Development, Indiana Wesleyan University
~B.Mus, Music Performance, Moody Institute

Stephanie Melachrinos, Art Teacher

Home Country: USA

I was born in California but lived my school years in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I’ve wanted to be an elementary school teacher since I was an elementary student! In high school, I became interested in teaching art. My first trip outside of North American, during my freshman year of college, sparked my love of travel and desire to teach outside the United States.

Education:
~BS, Art Education, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Xiaoling Yang, Art Teacher Assistant

Home Country: China

I’ve been living in Qingdao for 15 years. I love this city. I like the mountains, the crop fields, the streams and flowers, and enjoy chatting with my friends.

Education:
~BA, Art, Wuxi University of Light Industry

Kevin Yu, Fine Arts Teaching Assistant

Rebecca Xu, Music Teacher Assistant

Home Country: China

I was born and raised in Qingdao. I graduated from Shandong University of Arts, majoring in Music Education. My hobbies include playing the piano, singing, travelling, swimming and fishing. This is my third year at ISQ.

Education:
~BA, Music Education, Shandong College of Arts

Donald Lyngdoh, Physical Education Director

Home Country: India

I am from India and I love to spend time with my family, cook, play soccer and write. I love teaching because I love to use humour and it's a perfect platform for performance and impacting the next generation of leaders, visionaries and service people.

Education:
~M.Ed., Indiana Wesleyan University (In progress)
~BA, Sociology and Athletic Coaching, Anderson University

Jason Harvel, Athletics Director

Home Country: USA

I was born and raised in the farmlands of Ohio. China is the first place I’ve ever lived without having my house bordered on at least one side by corn fields. My wife and I moved to Qingdao, China in 2004 after working with the Salvation Army as youth pastors for a couple of years. Qingdao is a great place for soccer and swimming – my two favorite things to do other than play with my family. We’ve had two kids here in China and we’re enjoying being a part of the expat community here in beautiful Qingdao.

Education
~M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, Indiana Wesleyan University
~BA, Bible, Cedarville University

Eric Kang, Assistant Athletics Director

Home Country: China

I was born and raised in Qingdao. I have been teaching at ISQ since 2005. I love students and enjoy teaching them. I want to have a personal impact in the lives of my students and to instill in them a love of sports and a desire to strive for sports excellence.

Education:
~BS, Yantai University, Computer Science and Technologies

Garbo Zhang, Head of Chinese Department

Home Country: China

I was born in Tianjin, but my hometown is in Guangdong Province. I have lived in Qingdao since I was a little girl and have been working at ISQ for 11 years. I love this school. I enjoy being in this big family. I am a Chinese teacher, so my dream is that all students at ISQ can speak Chinese with high fluency. My favorite vegetable is eggplant (but not spicy). I love walking with my husband after dinner.

Education:
~Three Year Associate's Degree, Civil Engineering, Qingdao Television University

Debra Li, Chinese Teacher

Home Country: China

Qingdao is my hometown which makes me a good swimmer. For 16 years I’ve been teaching Chinese to different groups of students with the first 11 years in a local middle school and the other 5 here at ISQ. In my spare time I enjoy reading books with a cup of tea by my side. I feel blessed with a wise husband and a lovely son. Helping my son to be successful in his life is my life-long goal.

Education:
~BA, Chinese Linguistic & Literature, Qingdao University

Ningning Li, Chinese Teacher

Home Country: China

I was born in Zhaoyuan, Yantai, where I met my husband. Both of us love tasty Yantai ping guo! After spending 7 college years studying in Tianjin, I was lucky to start my first job here at ISQ. I can't believe my fifth grade students are now in High School! I enjoy the time with students, still feeling like an energetic teenager, though I am already a new mom, haha~

Education:
~Master of Arts, World History, Nankai University
~BA, World History, International Economic Trade, Nankai University

Queenie Liu, Chinese Teacher

Home Country: China

Both my father and mother were born and grew up in Qingdao, as did I. Whenever I think of my childhood, there will be a naughty girl talking and laughing a lot. At that time, I thought I probably was the daughter of the sea, because I loved swimming in the sea and playing on the beach. Through my self-taught education experience to the postgraduate study life, I found that motivation and interest are the key factors for learning and studying. So I pay attention to foster the interests of the students while teaching Chinese. I cherish being with each and every student.

Education:
~Master, Second Language Acquisition, Ocean University of China
~BA, English, Shandong University

Stella Xia, Chinese Teacher

Home Country: China

Years ago, in one of the hospitals in Qingdao, I was born in a family with only 3 occupations: doctor, teacher and engineer. As time passed, my future plans were stuck in hospitals schools and even the stage, because of my dramatic way of living. But finally, before I was graduated from university, I decided to choose something old but new: to teach other people my own language. That very decision has brought my life a lot of laughter and happiness. I enjoy my life, and I plan to enjoy more in the future.

Education:
~BA, English Education, Qingdao University

Yuanjing Liu, Chinese Teacher

Home Country: China

~English Education, Qingdao Ocean University

Ruth Chen, Chinese Teacher

Home Country: China

~BA, Chinese Linguistic & Literature, Qingdao University

Andy Li, Chinese Teacher

Home Country: China

I am the fourth child in my family and was raised in a traditional Chinese household in Linyi City, Shandong. I love many sports including table-tennis, football, basketball, badminton, shuttlecock and Kungfu. This is my first year at ISQ, and I love the environment and atmosphere here.

Education:
~Master of Economics, Renmin University of China
~BA, English, China University of Geo-sciences

Jane Logsdon, ECC Principal

Sarah Zhou, ECC Assistant Principal

Cherry Liu, ECC Office Manager

Home Country: China

I was born and grew up in Weifang. I came to Qingdao in 1995 – wow, that is so many years ago! I have one sister and one brother in my family, and have a daughter in my own family now. I like chatting and hiking and travel.

Education:
~BA, International Trade, Qingdao University

Cici Zhang, ECC Teacher

Home Country: China

I was born in Qingdao and I'm so glad to live in this beautiful city. This is my fourth year to work here and I feel it's a fantanstic job to be with children and watch them grow! I love reading and talking with people around me. But I'm not very out-going, so I hang out with the little kids more. I wish I could have more children friends and have fun everyday.

Education:
~BA, English Education, Qingdao University

Chuck Birkenstock, ECC Teacher

Jessica Wang, ECC Teacher

Home Country: China

I am from Weifang which belongs to Shandong province of China. I like basketball and swimming. Things I like to eat are noodles. I want to try all different kind of noodles. And I also like to play games with 2nd graders.

Education:
~Bachelor of Economics, International Trade, Qingdao University

Carolyn Reiley, ECC Teacher

Home Country: USA

I was born and raised in New Jersey, right outside of Philadelphia. Ever since I can remember, I have wanted to be a kindergarten teacher. I love spending time with people, cooking, and reading. In high school, I worked in a daycare center in Chinatown, Philadelphia. This sparked my interest in the Chinese culture. I really enjoy teaching and learning.

Education:
~ BA, Early Childhood Education, Cedarville University in Ohio

Judy Birkenstock, ECC Teacher

Home Country: Canada

Hi! I'm Judy Birkenstock from British Columbia, Canada. I enjoy meeting people, reading, baking, and laughing! My husband and I are very happy to have 4 of our 6 children in ISQ this year. :) It's lots of fun teaching the Pre-Kindergarten class, because it's so easy to bring smiles to these students' faces!

Diane Brace, ECC Teacher

Jenny Min, ECC Korean Liason

Natasha Tapley, ECC Liason

Jane Pattison, Head Librarian

Home Country: USA

I grew up in New Hampshire but have lived in three different states in the US and four different countries in the world since being married. We have lived mainly in Asia since 1992, moving to China in Dec 2008. I enjoy talking to my children via skype, helping people find good books to read, riding my bike, and coaching basketball.

Education:
~BA, Liberal Arts, Barrington College
~MLIS, Library Information Science, San Jose State University

Angel Luan, Assistant Librarian

Home Country: China

I am a "Qingdaoren" and I love my hometown. I like reading. That’s part of the reason why I’ve been a librarian for over 8 years. I also love all kinds of sweets. Chocolate is my favorite :)

Education:
~Bachelor of Engineering, Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Jinan University

Carrie Wang, Assistant Librarian

Home Country: China

I love to read all kinds of books from detective stories to classical Chinese poems. I enjoy cooking, mountain climbing and cleaning up the house. I love kids and have two daughters.

Education:
~Master of Accounting, The University of Iowa
~BA, English, Beijing No.2 Foreign Languages Institute

Rebecca Wang, Elementary Librarian

Home Country: China

Qingdao is my hometown. I've been many places, but this is the place I like to stay. Working in the Library is a great job for me. I like doing craft and traveling.

Education:
~Education Management, China Central Broadcasting University

Ellen Yang, Accountant

Home Country: China

~BS, Accounting, Qingdao University

Lily Wen, Accountant

Home Country: China

I came to Qingdao after I graduated from college in 1997. I started to work ISQ since 2004. I love to read books and listen to music.

Education:
~BS, Water Supply and Drainage, Baotao Iron & Steel Institute

Melanie Wang, Assistant to the Secondary Principal

Home Country: China

~BA, English, Qingdao University of Science and Technology

Marjaana Harri, Assistant to the Head Principal

Home Country: Australia

I was born in Lappeenranta, Finland but grew up in Australia’s beautiful capital city, Canberra. I have a hard time knowing which country I really come from because I feel that I’m a part of both Finland and Australia and yet do not feel that I’m fully a native of either. Living in China has added a wonderful element into the multicultural mixture of our family. I love sunny days and keeping fit – jogging with my fantastic husband. We have 3 gorgeous kids (Riki, Esa and Amy) and we all love our life in China!

Rose Xu, Director of Purchasing

Home Country: China

~Business English, Qingdao University

Catherine Zheng, National Staff Human Resources Director

Home Country: China

~BA, Scientific English, Huazhong University of Science and Technology

Jane Chen, Head of Finance Department

Home Country: China

~BS, Accounting, Qingdao University

Sam Divinagracia, Head of IT Department

Home Country: Philippines

I was born and grew up in the Philippines, the youngest of 5 kids. I moved to the US when I was 20, went back to the Philippines and finished my degree in Accounting there, and went back to the States until I was 30. I lived in Thailand for three years where I met my wife, and followed her to China. I've been here for three years.

Education:
~BS, Accounting, University of the Philippines

John Wu, IT Engineer / Student Laptop Services

Home Country: China

~BS, Computer Mathematics & Application Software, Wuhan University

Caleb Tan, IT Engineer

Home Country: China

I was born and raised in Weifang, Shandong. I studied Pharmacy at Qingdao University of Science and Technology. After graduation I was a teacher at the university. After two years there, I worked at a Japanese Export company. I came to ISQ in 2007 and enjoy working in the IT Department.

Education:
~BS, Control Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology

Emily Xu, IT Engineer

Home Country: China

~BS, Computer Science and Technologies, Yantai University

Kevin Kubalsky, Network Administrator

Home Country: USA

BA, Political Science, University of Washington

Christian Ian Ymas, Food Services Director; Elementary PE Teacher

Home Country: Philippines

I was born and raised in the country where the best mangoes are found and is comprised of 7,107 islands, the Philippines. I am the youngest in the family of three. My wife and I got married in 2006 and we love everything about China especially the various seasons of the year. This is my 4th year in China serving as cafeteria supervisor and PE teacher. I love having an active lifestyle and this is evident whenever I am on the basketball court. There are three things that I love: family, sports and spending time with students.

Education:
~BS, Computer Programming, Christian College of Tanauan

David Cui, Maintenance

Home Country: China

~Accounting, Qingdao University

Maggie Huang, Elementary Nurse

Home Country: China

I was born and grew up in Qingdao. I love reading, swimming, mountain climbing and traveling. I love being with kids and being their friend.

Education:
~Nursing, Shandong Medical University

Pamela Teng, Security Coordinator

Home Country: China

I was born, raised and educated in Yantai, Shandong Province. I like many kinds of sports, such as basketball, ping pong and volleyball, but seldom have time to practice now. The most enjoyable thing for me is to relax and read.

Education:
~English, China Coal Economic College

Dr. Ruth Ju, School Doctor

Home Country: China

~BS, Medical, Jinzhou Medical College

Scott Early, Facilities Manager

Home Country: USA

~BS, Psychology, Western Carolina University