Innovative Learning
for Lifelong Success

Ms. Miette has been named Grade 1 Teacher at The American School beginning August 2024. Ms. Miette is originally from Southern Ontario in Canada. Immediately after graduating from the University of Toronto in 2004, she moved to Taiwan and has been teaching and exploring Asia ever since. She has a wealth of experience working with young learners in different settings including as a homeroom teacher and in school leadership. She has taught in Taiwan, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore. Whether it was working as a teacher mentor for the MOE in Malaysia, as a Reading Specialist in Singapore, or as Academic Director in Taiwan, she thrives in collaborative environments that focus on children’s holistic development. She holds the following qualifications: Professional Master of Education, Queen’s University University of Toronto (Political Science) OSSE Standard Teaching License K-3, ESOL K-12 Certificate in in Early Education Leadership, Harvard Graduate School of Education International Educator Certificate for IB Qualification, University of Windsor PYP Category 1 Certification IB Certificate in Teaching and Learning (PYP), IBO CELTA (Pass A), Cambridge English She believes that young children develop their understanding of the world around them when learning is rooted in their own interests, questions, and experiences. Ms. Miette strives to ensure that the learning environment is fun, engaging, encouraging, and reflects the joyful nature of the students and teachers who make it their home.

Ms. Miette has been named Grade 1 Teacher at The American School beginning August 2024. Ms. Miette is originally from Southern Ontario in Canada. Immediately after graduating from the University of Toronto in 2004, she moved to Taiwan and has been teaching and exploring Asia ever since. She has a wealth of experience working with young learners in different settings including as a homeroom teacher and in school leadership. She has taught in Taiwan, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore. Whether it was working as a teacher mentor for the MOE in Malaysia, as a Reading Specialist in Singapore, or as Academic Director in Taiwan, she thrives in collaborative environments that focus on children’s holistic development. She holds the following qualifications: Professional Master of Education, Queen’s University University of Toronto (Political Science) OSSE Standard Teaching License K-3, ESOL K-12 Certificate in in Early Education Leadership, Harvard Graduate School of Education International Educator Certificate for IB Qualification, University of Windsor PYP Category 1 Certification IB Certificate in Teaching and Learning (PYP), IBO CELTA (Pass A), Cambridge English She believes that young children develop their understanding of the world around them when learning is rooted in their own interests, questions, and experiences. Ms. Miette strives to ensure that the learning environment is fun, engaging, encouraging, and reflects the joyful nature of the students and teachers who make it their home.

Ms. Jessica Makona, from Kansas, U.S.A, has been with TAS since August 2023. While this is her second year at TAS, Ms. Makona has over 13 years of teaching experience across various age groups (preschool to high school) and subjects (including ESL). Ms. Makona holds the following degrees and certifications: MS in Early Childhood Education – Northwest Missouri State, Missouri, USA BA in English Literature, Teacher Education Concentration – Washington and Lee University, Virginia, USA Certification in TEFL/TESOL, 120 hrs – Ninja Teacher TEFL Academy PYP Category 1 Certification Ms. Makona is passionate about cultivating student-centered learning experiences and being a teacher that encourages each child to see themselves as capable and worthy. She looks forward to working with all the little learners!

Ms. Jessica Makona, from Kansas, U.S.A, has been with TAS since August 2023. While this is her second year at TAS, Ms. Makona has over 13 years of teaching experience across various age groups (preschool to high school) and subjects (including ESL). Ms. Makona holds the following degrees and certifications: MS in Early Childhood Education – Northwest Missouri State, Missouri, USA BA in English Literature, Teacher Education Concentration – Washington and Lee University, Virginia, USA Certification in TEFL/TESOL, 120 hrs – Ninja Teacher TEFL Academy PYP Category 1 Certification Ms. Makona is passionate about cultivating student-centered learning experiences and being a teacher that encourages each child to see themselves as capable and worthy. She looks forward to working with all the little learners!

Ms. Marilia Milne has been appointed to the position of Elementary and Middle School Design and Technology Teacher beginning August 2024. As a product designer with a Master’s in Education Technology and Instructional Design, I have seven years of experience teaching IB PYP, MYP, and DP design and technology and visual arts from primary to college levels. My career across Brazil, Canada, Panama, Colombia, and Vietnam has enriched my perspective, making me a strong advocate for cultural diversity and inclusivity. I foster a student-centered learning environment, empowering students to tackle real-world problems through critical thinking and project-based learning. By integrating Design Thinking tools, I guide students in analyzing and addressing complex issues, promoting creative and innovative solutions for high-ceiling achievement.

Ms. Marilia Milne has been appointed to the position of Elementary and Middle School Design and Technology Teacher beginning August 2024. As a product designer with a Master’s in Education Technology and Instructional Design, I have seven years of experience teaching IB PYP, MYP, and DP design and technology and visual arts from primary to college levels. My career across Brazil, Canada, Panama, Colombia, and Vietnam has enriched my perspective, making me a strong advocate for cultural diversity and inclusivity. I foster a student-centered learning environment, empowering students to tackle real-world problems through critical thinking and project-based learning. By integrating Design Thinking tools, I guide students in analyzing and addressing complex issues, promoting creative and innovative solutions for high-ceiling achievement.

Mr. Eric Adams—Denver, Colorado is a new Physical Education teacher at TAS Middle School/High School starting in August 2024. Since 2014 he has been teaching Physical Education and Social Studies at the International School level. The last 5 of those years have been in the IB program. In addition, Mr. Eric has experience coaching many different sports teams at different age levels in Ho Chi Minh City. From 2006 –2014 Mr. Eric mostly taught English and worked at language centers in HCMC teaching ESL, IELTS and TOEFL exam courses for all ages. Mr. Eric enjoys spending time with his family and dogs, playing sports, teaching and training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, playing the guitar, BBQ and hanging out with his friends. Mr. Eric holds the following degrees and licenses: • BA in History from the University of Colorado • Teaching certificate from State of Florida • First Aid and Safety Training • Swim Australia – Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety • MYP Category 1 Certification • MYP Category 2 Certification Mr. Eric’s aim is to create an environment that is safe for all students, while being physically and academically challenging at the same time. Students should take part in inquiry-based lessons to take ownership of their learning and physical well-being. He is excited to be at TAS and build the sports program and help students become better communicators and compassionate leaders.

Mr. Eric Adams—Denver, Colorado is a new Physical Education teacher at TAS Middle School/High School starting in August 2024. Since 2014 he has been teaching Physical Education and Social Studies at the International School level. The last 5 of those years have been in the IB program. In addition, Mr. Eric has experience coaching many different sports teams at different age levels in Ho Chi Minh City. From 2006 –2014 Mr. Eric mostly taught English and worked at language centers in HCMC teaching ESL, IELTS and TOEFL exam courses for all ages. Mr. Eric enjoys spending time with his family and dogs, playing sports, teaching and training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, playing the guitar, BBQ and hanging out with his friends. Mr. Eric holds the following degrees and licenses: • BA in History from the University of Colorado • Teaching certificate from State of Florida • First Aid and Safety Training • Swim Australia – Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety • MYP Category 1 Certification • MYP Category 2 Certification Mr. Eric’s aim is to create an environment that is safe for all students, while being physically and academically challenging at the same time. Students should take part in inquiry-based lessons to take ownership of their learning and physical well-being. He is excited to be at TAS and build the sports program and help students become better communicators and compassionate leaders.

Ms. Alison Bote has been named TAS Nurse since February 2013. She has been a part of the TAS family for more than eight years. Nurse Ali has extensive knowledge in the health care system and uses a wide range of theoretical and practical knowledge in providing appropriate level of care for her patients. In her professional career, she had the privilege of working as a Psychiatric Nurse and eventually enjoyed her time as a School Nurse. She possesses positive working attitude, and is a leader in the development and evaluation of school health policies. Nurse Ali is also very active in supervising after school activities, making sure that she oversees the emotional, mental, physical and social health of our students and staff. She has also served as a Paramedic Nurse for Amazing Race Canada, Asia and China which was held in Vietnam. Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Manila Central University, Caloocan City, Philippines Registered Nurse / Philippine Nursing License – Professional Regulation Commission +11 years of professional experience in the Philippines and VietnamRegistered Nurse / Philippine Nursing License – Professional Regulation Commission +11 years of professional experience in the Philippines and Vietnam

Ms. Alison Bote has been named TAS Nurse since February 2013. She has been a part of the TAS family for more than eight years. Nurse Ali has extensive knowledge in the health care system and uses a wide range of theoretical and practical knowledge in providing appropriate level of care for her patients. In her professional career, she had the privilege of working as a Psychiatric Nurse and eventually enjoyed her time as a School Nurse. She possesses positive working attitude, and is a leader in the development and evaluation of school health policies. Nurse Ali is also very active in supervising after school activities, making sure that she oversees the emotional, mental, physical and social health of our students and staff. She has also served as a Paramedic Nurse for Amazing Race Canada, Asia and China which was held in Vietnam. Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Manila Central University, Caloocan City, Philippines Registered Nurse / Philippine Nursing License – Professional Regulation Commission +11 years of professional experience in the Philippines and VietnamRegistered Nurse / Philippine Nursing License – Professional Regulation Commission +11 years of professional experience in the Philippines and Vietnam

Mr. Alexander Reede, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, has been named Middle-High School English teacher beginning August 1st, 2021. In his professional career, Mr. Reede has taught in both the Cambridge Curriculum and the American Common Core and Advanced Placement Curricula. Before beginning at The American School, he previously worked at The Vietnamese Australian International School, and prior to that he managed and staffed a number of English Language Centers in Seoul, South Korea, giving him a strong background in both ESL and ELA instructional philosophies. He is also the founder and teacher of TAS’ first philosophy course, which continues to be offered at the school. In addition to being a teacher, Mr. Reede is also a painter, who involves himself regularly in Ho Chi Minh City’s fine arts scene. Mr. Reede holds the following degrees and certifications: B.A. in International Development Studies at Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS Washington D.C. Teacher’s License A CELTA certification Mr. Reede aims to instill in his students a love for literature, language, and philosophy. He hopes that students will use the tools gained in his class to consider the big-picture aspects of their lives and learn to navigate and examine the beauty and absurdity of our time on this planet.

Mr. Alexander Reede, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, has been named Middle-High School English teacher beginning August 1st, 2021. In his professional career, Mr. Reede has taught in both the Cambridge Curriculum and the American Common Core and Advanced Placement Curricula. Before beginning at The American School, he previously worked at The Vietnamese Australian International School, and prior to that he managed and staffed a number of English Language Centers in Seoul, South Korea, giving him a strong background in both ESL and ELA instructional philosophies. He is also the founder and teacher of TAS’ first philosophy course, which continues to be offered at the school. In addition to being a teacher, Mr. Reede is also a painter, who involves himself regularly in Ho Chi Minh City’s fine arts scene. Mr. Reede holds the following degrees and certifications: B.A. in International Development Studies at Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS Washington D.C. Teacher’s License A CELTA certification Mr. Reede aims to instill in his students a love for literature, language, and philosophy. He hopes that students will use the tools gained in his class to consider the big-picture aspects of their lives and learn to navigate and examine the beauty and absurdity of our time on this planet.

Michael Yohnk, born in Wisconsin, brings a wealth of international teaching experience to his role as a high school social studies educator. With two years teaching high school social studies in Guatemala, followed by another two years in Kosovo, and over a decade in Vietnam, Michael has developed a deep passion for his subject. He is dedicated to sharing this enthusiasm with his students, aiming to inspire them to become thoughtful, informed individuals who contribute positively to the world. Michael enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures, which enriches his global perspective. He is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys both watching and playing, with a recent passion for pickleball. In his downtime, Michael loves watching TV shows & movies, going on motorbike trips around Vietnam, spending time with his wife and son, and playing board games.

Michael Yohnk, born in Wisconsin, brings a wealth of international teaching experience to his role as a high school social studies educator. With two years teaching high school social studies in Guatemala, followed by another two years in Kosovo, and over a decade in Vietnam, Michael has developed a deep passion for his subject. He is dedicated to sharing this enthusiasm with his students, aiming to inspire them to become thoughtful, informed individuals who contribute positively to the world. Michael enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures, which enriches his global perspective. He is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys both watching and playing, with a recent passion for pickleball. In his downtime, Michael loves watching TV shows & movies, going on motorbike trips around Vietnam, spending time with his wife and son, and playing board games.

Mr. Andrew has been with The American School since August 2019. Mr. Andrew Macdonald has been named Social Studies Teacher beginning August 2024. Prior to this new role, he held the Middle School EAL position from August 2019. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, Mr. Andrew has been living and teaching in Vietnam since June 2013. He first moved to Hanoi to work at a private English language center. After his time teaching there, he moved south to Ho Chi Minh City in December 2014. After arriving, Mr. Andrew started teaching English as a Second Language to elementary, middle school and high school students. After wishing to focus solely on teaching Social Studies and Advanced Placement Economics to high school students, Mr. Andrew joined the Social Studies Department. Mr. Andrew holds the following qualifications: Bachelor of Business (Economics) from the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia iQTS – International Qualified Teacher Status (Business Studies) – (expected: December 2024). Modern Classroom Educator, The Modern Classrooms Project CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) TYLEC (Teaching Young Learners Extension Certificate) IH CAM (IH Certificate in Advanced Methodology) Mr. Andrew is well-traveled throughout Asia. He has visited Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Thailand. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, watching basketball, listening to podcasts, laughing at economics memes, going to the gym, and eating chicken adobo and kare-kare.

Mr. Andrew has been with The American School since August 2019. Mr. Andrew Macdonald has been named Social Studies Teacher beginning August 2024. Prior to this new role, he held the Middle School EAL position from August 2019. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, Mr. Andrew has been living and teaching in Vietnam since June 2013. He first moved to Hanoi to work at a private English language center. After his time teaching there, he moved south to Ho Chi Minh City in December 2014. After arriving, Mr. Andrew started teaching English as a Second Language to elementary, middle school and high school students. After wishing to focus solely on teaching Social Studies and Advanced Placement Economics to high school students, Mr. Andrew joined the Social Studies Department. Mr. Andrew holds the following qualifications: Bachelor of Business (Economics) from the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia iQTS – International Qualified Teacher Status (Business Studies) – (expected: December 2024). Modern Classroom Educator, The Modern Classrooms Project CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) TYLEC (Teaching Young Learners Extension Certificate) IH CAM (IH Certificate in Advanced Methodology) Mr. Andrew is well-traveled throughout Asia. He has visited Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Thailand. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, watching basketball, listening to podcasts, laughing at economics memes, going to the gym, and eating chicken adobo and kare-kare.