Resources
2017-2018
2018-2019
English
Spanish
On behalf of the Secondary Program, I would like to welcome you to the American Nicaraguan School in Managua, Nicaragua. We are a campus that serves the needs of the local and expat community through a balanced, global approach of creativity, innovation and knowledge.
The American Nicaraguan School is committed to offering students a world-class education focused on a student-centered, constructivist approach to learning with a global lens. Students have an assortment of options to choose from to develop critical thinking and 21st century problem-solving skills. Currently, we offer 19 Advanced Placement courses either in person or on-line to better fit the needs of our students. Students may also apply for our distinguished Global Studies Academy, which allows each student to delve deeper into what it means to be a citizen of the world. In addition to these options, our school has a rich tradition of competing in Model United Nations (MUN), HACIA Democracy and AASCA Knowledge Bowl, to name a few. If students want to push themselves on the pitch, court, or in the pool, we offer a variety of sports, which include soccer, volleyball, basketball, swimming, track and field and cross-country to provide each student with a well-rounded education.
At ANS, we are not just dedicated to rigorous academics. We also encourage students to become integral parts of the global community by instilling a love for learning and a passion for service. Throughout the year, each grade level commits to serving others in a variety of ways. This connection to service allows our students to grow as leaders and flourish as stewards of Nicaragua and beyond. In addition to our service days, many students take advantage of a plethora of clubs and activities such as Operation Smile, National Honor Society, Pink Club, and Un Techo Para mi Pais to balance out the ANS experience. Whether students are heading to a university or joining the work force upon graduation, each student will have the skills necessary to compete in a global economy.
It is truly my pleasure to lead such a historic program like ANS, and I am excited about all the possibilities we have before us. I look forward to getting to know each one of you personally, and if I can do anything to make this journey more pleasant, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Preston Emerton
Secondary School Principal
[email protected]
Dear ANS Community,
It is a pleasure and an honor to welcome back our students and families for the 2018-19 school year. We have a lot to be proud of as ANS Tigers and I look forward to a year of enriching opportunities for growth and learning, together. Nicaragua today is living an historic moment, and it is in times like these that we are best guided by our core values. The ANS experience promises an education in core values, essential skills and meaningful contributions to society.
Learning at ANS fosters the development of six core values: social responsibility, innovation and creativity, environmental stewardship, respect for self and others, global awareness and intellectual curiosity. In addition to the mastery of grade-level benchmarks in a rigorous, college preparatory curriculum, the ANS community develops those core values and lives them out in our school, local and global communities. Coursework at ANS is rigorous and engaging, but more than that: it is relevant to the world we live in today, as we construct it together for tomorrow.
A constructivist approach in secondary classes asks students to question the world around them, seek resources to solve problems, and innovate solutions for a better tomorrow. Harnessing these essential skills for meaningful contributions to society, and fostering those democratic and universal values is our mission as educators at ANS. Thank you for your trust in our faculty as we work to fulfill this mission and please reach out to me with any questions you may have. It is a pleasure to serve the ANS community.
Kathryn Meyer
Secondary Curriculum Coordinator
[email protected]
It is a privilege and honor to welcome all of our families to ANS this 2018-2019 school year! We have much to look forward to as we face new challenges and accept them as opportunities for growth and personal development. I am proud to be able to work with teachers and students alike this year in setting personal goals and doing my best in helping them achieve them.
The greater part of coaching lies in listening, communicating clearly and facilitating learning for those around you. Now more than ever it is crucial to listen to one another, become stronger as a community and learn from one another on a daily basis. Our aim as an institution is to foster such an environment and I thank you for allowing us the opportunity to do so.
Jacqueline Kruger
Secondary Instructional Coach
Assignments
English Department
Kelly Larson |
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| Secondary English | |
 |
My name is Kelly Larson and I am from Tampa, Florida. I graduated from the University of Florida with my bachelors and my masters. Since graduating, I have spent my time teaching at a High School in Hillsborough County.
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Gail Lemen |
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| Secondary English | |
 |
I am from New Mexico but have traveled in Latin America and look forward to learning and seeing more. I have an MA in English from the University of Kansas and additional graduate coursework in Professional Writing from the University of New Mexico. I taught literature and writing for a number of years before working in the corporate world as an editor. I am really looking forward to being in the classroom and welcome this great opportunity to be part of this community. Life is an engaging and wondrous journey!
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Lisa Lippay |
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| Secondary English | |
| Room 16 | |
 |
Nicaragua has been my home for more than ten years. My husband and I met in Philadelphia where I graduated with honors in English from the University of Pennsylvania. I’ve been teaching internationally for ten years, seven of those at ANS, and have an M.Ed. in International Education. Besides being a proud mother of two boys, I’m an avid reader and enjoy the art of writing.
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Emily Petersen |
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| Secondary English | |
 |
Originally from Sacramento, California, I received both my undergraduate degree and my California teaching credential from California State University, Monterey Bay. After receiving my teaching credential in 2014, I took off for the land of lakes and volcanoes! I served in the Peace Corps in Nandaime, Granada from 2014-2016 teaching English in public high schools alongside Nicaraguan counterparts. I love cooking, reading, gallo pinto, and learning something new everyday!
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Julie Swinehart |
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| Secondary English | |
 |
I have been teaching secondary language arts for nineteen years, spending the first fifteen in Central Oregon, and the last four in Amman, Jordan. I a Bachelor’s degree in English and a Master’s degree in secondary education, both from the University of Oregon. I’m passionate about helping students develop and refine their lives as readers and writers, and put a high value on student voice and student choice in the classroom setting.
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Social Studies Department
Belinda López |
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| US History, Economics & AP Economics | |
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I have been teaching at ANS for 22 years. I have a B.A. in Economics from the University of Alabama and a Master’s in Education from Framingham State University. Teaching is my passion and the connection I make with my students continues even after they graduate from ANS.
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Karen Meléndez |
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| Community Values | |
 |
I earned a bachelor’s degree from UCEM in Nicaragua, and have been at ANS for 20 years. I strongly believe that the aim of education is not the knowledge of facts but the development of values. We must teach students how to think intensively and critically, because education is not preparation for life, but is life itself.
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Richard Meléndez |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
 |
I am honored to be your child’s sixth grade social studies teacher. This is my seventeenth year at ANS and my eighth year teaching sixth grade. I hold a bachelor’s degree from UCEM Managua. I am looking forward to helping the sixth graders to reach full academic potential. We will have many wonderful experiences and opportunities to learn and grow in the days ahead.
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Ester Palacios |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
 |
Tengo 11 años laborando en ANS, pero llevo más de 15 trabajando en educación. Tengo dos títulos universitarios, una licenciatura en Español y otra en Ciencias Sociales, ambas las obtuve en la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua (UNAN – Managua). Pienso que es deber de los adultos de hoy dotar de las herramientas necesarias para enfrentar los retos de las sociedades futuras, a los que serán los adultos del mañana. La principal herramienta para su éxito personal y profesional será su educación.
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Thelma Flores |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
 |
Máster en Comunicación y Educación por la Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona. Licenciada en Administración de Empresas por la Universidad Centroamericana. He tenido el placer de trabajar en ANS desde hace 3 años y en el área de educación desde hace 5 años. Creo firmemente en una educación integral, tanto en conocimientos como en virtudes, ética y moral. Individuos formados en valores, pensamiento crítico y libertad es la mezcla perfecta de un futuro exitoso y pleno.
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Nora Rivas |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
 |
I have a B.A. in Marketing from University of Mobile of Alabama and a Master’s of Education from Framingham State University. This will be my seventh year teaching at ANS. I believe in educating our students to become critical thinkers and active citizens of our global society.
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Monika Cieslak |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
 |
I’m excited to be returning back to the international community after teaching in Canada for a year. At ANS, I’ll be teaching World History and AP Comparative Government and Politics. I’ve taught overseas in Saudi Arabia for four years and, briefly, in Senegal where I joined on after completing my student practicum there. While working in Victoria, BC, Canada, I’ve discovered that inquiry centered teaching creates motivated lifelong learners. I look forward to continuing this practice at ANS.
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Bianca Neri |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
 |
I am originally from the United States but since graduating in 2011 from George Washington University I have lived in Honduras and Qatar. I have a BA in International Affairs from GWU and a MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from Montana State University. I look forward to working with the students at ANS and encouraging their development as empathetic, globally-conscious critical thinkers and problem solvers.
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Sergio Quiñónez |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
 |
My name is Sergio Quiñonez, and I’m from Fairfield, California. I graduated with a major in Psychology and minor in Business Administration from Keiser University in San Marcos, Carazo, Nicaragua. This is my second year teaching, and I look forward to a wonderful experience with much to learn from students and just as much to teach them.
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Science Department
María Antonieta Blandón |
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| Secondary Science | |
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In 1993-1994, I started teaching middle school science, and six years later I transferred to high school. Prior to coming to ANS to teach Chemistry, I taught at John A. Ferguson HS in Miami, Florida. In addition to teaching, I also worked for several years with a non-profit that made the sport of rowing accessible to minorities and children with disabilities. I have a B.S. in Biology and Education with a minor in Chemistry from Florida International University.
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Vince Hernández |
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| Secondary Science | |
 |
A proud ANS graduate with honors, I am also a former Walton scholar with a B.S. in Chemistry and Math from Harding University, a M.Ed. in International Education, a M.Sc. in Forensics Science and a P.G in College Education. I have been incorporating real world applications of science and math for over 15 years in middle school to college level courses. I am dedicated to preparing my students with proper skills to be successful in their future transition to higher educational levels as global citizens of the 21st century and to thrive as they face the challenges of today’s competitive world.
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Adriana Cotté |
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| Secondary Science | |
 |
My name is Adriana Cotte, and I am an ANS alumni. I have been working in the science field for over 8 years and teaching for over 5. I’m passionate about showing your kids the wonders of science! I am very eager to meet all of you this upcoming school year.
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Martín Casco |
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| Secondary Science | |
 |
Formerly an ANS science teacher, I then lived in Japan for 8 years, during which I completed my Ph.D. in Biological Science. Serving as a professor of Biology at Keiser University, I spend time researching tissue regeneration of salamanders. I have taught multicultural students from middle school to the doctoral level. I strongly believe that students should be exposed to critical thinking, and hands-on, analytical, and problem-based science. At ANS I look forward to promoting a love for science.
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Spanish & Modern Languages Department
Miriam Rojo |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
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Nací en Managua, Nicaragua, de madre nicaragüense y padre español. Estudié la Licenciatura en Lengua y Literatura Hispánicas, y poco tiempo después, una Maestría en Didáctica de la Lengua y la Literatura, y un Diplomado en Enseñanza del Español como Lengua Extranjera. Después de muchos años en la docencia, puedo afirmar que amo lo que hago y que trabajar con niños y adolescentes puede ser tan retador como reconfortante. Trabajar en ANS es, para mí, un placer y un reto diario que espero cumplir con devoción. Amo la naturaleza y creo profundamente en que el ser humano debe recuperar el equilibrio con ella para poder vivir en armonía con su entorno.
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Dominga Gross |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
 |
La pasión por la educación empezó desde mi infancia, lo que me llevó a convertirme en Maestra Normalista desde muy joven y años después a estudiar la licenciatura en Ciencias de la Educación, una Maestría en Didáctica Especial de la Lengua y la Literatura y un Diplomado en Enseñanza del Español como Lengua Extranjera. Tengo más de 30 años de experiencia docente de los cuales 24 de ellos han sido en ANS. Estoy convencida que es posible influir en los estudiantes para activar su capacidad de actuar y proponer nuevas ideas, así como prepararlos para ser personas críticas y reflexivas que tomen conciencia de la necesidad de mejorar el mundo que los rodea. Valoro la amistad y la sinceridad como grandes virtudes, así como la perfección del trabajo y el compromiso de entregar lo mejor de uno mismo.
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Thelma Flores |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
|
Máster en Comunicación y Educación por la Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona. Licenciada en Administración de Empresas por la Universidad Centroamericana. He tenido el placer de trabajar en ANS desde hace 3 años y en el área de educación desde hace 5 años. Creo firmemente en una educación integral, tanto en conocimientos como en virtudes, ética y moral. Individuos formados en valores, pensamiento crítico y libertad es la mezcla perfecta de un futuro exitoso y pleno.
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Dina González |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
 |
Soy Lic. en Español; Especialista en Didáctica de la Lengua y actualmente estoy haciendo la tesis de mi Maestría. Imparto la clase de Lengua y Literatura desde el 2010 en ANS. Nací en Chontales y vivo en Managua desde hace 20 años. En mis clases, me gusta trabajar a través de proyectos que pongan en contacto al estudiante con su realidad. Amo a Dios, mi familia y mi trabajo. Me esfuerzo por hacer las cosas de corazón, como para el Señor y no para los hombres.
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Sara Román |
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| SLL / AP Spanish Language | |
 |
Siempre he pensado que los maestros tenemos el poder de construir junto con los jóvenes un mundo mejor y desde siempre me he apegado a este pensamiento que me impulsa a hacer día con día la diferencia. Soy una nicaragüense inspirada en Darío con una visión cosmopolita y futurista de la vida. Soy Lic. en ciencias de la educación con especialidad en inglés y poseo una maestría en educación. Me encanta la naturaleza, los animales, la música y sobre todo amo mi vocación.
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Sonia Dávila |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
 |
Nací en Nicaragua, Río San Juan y tengo 33 años de ser docente. Graduada en la Escuela Normal de Managua de Maestra de Educación Primaria; en la UNAN de Lic. en Ciencias de la Educación en Español y también estudié una Maestría en Filología y Literatura Latinoamericana. Soy una persona alegre, enamorada de mi familia, apasionada por mi trabajo, comprometida con mis estudiantes y estoy muy contenta de ser parte de la comunidad de ANS desde el año 2012.
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Carolina Yun |
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| Chinese | |
 |
My Chinese name is Hui-Chen Yun and I graduated from the Department of Chinese Literature, College of Liberal Arts at Providence University in Taiwan in 1987. “To live until old, to learn until old”. This wise, ancient Chinese saying tells us how we should always continue learning. Every single student that I’ve had the pleasure to meet is completely unique; they all have different weaknesses and strengths! And these students are in fact the ones who teach me everyday how to be more creative, how to be a better listener… how to be a real educator.
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Cassandra Irschitz |
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| French | |
 |
I’m from Nicaragua but I spent 10 years of my life in France. During this time, I finished my last two years of high school in Marseille, went to the University in Paris where I studied Investigative and Documentary Journalism, and worked for a Production Company in Paris. I’m passionate, multicultural and very adaptable. I’m really excited to share my experiences with the students.
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Mathematics Department
Norman Huerta |
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| Secondary Math | |
 |
I am Norman Huerta: 100% Nicaraguan. I am an Industrial Engineer from UNI (local university in Nicaragua) and I have been teaching at ANS since 2004. I hold a Master’s Degree in Education from Framingham State University, and I have a lot of experience teaching international students of diverse nationalities. What I am passionate about is solving those intriguing problems that nobody likes to solve. Mathematics has been my breakfast, lunch, and dinner for a long time.
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Álvaro Cruz |
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| Secondary Math | |
 |
I was born in Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua, and I have a bachelor’s degree in Pedagogy and another in Mathematics from UNICA-Managua. I have been working in international schools since 2006. I am excited to start my second year at ANS and to share my passion in educating children; I strongly believe that this assignment of motivating human beings to learn and grow is a never-ending journey. I am a family man who likes to work as a team; let’s be united to lead our kids to success.
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Claudia Genet |
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| Secondary Math | |
| Room 8 | |
 |
My name is Claudia Genet. I was born in Managua, Nicaragua. I have a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education at UNAN-Managua and a master’s degree in International Education from Framingham State University. I have taught algebra and geometry at ANS for about seven years now. Besides my passion for teaching and math, I love spending quality time with my family.
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Joe Swinehart |
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| Secondary Math | |
 |
I’m a native Oregonian, born and raised on the Pacific coast. After attending the University of Oregon, I taught for 15 years in central Oregon, focusing on mathematics and technology. In 2014, my wife and I moved our family to Amman, Jordan, where we taught for the last four years. We’re all looking forward to a change of pace and scenery in the coming year.
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Eymmyr Rayo |
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| Secondary Math | |
 |
My name is Eymmyr Rayo. I am an industrial engineer from the National University of Engineering in Managua. I’ve been teaching math in bilingual schools in Managua since 2007. I am currently completing my Master’s Degree in Education. I truly believe that we can teach more than just content to our students, and that we can build up a better world together through education.
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Visual and Performing Arts Department
John Spiro |
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| Instrumental Music / Music | |
 |
I have a background in both music and education and have taught music at ANS for 12 years. I firmly believe that a child’s education is not complete without music. I enjoy sharing my passion for music with students and helping them develop confidence and good work habits that can help them succeed in all their classes.
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Kathia Chica |
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| MS Art | |
 |
I have a background in architecture and interior design but my real passion is art. I have also taken courses such as printmaking, bookbinding, photography and model making. My emphasis in teaching is learning from mistakes and problem solving; I want to instill in my students the love for the arts, not just to be the audience but to be part of the art-making process.
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Esteban Blanco |
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| HS Art | |
| My name is Esteban Blanco, I’m from Costa Rica. I studied Art and Visual Communication with an emphasis in Environment Design at Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica. I worked on different areas of design such as a project consultant on technology prototypes and interior designer, at the same time I develop art, making props for theatres, models and illustration. Then I opened my own private art studio in Managua three years ago with my wife. I am happy to join the ANS community.
|
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Additional Courses
Érika Morales |
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| MS and HS Tech | |
| Room T-3 | |
 |
I’ve been passionate about teaching ever since I had my first teaching experience in ESL here at ANS in the ELI courses. Now, I have the honor to teach problem-solving, innovation, creativity, critical and computational thinking skills through the classes: Intro to Robotics, iMovie and Intro to Animation. I am committed to help students develop their potential and become global citizens and well-rounded individuals. As a lifelong learner, I believe we can outdo ourselves if we commit to learn something new everyday, serve with love and give our very best in every single thing we do.
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6th Grade
Emily Petersen |
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| Secondary English | |
|
Originally from Sacramento, California, I received both my undergraduate degree and my California teaching credential from California State University, Monterey Bay. After receiving my teaching credential in 2014, I took off for the land of lakes and volcanoes! I served in the Peace Corps in Nandaime, Granada from 2014-2016 teaching English in public high schools alongside Nicaraguan counterparts. I love cooking, reading, gallo pinto, and learning something new everyday!
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Richard Meléndez |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
|
I am honored to be your child’s sixth grade social studies teacher. This is my seventeenth year at ANS and my eighth year teaching sixth grade. I hold a bachelor’s degree from UCEM Managua. I am looking forward to helping the sixth graders to reach full academic potential. We will have many wonderful experiences and opportunities to learn and grow in the days ahead.
|
Adriana Cotté |
|
| Secondary Science | |
|
My name is Adriana Cotte, and I am an ANS alumni. I have been working in the science field for over 8 years and teaching for over 5. I’m passionate about showing your kids the wonders of science! I am very eager to meet all of you this upcoming school year.
|
Vince Hernández |
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| Secondary Science | |
|
A proud ANS graduate with honors, I am also a former Walton scholar with a B.S. in Chemistry and Math from Harding University, a M.Ed. in International Education, a M.Sc. in Forensics Science and a P.G in College Education. I have been incorporating real world applications of science and math for over 15 years in middle school to college level courses. I am dedicated to preparing my students with proper skills to be successful in their future transition to higher educational levels as global citizens of the 21st century and to thrive as they face the challenges of today’s competitive world.
|
Thelma Flores |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
|
Máster en Comunicación y Educación por la Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona. Licenciada en Administración de Empresas por la Universidad Centroamericana. He tenido el placer de trabajar en ANS desde hace 3 años y en el área de educación desde hace 5 años. Creo firmemente en una educación integral, tanto en conocimientos como en virtudes, ética y moral. Individuos formados en valores, pensamiento crítico y libertad es la mezcla perfecta de un futuro exitoso y pleno.
|
Karen Meléndez |
|
| Community Values | |
|
I earned a bachelor’s degree from UCEM in Nicaragua, and have been at ANS for 20 years. I strongly believe that the aim of education is not the knowledge of facts but the development of values. We must teach students how to think intensively and critically, because education is not preparation for life, but is life itself.
|
Joe Swinehart |
|
| Secondary Math | |
|
I’m a native Oregonian, born and raised on the Pacific coast. After attending the University of Oregon, I taught for 15 years in central Oregon, focusing on mathematics and technology. In 2014, my wife and I moved our family to Amman, Jordan, where we taught for the last four years. We’re all looking forward to a change of pace and scenery in the coming year.
|
John Spiro |
|
| Instrumental Music / Music | |
|
I have a background in both music and education and have taught music at ANS for 12 years. I firmly believe that a child’s education is not complete without music. I enjoy sharing my passion for music with students and helping them develop confidence and good work habits that can help them succeed in all their classes.
|
Kathia Chica |
|
| MS Art | |
|
I have a background in architecture and interior design but my real passion is art. I have also taken courses such as printmaking, bookbinding, photography and model making. My emphasis in teaching is learning from mistakes and problem solving; I want to instill in my students the love for the arts, not just to be the audience but to be part of the art-making process.
|
7th Grade
Dominga Gross |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
|
La pasión por la educación empezó desde mi infancia, lo que me llevó a convertirme en Maestra Normalista desde muy joven y años después a estudiar la licenciatura en Ciencias de la Educación, una Maestría en Didáctica Especial de la Lengua y la Literatura y un Diplomado en Enseñanza del Español como Lengua Extranjera. Tengo más de 30 años de experiencia docente de los cuales 24 de ellos han sido en ANS. Estoy convencida que es posible influir en los estudiantes para activar su capacidad de actuar y proponer nuevas ideas, así como prepararlos para ser personas críticas y reflexivas que tomen conciencia de la necesidad de mejorar el mundo que los rodea. Valoro la amistad y la sinceridad como grandes virtudes, así como la perfección del trabajo y el compromiso de entregar lo mejor de uno mismo.
|
Joe Swinehart |
|
| Secondary Math | |
|
I’m a native Oregonian, born and raised on the Pacific coast. After attending the University of Oregon, I taught for 15 years in central Oregon, focusing on mathematics and technology. In 2014, my wife and I moved our family to Amman, Jordan, where we taught for the last four years. We’re all looking forward to a change of pace and scenery in the coming year.
|
Eymmyr Rayo |
|
| Secondary Math | |
|
My name is Eymmyr Rayo. I am an industrial engineer from the National University of Engineering in Managua. I’ve been teaching math in bilingual schools in Managua since 2007. I am currently completing my Master’s Degree in Education. I truly believe that we can teach more than just content to our students, and that we can build up a better world together through education.
|
Julie Swinehart |
|
| Secondary English | |
|
I have been teaching secondary language arts for nineteen years, spending the first fifteen in Central Oregon, and the last four in Amman, Jordan. I a Bachelor’s degree in English and a Master’s degree in secondary education, both from the University of Oregon. I’m passionate about helping students develop and refine their lives as readers and writers, and put a high value on student voice and student choice in the classroom setting.
|
Thelma Flores |
|
| Secondary Spanish | |
|
Máster en Comunicación y Educación por la Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona. Licenciada en Administración de Empresas por la Universidad Centroamericana. He tenido el placer de trabajar en ANS desde hace 3 años y en el área de educación desde hace 5 años. Creo firmemente en una educación integral, tanto en conocimientos como en virtudes, ética y moral. Individuos formados en valores, pensamiento crítico y libertad es la mezcla perfecta de un futuro exitoso y pleno.
|
Richard Meléndez |
|
| Secondary Social Studies | |
|
I am honored to be your child’s sixth grade social studies teacher. This is my seventeenth year at ANS and my eighth year teaching sixth grade. I hold a bachelor’s degree from UCEM Managua. I am looking forward to helping the sixth graders to reach full academic potential. We will have many wonderful experiences and opportunities to learn and grow in the days ahead.
|
Adriana Cotté |
|
| Secondary Science | |
|
My name is Adriana Cotte, and I am an ANS alumni. I have been working in the science field for over 8 years and teaching for over 5. I’m passionate about showing your kids the wonders of science! I am very eager to meet all of you this upcoming school year.
|
Karen Meléndez |
|
| Community Values | |
|
I earned a bachelor’s degree from UCEM in Nicaragua, and have been at ANS for 20 years. I strongly believe that the aim of education is not the knowledge of facts but the development of values. We must teach students how to think intensively and critically, because education is not preparation for life, but is life itself.
|
8th Grade
Nora Rivas |
|
| Secondary Social Studies | |
|
I have a B.A. in Marketing from University of Mobile of Alabama and a Master’s of Education from Framingham State University. This will be my seventh year teaching at ANS. I believe in educating our students to become critical thinkers and active citizens of our global society.
|
Miriam Rojo |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
|
Nací en Managua, Nicaragua, de madre nicaragüense y padre español. Estudié la Licenciatura en Lengua y Literatura Hispánicas, y poco tiempo después, una Maestría en Didáctica de la Lengua y la Literatura, y un Diplomado en Enseñanza del Español como Lengua Extranjera. Después de muchos años en la docencia, puedo afirmar que amo lo que hago y que trabajar con niños y adolescentes puede ser tan retador como reconfortante. Trabajar en ANS es, para mí, un placer y un reto diario que espero cumplir con devoción. Amo la naturaleza y creo profundamente en que el ser humano debe recuperar el equilibrio con ella para poder vivir en armonía con su entorno.
|
Emily Petersen |
|
| Secondary English | |
|
Originally from Sacramento, California, I received both my undergraduate degree and my California teaching credential from California State University, Monterey Bay. After receiving my teaching credential in 2014, I took off for the land of lakes and volcanoes! I served in the Peace Corps in Nandaime, Granada from 2014-2016 teaching English in public high schools alongside Nicaraguan counterparts. I love cooking, reading, gallo pinto, and learning something new everyday!
|
Lisa Lippay |
|
| Secondary English | |
| Room 16 | |
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Nicaragua has been my home for more than ten years. My husband and I met in Philadelphia where I graduated with honors in English from the University of Pennsylvania. I’ve been teaching internationally for ten years, seven of those at ANS, and have an M.Ed. in International Education. Besides being a proud mother of two boys, I’m an avid reader and enjoy the art of writing.
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Vince Hernández |
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| Secondary Science | |
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A proud ANS graduate with honors, I am also a former Walton scholar with a B.S. in Chemistry and Math from Harding University, a M.Ed. in International Education, a M.Sc. in Forensics Science and a P.G in College Education. I have been incorporating real world applications of science and math for over 15 years in middle school to college level courses. I am dedicated to preparing my students with proper skills to be successful in their future transition to higher educational levels as global citizens of the 21st century and to thrive as they face the challenges of today’s competitive world.
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Norman Huerta |
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| Secondary Math | |
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I am Norman Huerta: 100% Nicaraguan. I am an Industrial Engineer from UNI (local university in Nicaragua) and I have been teaching at ANS since 2004. I hold a Master’s Degree in Education from Framingham State University, and I have a lot of experience teaching international students of diverse nationalities. What I am passionate about is solving those intriguing problems that nobody likes to solve. Mathematics has been my breakfast, lunch, and dinner for a long time.
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Ester Palacios |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
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Tengo 11 años laborando en ANS, pero llevo más de 15 trabajando en educación. Tengo dos títulos universitarios, una licenciatura en Español y otra en Ciencias Sociales, ambas las obtuve en la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua (UNAN – Managua). Pienso que es deber de los adultos de hoy dotar de las herramientas necesarias para enfrentar los retos de las sociedades futuras, a los que serán los adultos del mañana. La principal herramienta para su éxito personal y profesional será su educación.
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9th Grade
Lisa Lippay |
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| Secondary English | |
| Room 16 | |
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Nicaragua has been my home for more than ten years. My husband and I met in Philadelphia where I graduated with honors in English from the University of Pennsylvania. I’ve been teaching internationally for ten years, seven of those at ANS, and have an M.Ed. in International Education. Besides being a proud mother of two boys, I’m an avid reader and enjoy the art of writing.
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Monika Cieslak |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
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I’m excited to be returning back to the international community after teaching in Canada for a year. At ANS, I’ll be teaching World History and AP Comparative Government and Politics. I’ve taught overseas in Saudi Arabia for four years and, briefly, in Senegal where I joined on after completing my student practicum there. While working in Victoria, BC, Canada, I’ve discovered that inquiry centered teaching creates motivated lifelong learners. I look forward to continuing this practice at ANS.
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María Antonieta Blandón |
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| Secondary Science | |
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In 1993-1994, I started teaching middle school science, and six years later I transferred to high school. Prior to coming to ANS to teach Chemistry, I taught at John A. Ferguson HS in Miami, Florida. In addition to teaching, I also worked for several years with a non-profit that made the sport of rowing accessible to minorities and children with disabilities. I have a B.S. in Biology and Education with a minor in Chemistry from Florida International University.
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Claudia Genet |
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| Secondary Math | |
| Room 8 | |
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My name is Claudia Genet. I was born in Managua, Nicaragua. I have a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education at UNAN-Managua and a master’s degree in International Education from Framingham State University. I have taught algebra and geometry at ANS for about seven years now. Besides my passion for teaching and math, I love spending quality time with my family.
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Sonia Dávila |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
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Nací en Nicaragua, Río San Juan y tengo 33 años de ser docente. Graduada en la Escuela Normal de Managua de Maestra de Educación Primaria; en la UNAN de Lic. en Ciencias de la Educación en Español y también estudié una Maestría en Filología y Literatura Latinoamericana. Soy una persona alegre, enamorada de mi familia, apasionada por mi trabajo, comprometida con mis estudiantes y estoy muy contenta de ser parte de la comunidad de ANS desde el año 2012.
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Ester Palacios |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
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Tengo 11 años laborando en ANS, pero llevo más de 15 trabajando en educación. Tengo dos títulos universitarios, una licenciatura en Español y otra en Ciencias Sociales, ambas las obtuve en la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua (UNAN – Managua). Pienso que es deber de los adultos de hoy dotar de las herramientas necesarias para enfrentar los retos de las sociedades futuras, a los que serán los adultos del mañana. La principal herramienta para su éxito personal y profesional será su educación.
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10th Grade
Gail Lemen |
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| Secondary English | |
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I am from New Mexico but have traveled in Latin America and look forward to learning and seeing more. I have an MA in English from the University of Kansas and additional graduate coursework in Professional Writing from the University of New Mexico. I taught literature and writing for a number of years before working in the corporate world as an editor. I am really looking forward to being in the classroom and welcome this great opportunity to be part of this community. Life is an engaging and wondrous journey!
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Bianca Neri |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
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I am originally from the United States but since graduating in 2011 from George Washington University I have lived in Honduras and Qatar. I have a BA in International Affairs from GWU and a MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from Montana State University. I look forward to working with the students at ANS and encouraging their development as empathetic, globally-conscious critical thinkers and problem solvers.
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Martín Casco |
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| Secondary Science | |
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Formerly an ANS science teacher, I then lived in Japan for 8 years, during which I completed my Ph.D. in Biological Science. Serving as a professor of Biology at Keiser University, I spend time researching tissue regeneration of salamanders. I have taught multicultural students from middle school to the doctoral level. I strongly believe that students should be exposed to critical thinking, and hands-on, analytical, and problem-based science. At ANS I look forward to promoting a love for science.
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Claudia Genet |
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| Secondary Math | |
| Room 8 | |
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My name is Claudia Genet. I was born in Managua, Nicaragua. I have a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education at UNAN-Managua and a master’s degree in International Education from Framingham State University. I have taught algebra and geometry at ANS for about seven years now. Besides my passion for teaching and math, I love spending quality time with my family.
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Eymmyr Rayo |
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| Secondary Math | |
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My name is Eymmyr Rayo. I am an industrial engineer from the National University of Engineering in Managua. I’ve been teaching math in bilingual schools in Managua since 2007. I am currently completing my Master’s Degree in Education. I truly believe that we can teach more than just content to our students, and that we can build up a better world together through education.
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Dina González |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
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Soy Lic. en Español; Especialista en Didáctica de la Lengua y actualmente estoy haciendo la tesis de mi Maestría. Imparto la clase de Lengua y Literatura desde el 2010 en ANS. Nací en Chontales y vivo en Managua desde hace 20 años. En mis clases, me gusta trabajar a través de proyectos que pongan en contacto al estudiante con su realidad. Amo a Dios, mi familia y mi trabajo. Me esfuerzo por hacer las cosas de corazón, como para el Señor y no para los hombres.
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11th Grade
Julie Swinehart |
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| Secondary English | |
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I have been teaching secondary language arts for nineteen years, spending the first fifteen in Central Oregon, and the last four in Amman, Jordan. I a Bachelor’s degree in English and a Master’s degree in secondary education, both from the University of Oregon. I’m passionate about helping students develop and refine their lives as readers and writers, and put a high value on student voice and student choice in the classroom setting.
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María Antonieta Blandón |
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| Secondary Science | |
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In 1993-1994, I started teaching middle school science, and six years later I transferred to high school. Prior to coming to ANS to teach Chemistry, I taught at John A. Ferguson HS in Miami, Florida. In addition to teaching, I also worked for several years with a non-profit that made the sport of rowing accessible to minorities and children with disabilities. I have a B.S. in Biology and Education with a minor in Chemistry from Florida International University.
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Norman Huerta |
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| Secondary Math | |
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I am Norman Huerta: 100% Nicaraguan. I am an Industrial Engineer from UNI (local university in Nicaragua) and I have been teaching at ANS since 2004. I hold a Master’s Degree in Education from Framingham State University, and I have a lot of experience teaching international students of diverse nationalities. What I am passionate about is solving those intriguing problems that nobody likes to solve. Mathematics has been my breakfast, lunch, and dinner for a long time.
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Eymmyr Rayo |
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| Secondary Math | |
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My name is Eymmyr Rayo. I am an industrial engineer from the National University of Engineering in Managua. I’ve been teaching math in bilingual schools in Managua since 2007. I am currently completing my Master’s Degree in Education. I truly believe that we can teach more than just content to our students, and that we can build up a better world together through education.
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Nora Rivas |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
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I have a B.A. in Marketing from University of Mobile of Alabama and a Master’s of Education from Framingham State University. This will be my seventh year teaching at ANS. I believe in educating our students to become critical thinkers and active citizens of our global society.
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Miriam Rojo |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
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Nací en Managua, Nicaragua, de madre nicaragüense y padre español. Estudié la Licenciatura en Lengua y Literatura Hispánicas, y poco tiempo después, una Maestría en Didáctica de la Lengua y la Literatura, y un Diplomado en Enseñanza del Español como Lengua Extranjera. Después de muchos años en la docencia, puedo afirmar que amo lo que hago y que trabajar con niños y adolescentes puede ser tan retador como reconfortante. Trabajar en ANS es, para mí, un placer y un reto diario que espero cumplir con devoción. Amo la naturaleza y creo profundamente en que el ser humano debe recuperar el equilibrio con ella para poder vivir en armonía con su entorno.
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Dina González |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
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Soy Lic. en Español; Especialista en Didáctica de la Lengua y actualmente estoy haciendo la tesis de mi Maestría. Imparto la clase de Lengua y Literatura desde el 2010 en ANS. Nací en Chontales y vivo en Managua desde hace 20 años. En mis clases, me gusta trabajar a través de proyectos que pongan en contacto al estudiante con su realidad. Amo a Dios, mi familia y mi trabajo. Me esfuerzo por hacer las cosas de corazón, como para el Señor y no para los hombres.
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12th Grade
Kelly Larson |
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| Secondary English | |
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My name is Kelly Larson and I am from Tampa, Florida. I graduated from the University of Florida with my bachelors and my masters. Since graduating, I have spent my time teaching at a High School in Hillsborough County.
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Sonia Dávila |
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| Secondary Spanish | |
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Nací en Nicaragua, Río San Juan y tengo 33 años de ser docente. Graduada en la Escuela Normal de Managua de Maestra de Educación Primaria; en la UNAN de Lic. en Ciencias de la Educación en Español y también estudié una Maestría en Filología y Literatura Latinoamericana. Soy una persona alegre, enamorada de mi familia, apasionada por mi trabajo, comprometida con mis estudiantes y estoy muy contenta de ser parte de la comunidad de ANS desde el año 2012.
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Vince Hernández |
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| Secondary Science | |
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A proud ANS graduate with honors, I am also a former Walton scholar with a B.S. in Chemistry and Math from Harding University, a M.Ed. in International Education, a M.Sc. in Forensics Science and a P.G in College Education. I have been incorporating real world applications of science and math for over 15 years in middle school to college level courses. I am dedicated to preparing my students with proper skills to be successful in their future transition to higher educational levels as global citizens of the 21st century and to thrive as they face the challenges of today’s competitive world.
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Sergio Quiñónez |
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| Secondary Social Studies | |
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My name is Sergio Quiñonez, and I’m from Fairfield, California. I graduated with a major in Psychology and minor in Business Administration from Keiser University in San Marcos, Carazo, Nicaragua. This is my second year teaching, and I look forward to a wonderful experience with much to learn from students and just as much to teach them.
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Norman Huerta |
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| Secondary Math | |
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I am Norman Huerta: 100% Nicaraguan. I am an Industrial Engineer from UNI (local university in Nicaragua) and I have been teaching at ANS since 2004. I hold a Master’s Degree in Education from Framingham State University, and I have a lot of experience teaching international students of diverse nationalities. What I am passionate about is solving those intriguing problems that nobody likes to solve. Mathematics has been my breakfast, lunch, and dinner for a long time.
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Eymmyr Rayo |
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| Secondary Math | |
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My name is Eymmyr Rayo. I am an industrial engineer from the National University of Engineering in Managua. I’ve been teaching math in bilingual schools in Managua since 2007. I am currently completing my Master’s Degree in Education. I truly believe that we can teach more than just content to our students, and that we can build up a better world together through education.
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