2008-2009 International Leaders in Education Program (ILEP) Fellow Bios

ALGERIA

Assia Benamara, English Teacher
Azzefoun Secondary School
Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria (population: 144,900)
Assia Benamara teaches English as a Foreign Language at a public secondary school. She began working as a teacher in 2001. Her students are between 15 and 17 years of age. She graduated from the University of Algiers’ Institute of Foreign Languages. Assia is married and has two daughters and a son. She is participating in ILEP primarily to discover new teaching methodologies.

Hocine Bendellaa, English Teacher
Ibn El Haithem Secondary School
Beni-Saf, Algeria (population: 50,000)
Houcine Bendellaa graduated from Oran University in 1998. Since then, he has been teaching English at a secondary school for students between the ages of 15 and 17. He has received a certificate from the British Council for attending a 25 hour teacher training course focusing on classroom management. Houcine is married, and has a daughter. He enjoys basketball, and was the secretary-general of his local team. His objective for ILEP is to obtain new teaching methodologies and adopt a learner-centered approach for teaching.

Nouari Gatel, English Teacher
Secondary Education School
Bordj Ghedir, Algeria (population: 40,000)
Nouari Gatel has been teaching English at a public secondary school for the last 19 years to students between 15 and 18 years old. He is a member of the school’s sports and cultural activities clubs, which organize trips around the country. Additionally, he acts as a teacher coordinator as well as a grader for the Baccalaureate Examination. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Foreign Languages, with an emphasis in English, from the University of Constantine in 1988. He and his wife, a teacher of philosophy who works at the same school, have two daughters and three sons. Nouari’s primary goal for ILEP is to develop his teaching skills so that he can be a greater resource for his colleagues and his students.

BANGLADESH

Badrun Nahar, English Teacher
Mirzapur Cadet College
Tangail, Bangladesh (population: 3,290,696)
Badrun Nahar has been teaching English at the secondary school level since 1994. She teaches students between the ages of 12 and 18 and has an average class size of 25. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from the University of Dhaka. Nahar is involved with many types of school activities, including arranging stage competitions, publishing magazines, and counseling students. Her hobbies include listening to music and browsing the internet. She is happily married and has a daughter. Her primary goal for ILEP is to learn new teaching methodologies and strategies for integrating technology in the classroom.

Abul Azhar Md Sanaullah, Biology Teacher
IET Government Secondary School
Motijheel, Dhaka, Bangladesh (population of Motijheel: 1,478,602)
Abul Azhar Md. Sanauallah has worked as an assistant Biology teacher and a curriculum developer under the Secondary Education Sector Development Project (SESDP) as a representative of the National Curriculum Textbook Board (NCTB) for the last 14 years. At the IET Government Secondary School for Boys, he teaches students primarily between the ages of 14 and 16, has an average class size of 41 students. Sanaullah received his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Botany from Rajshah University in 1988 and 1989, and his Master’s in Education from Dhaka University in 2006. He is married, and has a son. His primary objective for ILEP is to explore new methodologies to encourage active learning and participation in the classroom.

Rabeya Rahman, English Teacher
St. Joseph Higher Secondary School
Dhaka, Bangladesh (population: over 11 million)
Rabeya Rahman has been teaching English Language and Literature at a secondary school for boys for the last five years. Her students range from 13 to 16 years old. She teaches an average of 50 students per class. Rabeya sponsors extracurricular activities to develop the talents of her students. She received an Honor’s and Master’s Degree in English from the University of Dhaka. Rabeya is married and has one young daughter. Her hobbies include gardening and cooking. Her primary objective for ILEP is to enhance her knowledge to the benefit of her students.

Syeda Farhana Rahman, English Teacher
Rajuk Uttara Model College
Dhaka, Bangladesh (population: over 11 million)
Syeda Farhana Rahman has been teaching English for the past 15 years. Her current students are between 13 and 19 years old, and her classes have an average size of 50 students. Farhana is a member of the College’s magazine, G. Knowledge, as well as a member of the cultural and admissions committees. She received her Bachelor’s and her Master’s Degrees in English Literature in 1987 and 1988 from Jahangirnagar University, in Savar, Dhaka. She is married and has two daughters. Her hobbies include traveling, photography, gardening, and interior decorating. Her primary objective for participating in ILEP is to learn new teaching methods.

Kazi Iqbalur Rashid, Computer Science Teacher
Cantonment College
Jessore, Bangladesh (population: over 2 million)
Kazi Iqbalur Rashid has been teaching Computer Science at the higher secondary school level for the past 12 years to students between 16 and 18 years old. He is the author of five textbooks. He works as Head Examiner and Question Paper Setter of Education Boards, as well as a teacher trainer at the Higher Secondary Teacher Training Institute (HSTTI). He is also the chairman of the Computer Teaching Forum for the Secondary and Higher Secondary Board in Jessore. He graduated from Rajshahi University, and then completed his one-year Post-Graduate Diploma in Information Technology from the School of Science and Engineering from Khulna University. He also has CCMEN Certification from TATA InfoTech of Delhi, India. His main goal for ILEP is to explore the models, ideas, and methodologies of teaching in the United States, and to participate in civic and cultural activities.

Syed Mahfuz Ul Alam, Social Studies Teacher
BEPZA Public School & College
Chittagong, Bangladesh (population: 3,000,000)
Syed Mahfuz Ul Alam has been teaching Social Studies for 13 years; the past seven, he has been teaching at the private BEPZA Public School & College. His students range from 13 to 16 years of age, and his average class contains 30 students. He is an active member of his school’s Governing Board, where he helped to manage need-based and merit-based scholarships, and to accommodate special needs students. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy from Chittagong University in 1990, and his Master’s in 1991. In 2001, he received the Best Teachers Award from the Government of Bangladesh. He is married, and has two young daughters. His hobbies include writing and reciting poetry. His primary goal for ILEP is to explore new teaching methodologies and curriculum writing that are designed to engage students in a demonstrative, participatory and active classroom setting.

BRAZIL

Clerio Vilhena Dos Reis, English Teacher
Colegio Estadual Hevalina Diniz Pires
Duque de Caxias, Brazil (population: 842,686)
Clerio Vilhena Dos Reis has been teaching English Language and Literature for the past seven years, both as a private English teacher as well as secondary public schools. His students are between 14 and 18 years of age, and he teaches an average of 35 students per class. He is an active member of his school’s Parent-Teacher Committee, where he has played a role in encouraging active, appropriate parental involvement in students’ education. Clerio received his Bachelor’s and Licensing in English Language and Literature from the University of Rio de Janeiro State in 2004. He is married and has two sons, and his hobbies include mountain climbing, hiking, and reading. His primary goal for ILEP is to explore new teaching methodologies and the use of technology to engage students.

Marcia Maria Dos Santos, English Teacher
Centro Interescolar de Linguas
Sobradinho, Brasilia, Brazil (population: 2,450,000)
Marcia Maria Dos Santos has been an English teacher for almost 17 years. Her average class size is about 20 students, and her students’ ages vary in range from young adolescents to older adults. In addition to teaching, she is also a pedagogical coordinator, and is in charge of Students’ and Parents’ Orientation. Marcia is married and has a daughter and a son. She is especially interested in technology and its uses for teaching. Marcia hopes that through ILEP she will obtain new teaching practices and experiences to share with her colleagues.

Alexandre dos Santos Oliveira, English Teacher
Centro Cultural de Linguas Padre Ratinundo Jose (Language School)
Teresina, Brazil (population: 779,938)
Alexandre dos Santos Oliveira has been teaching English in private and public schools since 1990. His students vary in age from 14 year olds to adults, and he teaches classes that typically have between 25 and 50 students. His extracurricular activities include participating and organizing interdisciplinary and cultural events at his school. He received his Bachelor’s Degree and Specialization in English from the State University of Piaui in 2001 and 2006, respectively. Alexandre is married and has a young son, and enjoys playing the guitar. His main goal for ILEP is to exchange experiences in order to enrich his methodological background.

Lucilene Silva Figueiredo, English Teacher
Escola Estadual Alexandre Vaz Tavares
Macapa, Brazil (population: 318,761)
Lucilene Silva Figueiredo has been teaching English at a private language school for six years, and at a secondary school for three. Her students range in age from the young teens to adults, and she has an average of forty students per class. Lucilene graduated from a Translation Course from IESAP in Macapa in 2005, and obtained a teaching certificate from there. Her primary objective in ILEP is to learn more about methodologies and to improve her abilities.

Artur Geraldo Pais, English and Portugese Teacher
Carolina Francini Burali Secondary School
Assis, Brazil (population: 100,000)
Artur Geraldo Pais has been teaching English and Portuguese at public secondary schools for 13 years. His students range in age from 11 to 18, and he teaches an average of 35 students per class. Artur helps his colleagues to face challenges, and also helps the students’ parents to take an active role in their children’s education. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics (English and Portuguese) from Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) Julio de Mesquita Filho in 1994, and in Spanish in 2002. His hobbies include watching movies and listening to music, especially American and British Pop and Rock. His primary goals for ILEP are to explore new methodologies to engage his students and colleagues in a more participatory and active classroom setting, and to make his students better readers and writers in both English and their native language of Portuguese.

Viviane Duarte Rocha, Natural Science Teacher
Centro Educacional do Lago Norte
Brasilia, Brazil (population: 2,450,000)
Viviane Duarte Rocha has been teaching Natural Science at public schools for the past nine years. Her students are between 14 and 17 years of age, and she has an average of 35 students per class. She is involved in a wide array of extracurricular activities at her school, and likes to organize events such as art festivals (dance, painting, music, and theater), and excursions to museums, exhibitions, parks, and swimming clubs. In addition, she is involved with interdisciplinary projects. Viviane received her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology in 2000 and her Master of Science degree in Ecology in 2004. Her hobbies include exercising, and going out with her friends and family. Her primary objective for participating in ILEP is to exchange knowledge and experiences with teachers from other cultures.

Joselia Batista Santos, English Teacher
Centro Cultural de Linguas
Teresina, Brazil (population: 779, 938)
Joselia Batista Santos has been teaching English for the past eight years. Her average class size consists of 30 students, and she teaches students ages 15 and older. She is a very active teacher who is engaged in pedagogy and students’ development in education. She has her Bachelor’s Degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Piaui, as well as her teaching certificate. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, and listening to music. Joselia’s main objective for ILEP is to learn new methodologies and activities as well as to develop her professional skills in teaching languages, and to share this knowledge with other colleagues.

ECUADOR

Monica Loor Domo, English & Social Science Teacher
Grad. Miguel Hurralde J. Military High School
Portoviejo, Ecuador (population: over 170,000)
Monica Loor Domo has been teaching English Language and Literature at a private primary and secondary school for nine years. Her students range from ages 8 to 12, and her average class has 25 students. Additionally, for the past year, she has been teaching Social Science at the primary level and English at the university level. She is a very active participant in her school’s extracurricular activities. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Teaching English from the Technical University of Marabi in 2005. She participates in many workshops and seminars on teacher training. She enjoys watching movies and listening to music. Monica’s primary objective for ILEP is to improve her English skills, and to help her community to become more active.

Adriana Vasquez Fueltala, English Teacher
Nacional Cahuasqui High School
Ibarra, Ecuador (population: 380,000)
Adriana Vasquez Feultala has been teaching English for the past ten years. In the past, she has taught in private schools, but currently, she is teaching at a government-run school. Her students are typically between 12 and 17 years of age, and her average class size ranges from 20 to 25 students per class. Adriana is very motivated, and works to improve her school’s curriculum constantly. She is also a teacher trainer for English in her province. She received her Licensing Degree in 1998. Her primary goal for ILEP is to motivate and share her experiences with fellow teachers in order to improve bilingual education.

EGYPT

Safaa Prince Ali, English Teacher
Minia Language School
Minia, Egypt (population: 8 million)
Safaa Prince Ali has taught English at a variety of levels of education for the past 16 years. She is an active member of her school’s inspection & training teams, and she has run workshops on teacher training. She received her Licensing Degree of Arts & Education from Minia University in 1991. Her primary interests are reading and teacher training. Through ILEP, she hopes to be provided with peer coaching and observation.

Walid Sayed Darwish, English Teacher
Atfeh Religious Secondary Institute
Atfeh, Giza, Egypt (population of Atfeh: about 560,000)
Walid Sayed Darwish has taught English at Atfeh Religious Secondary Institute for the past seven years. His students are between the ages of 15 and 18, and he typically has 36 students per class. He is a very socially active teacher, and strives to promote the educational atmosphere of the school. Walid received his Bachelor’s Degree in English from the Faculty of Education at Ain Shams University. He is married, and has a daughter. His hobbies include reading, browsing the internet, and playing football. His primary objective for ILEP is to explore new methodologies for engaging students in a more participatory and active classroom setting.

Raafat Samir Haroun, Math Teacher
King Fahd Model Experimental Language School
Cairo, Egypt (population: over 15 million)
Raafat Samir Haroun teaches Math at King Fahd Model Experimental Language School to students between 14 and 16 years of age. In addition to his work there, he is also involved in his community, teaching Math through Egypt TV – Channel 1, and through the Ministry of Education’s website. He has participated in training courses offered by SCAL (Student Centered Activities Learning), a Canadian Project, as well as TILO, an American Project. His academic interests include the application of technology in teaching. He has the ICDL & INTEL Certificates. He has a wife and a daughter, and enjoys swimming. His primary aim for ILEP is to learn new techniques, strategies, and methodologies in teaching Math.

Randa Hussein Omar
Pioneers Language School
Alexandria, Egypt (population: 4.1 million)
Randa has been teaching English Literature and Social Studies for the past six years. Her students are between 13 and 15 years of age, and her average class size has 15 students. Randa received her Bachelor’s Degree from Fine Arts University in 2002. Her main objective for ILEP is to develop new, creative teaching methods.

Maysa Abd El Kader El Sayed Mahmoud, English Teacher
El Santa Secondary School for Boys and Girls
El Santa, Gharbeya, Egypt (population of Gharbeya: over 3,790,000)
Maysa Abdul Kader has been teaching English as a Second Language at a public secondary school for the past 20 years. Her students are between 15 and 17 years old, and she teaches an average of 50 students per class. She plays a vital role in encouraging extracurricular educational activities among her students. She received her Bachelor of Education Degree in English in 1987, and her Bachelor of Arts Degree in English in 1989. She has been a widow for two years, and has two children, a boy and a girl. Her hobbies include reading and browsing the internet. Her objective for participating in ILEP is to acquire new teaching methodologies in technology.

Marwa Saleh, English Teacher
El Nasr Girls’ College
Alexandria, Egypt (population: 4.1 million)
Marwa Saleh has been teaching English Language and Literature at a private secondary school for the past six years. Her students are between 14 and 16 years old, and her average class consists of 40-50 students. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in English from the Alexandria University Faculty of Language and Translation in 2002; in 2007, she also attended an intensive course in teaching methods at the Faculty of Education. For the past 18 months, she has been working as an advisor, handling students’ marks, grades, and problems. Marwa’s main goal for participating in ILEP is to explore new teaching methods and strategies.

INDIA

Soma Banerjee, English Teacher
Kerala Public School
Jamshedpur, India (population: over 1 million)
Soma Banerjee has been teaching English for over a decade to children between the ages of 13 and 16 at private English schools. She takes her role as a leader and decision-maker very seriously, and strives to make learning a fun activity for her students. She is looking forward to interacting with the ILEP fellows. She is married to another English teacher and they have a son. She enjoys listening to soothing music, traveling, reading, and the company of her friends.

Soma Banerjee, Biology Teacher
Shri Shikshiyatan School
Kolkata, India (population: 15 million)
Soma Banerjee has been teaching Biology at a private higher secondary school for girls for the past 17 years. Her students range from 16 to 18 years of age, and she has an average of 30 students per class. She is a member of the Disciplinary Committee, which helps to maintain a strict code of conduct on the campus. She has also organized a nature club at her school. Soma received a Bachelor’s Degree with honors in Zoology from Calcutta University in 1986, a Master’s Degree in Zoology in 1988, and a Bachelor of Education in 1991. Soma is married and has a young daughter. Her hobbies include singing, listening to music, and sketching pictures. Her primary objective for ILEP is to adapt and implement new and modern methodologies of teaching by using improved technology to expose her students to a world class education.

Swapna Dhar, Math & Physics Teacher
Christian Academy
Shillong, India (population: 260,000)
Swapna Dhar has been teaching Math and Physics in the 9th and 10th standard at a private co-educational school for the past thirteen years. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Physics and Education from NEHU Shillong. She is an active member of the School Managing Committee and the State Council of Science, Technology, and Environment. She enjoys listening to music and sky watching. Her objective for participating in ILEP is to enhance her knowledge and skills to make learning more interesting and effective.

Chandrani Ghosh, Chemistry Teacher
South Point School
Guwahati Assam, India (population of Assam: over 26 million)
Chandrani Ghosh has been teaching Chemistry at the Senior Secondary School level for the past seven years. Her students are between 15 and 18 years old, and she has an average of 50 students per class. She is involved in a variety of extracurricular activities. She received both her Bachelor’s Degree and her Master’s Degree from Guwahati University, and also obtained a Diploma in Software Technology. Her hobbies include browsing the internet and watching movies. Chandrani hopes to learn advanced teaching techniques from ILEP.

S. Shokhothang Haokip, Political Science & Government Teacher
Ibotonsana Girls’ Higher Secondary School
Imphal, Manipur, India
S. Shokhothang Haokip has been teaching Political Science & Civics at a Government Secondary School for the past 18 years. His students range from 15 to 18 years of age. He received his Master’s Degree in Political Science from Poona University in 1986 and his Bachelor of Education from D.M. College of Teachers Education at Manipur University in 2007. He was also given a Certificate of Merit in Political Science from the Government of Manipur on Teacher’s Day in 1993. He is married and has two children, a daughter and a son. He takes interest in church outreach programs and social activities related to peace movements and conflict resolution. His primary objectives for participating in ILEP are to familiarize himself with education, and to learn better teaching methods, educational leadership, technology techniques, as well as to interact with American students and teachers, and other ILEP fellows.

Jaya Misra, Geography Teacher
Lakshmipat Singhani Academy
Kolkata, India (population: 15 million)
Jaya Misra has been working at Lakshmipat Singhani Academy, a co-educational private school, for the past nine years. Her students are between 14 and 16 years old, and she has an average of 30 students per class. Along with teaching Geography, she is the coordinator of teaching training. She is also the Head of the Geography Department and the Head of Department for Examinations. Her hobbies include teaching, painting, and craftwork. She hopes that ILEP will provide a global dimension to her teaching methods, and to create a global community of teachers and students.

Adrian Lamonte Pariat, Economics Teacher
Hill Crest School
Shillong, India (population: 260,000)
Adrian Lamonte Pariat has been teaching Economics for 12 years, and has spent the last seven at a private co-educational secondary school in Shillong. His students range from 13 to 16 years old and he teaches an average of 35 students per class. Adrian has been the school administrator and the secretary for the school’s Managing Committee for the past five years. He plays an important role in reshaping and improving the educational structure of the school. He received his Master’s Degree in Commerce in 1999 and his Bachelor’s Degree in Education in 2003 from North Eastern Hill University. He is married and has a daughter. His hobbies include fishing and photography. His primary objective for ILEP is to explore new skills as a teacher, an administrator, and an educational reformer.

Promosini Devi Takhellambam, Bioscience Teacher
Motbung High School
Senapati, India (population: 379,214)
Promosini Devi Takhellambam has been a teacher for six years. She currently teaches Bioscience at the high school level. She completed her Master of Science at NEHU-Shillong, and her Bachelor’s in Education and Master’s in Education at Manipur University. In addition to teaching at her high school, she also lectures at a teacher training college, and conducts research at Manipur University. She is interested in surveying the educational systems of rural parts of her state in India.

INDONESIA

Fatah Nasikh Aryawan, English Teacher
6th Public Vocational School of Malang
Malang, Indonesia (population: 782,110)
Fatah Nasikh Aryawan has been teaching English at a public school for the past two years. He is also the English Testing Coordinator. He was given the award of Master Teacher by the Directorate of Vocational Education in 2007. He is an assessor for preschool and primary education in The School Accreditation Board of Malang City. He is currently studying Educational Policy for his master degree in Graduate Program of Muhammadiyah Malang University. Fatah is married and has a daughter. His primary goal for ILEP is to further develop his skills and abilities as a professional teacher.

Indah Dhamayanti, Physics Teacher
Yayasan Pendidikan Prima Swarga Bara Junior High School
Kutai Timur, Indonesia (population of Kalimantan Timur: 2,750,369)
Indah Dhamayanti has been teaching Physics at her current school for the past four years. Her students are between 13 and 15 years of age, and on average there are 30 students in each of her classes. She teaches Physics for grades 7-9, and arranges and presents semester reports to the head of her department and to parents. She also coordinates the Physics Laboratory and other Physics activities, such as Olympiad training and the Science Bulletin Team, and the Science Fair. Indah received a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics Education from Yogyakarta State in 2005, as well as a Certificate in Teaching Methods. Indah is married, and enjoys movies, music, reading, and traveling. Her primary objective for participating in ILEP is to explore new methodologies for improving the quality of her classes.

Muhammad Ilham Rauf, Mathematics Teacher
SMA Negeri 1 Labbakang Pangkep
South Sulawesi, Indonesia (population: 7,497,701)
Muhammad Ilham Rauf has been teaching Math at a senior high school for the past five years. His students range from 16 to 19 years old, and his average class size consists of 40 students. Ilham received his S1 Degree in Mechanical Engineering from STKIP (Sekolah Tinggi Keguruan & Ilmu Pendidikan) Andi Matappa in 2004. He is a member of Panti Asuhan Mattoanging Committee. Ilham is married and has five children, and his hobbies include reading and writing computer literature. His primary objective for ILEP is to enhance his ability in teaching by adopting new teaching methods he can learn from this program and from other ILEP fellows.

Sri Maryati, English Teacher
Sma Negeri 2 Sekayu
Sekayu Musi Banyuasin, Indonesia (population: 483,000)
Sri Maryati has been teaching English for six years at a state senior high school. Her students are between 15 and 18 years old and she has 35 students per class on average. Sri participates in many extracurricular activities at her school including the Community Service Project, Book Review, Debate Class, and Conversation Class for Teachers. Sri Maryati received her Bachelor’s Degree in English in 2002, and her Master’s Degree in Economics in 2008 from the University of Sriwijaya. She is married and has two young daughters, and enjoys reading. Her primary objective for ILEP is to explore new teaching methodologies to be used for her classes.

Nusyirwan, English Teacher
SMKN 1 Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta, Indonesia (3,121,000)
Nusyirwan has been teaching English at a vocational school since 1994. His students range from 15 to 18 years old and his average class contains 36 students. He is the coordinator of normative and adaptive teachers, who teach non-vocational subjects at the school. Additionally, he is an active member of the English Teachers’ Organization, both at the city level and the provincial level. He received his Master’s Degree in English Language Studies at USD in January, and hopes that ILEP will sharpen his skills and knowledge.

Siti Zulfah Sulaiman, English Teacher
SMA Negeri 3 Medan
Medan, North Sumatera, Indonesia (population: over 2 million)
Siti Zulfah Sulaiman has been teaching English Language and Literature at a state-sponsored school for the past 11 years. Her students are between 16 and 18 years old, and there are 40 students in her average class. She sponsored the initiative to create an English club at her school, and is an active member of her city’s English Teachers’ Meeting. She graduated from an S2 program from UNIMED Medan in 2004, and also obtained a Teaching Certificate in Methods from there. Siti is married and has four daughters and a son, and her hobbies include traveling and reading. She is participating in ILEP because she is interested in exploring new methodologies for engaging students more actively by making the learning process more fun for them.

Bayu Cahyo Widyatmoko, English Teacher and Indonesian Teacher, Vice Principal
Yayasan Pendidikan Jayawijaya Secondary School
Kuala Kenkana-Timika, Indonesia (population: 2.1 million)
Bayu Cahyo Widyatmoko has been the Vice Principal of his middle school for the last three years. He has been teaching Indonesian Language Arts and English as a Second Language classes since 2001. At present, most of his students are between 11 and 15 years of age, and his average class consists of 25-30 students. He is an active member of his school’s Parent-Teacher Committee, where he was a secretary, and promoted effective parental involvement in student education. Bayu received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education in Indonesian Language and Literature from Malang State University in 2002. His hobbies include writing music and playing drums in a rock band. His primary goal for ILEP is to further develop his leadership skills, and to use those skills to make a profound impact on his school and Papua New Guinea.

JORDAN

Yaser Abuhmaid, Social Studies Teacher
Sweileh (P) (B) School
Amman, Jordan (population: 2,027,685)
Yaser Abuhmaid has been teaching Social Studies at UNRWA schools since 2000. His students are between 9 and 15 years old, and he has an average of 45 students per class. One of his greatest priorities is to help poor students to succeed. Yaser received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Jordan in 1998, and completed a one-year educational training course in 2002. He is married, and his hobbies include swimming and academic research. He hopes ILEP will develop his teaching methods and build his knowledge base.

Samer Abukoush, Physics Teacher
Zarka Prep. Boys School No.2
Zarka, Jordan
Samer AbuKoush has been teaching Physics and Science at UNRWA schools for boys since 1998. He has been a member of the Zarka Educational Area Science Committee for the past six years. His students are between 14 and 16 years old, and he has an average of 35 students per class. Samer received his Bachelor’s Degree in Physics in 1997 from Mutah University, has completed a training course in Educational Psychology from the Educational Development Center/UNRWA, and has a Cambridge Diploma in Information Technology as well. He is married and has a young son. Samer’s primary goal for participating in ILEP is to explore new methodologies for engaging students in a more participatory and active classroom setting.

Lama’a Al-Orainat, English Teacher
Public Secondary School
Aqaba, Jordan (population: 100,000)
Lama’a Al-Orainat has been teaching English Language at a public secondary school for girls for the past nine years. Her students are typically 16 or 17 years old, and she teaches an average of 40 students per class. Lama’a is an active member of her school’s Parent-Teacher Committee, in which she has played a role in promoting effective parental involvement in student education. Lama’a received a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Zarka Private University in 2000 and a Master’s Degree in Computers in Education from Huddersfield University in England. Lama’a is married and has three sons and a daughter. Her hobbies include reading and theater. Her primary objective in ILEP is to explore new methodologies for engaging students in a more participatory and active classroom setting.

Tamadur Elshqeirat, Physics Teacher
Al-Shobak Secondary School for Girls
Shobak-Ma’an, Jordan (population 10,000)
Tamador has been teaching Physics at a public secondary school for girls for the past five years. Her students are between 15 and 17 years old, and her average class size consists of about 25 students. Her interests include participating in science competitions. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics from Mutah University in 2003. Additionally, Tamador participates in teacher training courses whenever possible. Her primary objective for participating in ILEP is to learn modern techniques of technology and new teaching methods, so that she can give back to her community.

Eman Irsheid, English Teacher
Public Secondary School
Al Turrah, Jordan
Eman Irsheid has been teaching English in a public secondary school for girls for the past six years. Her students are between 16 and 18 years old, and she teaches an average of 45 students per class. Eman is active in many school committees, especially the Mothers’ Committee. She also works to increase community participation in students’ learning. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in English from Mu’ta University and her Master’s Degree in English Literature from Al-Fasher University in 2003. Her primary goal in participating in ILEP is to learn techniques to encourage students to become more pro-active in their learning process.

LEBANON

Sanaa El Lawand, Mathematics Teachers
Omar Farroukh Public Secondary School
Beirut, Lebanon
Sanaa El Lawand has been teaching Mathematics at a public secondary school for girls for the past 16 years. Her students range from 12 to 18 years old and she teaches an average of 38 students per class. She is a member of a group of Mathematics teachers in her school, which puts together lesson plans and basic packets each year to help students to understand their subject and work cooperatively. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from Beirut University in 1988. She hopes ILEP will help her to explore an open, learner-centered environment.

MALAYSIA

Weng Hang Au Yeong, English Teacher
SMK Seri Permaisuri
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (population: 2.2 million)
Weng Hang Au Yeong teaches English Language, English Literature, and Pre-University English at a government school. His students range from 15 to 18 years of age, and he has an average of 40 students per class. He is also a discipline master and an active participant and trainer in local district-level teacher training. Additionally, he also grades National Exam Papers. Weng Hang is married to a former ILEP fellow, and has a young daughter and son. He is very interested in learning new techniques to engage his students in his English classes.

Elly Ong, English Teacher
St. John Secondary School
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (population: 2.2 million)
Elly Ong has been teaching English Language at a government secondary school for boys for the past four years. Her students are typically 13-14 years old, and on average there are 35 students in each of her classes. Elly is a facilitator in Kuala Lumpur Co-Curriculum Center, which is active in recreational activities. Elly received a Bachelor’s Degree in Teaching English as a Second Language from the University of Malaya in 2005. Her hobbies include reading, swimming, and kayaking. Her primary goal for ILEP is to explore new methodologies for more active participation from her students.

Manjit Singh Sarjit Singh, English Language Teacher
SMK Perimbun
Kajang, Malaysia (population: 230,000)
Manjit Singh Sarjit Singh started his teaching career nineteen years ago when he taught at a remote primary school in Kapit, Borneo. Since then he has taught at various schools in and around Kulala Lumpur. Presently, he is teaching at a secondary school in Kajang. His students range from 13-14 years old with an average class size of 35 students. Manjit Singh is the Head Discipline teacher, but despite this portfolio, is well liked by his students! Manjit received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University Putra Malaysia. His wife is also a teacher and they have a lovely eight-year-old daughter. He loves traveling and movies. His main objective for participating in ILEP is to explore more pupil oriented activities which he can use in his teaching to induce pupils to participate actively and hence enjoy learning English.

Hari Krishnan Rajeswari, English Teacher
Harley Methodist Secondary School
Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia (population: 50,000)
Hari Krishnan Rajeswari has been teaching English Language at a public school for the past seven years. Her students range from 13 to 19 years of age, and on average there are 30 students in her classes. She is a member of her school’s parent-teacher committee. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Teaching English as a Second Language from the University of Putra Malaysia and a Teacher Training Certificate from Sri Pinang, Teacher’s Training College in 1993. Her hobbies include reading and watching movies. She hopes that ILEP will provide professional avenues for education and networking.

Wan Shahrazuddin Bin Wan Abdul Razak, Information Technology & Communications Teacher
SMK (L) Bukit Bintang Secondary School
Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia (population: 438, 084)
Wan Shahrazuddin bin Wan Abdul Razak has been teaching Information Technology & Communications since January 2008. Before that, he taught Living Skills, Geography, Moral Education, and Science. His students are 13-14 years old. He received his degree in Music Education from MARA Institute of Technology in 2003, majoring in Vocal. His hobbies include singing and playing the violin. He hopes that participating in ILEP will give him new strategies for increasing students’ participation in classroom activities.

MOROCCO

Rahhal Ajbilou, English Teacher
Oued Alabid Secondary School
Foum Jemaa, Azilal, Morocco (population: 30,023)
Rahhal Ajbilou has been teaching English at higher secondary schools for the past 13 years. His students range from 16 to 20 years old. Rahhal is an active member in English Summer Institutes, MATE (Moroccan Association of Teachers in English), school councils, and local development associations. Rahhal received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Cadi Ayyad University in 1994 and a Teaching Diploma from ENS in Rabat in 1995. Rahhal is married, and has a daughter and a son. His hobbies include fishing and swimming. His primary objective for participating in ILEP is to reach a more profound understanding of the multi-faceted teaching process and to foster values of tolerance and mutual understanding.

Mariam Bedraoui, English Teacher
Allal Ben Abedllah High School
Casablanca, Morocco (population: 3,850,000)
Mariam Bedraoui has been teaching English as a Second Foreign Language at a co-educational public school for the past ten years. Her students are between 15 and 18 years old, and there are about 40 students in each of her classes. Mariam monitors a book club organization at her school. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature from Abdelmalik Essaadi University in 1996 and a Diploma in TEFL from Ecole Superieure in 1998. Mariam is married and enjoys reading and traveling. Her main objective for participating in ILEP is to develop effective ways for managing project work in her classroom.

Abdelkrim Ben Yahya, English Teacher
Qadi Ayad School
Tetouan, Morocco (population: 3,500,000)
Abdelkrim Ben Yahya has been teaching English at Qadi Ayad School for nearly 22 years. His students’ ages range from 15 to 20 and on average there are 35 students in his classes. Abdelkrim, more commonly known to his students and colleagues by the nickname ‘Kareem,’ is an active member of MATE, the Moroccan Association of Teachers of English, whose aim is to promote the teaching English throughout the country. Kareem received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English Literature from Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fez in 1985, and a Teaching Certificate from ENS, the Higher Teacher Training Institute of Rabat in 1987. Kareem is married and has two daughters. His hobbies include computers, going to the cinema, and listening to world music. His main objective in participating in ILEP is to explore ways of implementing modern technology in teaching English as a Foreign Language and developing leadership skills.

El Mostafa Chahid, English Teacher
Military Secondary School
Marrakesh, Morocco (population: 1,036,500)
El Mostafa Chahid has been teaching English at the secondary school level for the past 15 years. The age of his students ranges from 16 to 18 years old, and there are approximately 30 students in each of his classes. El Mostafa is an active member of an association for visually impaired students as well as a member of the Moroccan Association of Teachers of English. El Mostafa obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English Language and Literature from Chouaib Doukkali University in El Jadida, Morocco, and a Teaching Certificate from the National Teacher Training Institute in Rabat, Morocco. El Mostafa is engaged to be married. His hobbies include reading, writing poetry in English, music, and jogging. His primary goal for participating in ILEP is to draw upon innovative pedagogy and instructional tools, particularly technology-enhanced language learning.

PHILIPPINES

Florifes A. Bertulfo, Mathematics Teacher
Philippine Women’s College of Davao
Davao City, Philippines (population: 1,360,000)
Florifes A. Bertulfo has been teaching Mathematics at a private secondary school for the past 20 years. The age of her students ranges from 13 to 16 years old and on average there are 40 students in her classes. Flor is also the Mathematics Coordinator of the Basic Education Department where she conducts regular meetings with fellow mathematics teachers to discuss and share teaching innovations and strategies, and conducts classroom observations for monitoring and assessment purposes. Flor received her Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from Holy Cross of Davao College in 1988. Flor’s hobbies include reading, watching movies, and hiking. Her primary objective for participating in ILEP is to create a learning module that provides multiple learning experiences and maximizes student participation.

Ana Espejo Mirana, Physics and Computer Education Teacher
Ligao National High School
Ligao City, Philippines
Ana Espejo Mirana taught Physics and Computer Education at Ligao National High School in Ligao City for ten years before transferring to Camarines Sur State Agricultural College (CSSAC) in August 2008. Her students are between 14 and 16 years old, and her average class consists of 30 to 35 students. Ana organizes student activities designed to benefit the community, and has become a resource for other schools that are conducting seminars and workshops. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Physics as a Department of Science and Technology Scholar, and a Master’s Degree in Management and Supervision as an Outstanding Graduate from Bicol University. She is married, and has three sons, and enjoys browsing the internet. Her primary objective for ILEP is to learn the new strategies and methodologies that would increase the performance level of students.

Maylani Lorica Galicia, Mathematics Teacher
Ligao National High School
Ligao City, Philippines
Maylani Lorica Galicia has been teaching Mathematics at a public school for the past 14 years. Currently, she holds a Master Teacher I position and teaches junior high school students between the ages of 14 and 16. Her average class size is 45. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Philippine Normal University and her Master of Science in Teaching Mathematics from Ateneo De Manila University. She participates in numerous professional development organizations in various capacities, including project proponent, implementer, facilitator, and trainer. She is married and has two sons and two daughters. She enjoys playing computer games and spending time with her family. Her primary purpose for participating in ILEP is to gain more knowledge, skills, and experience that will be useful in teaching Mathematics, and to share it.

Joseph V. Gutierrez, Science Teacher
Morong National High School – Annex
Morong, Bataan, Philippines (population: 50,000)
Joseph V. Gutierrez has been teaching Science for the last 16 years; he spent 13 of those years in private schools, and the last three years teaching in a public barrio school, where his average class size is 60 students. Joseph is constantly seeking professional development opportunities and attends many graduate courses and seminars. He is a member of the Astronomical League of the Philippines and facilitates stargazing sessions. He hopes ILEP will help him to enhance his pedagogical skills to help him become a more effective educator.

Mercelita J. Labial, English Teacher
Xavier University High School
Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines (population: 554,000)
Mercelita J. Labial has been teaching English Language and Literature for the past 14 years. Her students range from 14 to 16 years old, and on average, there are 40 students in each of her classes. She has been the Chair of the English Department for four years. She is a teacher trainer. In addition to training teachers in her city and region, she also conducts trainings in neighboring regions. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Xavier University, and is presently pursuing a Master’s Degree there. Mercelita is married and has two sons. Her hobbies include belly-dancing and horseback riding. Her primary objective for participating in ILEP is to develop her teaching skills to the best of her ability, and to have a more developed foundation for teacher training.

Sally Mae Pamplona
Social Studies Teacher University of St. La Salle - Integrated School
Bacolod City, Philippines (population: 499,497)
Sally Mae L. Pamplona has been teaching Social Studies subjects ( Asian and World History ) at a private Catholic school run by the Lasalle Brothers for the past 16 years. The age of her students range from 14-16 years old (Grades 9-10 ), and on average there are 40 students in her class. Sally received her Bachelor's degree in Basic Education major in Social Studies from the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos and is pursuing her master's degree in Social Science in the University of San Agustin. Sally has been supporting her school's reach-out/community activities through her home room class and as a faculty member. As for her hobbies, Sally likes dancing and watching movies. She is currently living with her younger sister and father. Her primary objective in joining ILEP is to widen her horizons and insights on teaching.

Maria Hazele M. Pineda, English Teacher
Batasan Hills National High School
Quezon City, Philippines (population: 2,679,450)
Maria Hazele Pineda has been teaching English at a public secondary school for the past six years. Her students are 15 to 16 years old, and her average class has 60 students. She is an active member of the Internet Club under the Rotary Club of Batasan, where she plays a significant role in developing the leadership skills of students. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in English at the University of the East and her Master’s Degree in Industrial Education at the Technological University of the Philippines, where she is currently enrolled as a Doctoral Candidate. Her primary goal for participating in ILEP is to explore different methodologies in teaching English.

Ignacio C. Soriano, Mathematics Teacher
Ateneo de Manila High School
Marikina City, Manila, Philippines (population of Marikina City: 391,170)
Ignacio C. Soriano has been teaching Mathematics at the Ateneo de Manila High School, a private secondary school for boys, for the past 17 years. His students range from 14 to 17 years old, and his has an average class size of about 40 students. He is an active member of his school’s committee on discipline, where he has played a role in promoting order among his students. Ignacio received his Master’s in Basic Education on Teaching from Ateneo de Manila University in 2001. He is married and he has a young daughter. His hobbies include basketball and chess. His primary objective for participating in ILEP is to learn how to use technology to teach Mathematics effectively to help his students to learn and appreciate the subject.

Frederick Toralballa Talaue, Biology Teacher
Philippine Science High School (PSHS) – Main Campus
Quezon City, Philippines (population: 2,679,450)
Frederick Toralballa Talaue began his teaching career in 1996 with Philippine Science High School (PSHS), a government-funded school that offers scholarships to students with high aptitude in math and science. The average class size at PSHS is 30 students. Fred currently teaches the Life Science Elective, but had previously taught Biology for sophomore and senior students, who range from 13 to 17 years of age. Fred actively participates in a local community organization of Biology educators as a resource for its seminars and workshops. He received his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from the University of Philippines-Diliman and Vrije Universiteit Brussels (Belguim), respectively. In his spare time, Fred dabbles in music, plays badminton, watches films, or reads books about science and novels. One of his objectives in participating in ILEP is to explore classroom models that extensively integrate the scientific inquiry approach, and to learn effective alternative methods to assess student learning.

SENEGAL

Sidy Dieng, English Teacher
Foundiougne Senior High School
Foundiougne, Senegal (population: 5,610)
Sidy Dieng has been teaching English as a Foreign Language to students between the ages of 16 and 21 since 2000. His average class has about 80 students. He takes part in many school activities, including supervising the school English Club, coordinating pedagogical training for English teachers, and playing the role of the local English Pedagogical Advisor for teachers from schools around Foundiougne. He received his Master’s of the Arts in Applied Linguistics and Grammar from Gaston Berger University (Senegal) in 1998, and a Certificate for Junior Secondary School Teaching in 2002. Sidy is married to a primary school teacher, and they have three sons. His primary objective for participating in ILEP is to unveil the issues surrounding teaching English as a Foreign Language, and in doing so, to find the best pedagogy to give students the confidence and sense of responsibility needed to learn English effectively.

Babacar Diop, English Teacher
ABC Secondary School
Ziguinchor, Senegal (population: 517,141)
Babacar Diop has been teaching English Language, Literature, and Civilization for the past seven years at Djignabo High School, which has 4,338 students and 114 teachers, including 17 English teachers. His students range between 16 and 21 years of age, and on average there are 50 students in his classes. He is a member of the board of discipline counsel at his school, and an active member of the English pedagogical cell, where he occasionally does presentations for untrained colleagues. He received a pre-Doctorate Degree in English from Cheikh Anta Diop University in 2000, and a certificate in teaching methods from Dakar Teacher Training School (ENS) in 2001. Babacar is married and has a daughter and a son. His hobbies include reading, martial arts, swimming, and watching documentaries. His primary objective for participating in ILEP is to discover new teaching techniques and to meet more experienced teachers so he can improve his techniques.

El Ismaila Diouf, English Teacher
Elh Mouste Ndiaye Secondary School
Kaolack, Senegal (population: 9,860)
El Ismaila Diouf has been teaching English at a public school for the past eight years to boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 17. His average class has about 60 students. He is the Deputy Secretary General of the Association of English Teachers in Senegal (ATES), a coordinator of a diverse team and the Coordinator of the English Clubs Supervisor’s Committee. After obtaining his Bachelor’s Degree in 1998 at Dakar University (UCAD), he attended a teacher training school (ENS, which is now called FASTEF). El Ismaila is married. He enjoys swimming and reading. He hopes ILEP will enable him to improve his teaching abilities and provide new knowledge to share with his colleagues.

Ngor Ngom, English Teacher
Malick Sall High School
Louga, Senegal (population: 1,452)
Ngor Ngom has been teaching English at a public secondary high school for the past 9 years. His students are between 16 and 21 years old. He is a member of the English Team at his school, and supervisor of the English Club. He is also a member of the Association of the Teachers of English of Senegal (ATES), which he was the regional Branch Chairperson for the past two years; during his term, he organized two festivals of English Clubs in the region. He attended Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar and obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1993, and a Master’s Certificate in 1995. Ngor regularly takes part in seminars organized for teacher development in Louga, and has participated in several symposiums organized by the Ministry of Education, the U.S. Embassy, and the British Council in Dakar.

Mouhamadou Sadibou Diouf, English Teacher
Serigne Ahmadou Ndack Seck High School
Thies, Senegal (population: 320,000)
Mouhamadou Sadibou Diouf teaches English to students aged 17 to 22. His school has 2,300 students and an average class size of 50. He is the coordinator of the English Club and of the Dreams and Teams (UK Partnership) Club. He is also the delegate for teachers in the School Steering Committee. Mouhamadou obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English in 1989 from the University of Dakar, and a Certificate in Teaching. His hobbies include playing soccer, watching television, and browsing the internet. His primary goals for ILEP are to obtain more techniques in leadership and technology.

SOUTH AFRICA

Thabo Victor Fekefeke, Mathematics and Science Teacher
Unicom High School
Tweespruit, South Africa (population: 85,000)
Thabo Victor Fekefeke has taught Mathematics and Science in government schools for 16 years. In addition to teaching, he serves as the Head of the Math and Science Department at his school. His students range from 13 to 20 years old, and his average class has about 45 students. He has served as the secretary of the school governing body for four years, and is the coordinator of the integrated quality management program for educators at his school. He obtained his Teacher Certificate in 1991, and holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Education. He is married and has two daughters and a son, and his hobbies include running and gardening. His objective for taking part in ILEP is to acquire new skills that will help him and his colleagues improve teaching and learning in the classroom.

Motsienyane Lethena, Physical Science Teacher
Lekhulong Secondary School
Bloemfontein, South Africa (population: 369,568)
Motsienyane Lethena has been teaching Physical Science at Lekhulong Secondary School for over 12 years. The average age of his students is 17. He is also currently employed with the Department of Education as a Subject Advisor. He participates in Saturday classes (the Enrichment Program) as the coordinator for math and science students. He has a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree from the National University of Lesotho, and has won several awards, including Math and Science Teacher of the Year.
Maband Patrick Mnisi, Head of Natural Science Department
Majeje High School
Limpopo Province, South Africa (population of province: over 5 million)
Maband Patrick Mnisi teaches English and Mathematics at a public co-educational high school to students between 13 and 21 years old. He teaches an average 57 students per class. He is an active member of the School Management Team and plays a vital role in extracurricular activities. Maband is a widower and has a child. His primary objective for ILEP is to explore new ideas in Mathematics education.
Kgashane Vincent Mashaba, Mathematics & Physical Sciences Teacher
Molabosane High School
Lenyenye, South Africa
Kgashane Vincent Mashaba teaches Mathematics and Physical Sciences at Molabosane High School for grades 10 to 12, where he has been teaching since February 1998. At his school, he coordinates the Math and Science Olympiad. He obtained his Secondary Teacher’s Diploma in December 1997 at Naphuno College of Education, where he majored in Mathematics and Biology. He is married and has two sons. His hobbies include playing soccer, watching the news and TV, and reading. Vincent’s primary goal for participating in ILEP is to enhance his knowledge of his subject.
Sekgana Ngokoane Motimele, Mathematics Teacher
Manoshi Secondary School
Polokwane, South Africa
Sekgana Ngokoane Motimele has been teaching Mathematics at a secondary school for the past 20 years. Her students’ ages range between 12 and 25 years of age, and on average, there are 50 students in each of her classes. Sekgana holds a Secondary Teacher’s Diploma (1986), a Bachelor of Arts Degree (1989), and a further Diploma in Education (2000). She is participating in ILEP to improve her teaching methods and to become a better teacher.

TUNISIA

Housine Zayri, Arabic Literature Teacher
Farabi School
Zahrouni, Tunisia
Housine Zayri has been teaching Arabic Literature and Certification for the past eight years. His students range from 13 to 17 years old and he has an average of 30 students per class. In addition to teaching, he is involved with several community activities and is an active member of the Association of Arabic Language Studies. Housine is fond of many languages, particularly English, and is looking forward to learning more teaching methodologies.

VENEZUELA

Yainy Buitrago Rueda, English Teacher
Dr. Joaquin Esteva Parra School
Maracaibo, Zulia, Venezuela (population: 1,360,127)
Yainy Buitrago Rueda has been teaching English as a Second Language at a public secondary school for boys and girls for the past five years. Her students are between 12 and 16 years old, and on average there are about 35 to 40 students in each of her classes. Yainy uses innovative teaching techniques and methodologies to involve her students to create a fun and interesting learning environment. Yainy received a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Majoring in Modern Languages, from Universidad del Zulia (LUZ) in 2004. Currently, she is working on her thesis for her Doctorate. Her hobbies include dancing, traveling, and talking with her friends. Her objective for participating in ILEP is to share and exchange experiences to create new strategies to make relevant and meaningful curriculum content.

Jesus Moreno Belandria, English Teacher
Unidad Educativa Dr. Jose Ramon Vega
Zea, Venezuela (population: 12,000)
Jesus Moreno Belandria has been teaching English at a private high school for ten years, and at a public high school for the past six. The age of his students ranges from 13 to 18. He teaches English to about 320 students. Jesus has worked as a volunteer teaching English to prisoners of Tochiru State, and is a volunteer Religion teacher at his church. He is married and has two children. His hobbies are mountain biking and running. His primary goal for participating in ILEP is to improve his English.

Mercedes Perleche, English Teacher
APUNE Secondary School
Caracas, Venezuela (population: 4,000,000)
Mercedes Perleche has been teaching English at a private secondary school for the past four years. Her students range from 11 to 18 years old, and on average she has 15 students per class. Before her current position, she taught English at a public elementary school for two years. Mercedes received a Graduate Degree in Education from the Universidad de los Andes. Her hobbies include swimming, reading, and poetry. Her primary objective for ILEP is to explore new methodologies for teaching English.

Ebed Sulbaran, English Teacher
Nucleo Escolar Rural 094 “El Playon”
Merida, Venezuela (population: 204,879)
Ebed Sulbaran is an English Teacher. For the past five years, he has taught in both the public and private sector. He has experience teaching in rural areas, where he learned very much; while there, he helped the community by conducting workshops on English as well as other subjects. He is married and has a child. He hopes to complete his degree in English before December 2008. One of his main goals for ILEP is to learn about new methodologies that will both improve his English and help him to become a better teacher.