Contact: aprila@sv.ycef.com

“I was born and raised in the Bay Area. I love how YCIS gives me the opportunity to be creative, pushes me to grow professionally, and feel challenged. I have worked in both the Shanghai and Silicon Valley branches. When coming back to YCIS this year, the Assistant Head of School said, “Welcome ‘home’!” My heart melted. I feel welcomed, appreciated, and that I belong. What I love about teaching is being part of a child’s life, even if it is for that one year, while planting the seeds of education and life lessons. I feel honored to be partnering with families, a team of teachers, administrators, and staff. It truly takes a village.”

Education:

B.A. Psychology and Social Behavior from the University of California, Irvine. M.A. in Elementary Education from Loyola Marymount. Certification: Cleared Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

Year joined YCIS: 2023

Contact: millyc@sv.ycef.com

“At YCIS, students have the distinct opportunity to learn joyfully, grow empathetically, and explore confidently within a bilingual, intercultural community from preschool through grade 8. Learning two world languages concurrently—Mandarin and English—your child will develop both language and cultural fluency, cultivate flexibility and open-mindedness, and enhance critical communication skills.”

Education:

BA in Psychology Education from Liaoning Normal University.
Currently Pursuing Courses At UCLA

Year Joined YCIS: 2015

Contact: sylviac@sv.ycef.com

” I was born and raised in Southern California. As for fun facts about me, I have a passion for reading and exploring the wonders of nature. I chose to be a part of YCIS because of my immense love for the kids here, coupled with the strong sense of community the school fosters. What I treasure most about teaching at YCIS is the opportunity to build lasting relationships with students and their families and the adoption of the PBL teaching style. Beyond just academics, teaching offers me the rewarding experience of instilling confidence and mindfulness in my students. Speaking of the strengths of our dual language instruction, it not only immerses students in Chinese culture but also ensures that by the time they leave, they are highly skilled in the Chinese language.”

Education:

B.S. Biology and M.S. Neurobiology

Year joined YCIS: 2021

Contact: jasminec@sv.ycef.com

“I was born and raised in Singapore, a multi-racial bilingual country with diverse ethnic groups and cultures. I had relocated to the Bay Area since last year (2022) with my family. When I am not at work, I will be spending my time with my family exploring the Bay Area. I love listening to music and my favorite genres of music include Pop, Jazz and Blues. I had also learnt to play instruments like piano, saxophone and guitar. I was drawn to YCIS about its bilingual education and its diversity. What further impressed me was the close community and the welcoming environment. It feels like a big family striving together as ONE to provide the best we can.”

Education:

B.Sc. Banking and Finance from University of London

Year joined YCIS: 2023

Contact: chingyic@sv.ycef.com

“My fondness for YCIS began from the very first day due to its welcoming and familial ambiance! The aspect I appreciate most about this school is witnessing the collaboration and dual language instruction. Everyone shares the same objectives: ensuring our students flourish in an affectionate and secure setting, utilizing science and technology as tools to explore the world around them, and guiding our students to embrace and honor diverse cultures while contributing positively to our community.

I got married and moved to the Bay Area from Taiwan in 2001. In my free time, I find enjoyment in being with my family, going on hikes, reading books, and tending to my garden.”

Education:

B.S. Foreign Languages and Literatures from National Taiwan University. M.S. in Education from New York University. Certifications: Multiple Subject Teaching Credential， BCLAD in Chinese Language Certification, and Taiwan Academic Rank Certificate: Instructor

Year joined YCIS: 2020

Contact: cristinag@sv.ycef.com

“I was raised in Los Angeles County in the San Gabriel Valley area and moved to the Bay Area in 2009. When I am not managing the YCIS office, I like to spend time with my family kayaking and traveling or reading on my own. YCIS Feels like home away from home. The sense of community I get from being here is heartwarming. I have worked at many schools and I can say with confidence that the students, teachers and parents here are phenomenal. They are extremely supportive and generous in many ways. I cannot begin to thank them enough for all they do. My favorite thing about working here is the diversity. We have many students who besides speaking Mandarin, also speak several other languages. It’s all very impressive! “

Education:

Associates Degree in Business Administration; Associates Degree in Liberal Arts in Social & Behavioral Science. Currently working on Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in Management

Year joined YCIS: 2014

Contact: eliseh@sv.ycef.com

“I love learning, and working in an environment that promotes a growth mindset. I took this position when the school transitioned into Project Based Learning. Teachers, parents, and children work together to create a safe, nurturing, and open minded approach to learning that doesn’t stop when the students leave campus. “

Education:

Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies Early Childhood to Fourth Grade with a specialization in English as a Second Language.

Year joined YCIS: 2020

Contact: yuchinh@sv.ycef.com

“YCIS is an incredible school for a Chinese teacher due to its robust and highly regarded Chinese program. During my first year, I was impressed by the dedication of all the teachers who teach with passion. I felt immensely happy and fortunate to have become a part of this school. I’m aware that this is an institution where I can both learn and become the kind of teacher I aspire to be!”

Education:

B.A. in Chinese language and teaching, National Normal University. Taiwan, M.A. in Chinese Literature, Cheng Kung University, Taiwan; M.A. in Instructional Technology, San Jose State University; Chinese Subject Teaching Credential, Taiwan. Certification: Teaching Chinese as a Heritage/Foreign Language, CA, USA

Year Joined YCIS: 2016

Contact: sophieh@sv.ycef.com

“Having previously worked at a learning center as a teacher, I have gained more than a decade of experience in child education. Now that I have joined YCIS, I look forward to contributing further to this fantastic opportunity. In child education, I believe that mutual benefits are the key to achieving better educational results. With my students and the support from YCIS, I am confident that our future will be brighter. As a child educator and advocate, I am dedicated to my students’ learning goals. It is not only my responsibility to impart knowledge but also to be a steadfast supporter for my students. Alongside my students and YCIS, I anticipate even greater academic progress in the upcoming months and years.”

Education:

Bachelor of Accountancy, Early Childhood Education and related course

Year joined YCIS: 2023

Contact: aliceh@sv.ycef.com

“I truly embrace YCIS’s mission and vision, that is committed to aligning with Science and Technology, – Culture and Arts, – Love and Charity. YCIS Silicon Valley is a unique place to help children become bilingual and bi-cultural in English and Chinese, and equip them with the skills and courage to navigate the complexity when East Meets West. I like walking around the campus and seeing all the happy faces; it makes me feel this is not just a school, but also a big family that you can get energy from. Hobbies: Magic, The Gathering, Ultimate Frisbee, Music.”

Education/Certifications:

B.A. Foreign Languages and Literature, Beijing Normal University;
Education Management Training, The University of Manchester, UK;
M.A. Education and Social Policy, New York University.
Fulbright Scholarship Grantee 2014-2016
Co-chair, Young CIE – Chinese Institute of Engineers USA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter

Year Joined YCIS: 2022

Contact: pattyh@sv.ycef.com

“Born and raised in San Jose, California, I enjoy spending time with my boyfriend and family. I’m very close to my siblings—I’m the youngest of three, with an older brother and sister. I have a country girl’s heart and love watching my nephews and brother ride horses, even participating in competitions. A fun fact about me is that I collect lipsticks and enjoy decorating my house, a hobby I share with my sister. Shopping trips with my sister and beautiful niece are also a favorite pastime.

I chose YCIS initially because it seemed like a great opportunity, but over time, I grew attached to the kids while serving lunch. The staff is wonderful, and I’ve come to realize that this is a tight-knit community where we genuinely care for one another. That’s what I love about YCIS.

What I appreciate most about YCIS is interacting with the kids. Whether chatting with them in the courtyard or when students come to the office to say hi and share about their day, these moments make my day.

The strength of our dual language program lies in our dedicated teachers and staff who genuinely love and enjoy what they do.”

Education:

High School, College General Education.

Year joined YCIS: 2016

Contact: jenniferk@sv.ycef.com

“The program here at YCIS is unique and wonderful! I am proud to be included in the community of students, teachers, administrators, and families at YCIS. There is never a lack of collaboration, especially between the English teachers and the Chinese teachers and support for ourselves or for our students. I truly enjoy teaching here and I believe the students truly enjoy learning.”

Education:

A.A. in General Education, B.A. in Creative Arts with a Focus on Education and a minor in Music; Certification: Clear California CLAD Multiple Subject Credential from San Jose State University; Noyce Literacy Mentor, Peer Coaching Mentor, Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop

Year joined YCIS: 2016

Contact: minniek@sv.ycef.com

“I was born and raised in Taoyuan, Taiwan, and lived there for 27 years. I moved to the Bay Area 26 years ago and have been living here ever since. Some of my hobbies include arts and crafts, hiking, and traveling to exciting new countries. I chose to teach at YCIS because I am passionate about passing on Chinese culture to future generations. I believe that dual language instruction can help people develop a broader perspective. As a result, they can think outside the box, appreciate others and different cultures more deeply, and become more sophisticated and open-minded individuals in general.”

Education:

Tainan University of Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
Fashion Design Major

Year joined YCIS: 2022

Contact: amyl@sv.ycef.com

“Greetings! I am honored to introduce myself as a passionate and experienced kindergarten Chinese teacher with over 20+ years of experience in the realm of education. Throughout my career, I have enthusiastically embraced the responsibility of shaping young minds, instilling values, and fostering a lifelong love for learning.

My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child is a unique individual with boundless potential waiting to be unlocked. I strive to create a joyful, dynamic, and interactive learning environment that not only nurtures their academic growth but also their emotional, social, and personal development. As a strong advocate of the “PBL” (Project-Based Learning) approach, I engage my students through hands-on experiences, collaborative projects, adaptable teaching methods, and real-world connections. This empowers them to become self-directed learners who are eager to explore and understand the world around them. “

Education:

M.Ed: Ashland University, Ashland, Ohio

Year Joined YCIS: 2004

Contact: jinyil@sv.ycef.com

“I have been interested in human cognitive development and behavioral acquisition since college. I believe in the power of education. Seeing students grow and progress gives me the greatest sense of accomplishment and motivation. YCIS has many excellent teachers and has a long cultural tradition. I am proud to be a part of YCIS.”

Education:

M.A Educational Psychology in University of Iowa, M.S. in Developmental Psychology in Hunan Normal University, Changsha. Certifications: The National secondary qualification of psychological counseling, China.

Year joined YCIS: 2022

Contact: miyel@sv.ycef.com

“I feel very lucky to work at YCIS because of our community. YCIS and our parents work closely in partnership because we care about the environment in which our students will learn and grow. Teaching at YCIS bridges Western and Eastern culture, and our English and Chinese teachers work together to achieve our students’ best interests.”

Education:

B.S. Managerial Economics, Beijing Normal University; M.Ed. Education, Aichi University of Education, Japan

Year joined YCIS: 2011

Contact: galinl@sv.ycef.com

“I have always had a big heart for children. YCIS students are unique and full of potential. I really enjoy working at YCIS, as it gives me the opportunity to educate and support them. I am also grateful for the friendly and professional environment that the fellow teachers and staff have created. I am excited to continue working at YCIS and helping the students grow and learn.”

Education:

Human Resource Management Courses at South China Normal University

Early Childhood Education Courses, DeAnza College, California

Professional Certifications: Chinese Teacher Certification, Early Childhood Education

Mandarin Chinese Proficiency Level Test Certificate

Year joined YCIS: 2022

Contact: beerim@sv.ycef.com

“I was born in Israel and moved to the Bay Area when I was 12. I have lived here ever since. I started focusing on music in middle school, playing with the Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra. I went on to perform with several regional orchestras, including the Monterey Symphony and San Francisco Chamber Orchestra. Over the years, I have also experimented with different styles, including Klezmer, Middle Eastern music, electronica, and much more. Nowadays, my main focus is on education, where I strive to pass on my passion for music.”

Education:

B. Music San Francisco Conservatory of Music Music Composition at San Jose State University Education at Notre Dame de Namur

Year joined YCIS: 2020

Contact: jaymen@sv.ycef.com

“I’ve always had a curiosity to learn about different cultures and backgrounds throughout my life. When I became aware of YCIS-SV’s bilingual learning environment and approach to teaching the whole child, I knew I wanted to be apart of that mission. During my first five years as a preschool teacher, I discovered just how special YCIS-SV truly is – respectful and hard-working students, compassionate and loving families, and a driven staff. Now in the Technology Coordinator role, I’m thrilled to give back to the many colleagues and students who have helped me throughout my journey. “

Education:

B.A. Child and Adolescent Development from San Jose State University
M.S. Instructional Science and Technology from California State University, Monterey Bay

Certification:

Child Development Site Supervisor Permit from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
Year Joined YCIS: 2015

Contact: perlan@sv.ycef.com

“Becoming a teacher has been the most rewarding choice of my life. Being able to work with young children and truly impact their learning and development has allowed me to impart life lessons that they will never forget. I strongly believe in nurturing the whole child and providing the best quality education and care. Working at YCIS has allowed me to continue to grow as an educator in order to provide the best for my students. I love the sense of community and how closely we work together to make sure the children always come to school happy and are ready to explore the world around them.”

Education:

B.A. Child and Adolescent Development, San Jose State University. M.A. Human Development with emphasis in Leadership in Education and Human Services, Pacific Oaks College.

Year joined YCIS: 2018

Contact: christinap@sv.ycef.com

“I made it my goal to one day teach at YCIS after meeting some YCIS students at an outdoor science camp. YCIS students are some of the most respectful, well-rounded, enthusiastic, and goal-driven students I have ever met. After being hired, I knew this was a place to set down some roots. I feel privileged to teach at a school where all teachers are devoted to excellence and educating the whole child. Teachers, administrators, and parents work with a team mentality— striving to provide the best education possible for our students. I am proud to be a part of the YCIS family.”

Education:

B.S. Economics and Communications, University of California, Davis; M.S. Education, University of California, Davis; Certifications: Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, CLAD, and ELD/SDAIE certification.

Year Joined YCIS: 2013

Contact: seemap@sv.ycef.com

“Hello! My name is Seema Punjabi, and I have been teaching Mathematics and English for 23 years. I began teaching in New York City and then moved to California with my husband, Manish. We have two kids who are 19 and 14. We love to travel, socialize with friends and family, and I am the president of an organization known as the National Charity League, which fosters a strong mother and daughter relationship. I love teaching elementary school English and Math because of the students’ genuine curiosity and their rich discussions and investigations that result. I am very excited about my new role as a second-grade teacher and I devote my teaching expertise to enhancing the whole child’s sense of success and helping them achieve their highest potential, through immersing myself in a dual-language school setting.

I look forward to embracing the YCIS culture and striving to reach my highest potential. When I am not teaching, I enjoy retail therapy, exercising, swimming, and watching The Golden State Warriors. I look forward to a fantastic year ahead at YCIS.”

Education:

BS In Early Child with a Mathematics Minor and Masters in Applied Mathematics from Columbia University Teachers College. Certification: Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.

Year joined YCIS: 2023

Contact: vivianq@sv.ycef.com

“I joined YCIS Silicon Valley in 2003. I like YCIS’s uniqueness of blending West and East. A culturally rich world classroom makes school learning much more meaningful and enjoyable. In my years with YCIS, I have witnessed respecting individual learners and promoting multiple-intelligence development to allow each student to develop their own individual talents. At YCIS, I have experienced how a learning community greatly benefits all its members. YCIS students, staff, even our parents and family members are greatly encouraged and supported to seek and explore knowledge, to foster individual and collaborative skills. I enjoy my everyday working, learning and growing at YCIS. We welcome you to join us. We will be very honored to assist your family and guide our young learners as they start their amazing educational journey! See you at YCIS!”

Education:

A.A. Multidiscipline concentration in Early Childhood Education, De Anza College; B.A. Child and Adolescent Development, San Jose State University; M.Ed. Educational Leadership, American College of Education. Certification: California Child Development Director Permit

Year Joined YCIS: 2003

Contact: beckyq@sv.ycef.com

“Born and raised in Beijing, China. I received my bachelor degree in Mathematics and became a middle school math teacher after graduation.

I joined YCISSV in 2003 and my entire professional growth has been with YCIS. I was here when the school started with less than 10 elementary students and am still here today to witness YCIS’s expansion to a full preschool and elementary school. I have had the privilege to know so many YCIS students since they were in YCIS preschool and have watched them grow up and become global citizens with exceptional bilingual language skills.

I am so proud to come along all the way with YCIS and am honored to continue to serve the school.”

Contact: angiew@sv.ycef.com

“I am very honored to be a member of YCIS. YCIS is where you can feel that everyone truly cares for the kids to help them be the best of themselves. With the process of globalization, I also find it wise to master the two most used languages in the world – English and Chinese, which are perfectly balanced at YCIS.”

Education:

B.A. Chinese language and literature, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China;  Mandarin Level Certificate (Highest level) from Shanghai Chinese Language Standardization Working Commission.

Year joined YCIS: 2019

Contact: deborahw@sv.ycef.com

“I love working at YCIS. YCIS parents are very involved in their children’s education. The small class sizes help me get to know everyone on campus. The staff works together well and really has the students’ best interests at heart.”

Education:

B.S. Elementary Education, University of Nebraska at Omaha; M.S. Reading Specialist, Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska. Certifications: Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, ESL endorsement, Digital Educator, National Board Certified Teacher in 2012.

Year joined YCIS: 2012

Contact: stephaniew@sv.ycef.com

“YCIS’s community is unique, supportive, enriching and comforting. I appreciate YCIS’s roots in Early Childhood Education and how we span and care for children starting from preschool. I value our focus in developing and nurturing the whole child. The way our program is organized, it allows me to get to know each child I teach, not only in regards to academia but also their personal and social-emotional lives. I feel very fortunate to be part of the YCIS family and co-teach with the most creative, warm and loyal teachers I have come across in my years in the field. YCIS is truly a gem and feels like family to me. I owe my gratitude to the students, families, teachers, and all office staff for providing such a wonderful and innovative environment. “

Education:

BA Elementary Education from Indiana State University and MSc Child Development and Education from the University of Oxford

Year joined YCIS: 2015

Contact: christinaw@sv.ycef.com

“I was born in Taiwan and immigrated here when I was 10. I enjoy listening to music, people-watching, and taking random photos during breaks. I love how friendly the teachers are and how everyone helps each other. I like working with children because I feel young just to be around them. I also want to have a positive impact on their lives and it’s rewarding when they remember you and come visit you once they move up. The children are fortunate to have such a dual language instruction environment because it’ll allow them to learn and practice both languages. “

Education:

B.S. Nutritional Science from University of California, Davis

Year Joined YCIS: 2016

Contact: samanthay@sv.ycef.com

“I have been so proud to be a part of YCIS since 2010. After spending 3 years teaching Kinder Chinese, I was excited to expand my role as the K-5 Art teacher to serve this community with what I am passionate about. I am thankful for the opportunity to work in a nurturing, loving environment where children can learn and experience new challenges that will help build their confidence while they learn and play. I look forward to continued success and new discoveries with an amazing team of teachers at YCIS.”

Education:

B.S. Visual Art from National Taiwan University of Arts

Year Joined YCIS: 2010

Contact: zhenfangy@sv.ycef.com

“I came from Dalian, China, a beautiful northern city, and currently live in Mountain View. I love music, art, reading, and movies. I also enjoy nature and beautiful life.

I genuinely enjoy nurturing and caring for children. My philosophy is that each child is unique, therefore they learn and thrive at their own pace. The YCIS community is a special bilingual learning field. I feel very fortunate to work alongside such dedicated and warm-hearted teachers. “

Education:

BA in Early Childhood Education from Liaoning Normal University, China. Early Childhood Bilingual Education, in US Certification.

Year joined YCIS: 2020

Contact: xiz@sv.ycef.com

“Six years ago, I came here, and soon after, my son was born. In order to accompany him as he grows up, I chose to major in Early Childhood Education and studied at De Anza. During my studies and internship, I discovered my interest in teaching younger children. I find joy in playing, teaching, learning, and growing up with them. During the last summer camp, I was fortunate to work at the YCIS summer camp, which further solidified my desire to work in this industry. I appreciate the working environment in YALP, which is both comfortable and engaging. There are strong relationships among colleagues and leaders. The children are truly amazing. I am proud to be a part of this family.”

Education:

B.S. Electronic Information Engineering from the Anhui University of Science and Technology, China.
M.S. Electrical Engineering from the Anhui University of Science and Technology, China.

Year joined YCIS: 2021

Contact: qingzh@sv.ycef.com

“I was born and raised in China, I completed my undergraduate studies there and then pursued my graduate education in the United States. I love cooking, hiking, exploring new places, and experiencing different cultures. YCIS appeals to me because of its outstanding reputation for innovative education concepts and excellent reviews from students and parents. The quality of teaching and administration is top-rate, and they make every effort to accommodate students and help them succeed.”

Education:

Master of Arts in Chinese Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst

Year joined YCIS: 2020

Contact: sabrinaz@sv.ycef.com

“I am thrilled to join the Yew Chung International School (YCIS) team and embark on a journey of learning and growth alongside this exceptional group. The children at YCIS are truly fortunate to thrive in an Inquiry-based learning environment that fosters their imagination and creativity. With an insatiable curiosity, they explore the world around them, engaging in joyful and captivating learning experiences.

Putting students at the heart of the educational approach empowers them to be the architects of their own learning. The role of teachers shifts to that of facilitators, providing guidance as students take the lead. This approach not only cultivates a profound sense of accomplishment among the children but also instills a genuine passion for learning. This authentic mode of education ensures that students not only accumulate knowledge but truly experience the process of learning.

I am excited to contribute to this dynamic and innovative educational environment, supporting students in their pursuit of knowledge and personal development. Together, as a collaborative team, we will inspire and shape the future of these young learners, preparing them to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

Education:

M.S. in Education from American College of Education, M.S. in Engineering from University of Sydney

Year joined YCIS: 2023