LEAD EDUCATORS
Pre-K Teaching Team

Taylor Juarez

PreK A

Taylor joins the Clarion School with seven years of teaching experience in the UAE. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Child & Adolescent Development – Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University and further honed her educational skills with a Postgraduate Professional Diploma in Teaching from Al Ain University in Abu Dhabi.

Passionate about shaping young minds, Taylor is committed to inspiring her students to reach their fullest potential. She aims to craft innovative and engaging learning experiences that set the stage for her students' success. With her unique blend of educational background and hands-on experience, Taylor is a valuable asset to the Clarion School community, where she looks forward to making a meaningful impact on her students' lives.

Vicky Pereira

PreK B

Vicky, a UK native from a town just outside London, has been a resident of Dubai since 2018. With eight years of teaching experience under her belt, seven of which have been in international schools in the Middle East, she brings a wealth of expertise to Clarion School. Vicky holds both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in International Relations from the University of East Anglia, and she earned her PGCE from Canterbury Christ Church University.

In her classroom, Vicky aims to cultivate a genuine love for learning, creating an environment where students feel empowered to achieve anything. She encourages her students to be adventurous and explore the world around them with curiosity. With a particular interest in early years education, Vicky finds immense joy in being part of a child's initial steps on their educational journey, helping to lay a strong foundation for their future learning.

Outside of the classroom, Vicky enjoys exploring new places and cuisines, and she is an enthusiastic reader with an ever-expanding book collection. Her diverse interests and extensive teaching experience make her a valuable addition to the Clarion School community.

K1 Teaching Team

Roisin Casey

K1A

Roisin, a dedicated Early Years Teacher, has been a part of the SIG group for the past three years. Originally from County Mayo, Ireland, she has been a resident of the UAE since 2014 and currently lives in Dubai with her husband and their two dogs, Chico and Finbar. Roisin holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Geography and a Postgraduate degree in Gender, Globalization, and Human Rights from the National University of Ireland, Galway. She also earned a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of Nottingham.

In her classroom, Roisin is committed to sparking awe and wonder through carefully designed provocations that invite children to explore the world on their own terms. These include open-ended activities that encourage independent thinking, allowing children to delve deeply into their interests. Her teaching approach aligns perfectly with the philosophy of creating environments where student interests are broadened, talents are nurtured, and minds are challenged, making her a valuable asset to the Clarion School and the broader SIG community.

Beatrice Odidison

K1B

Beatrice, an accomplished educator, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a Bachelor's degree in education, both earned in Winnipeg, Canada. With a remarkable teaching career spanning 15 years, she has enriched the lives of students from kindergarten to grade 8 in both Canadian and American settings. This academic year marks her debut in the UAE.

As an IB certified teacher, Beatrice brings to Clarion School a fervent love for teaching and an infectious enthusiasm for life. Her professional journey is guided by a deep sense of purpose - to witness her students' personal growth and development. She firmly believes in her role as an educator, aiming to have a positive and lasting impact on her students' futures.

In Beatrice's classroom, expect an environment where academic excellence is cultivated alongside personal growth. Her alignment with the IB philosophy reflects our school's values, making her a valuable addition to our team. Beatrice's unwavering dedication and passion are sure to leave an indelible mark on her students, equipping them to excel in their educational journey.

Erin Sander

K1C

Erin joins Clarion School with a rich background of eight years in teaching, most recently from Dubai International Academy where she taught KG1 and Year 1. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Communications from the University of South Africa and a PGCE in Early Childhood Education from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal. Before embarking on her academic journey, Erin lived in the U.S. for two years, working as an au pair—a experience that inspired her to pursue her teaching qualifications.

As a progressive/IB-trained educator, Erin subscribes to the philosophy that children learn best through hands-on experiences. She encourages her students to actively explore their surroundings, ask questions, and engage in problem-solving. Outside the classroom, Erin enjoys reading, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends. Her decision to become a teacher was fueled by her love for children and her desire to impart the joy of learning, making her a wonderful addition to the Clarion School community.

K2 Teaching Team

Nabila Janmahomed

K2A

Nabila joins the Clarion School with an impressive 14 years of international teaching experience. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Marketing Communications from Simmons College in Boston, USA. Furthering her educational journey, she earned a Master of Education in Elementary Education from The College of New Jersey's Global Graduate Program in Bangkok, Thailand.

Nabila has a keen interest in mindfulness, meditation, and spirituality, elements that she seamlessly integrates into her teaching approach. When she's not in the classroom, you'll find her either baking up a storm in her kitchen or traveling to explore different parts of the world. With her diverse background and holistic approach to education, Nabila is a valuable addition to the Clarion School community.

Alison Geasley

K2B

Meet Alison, our dedicated educator with a zest for teaching and a global perspective. Hailing from the picturesque seaside town of Cork, Ireland, Alison is deeply rooted in a family of five. She's well-prepared to nurture young minds, holding a master's degree in education from Hibernia College, Dublin, and an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Care and Education from Mary Immaculate College of Education, Limerick.

Alison's teaching journey began with four years of invaluable experience as a special needs assistant in her home county, followed by two years as a teacher in Ireland. In 2021, she embarked on an exciting adventure by bringing her passion for education to the UAE.

Alison's teaching philosophy revolves around creating a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment. She believes in empowering children to become the best versions of themselves. With her warm and welcoming approach, she inspires her students to embrace the joy of learning. Alison is a valuable member of our Clarion team, dedicated to fostering young minds and nurturing their growth.

 

Eve Murray

K2C

With a rich background in education spanning five years, Eve brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to Clarion School. She holds a Master's degree in Primary Education from Hibernia College Dublin, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in English with Film Studies from University College Dublin. Hailing from the scenic town of Naas in County Kildare, Ireland, Eve has a deep-rooted passion for both teaching and learning.

Her classroom is a vibrant sanctuary where each child is encouraged to explore their curiosity and develop their unique imaginative skills. Committed to creating an atmosphere that is both fun and nurturing, Eve aims to unlock the full potential of every student. With three years of teaching experience in the UAE and two in Ireland, she relishes the opportunity to grow and learn alongside her pupils.

When she's not in the classroom, Eve is an avid golfer and enjoys participating in Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) activities. Her creative pursuits also extend into her leisure time, making her a well-rounded individual both professionally and personally.

Grade 1 Teaching Team
Clarion School Dubai

Jacqueline Campbell

Grade 1A

With an impressive 23-year career in education, Jacqueline is a cornerstone of the Clarion School's teaching staff. She holds a Master's degree in Early Childhood from Nova Southeastern University in Florida, a Bachelor of Arts in Business Studies and Education from the University of Technology in Jamaica, and a Diploma in Montessori Education from the Foundation for Montessori Education in Canada.

Jacqueline is a lifelong learner who continually seeks professional development opportunities. She has represented Clarion in several professional training programs, including the Reading and Writing Strategies Institute, Handwriting Strategies, and Responsive Classroom Practices. As a grade-level leader, she has been instrumental in training her colleagues and implementing these best practices at Clarion.

Passionate about Early Childhood Development, Jacqueline maintains a professional membership with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), an organization committed to high-quality learning for young children. Echoing Maria Montessori's philosophy, she believes that the most crucial developmental milestones are achieved in the earliest years and that this period warrants the utmost attention and care.

A staunch advocate for progressive education, Jacqueline has made significant contributions to Clarion's mission of igniting curiosity in young minds. Her extensive experience, educational background, and commitment to best practices make her an invaluable asset to the Clarion School community.

Rahala Alam

Grade 1B

Rahala brings seven years of educational experience to Clarion School, along with a unique blend of academic and interpersonal skills. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Finance from Simmons College in Boston, USA, and a Master of Education from Murdoch University in Dubai, UAE.

What sets Rahala apart is her growth mindset and high emotional intelligence. She excels in communication and has a passion for mentoring her fellow educators. Rahala also takes an active role in facilitating professional development sessions at the school, contributing to the overall quality of education at Clarion.

Her strengths in both academic knowledge and emotional intelligence make her not only an effective teacher but also a valuable resource for her colleagues. Rahala's multifaceted skill set is a significant asset to the Clarion School community.

Grade 1 Teaching Team

Cliodhna Spellman

Grade 2A

With a rich background in education spanning six years across Ireland and the U.A.E., Cliodhna is a dynamic addition to the Clarion School faculty. She earned her Bachelor of Education from the esteemed Dublin City University and has honed her teaching skills across diverse educational settings and various grade levels.

Hailing from a family deeply rooted in education—both her parents are high school educators, and her older sister teaches at the middle school level—Cliodhna's commitment to teaching runs in her veins. Her teaching philosophy centers around cultivating a genuine love for learning among her students.

In her classroom, Cliodhna establishes a supportive and uplifting atmosphere that empowers children to delve into their interests with enthusiasm. Known for her creativity, patience, and heartfelt dedication to education, she is a beloved figure among her students.

Outside the classroom, Cliodhna is an avid sportswoman. From running and cycling to frequenting the gym, she keeps an active lifestyle. Most recently, she has become a member of a Gaelic football team in Dubai. For Cliodhna, team sports are more than just physical exercise; they are a platform for learning vital life skills. She believes that teamwork cultivates essential qualities like effective communication and robust friendships—values she actively promotes within her classroom.

Shalini Nagji

Grade 2B

Shalini joins the Clarion School with an impressive educational background and over two decades of teaching experience, primarily in the UAE. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Applied Learning & Development from the University of Texas at Austin in 1995 and later pursued a Master of Science in Education from the State University of New York in 2014. The master's program was conducted in a host school in Dubai, further solidifying her connection to the UAE educational landscape.

In her early years, Shalini demonstrated a strong work ethic by working on campus throughout her undergraduate studies to help finance her education. An avid traveler with a love for outdoor sports, Shalini is also multilingual, proficient in Hindi and basic French, as well as Malay. Her interests extend to Zumba and Yoga, and she successfully completed a challenging trek in India in 2017.

Outside the classroom, Shalini is a dedicated parent to two wonderful children and a Chihuahua. Her extensive experience, diverse skill set, and passion for education make her a valuable addition to the Clarion School community.

Grade 3 Teaching Team

Alison Matthews

Grade 3A

Alison Matthews, a seasoned and passionate educator with over a decade of teaching experience at renowned independent schools in Vancouver, British Columbia. Her commitment to education extends beyond borders, as she has also shared her expertise internationally, teaching English in South Korea and Grade 2 at the John F. Kennedy American School of Queretaro, Mexico.

Alison's educational journey began with a Bachelor of Education from the esteemed University of Ottawa, followed by a Master of Education from Simon Fraser University, enhancing her pedagogical knowledge and skills. With a proven track record, Alison excels in providing students with a nurturing and safe learning environment, where they are encouraged to inquire and take risks in their educational journey.

In her classroom, Alison fosters compassion and connectivity among her students, creating a sense of belonging and community. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning, equipping students with the essential skills and competencies needed to excel in our ever-evolving world.

Alison's adaptability shines through in her positive and engaging classroom, where she tailors her approach to meet the diverse needs of her learners. As a progressive educator dedicated to supporting whole-child development, Alison is thrilled to join the Clarion School family this year as our Grade 3 teacher, bringing her wealth of experience and passion to inspire the next generation of young minds.

Leila Sidiqi

Grade 3B

Leila brings a rich background of six years in education to Clarion School, with experience ranging from Pre-K to Middle School. She holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies from Ryerson University and a Bachelor of Education from York University, both in Toronto. Additionally, she is an Ontario Certified teacher and has spent over four years teaching in the UAE.

One of Leila's standout qualities is her ability to create equitable and inclusive learning environments. She aims for her classroom to be a space where students feel empowered to express their ideas, explore their interests, and cultivate a growth mindset.

Leila is also a gifted communicator, fluent in four languages: English, Arabic, Farsi, and Urdu. This linguistic proficiency enhances her ability to connect with a diverse student body and contributes to her inclusive teaching approach.

In terms of curriculum, Leila places a high value on innovative teaching methods across all subjects, including Math, English Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. Her extensive experience, educational background, and commitment to inclusive and innovative education make her a valuable addition to the Clarion School community.

Clarion School Dubai

Estelle de Vendegies

Grade 3C

Estelle comes to Clarion School with over six years of experience in the Middle East, most recently from Kuwait where she served as a third-grade teacher at Al Bayan Bilingual School. There, she successfully employed Whole Brain teaching methods to deliver technology-integrated lessons in Math, Science, English, and Art. She also utilized the Tribes method to foster collaborative and academic skills among her students and administered Fountas and Pinnell testing to assess student reading levels.

Estelle holds a BA in International Studies from DePaul University in Chicago and a degree in Elementary Education from the University of West Florida. She is fluent in both English and Spanish, adding a linguistic asset to her teaching toolkit.

With her diverse educational background, innovative teaching methods, and multilingual skills, Estelle is a valuable addition to the Clarion School community.

Grade 4 Teaching Team

Claire Movalli

Grade 4A

Claire brings a wealth of experience to Clarion School, with fourteen years of teaching in the United States under her belt. For the past six years, she has focused on educating Grades 5 and 6, following a stint in early elementary education where she taught Kindergarten through Grade 3. Claire holds both a bachelor's and a Master of Science degree in Education from the State University of New York College at Buffalo.

Passionate about her role as an educator, Claire is committed to nurturing her students' curiosity and helping them develop both emotionally and intellectually. She views herself as a lifelong learner and thrives on the discovery of new knowledge and places.

With her extensive experience, educational credentials, and passion for teaching, Claire is a valuable addition to the Clarion School community.

Patrick Mullarkey

Grade 4B

Patrick brings a decade of educational experience filled with knowledge and enthusiasm. He is deeply committed to creating a positive and inclusive classroom where students can flourish both personally and academically.

In Patrick's classroom, the emphasis is on student-centered learning, with collaboration and cooperation taking center stage. He holds the conviction that every student has the innate ability to excel and dedicates himself to inspiring and supporting them throughout their educational journey. Patrick is eager to contribute to the development of the next generation of leaders and innovators as a key member of the Clarion School community.

Beyond the academic setting, Patrick is an avid runner, cyclist, golfer, football player, and hiker. He believes that leading a well-rounded life enhances his ability to connect with students and offer a more holistic educational experience. Patrick is thrilled to continue making a meaningful impact on the lives of his students at Clarion School, contributing to their overall growth and development.

Grade 5 Teacher

Jordan McCaul Cooper

Grade 5A

Joining the Clarion School faculty this year is Jordan, who brings a decade of diverse teaching experience to the table. His educational journey has spanned multiple age groups—from early years to secondary and even college-level students—in the United States. Having spent two years in the UAE, Jordan also boasts international teaching stints in Kuwait, China, and France.

Academically, he holds a Master's Degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from the University of Sunderland in the UK. Additionally, he has a Postgraduate Certificate in Education and Bachelor's Degrees in both English and French from the University of Oregon in the US.

Jordan is committed to nurturing a love for learning in his students, encouraging them to embrace challenges and take risks. He aims to cultivate their natural curiosity, thereby enriching the scope and depth of their educational experience.

Grade 6 Teacher

Yasin Kol

Grade 6

Yasin brings a wealth of experience to Clarion School, with eight years of teaching Mathematics in both the UAE and the UK. He places a high value on diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive classroom where each student feels valued and heard. His dedication extends to accommodating a variety of learning styles and needs, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

In Yasin's classroom, the atmosphere is one of support and respect, where questions are actively encouraged and mistakes are viewed as valuable learning experiences. His teaching approach transcends traditional methods; he focuses on nurturing students' critical thinking abilities, equipping them to confidently address complex, real-world mathematical challenges.

Yasin's academic credentials include a bachelor's degree from the University of Plymouth and a PGCE in Education from the University of Sunderland. With his innovative teaching methods and commitment to student success, Yasin is a significant addition to the Clarion School community.

Grade 7 Teacher

Theresa Dickson

Grade 7

Theresa Dickson brings two decades of teaching experience to Clarion School, with a career that has spanned both Canada and the UAE. Originally from Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, she holds a Bachelor of Arts, an Honors Bachelor in Kinesiology, and Education Degrees. Theresa has spent nearly a decade in the UAE, imparting knowledge in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Her expertise lies predominantly in secondary science and biology, covering Grades 6 through 12, including Advanced Placement College Biology. In addition to her science credentials, Theresa is also a qualified Physical Education teacher. Her enthusiasm for science is palpable, as she infuses her classroom with energy and excitement, making complex scientific concepts, inquiry, and phenomena accessible and engaging for her students.

With her extensive experience and palpable passion for science education, Theresa is a valuable addition to the Clarion School community.

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