Our Leadership

Jifang Wang
CEO & Headmistress of Maple Leaf School District - North, Headmistress of Maple Leaf International Schools - Dalian & Jinan

Dr. Harriett Lara
Principal of International Program
Dr. Harriett Lara has had the honor and privilege to work alongside scholars and teachers throughout her 24 years as an educator focusing on improving literacy for all students. She has worked as an elementary and middle school teacher and as an Instructional Reading Specialist. Dr. Lara has been a high school administrator for the past 12 years. She received her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston-Central Park, her Master of Art in Educational Administration&Supervision from the University of Phoenix, and her Doctorate in Educational Leadership&Management from St.Thomas University.

Xie, Yamei
Principal of Chinese Program of MLIHS - Dalian

Joyce Huang
- Vice-Principal of International Program

Ms. Joyce Huang, from Surrey, BC, Canada, graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Physics from the University of Northern British Columbia and a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of British Columbia. She has been working in MLIS-Dalian since 2004 in various positions including teacher,head of department, academic adviser registrar, and educational coordinator. She enjoys travelling in China with her family and trying new food. She also loves jazz music and detective movies.
Staff

Daphne Feng
- Director of the Executive Office of MLESD - North

Sarah Dou
- ESL Grade Principal of MLIHS - Dalian

Zhou, Feng
- Marketing Director of MLEP - Dalian

Li, Jun
- HR Director of MLEP - Dalian

Snow Wang
- Director of Admissions Office of MLIHS - Dalian

David Zhang
- Director of Graduation Consultation Service Center of MLIHS - Dalian

Guo, Song
- Director of General Affairs Office of MLIHS - Dalian

Audrey Li
- Counselor General of of MLIHS - Dalian

Cherrie Li
- Vice-Director of Extra-Curricular Service Center of MLIHS - Dalian

Stevan Nikolic
- Department Head of PE, Athletics&Clubs, PE10FC&PE11HC Teacher
Stevan Nikolic has dedicated the past 9 years to the field of sports education teaching and professional football coaching. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Sport and Sport Management in Belgrade, Serbia, and is a licensed professional football coach with UEFA B and UEFA A certifications, obtained in 2019 and 2023, respectively. Additionally, he is recognized by prominent European sports associations, including the Italian Football Federation and Real Madrid Foundation from Spain. Stevan Nikolic has experience teaching sports curriculums in schools as well as coaching at professional football clubs in both Serbia and China.
Sharon Visser
- Department Head of Fine Arts&Electives, STEM System Coordinator, Creative Thinking and Problem Solving11&Visual Arts11 Teacher

Natasha Truebody
- Department Head of Fine Arts&Electives, STEM System Coordinator, Creative Thinking and Problem Solving11&Visual Arts11 Teacher
Natasha Truebody is an accomplished educator from South Africa with a strong passion for fostering student growth and wellbeing. She holds a degree in Education and Counseling and an honors degree in Theology. Natasha has accrued 17 years of teaching experience, including seven years at Maple Leaf, where she currently serves as the Systems Coordinator for the ADST/Business Department. She is dedicated to inspiring and supporting students both academically and personally, and is known for her positive approach and commitment to lifelong learning throughout her educational career

Gareth Bawden
- Department Head of Fine Arts&Electives, STEM System Coordinator, Creative Thinking and Problem Solving11&Visual Arts11 Teacher
Gareth Bawden has just a started teaching at Maple Leaf after 6 years of teaching in Cambodia. This will be his 20th year anniversary of teaching in China, after having his first taste of living in Asia life back in 2004. He currently teaches English and Computer Science. He obtained his bachelor's degree in MAP (Media, Art, and Performance), in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, major in creative tech, and has a CELTA certificate for teaching English to adults and teens, and a Director of Studies certificate from International House Bangkok. Previously, he was a lead teacher at a language college, managing upper GEP (general English Program) and IELTS departments. He is known for his caring and considerate approach to educating and has a flair for bringing tech and live music into the classroom.

Chloe Cheng
- International Teacher
Chloe Cheng is a BC-certified teacher with a background in mathematics and education. She is currently teaching at Maple Leaf High School, where she instructs Science 10 and Personal Global Leadership 10. Before this role, Chloe taught at Maple Leaf Foreign National School (FNS) for three years, gaining valuable experience in teaching a range of subjects and supporting diverse learners. She is passionate about creating student-centered learning environments that encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and personal growth. Chloe also has completed her IB DP teaching certificate in 2024 and is dedicated to helping students connect their learning to real-world experiences while building confidence as learners and leaders
Eric Opoku-Adusei
- Department Head of Humanities, World History and Geography10&11&World History12 Teacher
Eric Opoku Adusei is Humanities teacher who hails from Ghana. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education and a Master of Philosophy in Educational Leadership all from the University of Education-Ghana. Since 2010, Eric has been doing what he loves best (Teaching) at various levels – Middle School, High School and University. With his teaching Certificate from British Columbia, Eric has been teaching in Maple Leaf since 2019. He derives his passion from the desire to imbue in future leaders (students) the spirit of Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills hence, keeping him in the profession over a decade.
Samantha Chong
- International Teacher
Ms. Chong is an American who has worked with Maple Leaf Educational Systems since 2025. She is an English and Psychology teacher with 12 years of international teaching experience across Japan and China. She holds a BSc in Psychology from the University of the West Indies, Jamaica, and is certified to teach by the Washington DC OSSE. Ms. Chong looks forward to working with her students at Maple Leaf Educational Systems, supporting their growth and helping them discover what they’re truly capable of achieving.

Robert Cairns
- International Teacher
Robert Cairns has taught subjects ranging from English, ESL, English Literature, and Philosophy in South Africa, Vietnam, and China. He has an MA in English from Rhodes University, South Africa. He believes in helping students find their innate ability to become reflective and independent learners.

Nattalee Falconer
- Academic Advisor&Department Head of Senior English, English10II&English12 Teacher
Nattalee Bent-Falconer, from Jamaica, has been with Maple Leaf International School – Dalian since 2019. She currently serves as Academic Advisor and Senior English Department Head, while also teaching English courses. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from The University of the West Indies, in collaboration with the St Joseph’s Teachers College, Jamaica, and a Master of Education in Special Education from the American College of Education, USA, Nattalee brings both expertise and passion to her work.
Dedicated to creating an inclusive and inspiring learning environment, she is committed to helping students achieve their highest potential. Her leadership fosters academic excellence, critical thinking, and a love for language. At the same time, her mentorship empowers students to grow into confident, reflective, and resilient learners prepared for success in an ever-changing world.

Richard McLean
- Department Head of IT, Business&Careers, Computer Science10&12&Digital Media12 Teacher
Youlanda Bent-Scott
- Department Head of Junior English, English10II&English11I Teacher
Mrs. Youlanda Bent-Scott is a proud Jamaican with a strong academic background, holding degrees from the American College of Education, Northern Caribbean University, and St. Joseph’s Teachers’ College. An educator since 2009, she has been teaching at Maple Leaf International High School – Dalian since 2019, where she is dedicated to inspiring and empowering students to achieve their full potential and develop a lifelong love of learning.Her teaching philosophy is rooted in creating meaningful, student-centered learning experiences that cultivate growth, resilience, and curiosity. Mrs. Bent-Scott enjoys reading and following a variety of sports.

Chris Soojong Kim
- Registrar&AP Microeconomics Teacher
Soojong Kim is a Canadian educator who has been with Maple Leaf Educational Systems since 2020. He serves as the School Registrar and teaches Mathematics and Economics. He holds a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Arts in Economics from the University of Toronto. His educational philosophy is centered on active learning. He came to teach in China to gain rich cultural experiences and to develop more effective strategies for teaching English Language Learners (ELL).

Monika Nikolic
- International Teacher, Music10-Choral&Choral Music12 Teacher
Monika Nikolic is a dedicated music educator from Belgrade, Serbia with a profound belief in the transformative power of the arts. A graduate of the University of Arts, Faculty of Music (2018), Monika holds six years of teaching experience to her classroom, with the last three spent inspiring young students at Maple Leaf High School in China. Monika believes that music and artistic expression are vital components of a holistic education, fostering creativity, discipline, and empathy—skills crucial for any future path. Monika is committed to creating a supportive environment where students feel empowered to explore their potential. At Maple Leaf, Monika’s mission is to not only teach musical theory, choral music and vocal technique but to carefully cultivate talent, building the confidence and creative problem-solving skills that students will carry into all aspects of their future lives and careers.
Oliver Campbell
- International Teacher, AP Computer Science A&Economics12 Teacher
Oliver Campbell hails from the vibrant island nation of Jamaica and has been teaching Computer and Business Studies with Maple Leaf Educational Systems (MLES) since 2018. He holds a Bachelor of Education with honours from the University of Technology, Jamaica, as well as a Master’s in Business Administration.
He is dedicated to fostering a structured and engaging classroom environment where students are encouraged to learn at their own pace, build confidence, and achieve both academic and personal excellence. By integrating practical, real-world applications with rigorous academic standards, Oliver ensures that his students are well-prepared to meet the demands of the future.
“Molding and Empowering minds, shaping futures!”

Kelli Kramer
- International Teacher, English10I&English11I&Food and Nutrition12 Teacher

Ms. Kelli Kramer is from British Columbia, Canada and has been a teacher with Maple Leaf Educational Systems since 2013. Prior to this she worked as a Teacher for the Vancouver School Board as part of the ESL and Fine Arts Departments for 17 years. She attended the University of Victoria where she received a Bachelor of Education with an Area in Music.
Professional Strengths: Listener, Observer, Encourager and Mentor.
Teaching Motto: Strength is found in weakness when sought with True Wisdom.

Steven Wang
- International Teacher
Mr. Wang was born in Dalian and he worked in Maple Leaf since 2021. He graduated from Lakehead University with the degrees in Mathematics and Education. He has taught many subjects: Math, Science, Chemistry, Personal Global Leadership and Physical Education. He likes doing exercise and play video games in his spare time. He hope all the students could be confidence and find their advantages in different areas. He believes that "Everything is possible if you tried your best!"

Jenny Wu
- International Teacher
Peiyi Jenny Wu is from Colorado, United States. She graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2011, and has been teaching for the last 11 years. She has taught in the United States, Shenzhen and Hong Kong. She is excited to join Maple Leaf and share her passion in science and experience teaching abroad with students. " My goal is to help every student actualize their potential and passion."
Kevin Chalmers
- International Teacher, English10I&English10II Teacher
Kevin Chalmers has been working at Maple Leaf since February 2018. He has worked as an ESL teacher from 2018 until 2024. In 2024 he joined the World School Curriculum Program as an English 10 teacher. At Maple Leaf he has taught Communication Skills, Study Skills, Listening and Speaking, Physical Education, English 10-1 and 10-2, and is now teaching English 11-1. He graduated from Wits University in South Africa. He was a high school English teacher in South Africa for four years. He wants all his students to unlock their potential and be successful in the future. “I want to see my students grow and become better than they were before.”

Fernanda Wei
- International Teacher, AP Calculus BC&Pre-Calculus11&Calculus12 Teacher
Mingxin (Fernanda) Wei has worked for Maple Leaf Educational Systems since 2022 and is a Mathematics and Science teacher. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Education from Thompson Rivers University, as well as a Teaching Certificate from the British Columbia Ministry of Education. With extensive experience working with English Language Learners, Fernanda embodies the values of Curiosity, Perseverance, Innovation, and Collaboration, and inspires her students to think critically, communicate effectively, and strive for excellence. “Curiosity Powers Discovery!”
Boris Slager
- International Teacher, English10I&English12 Teacher
Boris Slager is an American from California. He has been teaching at Maple Leaf for four years. He is an English teacher at the Dalian campus. He teaches all levels of English from 10-1 through 12-1 as well as Academic Writing and English Literature. Mr. Slager has a Bachelor of Science in Jounralism, a Masters in English, and a Single-Subject English teaching credential. All of these degrees, he acquired from San Jose State University in California. Boris strvies to make learning fun and engaging. He posists that if the students are not having fun, they are not learning. Boris challenges his students to go above and beyond.

Eloise Li
- International Teacher
Eloise Li is a BC- and Ontario-certified teacher with a background in Science and Education. She currently teaches Environmental Science 11 and 12 as well as Personal and Global Leadership 11 at Maple Leaf High School and also holds an IB DP Teaching Certificate.
Her teaching philosophy centers on the belief that education fosters personal growth and life transformation. She is committed to supporting students in unlocking their potential, developing independence, and applying their learning to real-world contexts. Eloise enjoys outdoor activities, which reflect her active and exploratory approach to life and teaching.

Joseph Lema
- International Teacher
Joseph Lema is a teacher from the United States. He holds a bachelors of science in social studies education and a master of education, specializing in curriculum and instruction. Along with Joseph’s experience with teaching social studies he also is experienced in teaching university level, academic writing. As a firm believer in lifelong learning and a growth mindset Joseph believes in the education of the whole student and on the importance of a positive relationship of teachers and students.

Tengwei Yu
- International Teacher
Tengwei Yu is a dedicated science educator with a robust foundation in curriculum development and program enhancement. Currently advancing his expertise through a Master of Education at the University of Alberta, he serves as both Head of the Science Department and System Coordinator of Chemistry at Dalian Maple Leaf International High School. In this capacity, Tengwei collaborates closely with science teachers to boost student engagement, leads the alignment and standardization of chemistry curricula across the system, and designs innovative school-wide science competitions and events. His experience includes implementing engaging, standards-aligned curricula, mentoring teachers in inquiry-based pedagogy, and driving continuous improvement in science education through collaborative leadership and strategic coordination.

Yiming Zhang
- International Teacher
Yiming Zhang is a dedicated mathematics educator and Math Department Head at Dalian Maple Leaf International High School, part of the Maple Leaf Educational Systems since 2020. He holds a Bachelor of Mathematics with a Statistics minor from the University of Minnesota and a Bachelor of Education (Secondary – STEM) from Thompson Rivers University, along with a Teacher’s Certificate of Qualification. With over five years of experience in the Maple Leaf system, including a previous department head role in Wuhan, Yiming employs a student-centered approach focused on universal design, differentiated instruction, and meaningful engagement. He fosters critical and creative thinking through culturally responsive teaching and bilingual support, and has contributed to extracurricular activities such as organizing the Spring Show and student visits to schools for autistic children. Yiming is committed to helping every student achieve their potential through perseverance, collaboration, and a love of learning.

Christian Vatchkov
- International Teacher
Christan Vatchkov is a certified Art Teacher with extensive academic experience and an established art practice in China. He is well-versed in teaching traditional mediums and techniques alongside contemporary art forms. Holding a PhD in Sociology and Digital Anthropology, his research focuses on the presentation of contemporary art in the digital space. He has held a solo exhibition of his work in Futian, Shenzhen and has organized numerous student exhibitions at both school and inter-school levels. He is the author of the book "Savior of the Art World" exploring the role of Instagram on art presentation and marketing.

Nabil Gharbaoui
- International Teacher
Nabil Gharbaoui, born in Oran, Algeria, is an experienced science educator with over a decade of international teaching in the United Arab Emirates- Dubai. He holds a Master’s degree in Biotechnology and a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry from the University of Oran 1 – Ahmed Ben Bella, Algeria. He has served as a chemistry and AP Chemistry teacher at leading private schools in Dubai and most recently as a Science Teacher and Advanced Stream Coordinator with the Ministry of Education Dubai.

Abraham Sibusiso Magagula
- International Teacher, Creative Thinking and Problem Solving10&11&PE10FC Teacher
Niconet Van Vuuren
- Educational Coordinator
Ms. Van Vuuren is originally from South Africa and holds a degree in Education and an Honours Degree from the University of Pretoria. She has accumulated eight years of teaching experience, dedicating her entire career to the field of Mathematics. For the past five years, Ms. Van Vuuren has been a valued member of the Maple Leaf community. Currently, she serves as the Educational Coordinator within the Maple Leaf Educational System administration team in Dalian. She is committed to fostering lifelong learning and creating a safe, supportive environment that encourages student development and inspiration.

Loren De Kock
- International Teacher, World History and Geography10&11&English Academic Writing12 Teacher

Kurt Bekker
- International Teacher, AP Psychology&English Academic Writing12 Teacher

Nick Ni
- Head Counselor of Grade 10 of MLIHS - Dalian

Albert Tang
- Head Counselor of Grade 11 of MLIHS - Dalian

Sumera Jia
- Head Counselor of Grade 12 of MLIHS - Dalian

Leo Ni
- International Library Assistant
Susie Sun
- Secretary of Chinese Program

Grace Li
- Lab Assistant
Yang, Mei
- Teaching Researcher&Politics Teacher
Guo, Yu
- Chinese Mandarin Teacher
Zhao, Feifei
- Chinese Mandarin Teacher
Xiao, Dong
- Mandarin Chinese Teacher
Ma, Wenting
- Humanities Teacher
Jin, Tao
- Chinese Arts Teacher
Yan, Xiaoping
- Chinese Geography Teacher
Tang, Jiawen
- Chinese Music Teacher
Yang, Anzhao
- Chinese History Teacher
Yu, Enhui
- Chinese Politics Teacher
Cindy Song
- ESL Secretary
Jenny Wang
- ESL Teacher&Counselor
Kathy Wang
- ESL Teacher&Counselor
Anlyna Zhao
- English Teacher&Counselor
Stacey Cui
- ESL Teacher&Counselor
Tracy Liu
- ESL Teacher
Angela Wang
- ESL Teacher
Dennis Wang
- Extracurricular Service Center Teacher

Zhuo Li
- Secretary of Counselor General Office

Shasha Liu
- Counselor

Sophy Wang
- Counselor

Kathleen Chen
- Counselor& Psychological Counseling
Mary Zhang
- Counselor

Lv, Jianjun
- Head of Dorm Teachers
Deng, Jiahui
- Dorm Teacher

Duan, Hongwei
- Dorm Teacher
Cao, Wenge
- Dorm Teacher
Cao, Wenge
- Dorm Teacher

Liu, Qingjie
- Dorm Teacher

Ma, Ling
- Dorm Teacher

Deng, Ying
- Dorm Teacher

Sun, Zhijuan
- Dorm Teacher
Elaine Yin
- Graduation Consultant
Sabrina Zhou
- Graduation Consultant
Michael Gao
- Graduation Consultant

Cherry Wang
- Admissions Adviser
Lily Li
- Admissions Adviser
Candy Zhang
- School Office Secretary
Belle Ma
- School Office Secretary
Vicky Zhu
- School Office Secretary

Song, Xiaole
- Librarian
Zhou, Quan
- GA Secretary
Xu, Xingliang
- IT Secretary
Li, Jinpeng
- IT Secretary

Yang, Hongbin
- IT Secretary

David Cong
- International Teacher, AP Physics 1 Algebra-Based&Science10&Physics12 Teacher

Donnie Lu
- International Teacher, Math10 Teacher

Holly Wei
- International Teacher, Environmental Science11&Biology11&12 Teacher

Tengwei Yu
- Department Head of Science, Math10&Physics11Physics 11 Teacher
Call Us
Phone support is open from to
Feel free to give us a call.
86-411-87900578
Visit Us
Maple Leaf International High School - Dalian
9 Central Street, Jinshitan National Holiday Resort, Dalian, Liaoning, P.R.CHINA 116650





