I am Jessa Jieyu Xiao, a Music teacher at Maple Leaf International School Shanghai, specializing in cultivating students’ artistic and educational potential. I hold a Master’s degree in Piano Performance from the Mannes School of Music in the US and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Buckingham in the UK. With extensive performing experience on world-class stages such as Carnegie Hall and award-winning achievements in international piano competitions, I bring both artistic excellence and solid pedagogical theory into the classroom. I incorporate diverse resources and dynamic activities to create engaging and personalized learning experiences, supporting each student’s unique growth and development.



As an educator at Maple Leaf, I have had the privilege of guiding students through Business and Economics with creativity, rigor, and real-world relevance. I believe, as adapted from John Dewey, that ‘education is not preparation for life; education is life itself’—a philosophy I bring into every classroom. My goal has always been to inspire curiosity, confidence, and lifelong learning in my students.

I'm the new Physics Teacher for Grade 11 and 12. I am a qualified Mechanical Engineer, with a Bachelor of Science from The University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa. I have an energetic teaching style, and I'm passionate about Mathematics and Physics. I hope that with my enthusiam and engaging teaching style, that I can foster this passion in my students, and with all luck, help to inspire the future scientists and engineers of tomorrow.



My name is Fortunate Chirenda, and I hold a Master’s in Education from Moreland University, USA. I have been with Maple Leaf International School for four years, where I am dedicated to fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where all students feel supported. I also did my teaching practice with Moreland University and received my teaching license from the District of Columbia, USA.

My name is Kevin Ivancic, an IP teacher at Maple Leaf International School and I bring unique real-world expertise to my classroom. I am a qualified Chartered Accountant and member of CPA Australia, I hold a Bachelor’s degree from Australia’s Swinburne University and possess over 20 years of experience as a manager and accountant, including working in robotics. My teaching focuses on cultivating practical problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills. I believe in creating a safe environment where students are challenged to discover and achieve their full potential, guiding each on their unique path to growth.

I am a new PE and PGL/CTPS teacher at Maple Leaf International School – Shanghai. Through sports I have learned many skills that are invaluable in our daily lives. Whether it be team work, communication, dedication or perseverance, sports helped shape who I am today. I want to encourage our students to try new activities, to collaborate with their peers to achieve success, and to be physically active to ensure overall well-being. I hope I can ignite passion in our students to take care of themselves physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially, so they can fulfil their dreams. Lets Go Fire Eagles! 

I’m an ICT and Computer Science teacher at Mapleleaf International School Shanghai, passionate about guiding students to explore the ever-evolving world of technology. In my classroom, I focus on fostering creativity, problem-solving, and digital literacy through engaging, hands-on activities. My goal is to inspire students to become confident learners who can apply their skills both inside and outside the classroom.



My name is Charles Vallejo and I am from Armstrong, BC, Canada. I have a Bachelors Degree in Geography/History from UVIC, a Bachelor of Education from UNBC and a Masters in Education from VIU. This is my 12th year in China and I am the Department Head for Socials and Leadership. I look forward to many interesting discussions and activities with our staff, students and Alumni. Cheers! 

My name is Emily Black. I am an English teacher at Mapleleaf International School Shanghai and a graduate of Texas A&M University. I believe in student-centered teaching that celebrates each learner’s individuality. My classroom is a space for fun, interactive lessons that spark curiosity and build confidence. I use diverse resources and activities to make English engaging and meaningful, helping students grow not only in language skills but in self-awareness and personal capability. My goal is to guide students in discovering their voice, embracing challenges, and becoming empowered communicators—ready to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.



I am Bheki, a South African who has been working for Maple Leaf Educational Systems since 2019. I teach Math and Accounting at the high school level, and I have been teaching for the past 26 years. I hold a Bachelor of Education from the University of South Africa. I believe in hard work and creating a conducive environment for learning.

Sumin Wang graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a master’s degree in teaching English in 2014. Currently she holds a QTS certificate from the Department for Education (UK) and a PGCE certificate from the University of Buckingham. She has been teaching for more than a decade, starting as an English teacher in language institutions before she joined Maple Leaf Shanghai in 2022. Now she is teaching English courses and Food and Nutrition courses. She believes that language has power, and students can find their own voices through reading, writing and even cooking. 

Queenie Leung is a teacher who has been working with Maple Leaf Education Systems since 2021. She specializes in teaching Science and Chemistry as well as Digital Media. She was born in Ontario, Canada and graduated with a Bachelor Degree of Science and a Bachelor Degree of Education from Ontario Tech University in 2017. Queenie is a passionate worker who is dedicated to helping students achieve success both inside and outside the classroom. Students in her classes will not only gain knowledge but also the skills and curiosity to pursue topics in Science and Digital Media. “My goal is to make sure that all students are proud of themselves.”

Annie is an Academic Advisor and Science Teacher at Maple Leaf International School, Shanghai. In her role, she guides students both academically and personally while teaching subjects across the sciences. Her teaching philosophy is to foster a creative, supportive, and engaging environment where every learner feels encouraged to explore, question, and grow. By blending structure with creativity, she aims to help students discover their strengths and reach their full potential.

Nikola Micic is a literature teacher from Serbia. Nikola holds a Master’s Degree in English language and literature. He has been working in Shanghai for more than 7 years, one year in Ningbo, and one year in Vietnam. His teaching incorporates curiosity, critical thinking, and moral awareness. Nikola considers language as the most important tool for the overall education of individuals, and tries to guide his students to better versions of themselves.