Middle School / High School Team

My name is Zsolt Béres. Originally from Hungary, I pursued my passion for physical education and geography, earning both my BA and MA degrees in Hungary. As a certified fencing coach, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share my expertise at ISD.

During my 11-year tenure in England, I had the privilege of teaching physical education and geography, where I honed my skills and embraced the diverse educational landscape. Additionally, I obtained an Edexcel diploma in drama and acting, adding a creative dimension to my teaching repertoire.

My journey as an educator has been shaped by my love for working with people, especially students who possess a genuine passion for learning and growth. I am deeply committed to fostering an environment where students feel inspired, challenged, and empowered to reach their full potential. As a fencing coach, I bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role. I believe in the transformative power of sports and the values of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship that fencing instills in young athletes.

I am eager to contribute to the vibrant community at ISD and to collaborate with colleagues who share a dedication to excellence in education. Together, I am confident that we can create meaningful experiences and opportunities for our students.

I am Shamae Ria Delima from the Philippines. I finished my bachelors with the degree BSc in Fisheries from Davao Del Norte State College in my country and have finished the degree MSc in Hydrobiology here in Hungary. I’ve always been fascinated with science, especially laboratory experiments. I am very elated to work with ISD as a Science Technician, letting me gain more experience in laboratory management, experiment and research.
I once worked at Davao Del Norte State College, as an administrative assistant for 2 yrs. before coming to Hungary. I was aiding the program chairpersons of BSc Food Technology, Fisheries, Marine Biology, and Forestry in running the different programs, making sure that all academic and program requirements are up to standards required by accreditation institutions.
IB curriculum is completely different as to what I have first encountered and worked with, but it has really impressed me so much. With this kind of learning, I believe kids can explore, create, discover, and develop themselves through the guidance of their respective teachers to become responsible, confident, and successful adults in the future. IB teaching methods do not just teach students the theories of different academic subjects, they are also teaching them on how to apply these theories in real life situations, helping the students develop critical thinking skills, practical, emotional, and physical skills.

My name is Dr. Eszter Ditrói, and I am from Debrecen, Hungary. I have been teaching in this city for more than 10 years, not just in primary and middle schools, but also at the University of Debrecen. During this time, I also taught a Hungarian as a foreign language to students at the Debrecen Summer School. Currently, I am a teacher in the MYP and DP Hungarian Language and Literature and Language A: Literature at the ISD. I continue to teach at the University of Debrecen as a visiting lecturer.
I graduated as a teacher of Hungarian Language and Literature and also have a PhD in Modern Linguistics. I am also qualified as a teacher of ethnography and ethnology and as a museologist. As I was also interested in languages and their structure from a biological point of view: I obtained a BSc in engineering, specialising mainly in biology I have successfully applied the biostatistical knowledge gained here in my PhD work. Later on, I also completed a degree in chemistry (MSc), using this degree and my previous knowledge in museology.
As an educator, I see my role as that teacher, who emphasizes and helps develop each child's understanding of the trans- and interdisciplinarity, which is an essential part of the IB. Besides I highlight this idea in my classes, I’m building up an energetic and understandable learning environment in my classroom. I love to teach children, and I like to show them the different ways of interpreting and understanding the world around them.

I enjoy healthy living, travel and photography. Previously worked at International schools in Kazakhstan and Ukraine. In today's rapidly evolving world, education must adapt to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities they will encounter in the real world. One approach that has gained significant traction in this regard is hands-on learning, which encourages students to actively engage in the learning process through practical experiences and tangible applications. This approach is particularly embraced by International Baccalaureate (IB) schools, known for their holistic education model that emphasizes critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and global-mindedness. By integrating hands-on learning into the IB schools' framework, educators can establish a strong connection between education and the real world, fostering well-rounded and future-ready individuals.

My name is Lilla Dobi. I am thrilled to be a part of the ISD community as a co-teacher supporting English Language Learners in MYP Individuals and Societies. I was born in Debrecen, Hungary.
I grew up in a household where I was surrounded by hard-working and open-minded people.
As a high school student, I was lucky enough to attend one of the bilingual schools in Debrecen where I fall in love with English.
I graduated as an English and History teacher from the University of Debrecen in 2022.
As an educator, I believe in providing not only knowledge about the world but helping students to become their best selves. Thus, I encourage learners to think outside the box, be risk-takers and kind to others.

I am a photo-based artist who completed his MFA in Photography at Parsons The New School for Design in 2013. For the last five years he has been a teacher of art, design, and digital media at the International School of Myanmar.
Prior to living and working in Myanmar, Tony was a photography teacher in Las Vegas, Denver, and New York City. He currently is making work that makes connections between vernacular photography, social media, futility and desire.

I want my students to be at the forefront of contemporary image-making and digital literacy in order to be reflective users of online platforms. I push my students to be involved in the world of image making in order to engender a criticality about the medium. Whether they are creating content for TikTok, posting to Instagram, or grappling with emerging platforms and applications, they are involved in all facets of digital media. Through studying and making art, students become attuned to complexity; they learn to recognize the cultural choices that underlie even the most mundane moments and actions of everyday life and consider whether these are the choices they themselves wish to make.

My name is Vivien Giller and I’m from Budapest. I moved to Debrecen with my family 5 years ago. I was drawn to teaching from a very young age, as my mother is a passionate English and Hungarian language teacher. I have MA degrees in Teaching English Language and Literature and in Dutch Studies specialised in History of Art. I also studied Public Relations at Budapest Business University. During my Secondary School years, I lived in the UK which had a great impact on my life. Later I moved to the Netherlands where I worked and studied.
I have been teaching English for different age groups for more than 10 years. I taught students from primary to university level. I left teaching for a couple of years and worked at a PR Agency in Budapest, which I enjoyed a lot, yet it also helped me recognise my passion for teaching, so I returned to it.
I teach English Language Acquisition in MS in ISD. I enjoy teaching in the IB system as it gives a positive and supportive teaching environment. IB focuses not only on academics but also on personal development and creativity. My aim is to guide students to express themselves and to engage in their own learning. I’m curious about how my students can become more thoughtful and reflective citizens.
In my free time, I like spending time with my family, going out with friends, sewing and reading. I have a great passion for the Arts.

With a background that crosses oceans—from South Africa’s outreach programs to European universities—I have cultivated a teaching philosophy that mirrors a world without borders. Holding a master’s in mathematics and language education, I now share with my students the beauty of numbers and the power of language. In our classroom, mathematics is more than a subject; it’s a journey to understanding, a testament to the belief that every student can shine in an environment that cherishes their unique potential and encourages them to exceed it.

I am originally from Chicago (go Cubs!), but have worked in Mexico, the Philippines, Korea, and Vietnam prior to joining the ISD community here in Debrecen. I love being outdoors, reading good books, listening to great music, and just exploring what this outstanding world has to offer. As a teacher, I believe that relationships are everything and kids always deserve to be seen, heard, understood and supported, so that they can do and be their best; both for themselves and for others. This also happens to be my favorite thing about the IB! Developing every part of yourself as best you can in order to make this world a better place.

I am originally from Manchester, England. With a lifelong passion for service, I've been volunteering since the age of 7. My journey led me through nature conservation education before transitioning to mainstream education. Having lived and worked in diverse countries – including Vietnam, South Korea, and the Philippines – I've embraced cultures worldwide.
I have taught many of the major curriculums, but for me I prefer the IB. It offers so much development with the Personal Project, Internal Assessment, Extended EssaY, CAS, ToK and my favorite Service as Action. The IB is a demanding and challenging curriculum, but it produces thoughtful, critical thinking people (teachers and parents/guardians included) to which the world needs.

I am Carol Lai, who grew up in Taiwan and has lived/worked/studied in the US, Canada and Vietnam. Hungary is my fifth country of residence. Embracing cultural diversity whole-heartedly, I communicate in Mandarin Chinese, English and German. Having degrees in Mathematics and English Literature, I have taught High School English, Academic Writing in English, MYP English Language Acquisition and MYP/DP Mathematics since 2016.

At ISD, I will focus on teaching Mathematics and building the CAS program with wonderful people. To me, the beauty of Mathematics lies in pursuing the ultimate truth with curiosity and perseverance. Mathematics is simultaneously artistic, scientific and philosophical. I am dedicated to bringing such beauty to my students in a collaborative and safe classroom. My classroom of Mathematics is full of “aha moments,” lively discussions, genuine questions, thought-provoking projects and constant feedback.

Outside of teaching Mathematics, I love reading and exploring unknown territories. That is how CAS resonates with me and why I am proud of being an IB educator– we are here together to grow holistically, inquire into everything around us, share the joy of lifelong learning and care for each other.

When I don’t teach, I enjoy running, hiking, cycling, cooking, traveling, coffee and tea, photography, films and documentaries, classical music, and learning languages.

My name is Jesús Mora del Cueto and I was born in Mexico City. I have developed an international teaching career for the last 12 years. I trained as a teacher through prestigious universities of the United Kingdom. Gaining a qualification as an EAL teacher through Cambridge University, I later earned a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Secondary Music from the University of Buckingham and a Master's in international educational leadership from the same university. I undertook my initial studies in general Music and education in the national conservatorium of music in Mexico city.

As a music teacher I have contributed to developing Music departments in international teaching settings and multicultural environments developing Music curricula of international standards, leading extra curricular music activities such as one to one instrumental lessons, orchestras, ensembles, musicals and others, plus encouraging students of diverse musical abilities, and music and non music teachers to participate in the musical life of school.

In addition to this experience I have been a team leader of the MYP and PYP as well as a member of EAL departments contributing to building EAL curriculum simultaneously with the IB .

I have been fortunate enough to work in a number of prestigious international schools, all of which are IB certified. It's been a privilege to work with incredible teachers and students from all over the world. I am delighted and honoured to be expanding my international teaching experience and contributing to building the lSD community.

My international educational experience begins earlier than my professional one as I had the privilege to be a student of the IBDP. This was a wonderful but rigorous experience that opened my mind to the world in an unprecedented way at a young age. It is this experience that made me believe ever since in the IB frameworks; they are of incalculable value for young people. As I have experienced myself, they really are the way to become a lifelong learner, open minded to cultures, as well as a compassionate and thoughtful human being. U believe it develops in students and teachers a will to contribute to the creation of a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding, respect and tolerance.

I am Aura Cristina Puentes Piñeros, a passionate and dedicated educator with eight years of experience in international curriculum. Originally from the city Bogotá in Colombia, I am fluent in English and Spanish, which allows me to communicate effectively with students from diverse backgrounds.

My experience in education has been enriched by teaching middle, high school, and elementary school students, developing a comprehensive and engaging approach in chemistry, physics, and biology. Encouraging curiosity and critical thinking, my aim is to create a safe and inclusive classroom environment where each child's uniqueness is respected, and valued.

The International Baccalaureate approach resonates with me as it aligns with my belief in nurturing the potential within each student. My goal is to guide young minds towards making meaningful contributions to the world through the amazing world of science.

Outside of teaching, as a lover of science, I enjoy exploring nature, staying active, cooking delicious and healthy meals, and reading a good book while enjoying a nice cup of Colombian coffee. I strive to prioritize my mental well-being by cherishing quality time with family and friends.

I look forward to bringing my expertise and enthusiasm to ISD, inspiring young learners to reach their full potential.

My name is Claudia Ribeyro and I am very happy to be part of the ISD family. I am originally from Lima, Perú and I have been a Spanish teacher for the past 17 years. As a passionate global citizen, I have spent the last 29 years living in 7 different countries and traveling to more than fifty. I feel privileged to have met and learned from people from all corners of the world, with different languages, religions, genders and social status. This has been an invaluable experience that has embraced my passion for diversity and respect for all.
I hold a MA in Intercultural Communication and a BA in Modern Languages and Linguistics with a Minor in Sociology. As an educator I have had the opportunity and honor to teach Spanish to a vast range of age groups, from 1st grade to university students. My teaching roles have included all levels of Spanish in addition to AP, PYP and MYP curriculums.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my Ukrainian rescued dog Tartufo; trying new recipes with friends and family, traveling to new places and learning new languages.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg once said "Real change, enduring change, happens one step at the time", this quote always inspires me to be a risk taker and to take chances and most importantly, to make a positive impact in the places I go, the people I meet, the students I teach and the community I live in.

Hello, I'm Robert Sarty, a dedicated educator from Ottawa, Canada. For the past two years, I've had the privilege of teaching MYP Individuals and Societies in La Guajira, Colombia's vibrant northern region. My passion for exploring diverse cultures stems from my upbringing as a third culture kid, where I spent significant periods living in Moscow, Russia, and Beijing, China.

I find joy in traveling and language acquisition. Currently, I'm delving into the fascinating world of Hungarian. Beyond academics, my interests include running, reading, and cooking.

As an International Baccalaureate program graduate, I strongly believe in its power to equip students with invaluable inquiry skills that foster adaptability in our ever-changing world. As an educator, I wholeheartedly endorse the IB approach for its ability to nurture personal and academic growth in students. The program encourages students to explore and inquire about the world while taking responsibility for their own learning journey, supported by teachers and peers.
In my teaching style, I prioritize understanding my students' personalities to create a comfortable and conducive learning environment. By identifying shared interests with my students, I design engaging and relevant lessons that cater to their specific needs. It brings me immense enthusiasm to be part of the ISD team, and I am eager to contribute to the growth of this institution as an IB world school.

I am thrilled to be a PYP educator at ISD. As an internationally-minded person, I thrive when learning with and from many different cultures. Growing up in the USA (Miami, Florida), I was surrounded by people from all over the world, which inspired me to explore. After teaching in the US for a few years, I ventured into international teaching. I previously taught in Warsaw, Poland and Sao Paulo, Brazil. For the past five years, I was living in Denver, Colorado working at a PYP school. I hold a masters degree in curriculum and instruction, with an emphasis on literacy. My passion for literacy stems from this degree and comes alive in the classroom with the students.

As a PYP teacher, I embrace the curious minds of students by following an inquiry model. I encourage the students to think critically and creatively, while building opportunities for collaboration. My favorite part of my job is watching the students make the connections between concepts and get excited about what we are learning.

My name is Loránd Zajta. I am an internationally minded IB educator, born and raised in Budapest, Hungary; I have lived, studied and worked in three different continents. I earned a Bachelor's Degree in History and Jewish Studies from Eötvös Loránd University, a Master's Degree in Education from Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador, and a Postgraduate Certificate in International Education from the University of Nottingham. I am joining ISD from Quito, Ecuador, where I was working for an IB World School for almost a decade, in different positions, such as an MYP Individuals and Societies teacher, DP History teacher, MYP Coordinator and Model United Nations Advisor. Additionally, I am an authorized IB Examiner for MYP Personal Projects and an MYP ´Building Quality Curriculum´ Reviewer for Individuals and Societies.
In my experience, meaningful learning processes are those that help my students further discover their path and explore their role in a highly complex and ever-changing world. Truly purposeful learning processes are far-reaching and can eventually lead to transformative experiences. I truly value those concept-based educational programmes, such as the IB Continuum, that progress from play-based, through project-based, and culminate in research-based approaches to learning, and that create a culture of high expectations, that is able to meet the needs of each individual learner, in order to help them reach their personal and academic goals, within diverse contexts. I am passionate about the IB, as its programmes on the one hand are founded on methodologies and strategies that foster agency, and on the other hand help students find and make meaning of their learning.