Head of School
Graciela López, a native of Venezuela, is herself a product of an international, bilingual education. Her career spans more than 20 years of teaching from Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade. She has also held key leadership positions during that time including school director and division principal.
EDUCATION
M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction, University of Texas at Austin
B.A. in Modern Languages, Universidad del Zulia
Further professional training International Schools Counseling Institute, Western Carolina University Educational Leadership Certificate, Michigan State University
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Administrative Experience: 11 years
Founder and Director "Learning4all", a Pre-K to 12 learning center in Florida
Principal Escuela de las Américas, Maturin - Venezuela
Director Pre-escolar Bim-Bam-Bum / Academia de Inglés Happy Kids
Advisor/Curriculum Coordinator International School of Monagas, Maturín – Venezuela
Chair of the Steering Committee for Accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
Teaching Experience: 20 years Pre-K through High School (some concurrent with administrative years)
Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Teacher
First and Second grade teacher
English as a Second Language Teacher
Spanish as a Second Language
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Born in Venezuela
Married to Eugenio López-Senior Consultant in Petroleum Engineering
One son, Miguel, 24, MSc Electrical engineer in Houston
In her own words:
|
I have enjoyed teaching students from different nationalities, ages, and backgrounds for more than 20 years. I have taught in different local and International Schools in Venezuela, and in private and public schools in the United States. I have also worked as a Curriculum Coordinator and as Principal of a K-12 International School.
I believe the learning process must take place in a positive, enjoyable, and exciting learning environment that fosters children's natural curiosity and exploration and enhances their self-esteem and confidence. This environment must be safe and caring so as to instill in children a love for learning. It must respect each child's uniqueness and provide them with the skills and attitudes that will help them succeed in a global world. It is our responsibility as educators to provide an enriching, learning atmosphere where students develop to their fullest potential and acquire the skills and proficiency they need to access opportunities in their future and succeed in life. |