2 - IREX

Argentina 

Nazarena M. J. Cali, English Teacher 

E.P.N.M., No. 38 “Lomas Del Mirador” 

Parana, Argentina (Population: 237,968) 

U.S. Host University: George Mason University 

Nazarena Maria Jose Cali has been teaching English as a Foreign Language at a public 

secondary school for the past 10 years. The age of her students range from 15 to 18 years old, 

and, on average, there are 10 students in her class. Nazarena received her teaching degree from 

Instituto de Ensenanza Superior de Parana in March 1999. She is single and has no children. 

Nazarena lives alone, and her hobbies include attending cultural events and going to the gym. 

Her primary aims for taking part in TEA are to get acquainted with the latest methodological 

trends and to explore new classroom and evaluation tools and strategies. 

Erica Sofia Carignano, English Teacher 

Manuel Belgrano Secondary School 

Villa Maria, Cordoba, Argentina (Population of V. Maria: 84,000) 

U.S. Host University: University of Nebraska-Lincoln 

Erica S. Carignano has been teaching English as a foreign language at a public secondary school 

for the past seven years. The age of her students range from 12-17 years old, and on average 

there are 36 students in her class. Erica is an active member of a foundation concerned with 

charitable and cultural activities, and she supports English teaching at a rural school, among 

other things. She also teaches at the primary and college levels in another school and has recently 

opened her own school of English. Erica is finishing her thesis report on Homework in the Public 

Secondary School in order to get her degree as Licenciada en Lengua Inglesa. She received her 

certificate of Especializacion en Lengua Inglesa, issued by the same Universidad Tecnologica 

Nacional where she is completing her studies. Erica is married with two sons and a daughter. She 

spends her free time with her family and she likes cycling, tennis and music. Her primary 

objectives for participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies for engaging her students in 

a more communicatively effective classroom setting, optimizing her teaching and language skills 

in general. 

Sonia Mercedes Gomez, Teacher of English 

“Olga Cossettini” & “Dr. Luis Leloir” Secondary Schools 

Corrientes, Argentina (Population: 369,700) 

U.S. Host University: Purdue University 

Sonia Gomez has been teaching English as a Foreign Language for eighteen years now. She has 

taught in kindergarten, primary, secondary, and tertiary levels at private as well as public schools 

and institutes. At the moment, she is fully dedicated to secondary public schools. Her students 

are between 11 to 18 years old (though, there are some older students who are part of the 

Reinsertion Programs). On average there are thirty students in each of her eleven classes. Sonia 

is an active member of the ―Language and Communication Department‖ of both her schools. She 

was head of this department at ―Olga Cossettini‖ school in 2007 and 2009. In October 2008, she

eceived a degree from Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, thus elevating her tertiary degree as 

teacher of English to a university level degree. Sonia is divorced with no children. She enjoys 

open-air activities such as going for walks, riding bikes, taking photos, and having picnics. She 

also loves reading and watching movies. In the linguistic field, she is very much interested in 

grammar and Noam Chomsky’s theories. Through taking part in TEA, Sonia hopes to experience 

American culture and the American lifestyle and to explore new pedagogy in approaching 

language teaching. 

Laura Haydee Kuperman, English Teacher 

Centro Educativo Polimodal No. 4 

Posadas, Misiones, Argentina (Population: approx. 300,000) 

U.S. Host University: University of Nebraska at Lincoln 

Laura Kuperman has been an EFL teacher at public secondary schools for 15 years. Her students 

are between the ages of 14-18 and on average she has as class size of 35 students. She is the head 

of her department, and her key responsibilities include regular meetings with parents and school 

staff, appointing the material to be used throughout the academic year, and organizing study 

groups for students participating in the English Language Olympics. She has been appointed by 

the Ministry of Education to be a member of the National and Regional Advisory Commission to 

select the EFL tests to be used at secondary schools in the province of Misiones. At present, 

Laura is working on her dissertation to get her degree as a licensed English language instructor. 

She is single and lives on her own with two pets, a dog and a cat. Her hobbies include watching 

good films, walking, gathering with friends for leisure activities, and traveling. Through the TEA 

program, she hopes to critically examine, with American colleagues, current teaching practices, 

beliefs, attitudes, and methodologies useful to introduce in the EFL classroom back home. 

Maria Eugenia Otaegui, English Teacher 

Tecnica 2 Independencia Secondary School 

Concordia, Argentina (Population: 170,000) 


Maria E. Otaegui has been teaching English at public secondary schools for 10 years and at 

Tecnica 2 since 2004. She works with 13-19 year old students who come from working-class 

families. On average there are 25 students in each class. She works hard trying to motivate 

students to speak English, which also means building up their self-esteem. Eugenia got her 

teaching degree in English in 1998 from I.E.S. Paraná, and a degree in English-Spanish 

translation in 2001. She loves travelling and getting to know other cultures, she’s had working 

and teaching experiences in Ireland and England. Learning languages is one of her hobbies. She 

is fluent in Italian and is currently learning French. She is single and loves spending time with 

friends. She prefers outdoor activities and swims regularly. Her primary objective for 

participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies that will enable her to make the most of 

the resources she has at school. She’d also like to gain an insight into American culture. 

Alicia Beatriz Palavecino de Serrano, English Teacher 

Bachillerato Provincial No 1 "Gdor. J. Itrube"

Libertador Gral. San Martin, Argentina (Population: 60,000) 

U.S. Host University: University of North Dakota 

Alicia Palavecino de Serrano has been teaching at a public secondary school for the past ten 

years. The age of her students range form 14-30 years old, and on average there are 40 students 

in her class. Alicia is an active coordinator of foreign languages. She also provides trainings for 

the students in the last year at the Teacher Training School. Alicia received a degree of Professor 

of English from the Superior Institute of Teachers in 2004. She is studying literature at N. 

University of Litoral. Alicia is married with two young daughters and a son. Her primary 

objective for participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies for engaging students in a 

more active classroom setting. 

Anahi F. Segura, English Teacher 

Instituto Paula Albarracin de Sarmiento 

Villa Allende, Argentina (Population: 25,000) 


Anahi Segura has been an English teacher for more than 18 years. Her students range in age from 

12 to 16, and her classes typically have about 38 students. She is also the Treasurer Officer of the 

administrative committee that runs one of the schools where she works. She got her degree as a 

teacher in 1987 at the Escuela Superior de Lenguas, Universidad Nacional de Cloa, and she is 

presently attending some seminars as an external student of the ―Maestria en Linguistica‖ given 

by Facultad de Lenguas, Universidad Nacional de Cloa. Anahi is married and has two daughters 

and a son. She is very keen on reading, watching films, and also playing volleyball. Her main 

goals for participating in this program are to receive the best and newest training with the newest 

methodologies as well as to exchange experiences with teacher of English all over the world. 

Andrea Zuccaro, English Teacher 

Schiller Institute / Newman College 

Buenos Aires, Argentina (Population: approx. 2,965,000) 


Andrea Zuccaro has been an EFL/ESL teacher in private schools for 18 years. The age of her 

students range from 11 to 16 years old. She graduated from Consudec Teacher Training College 

in 1992 and she also holds a degree in educational management from Caece University. Her 

professional interests are teacher professional development, content-based teaching and 

assessment. She is single and her hobbies are swimming and music. During the TEA program, 

she hopes to improve her teaching and share experiences with other teachers. 

Armenia 

Anahit Emmily Gevorgyan, Social Studies Teacher (History) 

Kajaran Secondary School #1

Kajaran, Syunik marz, Armenia (Population: 9,500) 


Anahit Emmily Gevorgyan has been teaching Armenian Language and Literature and the history 

of the Armenian Church at different schools of Syunik marz for the past 18 years. Her students 

range in age from 12-16 years old and her classes generally have 30 students. Anahit is the 

winner of the 2008 ―Best Teacher of Armenia‖ award. She is chairman of the Social Science 

Methodical Unit and the editor of the school newspaper, Tir. She also provides trainings on 

teaching methodology at the Kapan branch of the National Institute of Education. Anahit 

graduated from Yerevan State University in 1989, where she received the qualification of a 

philologist. Anahit is married and has two sons. Her hobbies are reading and cooking. Her credo 

is to learn through her life, and her main goal for the TEA program is to study new teaching 

methods and learn about private schools and assessment in the American education system. 

Lilia Khachatryan, Social Studies Teacher (History) 

Karin Secondary School 

Sasunik, Armenia (Population: 1,500) 


Lilia Khachatryan has been teaching social studies, the history of the Armenian Church, and 

logic at a public secondary school for the past 5 years. The age of her students range from 11-16 

years old, and typically there are 15 students in her class. She is an active member of her 

school’s parent-teacher committee, where she’s played a role in promoting parental involvement 

in student education. She also provides training for her peers in teaching methods. She received a 

master’s degree in Philosophy from Yerevan State University in 2006. She has published five 

scientific articles, and she is now going to receive her Ph.D. Lilia is not married, and her hobbies 

include physical activity, cooking, and communicating. Her primary objective for participating in 

TEA is to explore new methodologies and skills for engaging students in a more participatory 

and active, creative classroom setting. 

Yepraksya Shikaryan, English Teacher 

Artik College 

Artik, Armenia (Population: 22,000) 


Yepraksya Shikaryan has been teaching English at school for the past 18 years. She teaches 

students between 11-17 year old and her class size is about 15-20 students. She graduated from 

Yerevan State University in 1988 and has one daughter. Yepraksya works in an international 

human rights organization and also does tutoring work in her field. She is a respected and skillful 

teacher. She is known as a good specialist in teaching English in town and among her colleagues. 

She likes literature and cinema. Her goal for taking part in TEA is to improve her language 

proficiency in English, and to learn new American methods of teaching and using them during 

the lessons.

Azerbaijan 

Gozal Aliyeva, English Teacher 

Lyceum #220 

Baku, Azerbaijan (Population: 2,036,000) 


Gozal Aliyeva has been teaching English at a school-lyceum for 20 years. The age of her 

students range from 12-17 years old, and generally there are between 12 and 15 students in her 

class. She is an active member of her school’s parent teacher committee, where she has played a 

major role in involving parents in their students’ education. She provides training in teaching 

methodology to teachers in the Teachers’ Professional Courses. Aliyeva is also a member of the 

working group of developing curriculum units in English. She received a Bachelor’s degree in 

English from Azerbaijan State University of Languages in 1988 and a certificate (a Diploma) in 

teaching methods from the same university. She is married with two children (a son and a 

daughter). By participating in the TEA program she hopes to improve her teaching skills, as well 

as get much more information about new methodologies for involving students in the teaching 

process and creating a more active and participatory classroom. 

Irina Baghirova, English Teacher 

School #14 

Sumgait, Azerbaijan (Population: 357,900) 


Irina Baghirova has been teaching English as a foreign language at a secondary school since 

1996. Her students are between 10-17, and, on average, there are 15 students in her class. She is 

an active member of her school’s Association of English Language Teachers. As a teacher 

trainer and project coordinator of the Internet Computer Center in her school, she shows new 

approaches in today’s educational areas. Baghirova was the first to conduct Internet-based 

lessons and involved many of her peers in the practice. She received her diploma from 

Azerbaijan State Institute of Foreign Languages, Baku in 1991. She is married with two young 

sons. She enjoys music, traveling, and cooking. Her main objectives for the TEA program are rethinking 

her teaching and taking maximum advantage of the innovations. She is also ready to 

share all the new knowledge with her school’s teachers. 

Halima Fatullayeva, English Teacher 

Secondary School #24 

Ganja, Azerbaijan (Populations: 32,857) 


Halima Fatullayeva has been teaching English language at a public secondary school for the past 

6 years. The age of her students range from 10-18 years old and on average there are 13-15 

students in her class. Halima is an active member of AzETA where she played a role in 

promoting effective teachers and students’ involvement in teacher trainings for different kinds of 

teachers. She also provides conversations and movie clubs for students and teachers. Halima is 

not married yet. Her hobbies include joining different projects concerning health or

environmental issues, traveling, meeting different people from different countries. Her primary 

aim for participating in TEA is to gain experience and learn how to involve all students to take 

active part in lessons. 

Bangladesh 

Md. Mostaq Ahamed, English Teacher 

Beershestha Munshi Abdur Rouf Rifles college 

Dhaka, Bangladesh (Population: 6,725,000) 


Md. Mostaq Ahamed has taught English at a private secondary school for the past seven years. 

His students range from 9-14 years old and typically his classes have 40 students. He is a 

member of the Cultural and Co-curricular committee of his school, which gives him ample scope 

to take care of the creative faculty of his students. Ahamed is also a member of the Bangladesh 

Society for Total Quality Management and works as a resources person to provide training to the 

teachers of different institutions. He received his Masters degree in English from Daffodil 

International University, Dhaka, in 1997. He received his professional degree in Education from 

National University, and, at present, Ahamed is studying to receive a Masters of Education at the 

University of Dhaka. He is single and singing is his passion. Ahamed’s main goal for 

participating in TEA is to become more skilled and innovative. 

Nasima Akter, English Teacher 

Boshirganj Ulfatunnesa Government Girls High School 

Jamalpur, Bangladesh (population: 2,089,366) 


Nasima Akter has been teaching English in a government girls’ high school for the last 13 years. 

The age of her students range from 11-16 years old and on average she has 70 students in each 

class. She is an English teacher and also an assistant head teacher. She has many duties in her 

place of work, such as teaching, monitoring classes, managing co-curricular activities, arranging 

parent-teacher meetings, etc. She is a member of the Human Rights (BRAC) Bokshigonj, Center 

Secretary of S.S.C. exam, and Local Commissioner of Bangladesh Girl Guides association. Her 

hobby is recitation. Nasima’s objectives for participating in TEA are to develop her skill in 

English language teaching and to develop her students in all sorts of skill areas. 

Fatema Akther, English Teacher 

Gatiadenga A.S.M. Hoque High School 

Satkania, Bangladesh (Population: 80,000) 


Fatema Akther has been teaching English at a public secondary school for the past 7 years. She 

teaches students between the ages of 11-16 years old and her class usually has 40-50 students. 

She is obedient to her school management and rules. She has participating in professional

educational development training and given peer trainings on teaching methodology. She 

received a Bachelor’s degree in social science from Satkania Government College in 2001, a 

certificate for a Bachelor of Education and a Master’s of Education from the teacher’s training 

college in Chittagong. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in English. Fatema is married with 

one daughter and one son. Her hobby is watching T.V. She aims to use her experience in the 

TEA program to develop her teaching life and acquire new methodologies. 

Md. Badrul Alam, Senior English Teacher 

Satarkul High School 

Dhaka, Bangladesh (Population: 6,725,000) 


Md. Badrul Alam has been teaching English literature and language at the secondary level for the 

last 7 years. His students range in age from 11 to 16 years old, and ordinarily there are 50 

students in his class. He is a Master Trainer of the BRAC, PACE program, in which he plays a 

role to improve teachers’ skills so that they can perform their best in the classroom. He received 

his Bachelor degree in English from the National University. He is married with one daughter. 

His hobbies are reading books, watching movies, etc. His primary objective for participating in 

TEA is to explore new methodologies in teaching. 

Md. Bablu Hossain, English Teacher 

Guimara High School 

Khagrachari, Bangladesh (Population: 524,961) 


Md. Bablu Hossain has been teaching English literature and language at a secondary school for 

the last 15 years. His students are between 11 and 16 years old and, on average, there are 60 

students in his class. He is one of the members (TR) of the School Management Committee 

(SMC) where he plays an effective role to promote students’ education. He received a Bachelor’s 

degree in English from Rajshahi University in 1986 and a Master’s degree in English from 

Shanto-Marium University of Creative Technology in Uttara, Dhaka in 2008. Hossain is married 

with two young sons and his hobbies are talking, photography and theater. He hopes that by 

participating in TEA he will be able to explore new methodologies for engaging students in a 

more participatory and active class setting. 

Md. Hemayet Hossain, English Teacher 

Kalkini Syed Abul Hossain Academy 

Kalkini Madaripur, Bangladesh (population: 275,727) 


Md. Hemayet Hossain has been teaching English literature and language at a non-government 

secondary school for the last 10 years. The age of his students range from 11-16 years old, and 

on average there are 60 students in his class. He is an active member of English Language Club 

and Bangladesh English Language Teachers Association (BELTA). He also provides training to 

the secondary schools’ English teachers as a master trainer of the PACE program under BRAC. 

He received a Bachelor’s degree from Kalkini Syed Abul Hossain University College in 1997.

He is married with two young children. His hobby is travelling, and his primary objective for 

participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies. 

Mohammad Mustofa Kamal, Social Studies Teacher 

Brahmanbaria High School 

Brahmanbaria, Bangladesh (population: 2,365,880) 


Mohammad Mustofa Kamal has been teaching social science and English language at a nongovernmental 

secondary school since 1992. The age range of his students is 6 to 16 years old and 

on average there are 70-80 students per class. He received his post-graduation degree in 

education from Ahssanullah Science & Technology University in 2007. He also received 

computer training in Delhi, India in 2006. He is married with two daughters and his hobbies 

include swimming and fishing. His desire for participating in TEA is to find new boundaries of 

teaching methodologies for engaging students as well as teachers in a more participatory and 

active classroom activities. 

Md. Ibrahim Khalil, English Teacher 

Daridaha M.L. Girl’s High School 

Bogra, Bangladesh (Population: 3,500,000) 


Md. Ibrahim Khalil has been teaching English language at a non-government secondary school 

for 8 years. His students are between the ages of 14-16, and he has an average of 40 students in 

his class. He is an active member of his school’s parent teacher committee, where he plays a role 

in promoting effective parental involvement in students’ education. He also provides training for 

secondary school English teachers on the topic of teaching methodology. He received a 

Bachelor’s degree in education on English. He is married with one young son, and his hobby is 

to travel. He hopes that through participating in the TEA program he will explore new 

methodologies for engaging students in a more participatory and active classroom setting. 

Md. Asad Miah, Head Teacher 

Ramkrishno Girl’s High School 

Sylhet, Bangladesh (Population: 4,700,000) 


Md. Asad Miah is the Head Teacher of Ramkrishno Girl’s High School and Head Teacher (parttime) 

at Bhulandanda Night High School (mostly for working children). He has had a successful 

career in education and teaching English every day of his working life for over 20 years for 

students ages 11-17. He is a Resource Teacher-Trainer for secondary English. Mr. Asad chairs 

SCELTA (Sylhet Communicative English Language Teacher’s Association) which has over 

1,000 regular members. He received a BA with honors, an MA, a BEd, and an MSS from 

Chittagong University. He is married and blessed with two sons. He loves to participate, present 

papers, and talk at national and international workshops, conferences, and seminars. His interests 

cover EFL teacher development and Internet browsing. His goal for taking part in the TEA 

program is to explore new pedagogies and techniques for keeping students informed, focused

and engaged in classroom through communicative multi-skills. He hopes also to learn ways to 

foster know-how and confidence in using reflective, interactive and participatory methods of 

teaching besides grammar teaching. 

Jagadish Chandra Sarker, Senior English Teacher 

Rai Bahadur Srinath Institution 

Munshigonj, Bangladesh (Population: 1,293,500) 


Jagadish Chandra Sarker has been teaching English literature and language at a private 

secondary school for the past 10 years. The age of his students range from 11-16 years old. He 

received a Master’s degree in English from SMUCT in 2007. He is married with one young 

daughter. His primary objective for participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies for 

engaging students in a more participatory and active classroom setting. 

Cambodia 

Phanet Chea, English Teacher 

Battambang Regional Teacher Training Center 

Battambang, Cambodia (Population: 1,024,663) 


Phanet has been teaching English language and English methodology for almost 9 years. The age 

of her students range from 18-35 years old, and there are about 35 students in her class in the 

state school and about 20 students in her private class. She teaches English language and trains 

student teachers in teaching methodology. She received a Bachelor’s degree in biology from 

Royal University of Phnom Penh in 1995. She received her Teacher Trainer of English 

certificate in 2000. She is single and enjoys sightseeing and swimming. 

Polette Cheang, English Teacher 

Takeo Regional Teacher Training Center 

Phnom Penh, Cambodia (Population: 1,325,681) 


Polette Cheang has been teaching English Methodology at the Regional Teacher Training Center 

(RTTC) in Takeo province for 3 years. The age of her trainees range from 19-30 years old, and 

on average there are 30 trainees in her class. Polette is an active and hard-working trainer and 

also the English Department Chair at her center. Polette received a Bachelor’s degree in English 

from Royal University of Phnom Penh, Institute of Foreign Languages, and a certificate of 

Teacher of Higher Education from Nation Institute of Education (NIE). Her primary objective 

for the TEA program is to develop teaching professionalism to share with trainees. 

Phy Rith Ly, English Teacher 

Kampong Cham Regional Teacher Training Centre

Kampong Cham, Cambodia (Population: 1,850,000) 


Phy Rith Ly has been teaching English literature at Regional Teacher Training Centre for 10 

years. The age of his students range from 18-22 years old, and on average there are 30 students 

in his class. He is taking responsibility for promoting parental involvement in student education. 

His main responsibility is improving English capacity and teaching methodology. He received a 

degree in English from Royal University of Phnom Penh (Institute of Foreign Languages) in 

1998 and a certificate in teaching methods from Phnom Penh Regional Teacher Training Centre. 

Phy Rith is married with a young son and daughter. His hobbies are swimming and reading 

books and newspapers. His objective for participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies 

and access to internet in the classroom. 

Silot Uon, English Teacher 

Hun Sen Balaing High School 

Kompong Thom, Cambodia (Population: 569,060) 

U.S. University: University of North Dakota 

Silot Uon has been a teacher for the past nine years. He teaches at the public high school. The 

age of his students range from 14-18 years old, and he has an average of 50 students in each 

class. Silot is a deputy for the technical English language teaching team in his school. He helps 

teachers improve their methodology as well as upgrading their language program. Silot 

graduated from Phnom Penh Regional Teacher Training Center with a certificate of pedagogy. 

He also received a Bachelor’s degree in art and humanity from the University of Cambodia. He 

is single. Silot’s first intended aim with TEA is to acquire new methodologies and to learn about 

the learner-centered approach to teaching. 

Colombia 

Luz Adriana Castaño Vallejo, 

San Luis Gonzaga School, Jesuit Company 

Manizales, Colombia (Population: approx. 450,000) 


Luz Adriana Castaño Vallejo has been a successful English teacher at secondary level private 

schools for 20 years. The age of her students range from 15-18 years old, and her students tend to 

come from wealthy families. Her classes have 20 students on average. Luz Adriana is an 

excellent English teacher and department coordinator who has provided integrated programming 

elements to English teaching methodology. Luz Adriana received a Bachelor’s degree in modern 

languages and a Master’s degree in education at the best universities in Colombia. Luz Adriana 

is married with one son who is her life. Her hobbies are travelling and teaching. Her main 

purpose for enrolling in the TEA program is to implement new teaching methodologies in her 

successful professional life.

Francisco Javier Manotas Molinares, English Teacher 

Colegio San Jose 

Barranquilla, Colombia (Population: approx. 2,000,000) 


Francisco Manotas has been teaching English for about 11 years at private schools in 

Barranquilla. Right now, he teaches English in eighth grade and computers in fourth grade. Mr. 

Manotas got his Bachelor’s degree in English from Universidad del Atlantico in 1999 and some 

other certificates in evaluation information and technology tools and methodology. Mr. Manotas 

is married with one little son and his hobbies include swimming, listening to music, walking and 

watching movies. His primary objectives for participating in TEA are to increase knowledge 

about English teaching methodologies, improve his own English proficiency, and to learn about 

American culture. 

Lina Maria Osorio Valdes, English Teacher 

Instituto Caldos – UNAB 

Bucaramanga, Colombia (Population: 1,014, 657) 


Lina Maria Osorio Valdes has been teaching English for the past six years within different levels 

at a private school that is a part of one of the most important universities in Bucaramanga 

(UNAB). Her students range from 5-13 years old, and on average there are 25 students in her 

class. Osorio Valdes also works in another university of the city, UCC, where she works as a 

teacher assistant. She teaches methodology and methodology for handicapped people. Osorio 

Valdes received her degree in childhood education and graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2003. 

She received a diploma in methodology for teaching English in kindergarten and primary school 

levels in 2004, completed Post Grade in handicaps in 2005, earned a diploma in E-learning in 

2007 as well as a TKT certification in 2009. Osorio Valdes lives with her parents and is the third 

of four siblings. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to learn more new and 

different methodologies that enrich her education practice and her English in a native speaking 

country. 

Silvia Rocio Pabon Suarez, English Teacher 

IED Jose Joaquin Castro Martinez School 

Bogota, Colombia (Population: 6,776,009) 


Silvia Rocio Pabon Suarez has been teaching English language at private and public schools for 

about 12 years. The age of her students range from 12-17 years old, and on average there are 15 

students in her class. At this moment, she belongs to an Academic Committee where she 

represents the humanities subject area and makes decisions regarding academic issues in the 

school. Silvia received a Bachelor’s degree in Philology and Languages from INCCH University 

in 1992. She took a course about e-tutoring to become an e-tutor for the British Council. Silvia is 

married with a daughter, and her hobbies are reading and swimming. Her objectives for 

participating in the TEA program are to improve her English level and learn innovative 

pedagogical practices.

Yanilis Romero, English Teacher 

Antonia Santos School 

Monteria Coroloba, Colombia (Population: 800,000) 


Yanilis Romero has been teaching English as a foreign language in different schools of Monteria 

city. She is teaching 11th and 9th grades and her students are between 14 and 17 years old. 

Santos is a member of a research study to improve citizenship competences and teach English 

according to the standards proposed by the national ministry of Education. She graduated five 

years ago from Universidad de Cordoba, and since then she has been actively involved in 

enhancing her field of study through a specialization course and diplomado. Santos is married 

and does not have children. Her hobbies include singing and dancing. She hopes to exchange 

teaching experiences and grow as a professional through her participation in the TEA program. 

Sandra Nelly Sanchez Hernandez, English Teacher 

Colegio Venintiun Angeles 

Bogota, Colombia (Population: 6,776,009) 


Sandra Nelly Sanchez Hernandez has been an English teacher at a public secondary school for 

20 years. The age of her students range from 11-17 years old, and on average there are 40 

students in her classes. Sandra is the Head Teacher of the Languages area of her school, so she is 

in charge of coordinating all the activities and teaching development of her partners. Sandra has 

a B.A. in modern languages from Javeriana University. She also has an M.A. in applied 

linguistics to teach English as a foreign language. Her hobbies include reading, riding her 

bicycle, and going to the movies. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to learn more 

about TEFL methodology. 

El Salvador 

Jacqueline Cecilia Blanco Carranza, English Teacher 

Centro Cultural Salvadoreño Americano 

San Miguel, El Salvador (Population: 218,410) 


Jacqueline Blanco has been teaching English for the past 6 years. She has worked for public and 

private Institutions. The age of her students range from 14-50, and on average there are 20 

students in her class. Jacqueline is an active member of her institution. She works with the 

program of high school and teaches English, reading, business, and conversation. Among her 

hobbies are reading, listening to music, and going to the movies. Her objective with TEA is to 

improve her teaching. 

Benjamin Ernesto Garcia Recinos, English Teacher 

Escuela Interamericana

Santa Ana, El Salvador (Population: 245,400) 


Benjamin Garcia has been teaching English grammar and information technology at a private K- 

12 school for the last 5 years. The age of his students range form 13-18 years old, and on average 

there are 25 students in his classes. Benjamin Garcia is also in charge of the website of his school 

and everything related to technology. He is in charge of a group of 3 students that work on the 

website during their social hours. Benjamin Garcia received a ―Profesorado en Idioma Inglés‖ 

from Instituto Especializado el Espirito Santo. Benjamin is married with one boy of 2 years old 

and one daughter of 1 month old. Benjamin’s hobbies are playing basketball and playing the 

clarinet. His primary objective in participating in TEA is to learn new methodologies and 

reproduce his knowledge in his own school. 

Ana Elisa Jiménez de Rivas, English Teacher 

Centro Escolar Tomas Medina 

Santa Ana, El Salvador (Population: 245,400) 


Ana Jiménez has been teaching English at a public school for the past 17 years. The age of her 

students range from 13-16 years old, and on average there are 40 students in each of the six 

groups she works with. She also works at a university where she teaches English to young adults 

and she sometimes provides training to her peers in teaching methodology. Ana has a Bachelor’s 

degree in English from the University of El Salvador and took a TESOL certificate course form 

the School for International Training in Costa Rica. Ana is married with three children and she 

likes to listen to music. She expects the TEA program will help her to improve her teaching skills 

to serve her students’ learning. 

Georgia 

Marina Baghaturia, English Teacher 

St. Nino Public School #3 

Kutaisi, Georgia (Population: 185,000) 


Marina Baghaturia has been teaching English language at Kutaisi St. Nino Public School #3 for 

the past 9 years. The age of her students range from 11-17 years old, and on average there are 50 

students in her class. She is an active member of ETAG (English Teachers’ Association of 

Georgia) and is the ETAG Kutaisi branch manager. She has attended several in-service training 

courses on teaching methodology. She received a Master’s degree in English from Kutaisi State 

University in 1993 and several certificates in teaching skills from ETAG TTC-es. She is married 

with two sons and her hobbies include reading, listening to music, and playing the piano. 

Marina’s primary objective for participating in TEA is to experience good educational practice 

that will help her to enhance professional capabilities by introducing new ideas and systems of 

classroom management and providing new curriculum materials.

Eka Enukidze, English Teacher 

ABC Secondary School 

Sachkhere, Georgia (Population: 48,000) 


Eka Enukidze has been teaching English literature and language at a public school for the past 5 

years. The age of her students range from 14-16 years old, and on average there are 35 students 

in her class. Eka is an active member of the English Teachers’ Association of Georgia, she also 

provides trainings for her peers in teaching methodology. Eka received a Bachelor’s degree in 

English from Tbilisi Ilia Chavchavadze State University of western culture and languages. Eka is 

married with a daughter who is 5 years old. Her hobbies include chess, swimming, and music. 

Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies for engaging 

students in a more participatory and active classroom setting. 

Maria Kunelauri, English Teacher 

Public School #84 

Tbilisi, Georgia (Population: 1,499,000) 


Maria Kunelauri has been teaching English literature and language at a public school for the past 

8 years. The age of her students range from 9-18 years old and on average there are 28 students 

in her class. Maria trains her peers in teaching methodology. She received a Master’s degree in 

English from the Georgian National University in 2006 and a certificate in teaching methods 

from International Black Sea University. Maria is not married and her hobbies include traveling, 

music and reading. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to explore new 

methodologies. 

Ghana 

Eric Agbe-Carbonu, Social Studies Teacher 

St. Mary’s Senior High School 

Accra, Ghana (Population: approx. 3,500,000) 


Eric Agbe-Carbonu has been teaching social studies, history and geography in St. Mary’s 

Secondary School for the past 10 years. The age of his students is between 15-18 years old, and 

his average class size is 50 students. He is a patron of the SRC and the Drama Club. He is a radio 

presenter on social issues with the University of Ghana Radio Station. He graduated from the 

University of Cape Coast with a Bachelor’s degree in education. His hobbies include playing the 

guitar and singing. Eric is married with a daughter and a son. His main objective for participating 

in TEA is to explore new methods of teaching and ways of making students interested in class. 

Theophilus Asante, Social Studies Teacher (Geography) 

Achimota Senior High School



Theophilus Asante has been teaching the above subjects at a public secondary senior high school 

for the past 12 years. The age of his students range from 12-20 years old, and generally there are 

45 students in his class. He is a member of the school’s P.T.A., a form master and a house 

master, and within these roles he seeks to improve upon academic work and living conditions in 

the school. He received his Bachelor’s degree in geography from University of Ghana in 1998. 

He is married with a child, and his hobbies include theater. By taking part in TEA, Asante seeks 

to acquire new skills to involve students actively in the classroom and prepare them to do 

independent work. 

Gilbert Mohammed Ibrahim, Social Studies Teacher (Economics) 

Tema Secondary School 

Tema, Ghana (Population: 180,600) 


Gilbert Mohammed Ibrahim has been teaching economics for the past 10 years to students 

between the ages of 15-19 and with a class size of about 55 students. He is the secretary of the 

Parent-Teacher Association of his school which promotes parental involvement in student 

learning. Also, he is the secretary of the Chaplaincy Committee, which organizes training 

sessions for teachers and students. He is a patron of the Scripture Union, Cadet Corp, and the 

Interact Club. Mohammed received a Bachelor of Education foundational degree from 

University of Cape Coast, Ghana. He is single and his hobbies include reading, music, and 

sports. His main goals for participating in TEA are to explore modern methodology and effective 

lesson planning to engage students profitably in class. 

Victor Akko Johnson, Social Studies Teacher (Geography) 

Tema Senior High School 

Tema, Ghana (Population: 180,600) 


Victor Akko Johnson has been teaching geography at a public secondary school for 23 years. He 

teaches students between the ages of 15 and 18, and his classes typically have 55 students. 

Johnson is a patron of two of the school’s singing groups and a housemaster for House Three. He 

also doubles as a senior pastor of a local Pentecostal church where he does a lot of counseling for 

married couples. Johnson received his Bachelor’s degree in social science from the University of 

Cape Coast in August 1986 and a Diploma in education from the same university. He is currently 

married with four children – one boy and three girls. He hopes, through his participation in TEA, 

to gain skills in using technology in the teaching of geography in Ghana. 

Peter Kwasi Nortsu-Kotoe, English Teacher 

Accra Academy 


U.S. Host University: Purdue University

Peter Kwasi Nortsu-Kotoe has been a professional teacher for 31 years now. He teaches 

literature and English language in a secondary school. The students are between 15-18 years old. 

Peter holds a Bachelor’s degree in English/linguistics from the University of Ghana. He is head 

of his department with supervisory responsibilities and secretary to the school’s disciplinary 

committee. Peter is married with two children. He works with local government for rural 

development. His objective for participating in TEA is to fulfill his philosophy in education of 

helping students receive better education through innovative teaching methodologies. 

Guatemala 

Ana Carolina Barrera Valenzuela, English Teacher 

Colegio Bilingue Goodman 

Guatemala City, Guatemala (Population: 4,942,348) 


Ana Carolina Barrera Valenzuela is thirty years old and the proud middle daughter of a 

committed teacher, her mother, and an amazing Guatemalan plastic artist, her father. She is from 

the beautiful country of Guatemala in South America. She has always been a person who enjoys 

doing many things and she really loves learning and applying what she learns in everything she 

does. She considers herself to be a creative, positive and dynamic person who enjoys many 

things in life, among them being with her family and friends, art, quotes, laughing, teaching, 

learning, traveling within her own country and to others and learning about different cultures, 

God, helping others, and playing volleyball. Carolina has been teaching English literature and 

language for eight years at Goodman School which is a small private school. The range of age of 

her students is from 11-19 years old. Carolina graduated with honors from high school in 

Guatemala and studied Hotel Management in College; currently she’s finishing a Masters in 

curriculum. The purpose for applying and wanted to participate in TEA is to learn more and be 

able to share more with her students, colleagues, and country. 

Berta Gonzalez Contreras, English Teacher 

Viena Guatemalteco School 



Berta Gonzalez has been teaching English at private schools for the past 12 years. The age of her 

students range from 10-17 years old, and on average there are 20 students in her class. Berta also 

works with adults at the university. She is a very creative teacher and has promoted new 

activities to involve students from different levels of English. She is very social with her peers 

and likes to share new ideas with her friends. Berta has received a degree in teaching English as 

a second language from Del Valle University. Now she is studying to get another degree in 

education (Licenciature en Educacion). She is single and has a big family with two sisters and 

three brothers. Her hobbies are dancing and cooking. Her main objective for participating in 

TEA is to learn new methods and techniques to make classes more active, more meaningful, and

more interesting for her students. She also wants to learn about American culture to enrich her 

knowledge to share with her students. 

Wendy Raquel Lopez Munoz, English Teacher 

El Sagrado Corason de Jesus School 



Wendy Lopez has been teaching English as a Foreign Language for more than 10 years. Her 

teaching experience has given her the chance to be with all ages of students. She is not married 

and enjoys the arts, cooking, and, most of all, teaching. Her objectives for participating in the 

TEA program are to have a close look at American culture and learn new teaching techniques. 

Zulema Yadira Roque Delgado, English Teacher 

Colegio Espanol de Guatemala "Principe de Asturias" 

San Jose Pinula, Guatemala (Population: 47,200) 


Zulema Roque has been teaching English literature, grammar, vocabulary, spelling, writing and 

oral language at a private secondary school for the past 9 years. Her students are between the 

ages of 12 and 14, and her class size is about 26 students. Zulema is the coordinator of her 

school’s evaluation committee where she has played a role in promoting effective teachingevaluating 

practices and in supporting the evaluation system in her school. Zulema received a 

secondary teaching degree in English from San Carlos University and concluded a licensure 

program in Psychopedagogy at Panamericana University in 2008. She is currently working on a 

Master’s degree in counseling at the same university. Zulema is single, and her hobbies include 

reading, listening to music, and traveling. Her main goal for taking part in TEA is to explore new 

methodologies in English teaching, and to learn from experienced teachers in an actual American 

school how to get students involved in their learning process. 

Aurelia Nohemi Satuye, English Teacher 

INEB Nocturno "Domingo Juarros" 

Puerto Barrios, Izabal, Guatemala (Population: 81,078) 


Aurelia Nohemi Satuye has been teaching English and social studies since 1994 at INEDB Noc. 

Domingo Juarros. The age of her students range from 13-30 years old, and on average there are 

40 students in each class. Her teacher’s degree was in Spanish language, yet she teaches basic 

English. Aurelia also does counseling with students in her free time, especially with girls to 

prevent drug use and unwanted pregnancy. Aurelia received a Bachelor’s degree from the 

University of San Carlos in Guatemala and a social worker degree from the University Rafael 

Landivar. She is married with three children, and she enjoys walking and visiting the elderly and 

disabled. Aurelia’s objective for participating in TEA is to learn new techniques in teaching to 

motivate students of ESL.

Haiti 

Jean Reginald Jeune, English Teacher 

Centre d’Etudes Secondaires 

Port-au-Prince, Haiti (Population: 1,082,800) 


Jean Reginald Jeune has been teaching English at a couple of private secondary schools for the 

past 16 years. The age of his students range from 11-20 years old, and on average there are 50 

students in his class. Jean is actively involved in helping other English teachers enhance their 

English. He has published several academic books and chartered a few Toastmasters English 

clubs where teachers and EFL students can practice. Jean studied English at West Indies Institute 

from October 1991-July 1993. He is married with a 5-year-old daughter and his main hobby is 

reading positive mental attitude books. 

Fanfan Joseph, English Teacher 

Collège Martin Luther King 



Fanfan Joseph has been teaching English as a second language for 16 years at both private and 

public schools in Cap-Haitien. His students are teenagers and adults from 12-50 years old. 

Fanfan is the current president of the English teacher’s club of Cap-Haitian. He studied English 

at the Universite Roi Henry Christophe in Cap-Haitien, at TELUQ and SIT-TESSOL. Fanfan is 

married and has three daughters. He wants to improve his English skills and be able to use a 

computer properly. 

Abel Mercier, English Teacher 

Lycee National de Cite-Soleil 



Abel Mercier has been teaching English as a foreign language at a public secondary school for 

the past five years. The age of his students range from 15-18 years old. Abel received a 

bachelor’s degree in English from Haiti State University in 1999 and a certificate in EFL/ESL 

methodology from TELUQ, a certificate from SIT and a certificate from Indiana University in 

ESL/EFL assessments. Abel is married with two children, a wonderful son and a lovely 

daughter. His hobbies include reading and hiking. Abel’s primary objective for participating in 

TEA is to explore new methods in ESL/EFL. 

Jovenel Thomas, English Teacher 

Collège Susan Schuenke 

Cap Haitien, Haiti (Population: 180,000) 

U.S. Host University: Purdue University

Jovenel Thomas has been teaching English literature and language at a public secondary school 

in Cap Haitien for 6 years. His students are between 12-22 years of age. There are 50 students in 

his class. In this school, Jovenel works as a teacher who can provide training for freshmen 

teachers and as an interpreter with the American missionaries who work from the school. He 

received a certificate from a University in Limbe. He has recently taught leadership to different 

groups and his hobby is reading literature. His primary goal for participating in TEA is to 

explore new methodologies for teaching in a communicative way. 

Honduras 

Hana Janou Mazier Garcia, Social Studies Teacher 

Elvel School 

Tegucigalpa, Honduras (Population: 1,324,000) 


Hana Janou Mazier Garcia has been teaching social studies at Elvel School for the past 11 years. 

The age of her students range from 14-16 years old, and on average there are 30 students in her 

class. Janou Mazier is an active member of her school’s different activities. Being the homeroom 

teacher of 9th grade section A has given her the opportunity to promote effective parental 

involvement in student education. Janou has one daughter. Her hobbies include manual arts, 

aerobics, and dancing. Her primary objective for participating is to learn new methodologies for 

engaging students to be more active. 

India 

Suryakumari Chaganti, Social Studies Teacher (History) 

Johnson Grammar School (ICSE) 

Hyderabad, India (Population: 6,255,256) 


Suryakumari Chaganti has been teaching history at Johnson Grammar School for the past 20 

years to students of the 14-16 year age group. On average there are 35 students in her class. She 

has been playing an active role in training peers in methodology and evaluation and has 

conducted workshops for teachers to enhance subject skills. Suryakumari holds a Master’s 

degree in Sociology and a specialization in Education with a Master’s degree. She is married 

with two children. Her objectives for participating in TEA are to explore new methodologies and 

approaches, share her ideas, and to bring back insights so as to enrich her own peers and pupils. 

Vimala Angelina Dorairaj Peter, History Teacher 

Alpha Matriculation Higher Secondary School 

Chennai, India (Population: 4.34 million) 

U.S. Host University: George Mason University

Vimala Angelina has been teaching in Alpha Matriculation for the past 14 years. The age of her 

students range from 13-16 years and on average there are 45 students in her class. She is an 

active member of various committees such as Quiz, display board, cultural ISA, etc. She is the 

author of a matriculation book for classes 6 to 9 (history and civics). She conducts training 

programs for teachers from her school and the teachers of other schools. She is a trained postgraduate 

from Madras University. She is married and has two children. Participating in this 

program will help her to learn new methodologies in teaching to make the classroom interesting 

and interactive. 

Rugmini Menon Kongattil, English Teacher 

Kendriya Vidyalaya 

Palakkad, Kerala, India (Population: 2,617,072) 


Rugmini Menon K. has been a teacher in a government higher secondary school for the past 20 

years. Her academic qualifications include a Master’s degree in English, a Bachelor’s degree in 

Education, and a Post-Graduate certificate in Teaching English. She has been trained as a Master 

Trainer and also as a Key Resource Person. She takes keen interest in coordinating various 

activities in her school. She is the recipient of the Best Teacher Award 2008 at both the district 

and state level. The average size of her class is 45 students. She handles classes for students 

between the ages of 11-16. Rugmini is married and is a proud mother of two daughters. She likes 

to read, cook, and listen to music during her leisure. During the TEA program she hopes to hone 

her teaching skills by interacting with fellow-teachers round the globe. 

Swapna Nair, Social Science Teacher 

Dav Boys Senior Secondary School 



Swapna Nair has been teaching for 19 years. Currently she has been the secondary grade teacher 

in a leading private school for 6 years. Swapna is the recipient of Best Teacher Award at the city, 

state, and national (runner-up) level. She headed a school for the under-privileged for a year. 

Swapna holds an M. Phil (history), M.A., and B. Ed. She is single with a twenty year old son. An 

avid traveler, Swapna has been to 18 countries. Her objective for participating in TEA is to gain 

perspective as to changing the world as an educator. 

Sarada Narendranath, Social Science Teacher 

Bhavan’s Rajaji Vidyashram 



Sarada Narendranath has been teaching environmental studies and social science at a secondary 

school for the past 13 years. The average age of her students is 15 years. Generally, there are 40 

students per class. She is the Head of Department of social science and has trained her peers 

regarding curriculum based teaching, teaching methodology and conducting workshops. She is 

also an educational consultant for other schools. She has a PG degree in history from the Madras

University and a Bachelor’s degree in Education too. She is married with two grown up sons. 

Her hobbies include travelling, music, sports, and theater. She wants to explore new 

methodologies through TEA. 

Dr. P. T. Sreekumar, Social Studies Teacher (Political Science) 

K.K.M.H.S.S. 

Palkkad District, India (Population: 2,617,072) 


P. T. Sreekumar has been teaching political science for the last 17 years at an aided higher 

secondary school in Palakkad district, Keralam. He has served as a State Level Trainer and 

Resource person. The age of his students range from 15-17 years, and typically there are 60 

students in his class. He obtained post graduate degrees in politics and education and received a 

Ph.D. He has also completed a certificate course in counseling. He is married and has one 

daughter. Traveling and meeting people are his two hobbies. Through TEA, Sreekumar would 

like to interact with the young minds in the U.S. as well as enhance his expertise and skill in 

teaching. 

Devika Raman, Social Science Teacher 

Padma Seshadri Bala Bhavan Senior Secondary School 



Devika Raman has been part of Padma Seshadri School teaching social science for the past 22 

years. The age of her students range from 14-16 years old, and on average there are 35 students 

in her class. Devika has been actively involving herself in counseling her students with 

emotional support and thus building confidence in them. She has been part of the International 

Youth Award accompanying children in their various activities. She has been an active member 

of all the cultural programs held in the school. Devika has done her Masters in history, 

Bachelor’s Degree in commerce, and completed a certificate course in human resources 

development. She is passionate about music and theater arts and she takes keen interest in 

developing her culinary skills. Devika is married, with one son and a daughter. Her primary 

objective of participating in TEA is to achieve excellence in her teaching by adopting various 

methodologies shared with teachers of various schools from different countries. 

Mahalakshmi Ramjee, Geography Teacher 

PSBB Senior Secondary School 



In a teaching career spanning over a decade, Mahalakshmi Ramjee has been teaching a variety of 

subjects with postgraduate degrees in geography, English, education, and economics to her 

credit. She conducts workshops for teachers on teaching methodologies, evaluation techniques, 

map skills and value education apart from training pupils for national and international 

competitions. She has played an active role in our Global School Partnership Program, funded by 

the British Council, in the capacity of assistant coordinator. She has a highly supportive husband

and a daughter. Her hobbies include reading, writing poems, dancing and theater. She firmly 

believes that TEA will help her to learn new classroom methodologies, assessment techniques, 

and strategic activity models on a global scale which she can share with the teaching community 

at large and continue her quest for excellence in education. 

Vinoda Harikrishna Rao, English Teacher 

Carmel High School 

Bangalore, India (Population: 6.2 million) 


Vinoda Rao has been teaching English language and literature at a private school for the past ten 

years. Her total work experience includes twelve years. The age group of her students is 13-15 

years old. There are 45 students on an average in each class. Vinoda participates periodically in 

seminars, workshops, and training programs to upgrade her knowledge and teaching skills. She 

conducts in-house training for her colleagues at school. Vinoda holds a Master’s degree in 

English, Bachelor’s in education, a diploma in freelance journalism and a diploma in educational 

management. She is married and has two sons. Her hobbies are reading, writing, music, acting. 

Participation in the TEA program will enable her to learn, adopt, and implement new 

methodologies. 

Lakshmi Ravindran, Social Studies Teacher (History) 

Lady Andal Venkatasubba RAO School 



Lakshmi is an enthusiastic teacher of history at a secondary school, where she has taught for the 

past 11 years. Her students are between the ages of 12 and 17 years old. She guides her student 

in many inter-school competitions. She has attended many workshops on effective teaching. 

Lakshmi received a pre-PhD. (Master of Philosophy) degree in history from the Madras 

University in 1992. She is married with two children, and her hobbies include exploring the 

unexplored. Her main objective for participating in the TEA program is to use technology for 

effective teaching and also imbibe various teaching methodologies. 

Pramila Achamma Sriram, Economics Teacher 

Green Valley Mat. Hr. Sec. School 

Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India (Population: 4.34 million) 


Pramila A. Sriram has been teaching English, social studies, and economics at a private higher 

secondary school for the past 5 years. Prior to this she taught in another private school. The ages 

of her students range from 13-17 years and there are around 30 students in her class. She is in 

charge of the morning assembly as well as the examination department. She is a post graduate in 

economics and also has a teaching degree. She is a gold medalist and state rank holder in general 

English and Hindi. Her interests include reading and spending time with her children. She is a 

widow with a son and a daughter. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is for the 

benefit of the less privileged children whom she teaches.

Kazakhstan 

Tatyana Botova, English Teacher 

Gimnasium 1 

Taraz, Kazakhstan (Population: 360,000) 


Tatyana Botova has been teaching English language and Practice of Oral and Written Speech for 

15 years. The age of her students range from 13-16 years old, and on average there are 60 

students in her classes. Tatyana is the Head of the School English Faculty, an active member of 

TATE, teacher-trainer of Impact Program, Interlink Resources and the author of the curriculum 

―Practice of Oral and Written Speech.‖ Tatyana is divorced with two children: a son who is a 

university student and a daughter who is a student in the 9th form. Her hobbies are reading, 

listening to music, and swimming. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to achieve 

better methodological skills, to share her new experiences with colleagues, and to engage her 

students in a classroom setting. 

Lyudmila Gorzhuy, English Teacher 


Village Fedorovka, Kazakhstan (Population: 5,819) 


Lyudmila Gorzhuy was born in Kazakhstan and has been working in the system of education for 

13 years. She has experience teaching different levels of pupils: from the 2nd up to the 11th 

grade. Her professional experience is rather varied: a teacher of secondary school, a counterpart 

of Peace Corps volunteer, a trainer at oblast and local teachers’ courses. She has been working in 

the experimental program organized by the Republican National Pedagogical Centre of 12-year 

education. Lyudmila has a very good ability to work in a team environment, she has strong 

leadership qualities and is energetic, inspiring other people to get organized and achieve good 

results. She is married and has one son. Her hobbies are reading and singing in a local folk choir. 

Her primary goal for participating in TEA is to improve classroom management and new ideas 

of motivating and involving students in the process of studying English. 

Galiya Kabytayeva, English Teacher 

School #6 

Stepnogorsk, Kazakhstan (Population: 40,000) 


Galiya Kabytayeva has been teaching English at a public secondary school for the past 26 years. 

The age of her students range from 7-16 years old, and on average there are 25 students in her 

class. Galiya provides trainings for her peers in teaching methodology. Galiya is married with 

two sons and her hobbies include reading and making music and compositions. Her primary 

objective for participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies for engaging students in 

more active classroom work.

Roman Kuzembayev, English Teacher 

School #3 

Alga, Kazakhstan (Population: 20,000) 


Roman Kuzembayev works at a secondary school. He has been teaching English since 2000. The 

age of his students range from 11-17 years old and on average there are 15 students in his class. 

He has been working with U.S. Peace Corps volunteers in Kazakhstan since 2003. He likes to 

work with motivated young people. He is married and has two daughters who he loves very 

much. Roman’s hobby is singing. He likes to sing national Kazakh songs and he also likes to 

watch football matches on TV. 

Tatyana Perevezentseva, History Teacher 


Aktobe, Kazakhstan (Population: 400,000) 


Tatyana Perevezentseva graduated from Aktobe State Pedagogical Institute, Department of 

History, in 1995. She has been teaching World History and History of Kazakhstan, integrated 

courses in History, Social Studies, and computer science at a public secondary school for 13 

years. The age of her students range from 11 – 15 years old, and on average there are 20 students 

in her class. She also provides management to students’ research projects. She is a team member 

of Aktobe History Teachers’ Methodical Association, The Modern Technologies Approbation’s 

Center, School #1. Since 2005 she has been a postgraduate student working on her dissertation in 

Pedagogy. She is married with one young daughter and her hobbies are travelling, reading, and 

listening to music. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to explore how the method 

of projects is used by American teachers. 

Olga Pirmatova, English Teacher 

Liceum "Best" 

Petropavlovsk, Kazakhstan (Population: 200,920) 


Olga Pirmatova has been teaching English as a second language at a public secondary school for 

the past 11 years. The age of her students range from 8—15, and on average there are 12 students 

in each group. Olga is a young teachers’ trainer and she gives recommendations how to improve 

lessons’ organization and prompts professional self development at teachers’ meetings. She got 

her diploma in English from Shymkent Pedagogical University in 1998. Olga is married with 

two young daughters who are 3 and 8 years old. Her hobbies are gardening, reading, and sports. 

Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to increase her professional knowledge, and to 

explore the best language teaching models. 

Yelena Plaxina, English Teacher 

School #8 

Shymkent, Kazakhstan (Population: 540,000) 


Yelena Plaxina has beee teaching English at a public secondary school for the past 10 years. The 

age of her students range from 15-18, and on average there are 28 students in her class. Yelena 

provides training and workshops for Shymkent teachers. Yelena received a bachelor’s degree in 

English from South-Kazakhstan State University in 2000. Yelena is married with two young 

daughters. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies for 

engaging students to improve their involvement and performance. 

Kyrgyzstan 

Zhainagul Abdyraeva, English Teacher 

School #8 

Naryn, Kyrgyzstan (Population: 269,000) 


Zhainagul Abdyraeva has been teaching English language as a foreign language at a public 

secondary school for the past 8 years. The age of her students range from 11-16 years old. She 

provides trainings for her peers in teaching methodology. She received higher education in 

English from Naryn State University in 2003. She is married with a son who is 5 years old and 

her hobbies are growing flowers and reading. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is 

to develop and increase her knowledge and active classroom setting. 

Gulsara Ablasova, English Teacher 

Chui Oblast School Gymnasium 

Tash Dobo, Chui, Kyrgyzstan (Population: 60,000) 


Gulsara Ablasova has been teaching English at a secondary school since 1972. She teaches 

students from the 5th to 11th grades (the age of her students range from 11 to 17). She actively 

volunteers with the English Discussion Club at school, teaching her students to debate in 

English. She also provides trainings for her peers in teaching methodology. She’s married and 

has two adult sons and two granddaughters. Her hobbies include walking in the countryside. Her 

goal for participating in TEA is to explore new methodologies for engaging her students. 

Eliza Akhtemova, English Teacher 


Karakol, Kyrgyzstan (Population 70,000) 


Eliza Akhtemova has been teaching English language at a public secondary school for 5 years. 

The age of her students range from 13-17 years old, and on average there are 15 students in each 

of her classes. Eliza is an active member of the regional English teachers’ association ―Forum‖. 

In addition, she freelances at the local youth volunteer organization ―Leadership,‖ where Eliza 

provides trainings for her peers and youth in leadership, advocacy, team building, creative 

writing, critical thinking and project management. Eliza received a Bachelor’s degree in teaching

English language from Karakol Affiliate of Moscow Institute of Entrepreneurship and Law in 

2006. Eliza is single. Her hobby is sewing national souvenirs and volunteering. Her primary 

objective for participating in TEA is to learn and acquire more skills and knowledge that will 

bring some positive democratic changes for her school and community. She seeks fresh ideas 

and new concepts for innovative teaching. 

Nicaragua 

Mario Antonio Montiel Montes, English Teacher 

Colegio San Jose 

Masaya, Nicaragua (Population: 146,000) 


Mario Antonio Montiel has been teaching English for 20 years. He works for a public school. He 

has a Bachelor’s degree in English translation from U.C.A. Managua. He has been working with 

young people from the Peace Corps. He has provided training in teaching methodologies and 

ideas to his peers. He wants to learn a lot from TEA. He is married and has two children, and he 

likes long walks. 

Henry Soriano Zepeda, English Teacher 

National Institute of Chinandega 

Chinandega, Nicaragua (Population: 197,775) 


Henry Soriano Zepeda has been teaching English at a public secondary school for the past 10 

years. His students are 16 years old and there are 43 in each class. He is the head of the English 

department in his school, where he has given advice and help to English teachers in planning. He 

also gives training workshops about methodologies and lesson planning to English teachers in 

the region. He received a degree as an English teacher from National Autonomous University of 

Nicaragua in 2003. He is married with a son and a daughter. His hobbies are painting, making 

ceramics, and reading. His primary objective is to explore new methodologies that will help his 

students to learn English easily and well. 

Xiomara Valverde Hernández, English Teacher 

Nicaraguan Binational Center 

Managua, Nicaragua (Population: 1.6 million) 


Xiomara Valverde has been teaching English, civics, geography, and history at a public and 

private secondary school for the past 15 years. The age of her students range from 11-18 years 

old, and on average there are 40 students in her class. She lives in Dinamba but teaches in 

Dolores at Benito Salinas high school. She provides training for her peers in teaching 

methodology. She studied English at UNAN where she received a Bachelor’s degree and two 

post-graduates. She is married with two young daughters. Her hobbies include reading and

listening to music. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to learn new techniques and 

methodology to reproduce them in Nicaragua. 

Senegal 

Djibril Diouf, English Teacher 

Babacar Cobar Ndao High School 

Kaffrine, Senegal (Population: 5,881) 


Djibril Diouf has been teaching for six years at a public secondary school. His school is 200 

kilometers away form his native town and the Senegalese capital city. The age of his students 

range from 16-18 and on average there are 60 students in his class. He is the coordinator of the 

mixed cell, gathering all secondary school English teachers of the department. He would like to 

take part in the program so as to be more equipped to face the everyday challenges of the class. 

Aboubacar Sadith Gaye, English Teacher 

Demba Diop Secondary High School 

Mbour, Senegal (Population: 800,000) 


Aboubacar Gaye has been teaching English for nearly 10 years. The age of his students vary 

between 16 to 22 years old, and on average his class size is 50 students. He is an active member 

of his department cell. He received his Masters of Arts degree in 1994 at Cheikh Anta Diop 

University, Dakar, and his CAES (a degree in teaching methods) at ENS, Dakar. He is married 

with two young daughters, and he enjoys movies and sports. His primary goal for participating in 

TEA is to improve his teaching. 

Julienne Paule Lishou, English Teacher 

Sorbonne Junior High School 

Bignona, Senegal (Population: 26,237) 


Julienne Lishou has been teaching English language at a public junior high school for nine years. 

The age of her students is between 13 and 16 years old, and they range from the first form to the 

fourth form. Julienne has an average of 50 students in each class. She is also a dynamic member 

of her school’s English club. She is the Resident Pedagogical Adviser in her area. In 1999, she 

received a certificate from the Teachers’ Training School. Julienne has one daughter, who is 

three years old. Her main objective for participating in the TEA program is to exchange and to 

get more experience about the teaching of English. Her hobbies include songs and games and 

going to the beach. 

Amadou Sall, English Teacher 

CEM Sikilo Quest School

Kolda, Senegal (Population: 60,000) 


Amadou All has been teaching English language at a public grammar school for the past 10 

years. His students’ range in age from 12-18 years old, and there are typically 80 students in his 

class. He provides training for his peers on lesson planning and integrating new teaching 

techniques. Amadou received a Bachelor’s degree in 2007 from Dakar University and a 

certificate of qualification for teaching English in secondary schools. Amadou is single and has a 

two-year old son. His hobbies include football and visiting zoos. He looks forward to acquiring 

new teaching techniques and skills for managing large classrooms. 

Tajikistan 

Qamargul Esoeva, English Teacher 

American School 

Dushanbe, Tajikistan (Population: 679,400) 


Qamargul Esoeva teaches history, science and language arts for the 3rd and 6th grade subjects 

based on American curriculum and textbooks. An extra hour she dedicates to planning, 

reviewing and assisting the children with their assignments. She received her Master’s degree in 

English language in India Pune University. She likes to spend her time with her family. Her 

hobbies include jazz music and cooking. 

Zeboniso Muradova, English Teacher 

Secondary School # 1 

Sarband, Tajikistan (Population: 35,000) 


Zeboniso Muradova has been teaching English language since 2003 in the secondary school # 1 

in the town of Sarband. Zeboniso graduated from State Pedagogical University, faculty of 

foreign languages in Kurgan-Tube in 2004. She teaches 5th through 11th grades. The average 

number of students in her class is 30. Zeboniso is also the head of the English teacher association 

unit at her school. She gathers young English teachers once a month and gives advice and 

discusses different topics. In addition, Zeboniso is also the manager of the Internet Learning 

Center (ILC) in the school. It is in this capacity that she oversees the activities of the different 

student clubs and groups housed within the ILC: for example, the English Club, Youth 

Leadership Club, Literature Club, and Youth Journalistic Club. 

Muyassar Nasarova, English Teacher 

School # 53 

Kanibadam, Tajikistan (Population: 

U.S. Host University: University of North Dakota

Muyassar Nasarova has been teaching English at a secondary school for 18 years. The age of her 

students range from 11-16 years old. She is a leader of the Method Union at her school and a 

teacher trainer in her district and zone. She provides trainings for teachers in teaching 

methodology and material design. She provides English circle sessions at school and she has a 

group of ACCESS students. She received a diploma in teaching English from Khujanol State 

Pedagogical Institute in 1990, and a Certificate of Mentor from the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe in 

2008. She is married and has 3 daughters. Her hobbies are writing poems and singing. Her 

primary goals for participating in TEA are to develop her professional skills and explore new 

methodologies in teaching English. 

Turkmenistan 

Gulshirin Agayeva, English Teacher 


Shatlyk, Turkmenistan (Population: 12,000) 


Gulshirin Agayeva has been teaching English literature and language at a public secondary 

school for the past seven years. The age of her students range from 12-17 years old, and on 

average there are 24 students in her class. Gulshirin received a bachelor’s degree in English from 

Turkmen National Institute of World Languages in Ashgabat in 1998 and a certificate in teaching 

methods from the same institute. Gulshirin has one daughter. Her hobbies are knitting and 

reading. 

Habiba Orunowa, English Teacher 


Turkemnabat, Turkmenistan (Population: 240,000) 


Habiba Orunowa has been teaching English language at a secondary school for the past 8 years. 

The age of her students range from 9-15 years old, and on average there are 30-52 students in the 

class. She is an active member of the school’s clubs such as the English club, grammar club, and 

drama club. She also provides trainings for her colleagues in computer skills. Habiba received 

her diploma in English from Turkmenabat Pedagogical Institute in 2000. She is married and has 

a daughter. Her hobbies include cooking, drawing, painting, organizing drama performances, and 

photography. Her main objectives for participating in TEA are engaging in cross-cultural 

activities, teamwork and cooperation, developing the best possibilities for education in her 

country, and exploring new methods of teaching her students. Her aim is to give maximum 

knowledge to every single student. 

Gulshat Owilyaguliyeva, English Teacher 


Atamyrat, Turkmenistan (Population: 32,000) 

U.S. Host University: University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Gulshat Owilyaguliyeva has been teaching English literature and language at a public secondary 

school for the past 7 years. The age of her students range from 10-16 years old, and on average 

there are 15 students in her class. She is an active member of school committees where she 

works on research in teaching methodologies for local English teachers. As a supervisor of 

English teachers she provides English teaching resources and seminars for local teachers. She is 

responsible for developing curriculum units and for composing lesson plans. She received a 

diploma at the Pedagogical Institute. She is married, has one daughter, and her hobbies include 

reading, singing, and listening to music. Her objectives for participating in TEA are to explore 

new methodologies, new teaching components, and effective methods for students and teachers. 

Ukraine 

Viktoriya Boychenko, English Teacher 

Secondary School #2- Gymnasium 

Dobrovelychivka, Kirovohrad oblast, Ukraine 


Viktoriya Boychenko has been teaching English language at a secondary school-gymnasium for 

10 years. She teachers students between the ages of 12 and 15 and generally has 10-12 students 

in her class. She is an active member and leader of the school European Club, a member of the 

Committee of the Regional Initiatives, a member of the District Committee, which deals with 

youth problems. Viktoriya provides seminars for her peers in teaching methodology. This year 

she received the qualification category of High Specialist. She is married with two sons and her 

hobbies include listening to music, singing, dancing, and reading. She hope that through the TEA 

program she will gain new knowledge of methodologies and techniques in teaching her students 

foreign languages as well as be able to share the experience she gains on her arrival home. 

Olena Dmytriieva, English Teacher 


Odessa, Ukraine (Population 1,000,000) 


Olena has been teaching English for the past 19 years. Her students range in age from 11-14. She 

is an active member of the school methodological society, and she also conducts Masters-level 

classes for young teachers. She received her Bachelor’s degree in English from Odessa State 

University in 1988. Olena has two children and likes reading, cooking, and traveling. Her 

primary objective for taking part in TEA is to broaden her knowledge and improve the 

productivity of her work, to find a high-relationship style in leadership and match her style to the 

needs of her school. 

Nataliia Kanarska, Social Studies Teacher (History and Civic Education) 

Secondary School 

Ladyzhyn, Ukraine (Population: 23,000) 


Natalia Kanarska has been teaching history and civic education at a public secondary school for 

the last 15 years. Her students range from 12-16 years old, and, on average, there are 30 students 

in my class. She is an organizer of teen groups to volunteer at the Regional Boarding House for 

Disabled children. She is a leader of a youth club in her school as well. Natalia is married and 

has a twelve year old daughter. Theater and music are her hobbies. Her main aim for taking part 

in TEA is to explore new methodologies. 

Oleksandr Korotkov, English Teacher 

Sofiivsko-Borhschagivska Specialized School of Foreign Languages 

Village Sofiivsko- Borhschagivska, Ukraine (Population: 12,000) 


Oleksandr Korotkov has been teaching English at a public secondary school for the past 10 

years. His students range in age from 11-15 years old and there are generally 12 students in his 

class. Oleksandr is the Head of the Foreign Languages Teacher Association in Kyero- 

Sviatoshynskyi rayon and has a lot of responsibilities. He helps teachers to improve their 

personal and professional skills through organizing conferences, seminars, workshops, etc. 

Oleksandr received a specialist degree in English from Mykolaiv State Pedagogical University in 

2002 and a certificate in teaching methods from the same university. He is married with a young 

son and his hobbies are skiing and publishing. Through taking part in TEA, he seeks to explore 

new methodologies and teaching strategies for motivating students to gain new knowledge and 

improve their personal skills. 

Ievgeniia Romaniuk, English Teacher 

Lutsk Gymnasium No. 18 

Lutsk, Ukraine (Population: 209,200) 


Ievgeniia Romaniuk has been teaching English language at Lutsk Gymnasium 18 for the past 

five and half years. Her students are between the ages of 12 and 14 years old. Ievgeniia is an 

active member of the school scientific group, in which she guides and helps students to write 

their scientific research. She is also a trainer at the In-Service Teacher Training Institute. 

Ievgeniia received a specialist’s degree in Russian language and literature and English language 

from Volyn State University in 2003. Her hobbies include dancing and reading. Her primary 

objective for participating in TEA is to explore the new teaching methods for effectively 

involving students into the learning process. 

Olga Shevchenka, English Teacher 

School Lyceum 

Zhmerynka, Vinnytska Oblast, Ukraine (Population: 36,000) 


Olga Shevchenka has been teaching English language and country studies at a public secondary 

school for the past seven years. Her students range from 7-16 years old and her classes typically 

have about 20 students. Olga is an active member of the school life. She is the head of the 

Methodical Commission and the secretary of the Pedagogical Council. Olga received a diploma

as a specialist in English from Vinnytsia Pedagogical University in 2001. Olga is single. Her 

hobbies include reading and knitting. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to get and 

share new ideas in teaching English and to be involved in the international methodological 

process. 

Liudmyla Valentynivna Talashkevych, English Teacher 


Novoukrainka, Kirovohrad region, Ukraine (Population: 20,000) 


Liudmyla Talashkevych has taught English language at her school for the past 23 years. Her 

students range from 8-17 years old, and there are usually 22 students in her class. Liudmyla is an 

active member of her school’s teacher committee, in which she has played a role in promoting 

effective methods of teaching technologies and increasing students’ interests in learning school 

subjects. She also provides trainings for her peers in teaching methodology at the meetings of the 

district English teachers’ committee. Liudmyla has been classified within the High Qualification 

Category. She graduated from Kirovohrad Pedagogical Institute in 1980. She is married with a 

daughter and son, and her hobbies include reading, growing plants, playing badminton, and 

traveling. She hopes that her participation in TEA will allow her to explore new methodologies 

for engaging students in a more participatory and active classroom setting, to improve language 

skills, expand her knowledge on American life and culture, and to accumulate the best 

achievements in modern methodologies based on the participants’ experiences. 

Oksana Yerokhina, English Teacher 

Zabotin Grammar School #3 

Kherson, Ukraine (Population: 361,000) 


Oksana Yerokhina has taught English at Zabotin Grammar School #3 for the last 13 years. She 

teaches students between the ages of 11 and 17 years old and typically has 16 students in her 

class. She is a member of school methodological council, the head of the foreign language 

teachers’ methodological unit at school, and is responsible for consulting inexperienced teachers. 

Oksana graduated from Kherson State Pedagogical Institute in 1995 and received a diploma. She 

is not married, and has one son. Her hobbies are traveling, swimming, and singing. By 

participating in TEA, Oksana aims to gain experience with self-administration work, new 

methods, teaching in mixed-abilities classes, as well as individual and research work for her 

students. 

Ruslana Zavodskova, English Teacher 

Specialized Secondary School 

Mykolaiv, Ukraine (Population: 500,000) 


Ruslana Zavodskova has been teaching English language at this school for the past 26 years. The 

age of her students range from 10-16 years old, and on average there are 12 students in her class 

group. She is a class mistress and the head of the Class Teachers Department of her school. She

promotes the effective methodological work for her peers. Being the lecturer of the Mukolaiv 

Center for Teaching Training, she provides language trainings for the teachers of the city. She 

received a diploma from Odessa State University in 1980 with a specialization in ―English 

language and literature, Philologist, Interpreter.‖ Ruslana is married and has two sons. Her 

hobbies are theater, cooking, and reading. Within the TEA program, she hopes to explore new 

methodologies for developing students’ and teachers’ leadership qualities and to engage them in 

creative activities. 

Uzbekistan 

Rashit Elmuratov, English Teacher 

Lyceum #3 

Nukus, Uzbekistan (Population: 350,000) 


Rashit Elmuratov has been teaching English at a public secondary school for the past 8 years. 

His students range is age from 15-17 years old, and, generally, there are about 30 students in his 

class. He has been a member of UzTEA since 2000 and takes an active part in his lyceum’s 

cultural and civic activities. He also provides trainings for his peers in teaching methodology and 

helps their methodologist to prepare exam materials for their winter and summer terms. He 

received a Bachelor’s degree in English in 2000 and a Master’s degree in Linguistics in 2004 

from Karakalpak State University. He is married and has a daughter and son. He likes meeting 

new people and is interested in learning foreign languages, playing football, and working on the 

computer. His main goals for the program are to learn more about the U.S. teaching 

methodologies and to develop new ideas and exchange experiences with U.S. English teachers, 

in order to make his classes more productive and engage his students to take an active part in his 

classes. 

Adhamjon Juraev, English Teacher 

No. 2 Secondary Specialised School 

Buvayda district, Fergana oblast, Uzbekistan (Population: 152,000) 


Adhamjon Juraev has been teaching English language at a public secondary school for the past 

10 years. The age of his students range from 13-16 years old, and on average there are 30 

students in his class. Adhamjon is Head of the Development Center in the school, where he 

supervises, advises and helps students in their school life. He also organizes extracurricular 

activities in English and provides training for his peers in teaching methodology. Adhamjon 

received a Bachelor’s degree in English from Fergana State University in 1999. He is married 

with two young kids, and his hobbies include playing soccer and reading books. His primary 

objective for participating in TEA is to gather new experiences and knowledge, which can make 

him a more effective teacher and enable him to teacher higher level English instruction.

Otabek Kobiljonov, English Teacher 

School number 13 

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (Population: 2,500,000) 


Otabek Kobiljonov has been working as a teacher of English for 10 years at public schools and 

technical colleges. The age of his students range from 11-16 years old, and, on average, there are 

10 students in his class. In 2003, Kobiljonov attended the three-week teacher training seminars 

organized by the Open Society Institute Uzbekistan Assistance Program. After completing the 

course, Kobiljonov led similar seminar workshops to those which he had attended. Kobiljonov 

received a Bachelor’s degree in English from Uzbekistan State World Languages University in 

2003 and a Master’s degree in English from the same university in 2005. He is planning to marry 

this August. His main objectives for TEA are to study the ways of developing expertise in his 

subject area, enhance his teaching skills, and increase his knowledge about the United States, and 

to have an opportunity to take part in an intensive training in teaching methodologies, lesson 

planning, teaching strategies for his home environment, and educational leadership 

Fotima Rafikova, English Teacher 

Secondary Specialized Education – NamII Academic Lyceum 

Namangan, Uzbekistan (Population: 2,228,000) 


Fotima Rafikova has been teaching as an English teacher for the period of more than 6 years in 

public secondary school and secondary specialized education – academic lyceum. The age of her 

students range from 15-17 years old. An average number of students in her classes is nearly 30. 

During English language courses, the students are divided evenly into two groups, while during 

their once-a-week pre-specialty courses they attend as one group. Rafikova usually gives lessons 

using new pedagogical technology on interactive methods of teaching. She also holds an English 

Club, ―Eager Beavers‖, in which she teaches students with great enthusiasm. Rafikova received a 

Bachelor’s degree in English from Namangan State University in 2000 and a certificate in 

teaching methods from Andijan Foreign Languages Institute. She is married and has a son and a 

daughter. Her hobbies include reading books and cooking. Her main objective is to learn new 

technological methods to involve students in an active and enjoyable classroom. 

Nargul Rozimova, English Teacher 

Academic Lyceum #2 under Urgench State University 

Urgench, Uzbekistan (Population: 130,000) 


Nargul Rozimova has been teaching English literature and language for the past 18 years. The 

age of her students range from 16-19 years old, and on average there are 17 students is each 

group. She is a member of UzTea association of Khorezm branch and she always attends 

trainings and seminar workshops of UzTea. She always seeks and searches new interactive 

methods to teach English. She uses English websites and does online exercises in order to 

enhance her English language proficiency. Recently, she has given a workshop at UzTea Annual 

Forum 2009 Conference in Tashkent. She is a mentor for beginner teachers. Currently she is

working individually on her academic reading and writing skills. She is married and has a son. 

Her hobbies are reading and music. Her primary objective for participating in TEA is to explore 

new methodologies for engaging students in a more participatory and active classroom setting. 

Gulchehra Suyundukova, English Teacher 

No. 2 Academic Lyceum, under Jizzek State Pedagogical Institute 

Jizzak, Uzbekistan (Population: 124,000) 


Gulchehra Suyundukova has been teaching English language at No. 2 Academic Lyceum under 

JSPI for a year. Prior to this, she worked at ―Umid‖ boarding school for 11 years. Suyundukova 

is an active member of the methodical union of English teachers at the lyceum. She also provides 

methodological training for her fellow peers. Suyundukova received a philologist’s degree in 

foreign languages from Samarkand State University in 1989 and a certificate in translating from 

Jizzak Regional Centre for foreign languages in 1998. She has two children, and she enjoys 

reading. Through the TEA program, she hopes to explore new methodologies for teaching 

students in a more active classroom setting. 

Natalya Yusupova, English Teacher 


Chirchik, Uzbekistan (Population: 142,000) 


Natalya Yusupova has been teaching English at a public secondary school for the past 16 years. 

Her students range from 7 to 16 years of age, and there is an average of 35 students in her class. 

Yusupova is an active member of the national UzTEA (Uzbekistan Teacher of English 

Association). She is also a leader of the Chirchik UzTEA branch. Yusupova has participated in 

many teacher training seminars and also provides trainings for her peers in teaching 

methodology. She has also taken part in national and international conferences of teachers of 

English. Yusupova graduated from the Tashkent State University (faculty of journalism) in 1983 

and received a certificate in teaching English in 2002. She is married and has three adult children 

and one grandson. Her hobbies include music (playing the accordion) and knitting. The main 

goals she hopes to achieve through the TEA program are to explore new ways of learning 

English, new methodologies for engaging students in a more participatory and active classroom 

setting, and to elaborate on and collect new teaching resources.

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