Ross is an English Language Learning Coordinator at BASIS International School in Shenzhen, China. Originally from the United States, he has a Master ‘s degree in Education with a focus on Integrative Learning and Technology in Education.
Professionally, he is working on developing better strategies to integrate more students into support services, with better allowances for second language learners, as well as furthering techniques for differentiation across student populations that have many concerns.

Ross’ non-educational interests include reading, dancing, and various flavors of role-playing games.

Master of Education
Bachelor of Education Studies
Certificate in Advanced Leadership

I possess over 30 years of experience in education at both national and international level and have taught in ten countries. Currently I am the Early Years and Primary Assistant Principal responsible for PreK ““ Grade 2 at Shen Wai International School. I have led teams and committees to develop curriculum, influence and mentor new teachers and empower them to take risks and affect positive outcomes.

My varied international experiences and cultural background has enabled me to value trust, collaboration and building positive and firm relationships with the professional community. As an experienced international educator, my collective core competencies contribute to my commitment to building a community of inquirers and knowledgeable professionals.

As a researcher, writer, regional conference presenter, school evaluator and educator promoting inclusion, inquiry and self-determined learners, I believe that all students can learn when given the best fit transactional support to make them successful. This I hope to achieve as I serve our community here in Shenzhen and beyond.

Master of Library and Information Science
Bachelor of Science
ISTE Certified Educator
Microsoft Innovative Educator Trainer & Apple Teacher

Silky Vyas is presently the EY and PYP ICT Coach at Shen Wai International School, Shenzhen.

With more than twelve years of teaching experience in IB schools, she collaborates with teachers to integrate technology and information fluency skills into the curriculum.

She coaches the classroom and specialist teachers to use technology to create, adapt and personalize learning experiences for all students and empower them as independent learners.

She is passionate about new technology tools for making teaching and learning compelling, relevant, and with rigor. She is also keen on exploring the uses of immersive and assistive technology tools that are meaningful, engaging, and interactive.

Matt is the 4th-grade EAL teacher at Shekou International School in Shenzhen, China. Originally from the United States, he has a bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Miami University and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction with an ESL focus from the University of Virginia.

Prior to working at SIS, he was the learning support teacher at the Australian International School Bangkok. He also served on the SENIA Thailand Board of Directors acting as the organization’s Treasurer. Before working in Thailand he was an elementary ESL teacher at a local Taiwanese public school in Taipei, Taiwan.

Professionally, he is interested in support services delivery and organizational structures, strategies for students with Dyslexia, and finding ways of supporting students who have both language and learning needs.

Matt’s non-educational interests include cycling, badminton, hiking, fitness, reading, all things related to green tea, and trying out new cafes.

Hosted by the LDA General Manager, Michael Roberts, this week’s WWW is a recording of Louisa’s presentation from the 2021 LDA National Conference. So, if you weren’t able to attend the conference, this is your chance to catch up on some of what you missed https://www.ldaustralia.org/conferences-and-seminars/
If you would like to access past webinars, the Learning Difficulties Australia YouTube Channel is a wealth of information https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTIx6qtzWNgbPxz5fYzjYcw

https://www.ldaustralia.org/conferences-and-seminars/

https://www.ldaustralia.org/conferences-and-seminars/

Our April 17 virtual event was attended by over 60 people, and received rave reviews. Thanks for the positive support and feedback! We hope to host another similar event soon.
As promised, these are the recorded interviews with all of our guests. Materials promised will be emailed to participants, and watch our Facebook page for articles recommended. 


Alicia Chodkiewicz: Creating a Student Snapshot from the Psycho-educational Evaluation

Vera den Otter & Susannah McGlamery: Building resiliency and social emotional competencies in the classroom (focus on the upper school age student)

Kerry Mees: Supporting Students with Language Difficulties in the Primary Years

Nele Geuns: Sensory Integration Strategies in the classroom

Petal Jaffrey: Building resiliency and social emotional competencies in the classroom (focus on the young child and families)

Caroline is a passionate advocate for students with disabilities, and their families. She has been educating children since 1995 and is currently an Assistant Principal and Students with Disabilities Coordinator, with a Masters of Education (Leadership & Management) and a Bachelor of Children & Families (0-14yrs). Caroline has two teenage boys with learning disabilities, which, for Caroline, reinforced the importance of advocating for our young people with disabilities, so they can have the same opportunities as their peers.

Come visit SENIA-Beijing at the Jing Kids International School Expo Beijing

April 17, 2021, 10am – 5:30pm.  Scan the QR code below for details.