Primary Team
MS. SELINA COLLINS
ECE/Lower Primary Principal
I came to Qatar in 2012 from New York City (USA) to pursue a career in international education, and nine years later and now with two beautiful children Hudson 6 and Sage 8, I am still here loving Qatar. It has been an honor to become a part of the Khor family and community. I was previously Director of Curriculum and Professional Development at the EMS Doha campus, supporting the three EMS campuses. Therefore, EMS Khor is already somewhat familiar to me, but I’m looking forward to working more closely with staff, learners and parents. Throughout my 20-year career in education, I have held various roles within schools: Special Education teacher, Literacy Coach, Head of Teaching and Learning, Head of Learning Support & Inclusion and Vice Principal. I have a Masters degree in Teaching Students with Additional Needs and Certification in School Building Leadership from Pace University in New York City.
I am so thankful to have the opportunity to bring my experience to this wonderful community. I look forward to exploring and developing ideas with the talented and dedicated teaching team at EMS Khor. I believe wholeheartedly that every learner deserves a high-quality education which only happens in a joyful school where curiosity is encouraged and families work together for the children’s best interests. With that in mind, I will be calling on all faculty, staff, and parents to work collaboratively this year to best serve our learners.
MS. JENNIE
Upper Primary Principal
My name is Ms. Jennie Major and I am the Upper Primary and Secondary Principal at EMS Khor. I was born in Canada and raised in the United States. I have been an educator since 2001. During my career I have had the opportunity to teach most subjects. My students have ranged in ages from 3 years old to 70 years old. I have been in school administration since 2014. I received my Certificate of International School Leadership in 2016 and my second Master’s Degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo in Multidisciplinary Studies with a specialization in Leadership.
In 2012, I joined the EMS family and have been privileged to be part of the EMS, Khor community since 2014. I am blessed to be part of a school where the teachers and the parents work together in such a close partnership. I believe that all children have a love for learning; it is our job as educators to figure out what they love to learn.
MS. SAIMA & MS. ALPHA JOY
Year 1
I am an experienced educator with a passion for nurturing young minds. With eight years of teaching experience, I have dedicated the last four years to the vibrant community at English Modern School. Currently serving as a Year 1 homeroom teacher and Year 1 year leader, I take pride in guiding my learners through their formative years. My journey in education began with a teaching qualification from the UK, and I recently expanded my knowledge by earning a Masters in Multidisciplinary Education from the State University of New York. I am committed to fostering a positive learning environment and helping my learners reach their full potential.
My name is Ms. Alpha Joy and I am from the Philippines. I have nine years of experience as a Learner’s assistant in Qatar. I am very happy to be a part of the English Modern School team and I am looking forward to working with you and your children this school year.
MS. HOURIA
Year 1
Greetings! My name is Houria Boussahoua, and I am glad I am one of the EMS family. I grew up in Algeria, and graduated from the University of Lounisi Ali in 2012. I have a Bachelor’s of Art in English Language and Education. I began my teaching career in Yahiya Fares University as a part-time teacher then I moved to Zian Achour Middle school. I taught for three years in that school before I was blessed with the opportunity to work in a school in Ankara, Turkey. I spent two years in Turkey, and I genuinely enjoyed my experience there as I learned a great deal from the continuous training we had. Soon after, I moved to Qatar and I pursued my career in education.
I am determined to be an active member in the EMS community. I am very passionate about teaching and learning. My goal is to continue learning innovative teaching methods to prepare my learners to be strong independent leaders. I look forward to spending a fruitful year with children, developing their creativity, love for learning, and having fun at school.
MS. LOURDES
Year 1
My name is Lourdes A. Aviles. I came from the Southern part of the Philippines. I am an experienced educator having taught for 14 years in the Philippines and Qatar. I have a passion for providing quality education and fostering a positive learning environment. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a commitment to professional development. I obtained my bachelor’s degree from one of the prestigious universities in the Philippines, and I also have a Masters degree in Educational Management. I have also attended numerous workshops and training sessions to better shape me as an educator and stay updated with the latest teaching techniques and educational trends.
I have dedicated most of my life for personal growth to shape the young minds of my students and help them reach their full potential. I have valuable experience working with students of various age groups fostering multicultural and inclusive classrooms. I am well equipped to create engaging and effective learning experiences for students to prepare them for the ever-evolving global landscape. I am dedicated to continuous improvement of my teaching practices and am excited to bring my expertise, passion and dedication where I can contribute to the growth and development of students and the EMS Khor community.
MS. JYOTHI & MS. SHAHLA
Year 2
My name is Jyothi Anna John and I am from India. My teaching experience spans twenty years and includes schools in Mozambique, Tanzania and currently in Qatar. I have taught Biology (CIE) at IGCSE level and General Science at KS3 and KS2 level. I joined English Modern School in August 2018 as a Year 2 homeroom teacher and I feel honoured to be part of a teaching faculty that is always committed to developing well-rounded learners who are good communicators, open minded, caring and reflective. I am thrilled to be part of this cheerful school which consistently promotes honesty, courage and respect for others.
As an educator, my prime objective has always been to meet the educational needs and expectations of my students and their parents by providing sufficient opportunities for the learners to develop and reach their full potential. I believe that every child has the right to learn in the way that best suits her/his learning style. My goal, throughout my teaching career, has always been to equip every learner with the tools necessary to be a healthy and happy contributor to a global society. I enjoy the experience and facilitation of real learning opportunities for my students.
My name is Shahla, I am from Sri Lanka and this academic year I will be working with Year 2A class as a learning assistant. Prior to joining EMS Al Khor, I had been working in Sri Lanka as a primary school teacher for more than six years. This is my 10th Year in EMS, and I love working with young learners helping them to attain high academic standards and reach their full potential. As a learning assistant, in collaboration with the teacher, I ensure that every child gets the most suitable environment for learning.
MS. SHANNON & MS. BADHMASINI
Year 2
I’m Ms. Shannon Smith-Foote. Currently, I am the homeroom teacher for Year 2C. I am working alongside Ms. Badhma. I am an industrious Jamaican national, who has acquired a bachelor’s degree in primary education. This I obtained at the International University of the Caribbean, in Montego Bay Jamaica. I have now accumulated sixteen years teaching experience. This is the commencement of my fifth year at EMS Al Khor; having taught before in Kuwait. The experience here has been a remarkable one. I have found myself amongst a supportive school family, with myriads of talents.
I have an innate passion for teaching and I strongly believe that every child can learn. “Tell me and I forget, Teach me and I remember, Involve me and I learn”, a quote by Benjamin Franklin, has guided me to administer meaningful learning experiences to students.
I am Ms. Badhmasini Manikandan, from India. I hold a diverse range of qualifications in the field of education. I possess a Lower Elementary Montessori Teaching Diploma from the North American Montessori Center (NAMC) in Canada, complemented by a Post Graduate Diploma in Pre & Primary Teacher Training. Furthermore, I have expanded my expertise by acquiring SUNY’s teaching qualification for students with exceptionalities. This academic pursuit allows me to deepen my understanding of teaching methodologies and approaches, particularly in addressing the needs of diverse learners.
As an enthusiastic member, I wholeheartedly value effective communication and collaboration within the EMS team. My true passion lies in teaching young children, and I firmly believe in the fundamental principle that “Each and Every Child is Unique.” To honor this belief, I am dedicated to creating a caring, safe, and challenging environment that offers every child the opportunity to grow and achieve success.
We look forward to a fulfilling year with students and parents.
MS. JENIFFER & MS. SHATHA
Year 2
As an educator, my journey of continuous learning has led me to be a part of the teaching community for over the past 14 years. I am humbled by the experiences and exposure gained whilst having worked internationally in Qatar and the UAE coming from the beautiful Island of Sri Lanka. My educational background has been specializing in the areas of Early Childhood Education, Childcare Management, Special Needs, Child and Adolescent Psychology, and Montessori method whilst having gained my PGD in education, management and leadership.
I have been a part of the EMS family since 2014 through 6 academic years teaching in the ECE department and Year 1 Primary and I am grateful that I have been given the opportunity to work in Year 2 this academic year. I am looking forward to seeing a great sense of achievement from my learners as they develop and grow as unique individuals giving me the privilege to have a positive impact on their future.
“In learning you will teach, and in teaching you will learn” –Phil Collins
My name is Shatha Alazzeh. I am from Jordan. I have a Micro-Credential Education Degree from Buffalo State University – New York and a Masters Degree in Marketing from Applied Science University, Jordan.
This is my 2nd year in EMS and I will be working as a Learning Assistant for year 2B. I love to work with children and I am looking forward to taking care and supporting them. I am so glad to be a part of the EMS family.
MS. KERRI-ANN & MS. SIHEM
Year 3
My name is Kerri-Ann Forbes-McFarlane, and I am from Jamaica, a beautiful island in the West Indies that is located in the west-central Caribbean.
Having worked in Jamaica and the UK and have more than seventeen years of teaching and pastoral experience. It has been an honour serving the EMS Khor family as a Year 1 teacher for seven years and now as a Year 3 teacher in my ninth year.
I received my Bachelor of Science in International Relations from the University of the West Indies, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching. I recently received a Master’s in Multidisciplinary Studies from Buffalo State University.
As an educator, my satisfaction comes when I see my learners succeeding and achieving meaningful progress. I really enjoy fostering their academic and social development, with the aim of equipping them with the life skills necessary for the future global community.
Therefore, the core of my educational philosophy is learner autonomy, where students persevere and assume ownership of their own learning within a secure and motivating environment.
My name is Sihem Belaid and I am from Algeria. I attended University in Algeria, and have a Bachelor of Science in Educative Sociology. I have over nine years teaching experience.
It has been an honour serving the EMS Khor family as a Year 1 learning assistant for five years and now as a Year 3 LA in my seventh year.
I am a dedicated and passionate individual who enjoys working with our children.
MS. POPPY
Year 3
My name is Poppy Magagula. I am from Mpumalanga, South Africa. It is known for its natural beauty of deep forest, waterfalls and savannahs wildlife where you can find Africa’s Big Five in Kruger National Park.
I attended university in South Africa and obtained a Bachelor of Education Honours Degree specializing in Inclusive Education. I worked for the Mpumalanga Department of Education for 5 years as an Administrator and 5 years as an Educator.
Teaching is not just a job for me it’s a calling. As a teacher, I value the uniqueness of every learner. I strive to serve the needs of all learners, regardless of their background or abilities to help them reach their full potential for them to blossom and grow and embrace their diversity.
MS. TRAMAINE
Year 3
Greetings! My name is Tramaine Curtis. I am from Florida, the sunshine state, located in the USA. I have been an educator for almost 18 years. I received my Bachelors from the University of Florida and my Masters from the University of West Florida. I have worked in several capacities in education ranging from PreK, Primary, Secondary, Adult Education and have done research related to health education throughout my career.
Furthermore, my love for traveling and learning about different cultures has brought me to continue my career in Qatar in which I have been a resident for 3 years.
In addition, I am an International Ambassador Teacher Leader in which I have traveled with over 100 students to many countries to provide an enriched cultural learning experience. In my spare time I enjoy shopping online for eyeglasses, traveling and fine dining.
MS. ALAA
Year 4
My name is Alaa Al Dimassy and I am truly proud to be part of the English Modern School Khor family! I am from a beautiful city called Saida, the third largest city in Lebanon. It’s a Phoenician town that is unique for its street food culture, gorgeous sea view, and extremely generous and welcoming people.
I graduated from the American University of Beirut with a Bachelor’s Degree in English Language and Teaching Diploma in Elementary Education. I moved to Qatar in 2020 to start my first year of teaching experience. This year marks my third year of teaching in Qatar. I have taught year 3 students since the beginning of my expertise.
I never knew how teaching makes a difference until I stepped foot into it. It made me realize how I impart lessons that my students and I will never forget and make me stand to influence the students’ decisions, behaviors, strengths, weaknesses, and imagination. Looking back to who I was since I graduated up until now, I aim to implement a difference and shape the next generation profoundly. I also wish teaching to be an incentive for continued education and an outlet for my creativity.
I enjoy being challenged and experiencing new things, and Qatar never failed to make me perceive life in a different way and continuously evolve my identity to see myself taking different roles in my life.
I also enjoy coffee, good company, and endless laughter.
MS. MAHEEN
Year 4
My name is Maheen and I am from Pakistan. I have 7 years of teaching experience, 5 years in Qatar and I am happy to start my 8th year of teaching here with all of our children at EMS Khor. I am an enthusiastic, committed educator with an innate ability to understand and motivate children to be successful learners and work to create a classroom atmosphere that is stimulating, encouraging, and adaptive to the varied needs of students. My teaching philosophy is to create a cooperative community in the classroom; model for students the importance of mutual respect and cooperation among all community members. I have an aptitude to remain flexible, ensuring that every child’s learning styles and abilities are addressed.
It is my personal responsibility and goal to let all of my students grow to be the best that they can be! I always strive to ensure that my students are responsible, confident, reflective, innovative, engaged and productive citizens of this great world. As a dedicated teacher at EMS, I pledge to search for all the children’s skills and talents and be successful in every single way. No exceptions!
MS. SAMANTHA
Year 4
I’m Samantha Cantillas, and at 25 years old, I’ve already achieved significant milestones in my journey as an educator. My educational foundation was built at Tomas Del Rosario College in the Philippines, where I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. My passion for learning and my desire to excel led me to pursue a Master’s degree in Education, with a focus on Management at Pangasinan State University Philippines. For the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching in Doha, Qatar, and this year I found my professional home at EMS Khor, a school whose mission and vision align perfectly with my own. It’s here that I’ve discovered an environment where my love for teaching and my desire to shape young minds can truly flourish.
As an educator, I see myself as a guide, helping students harness these opportunities and develop the skills they need to thrive in the real world. My passion for teaching lies in the belief that by nurturing these skills and qualities, I’m not just shaping students for success in their future careers but also empowering them to become active, engaged, and responsible global citizens who can contribute positively to our ever-evolving world. I believe that together, with the support of the school, parents, and the community, we can empower our students to achieve their full potential and build a brighter future.
MS. DEBBIE
Year 5
My name is Debbie Campbell. Currently, I am the homeroom teacher for Year 5. I am an energetic and dynamic teacher from Jamaica’s beautiful tropical sunny island. I have accumulated more than sixteen years of teaching experience. Iacquired a bachelor’s degree in primary education from Mount Saint Vincent in Halifax, Canada.
I am proud to say that this is my fourth year at English Modern School, Khor and my seventh year teaching in key stage 2 (KS2) in the Middle East. The experience I have gained in my tenure here has been remarkable. I have found myself amongst a supportive school family with myriads of talents. I have an innate passion for teaching and firmly believe every child can learn. “Tell me and I forget, Teach me and I remember, Involve me and I learn”, a quote by Benjamin Franklin, has guided me to administer meaningful learning experiences to students.
MS. COLLEEN
Year 5
My name is Colleen and I am from Durban, the province of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. Teaching is my passion and I am currently teaching Year 5. This is my sixth year at EMS and I am thoroughly enjoying myself, as many of the students have a thirst for learning.
My experiences include teaching, primary, Year 4 and Year 5. Secondary, Year 7 to Year 13, with students ranging in age from 9 to 19 years of age. I have experience in teaching a variety of subjects, such as English, Mathematics, Biology, History, Geography, Design and Technology, Social Studies, Global Perspectives and Life Orientation.
I hold a BA Degree in Education from South Africa, an International Postgraduate Certificate of Education and a Master’s Degree in Education from the Buffalo State University of New York. Teaching English as a First and Second language to secondary students were my majors at University, coupled with Technology, Biology and Life Orientation.
As a teacher, I believe that each student is a unique individual, therefore, my role is to facilitate and guide students to have self-esteem, to believe in themselves and promote positive learning. In doing so, students believe that they are capable and strive to better themselves, personally and academically. Teaching needs to be holistic, therefore, teaching students’ responsibility, leadership, caring, and respect.
MS. LIEZEL
Year 6
My name is Liezel Mittermeier, and I am the Year 6 class teacher and Upper Primary team leader. I am a qualified ESL teacher from South Africa and have been teaching for 17 years, 15 of which at English Modern School. During this period, I furthered my educational studies with the aim of moving into school leadership by attending the Principals’ Training Centre in the U.S.A. More recently, lockdowns and limited opportunities to travel, prompted me to actively pursue my hobbies and personal interests. As such, I returned part-time to university to major in Art History and Classical Studies. I hope to inspire my students to realise that we are all life-long learners, and one is never too old to learn something new!
EMS Khor is a small, lively campus with caring staff who are like a family. It is a true blessing, as it provides a good support network when you lead an expatriate life.
As an educator, I believe in providing a safe, well-disciplined environment in my class where students can explore, learn and grow holistically as individuals.
I look forward to a safe, happy, productive and academically rigorous year!
MS. VANESSA
Year 6
I am Vanessa Baritogo and currently teaching Year 6. I am passionate about nurturing young learners and fostering a love of learning. I have enjoyed teaching since I graduated from university. My academic journey has equipped me with a deep understanding of the key concepts and approaches that I eagerly share with my learners. Moreover, I constantly engage in professional development to stay up-to-date with the latest educational trends.
I believe that education is a journey beyond the four corners of the classroom. My teaching philosophy is rooted in the fact that every child has unique qualities and potential and deserves to be nurtured and celebrated.
Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading, travelling and hiking. These activities provide me with inspiration, creativity and relaxation that enriches my mental and emotional well-being which helps me enrich my teaching career.
I am grateful and proud to be part of the EMS family. So, let’s embark on this journey together. Looking forward to a fun and exciting learning experience this year.
MR. WILLIAM
Art and Drama and IGCSE Drama
My name is William Nassif and I am from Lebanon with a Bachelor degree in Fine Arts, a Teaching Micro Credential Certificate from Buffalo State, New York University and a Multidisciplinary Master’s degree with an Education Focus with the latter as well. I am the Drama and Art teacher for this academic school year.
I worked in Lebanon for 8 years before coming to Doha as a director, assistant director and stage manager for kid’s plays. Students were, and will always be a big part of my life. For me, it is not just about teaching; it’s a life dedication for our loved ones.
I’ve been teaching Drama and Art in Doha since 2010 and started with EMS since 2015. I find myself very lucky working with the EMS Al-Khor family, as the school shows much interest in teaching our students The Arts. These are essential for building character.
When teaching, I have high hopes and expectations for my student’s work. I know that many students are not into Drama and Arts, but I believe that each one of them has an inner artist that needs to express his mind on stage and in art work. Accordingly, my job is to make sure that all my students will reach a point where they can say to themselves, I am proud of what I have accomplished.
MS. LIEZL
Music Teacher
My name is Liezl B. Ambaic. I’m the new Music Teacher responsible for handling KG 1 to Year 6 during this Academic School Year. I graduated with a Bachelor of Music major in Music Education and a minor in Piano from Silliman University in Dumaguete City, Philippines.
I possess extensive teaching experience in the Philippines across various levels of learners, including Middle School and High School. I also worked as a part-time teacher in the College of Education. Furthermore, I have provided training to different performing groups, such as Choir, Instrumental Ensemble, String Ensemble, Rondalla, Band, and Marching Band.
EMS represents my third school experience in Qatar, and I am delighted to be part of this reputable institution, which boasts teachers of high caliber. I have previously taught Elementary level students at my prior school. This equips me with ample experience, bolstering my confidence in imparting my knowledge and skills to my students at EMS.
As a music educator, I am fervent and enthusiastic about working with students of all abilities. I firmly believe that impacting children through music is one of the most rewarding professions. Sharing my love and passion for music with students can inspire a profound connection between the mind, body, and intellect. This, to me, is the most incredible job I could ever hope for.
MR. FIRAS
PE Teacher
My name is Firas Besbes and this is my third year as a Primary and Secondary PE Teacher, at The English Modern School in Khor, Qatar.
I was born in Tunisia and grew up on the quiet island of Kerkennah. I graduated from the University of Sfax , with a Teaching degree, specialising in Physical Education . My favorite sports are football and swimming .
I am very happy to be part of the PE Department at EMS, Khor. I have been teaching in Qatar for 5 years now, gaining valuable experience across all age ranges.
As a teacher of Physical Education, I like to ensure high standards for all of my students. I actively promote an environment in which all students can flourish and achieve their full potential. I like to motivate and challenge students of all abilities to ensure a positive learning environment. Encouraging young people to succeed and discover talent is a truly valuable experience, which I hopefully will continue to do for a long time to come.
MS. MICHELLE
PE Teacher
My name is Michelle Segal and I’m from a small town in the Western Cape of South Africa called Velddrif.
This is my first year at EMS Al Khor and also my first year in Qatar. Before moving to Qatar, I worked at a private school in South Africa for 10 years and had the privilege of teaching students of all age groups. I was deeply involved in coaching a variety of sports, including being a specialist netball coach with a Netball South Africa Level 3 coaching accreditation. My experiences in coaching and playing sport have enriched my perspective on the pivotal role of sport in nurturing character and life skills.
I hold a Sports Science degree from Stellenbosch University and a Postgraduate Teaching Degree from The University of South Africa (UNISA).
Believing that sports are among life’s greatest teachers, I’m excited about merging my expertise with the school’s dynamic environment. I’m looking forward to the journey that lies ahead and to be part of the EMS Al Khor family.