Eagle Landings: Welcoming Our New High School Faculty

0805 Eagle Landings Hero
Aug 05, 2025
Aug 05, 2025

Whether they’re guiding students through metaphors, molecules, or mindfulness, this year’s newest high school faculty members bring talent, heart, and impressive credentials to the SAS community. With backgrounds spanning continents and disciplines, this crew is ready to elevate learning, spark connection, and keep us all on our toes – sometimes quite literally, in the case of rock climbers and volleyball players. Get to know the newest Eagles joining the high school this year.

Baptista, Elsa

Elsa Baptista
IB Diploma Programme Coordinator


Elsa joins SAS with over 20 years of international teaching experience across Canada, Malaysia, Kuwait, and Singapore, and holds a Master of Education. Elsa is a firm believer in building communities of belonging, and her dedication to student success shines through in everything she does – from coordinating rigorous academic programs to championing initiatives like Model UN.

 

Cantelon, Michael

Michael Cantelon
Physical and Health Education

 

Originally from Canada, Michael has been teaching and coaching internationally for nearly two decades, with stints in Kuwait and Singapore. He holds a Master’s in Human Kinetics. Whether he’s coaching Track and Field or leading a fitness club, Michael brings disciplined enthusiasm to all things health and sport. He’s also known for being helpful, happy, and surprisingly great at poolside reading.

 

Felker, Michael

Michael Felker
Math Teacher

 

Michael brings 13 years of international teaching experience in Bangladesh, China, Turkey, and Italy. He has a Master’s in Technology and his approach to teaching is fueled by curiosity, steadiness, and the occasional baked good – yes, he’s a cook too. With a passion for coaching everything from golf to soccer, Michael is as versatile as he is dedicated.

 

Haines, Kara

Kara Haines
Counselor

 

With a decade of experience in school counseling and nearly 20 years living abroad, Kara brings both professional insight and a global mindset to the SAS community. Originally from Colorado, she has a Master’s in Education and has worked in Spain, the UAE, Japan, China, and Panama. Kara’s hidden talents include hosting unforgettable dinner parties and keeping global friendships strong (basically an Olympic sport). Ask her for reading recommendations – or a good karaoke duet.

 

Bonnie McGee

Bonnie McGee
English Teacher

 

Bonnie brings 14 years of teaching experience and a Master’s in Education to SAS, along with deep experience in EAL, Spanish, and bilingual education. Originally from New Orleans, she’s spent recent years in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where she served as Humanities Department Head and taught middle and high school students in both English and Spanish. Known for her dynamic teaching and creative flair, Bonnie has led student broadcast programs, poetry cafes, and Girls’ Night Out events. Hidden talent alert: she’s a hula-hooping, pep-talking, playlist-making powerhouse.

 

Monzon, Maria

Imon Monzon
Psychology Teacher

 

Imon has spent the last 18+ years teaching Psychology, Social Studies, and supporting student life across the Philippines, South Korea, and beyond. She brings infectious curiosity, high energy, and a serious passion for volleyball – it’s her first love, after all. Beyond teaching Psychology, she hopes to contribute to service leadership clubs, yearbook, and more.

 

Connie Mou

Connie Mou
Science Lab Assistant

 

Connie returns to Shanghai after more than 14 years supporting science labs in Chongqing. A behind-the-scenes powerhouse, she brings extensive experience managing complex lab operations – including one spanning 3,300 m² – all while maintaining a spotless safety record in facilities packed with 400+ devices. When she’s not wrangling beakers and safety protocols, Connie enjoys cross-cultural conversations, doting on her dog, and handling spicy food like it’s no big deal.

 

Oh, Jae

Jae Oh
Associate Director of Student Support

 

Jae brings a thoughtful, creative, and deeply caring approach to her work with students. She will serve the entire SAS community, supporting all divisions on both campuses. Originally from Mexico City, she has taught in Seoul and Shanghai, and holds a Master’s in Special Education. She’s passionate about inclusion, reflection, and helping students and colleagues discover their strengths. Whether through cultural clubs, service learning, or supporting student wellness, Jae brings a unique ability to build trust and connection. She also travels with dogs – and we’re pretty sure they love her for it.

 

Nathan Stevens

Nathan Stevens
Makerspace Teaching Assistant

 

Nathan joins SAS with 20 years of engineering consulting experience across seven countries, plus eight years of work in software development. Originally from Des Moines, Iowa, he now brings his technical expertise and hands-on energy to the high school Makerspace. He’s got hobbies that range from kart racing and mountain biking to rock climbing and swimming.

 

Welcome, new Eagles!