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Staff & Faculty

Administration

Portia Moursy

Portia Moursy

School Director

Portia Moursy, originally from the UK, is proud to be the Executive Director of Island Academy. Portia has a degree in Politics from the University of Leeds (UK) and completed the UK government’s prestigious 5 year ‘Fast Track’ teacher training programme that prepares its graduates for leadership and management positions in schools.

Portia began working at the school in 2011 and has taught both primary and secondary grades across a range of subjects. In 2014 she became the Principal, a role she relished and excelled in for 7 years before moving to her new post in September 2021. 

Portia passionately believes that education is our most powerful tool to improve the world we live in and that race, gender, socio-economic status should never be a barrier to success.

Sophie Bown

Principal

Sophie Bown, originally from the UK, has been at Island Academy since 2015.  She joined the school as a teacher of Mathematics and became the Vice Principal in 2018. Sophie was delighted to be appointed the Principal of our school in 2021. Sophie has a Masters in Educational Leadership (Warwick University, UK) and more recently she completed the National Professional Qualification for Headship (UK). Prior to this, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Geography – University of Newcastle, UK) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (TeachFirst – Northumbria University, UK). Sophie continues to teach Mathematics SL IB courses to IB2.

She is passionate about leading a school with outstanding teaching and learning at its heart within a nurturing, positive, and empowering environment for all pupils. Sophie believes extra-curricular activities are critical to a child’s development and is proud of our whole school activities such as productions and IA’s Got Talent.  Outside of school, Sophie enjoys hiking, playing tennis, reading and is currently learning to kitesurf.

McKala Fleming

Mckala Fleming

Assistant Principal & IBDP Coordinator

Mckala is a dedicated lifelong learner; she will continue the work of advocating and providing for all students and families with an educational experience where  diversity is celebrated at Island Academy.

She completed her BA in Modern and Contemporary History at Queen Mary, University of London, then went on to study her MA in Caribbean Studies at University College London; and then a PGCE in Secondary
Education at the Institute of Education, London. She taught at a comprehensive boys’ school in London before migrating to Antigua in 2015 to teach the Diploma History programme at IA. She has been the IB Coordinator since 2021 and now has the new post of Assistant Principal. She believes strongly in a structure of collaborative relationships in the school and community so that all students can meet the common goal of achievement and success.

Mckala was born and raised in Hackney, East London to proud Jamaican
parents. She has strong family ties to the UK, Jamaica and now Antigua.
Outside of school, Mckala loves reading and discussing books!

Jane Jack

Jane Jack

Bursar & Head of Administration

Jane Jack completed her CMA. She worked as a controller in the plastics manufacturing industry for several years. In 2004 she moved to Antigua with her family and joined Island Academy in 2007. Besides working at Island Academy Jane is part of an organization that feeds the homeless every Sunday. She also enjoys scuba diving and horseback riding.

Sariaya Charles

Administration, Admissions & School Development

Sariaya Charles brings curiosity, systems thinking, and international experience to her work in administration, school development, and admissions at Island Academy. Born in Trinidad and based in Antigua, Sariaya holds a BA in Communication Studies with a minor in International Relations (UWI, Trinidad and Tobago), an MSc in International Management (UWI, Barbados), and an MA in Leadership and Organization with a Sustainability specialization (Malmö University, Sweden).

At IA, she has developed and led the college counseling programme, supported operational systems and stakeholder engagement, and helped build frameworks that support the school’s growth and sustainability. Recently, she’s deepened her abilities in digital tools and generative AI, exploring ways to improve how schools operate and communicate.

When she’s not problem-solving, Sariaya enjoys traveling, exploring cultures, trying new food, and enjoying soca music.

Ninette Lares

Administrator, Events Co-Ordinator & College Counselor

Ninette Benta previously worked at the Office of the Governor General as an Administrative Assistant to the Governor General’s Goodwill Emissary. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Business with a concentration in International Chinese Education at the Capital University of Economics and Business.

Ninette has a long track record of teaching. She has been teaching since teenage years as a volunteer at Summer Camps. In Beijing, China, she tutored English to Chinese students, and Mandarin to first year Mandarin learners including students from all over the world. Ninette enjoys travelling, adventure and living the Caribbean life. We are glad that she has joined our IA family.

Devyn Alexander

Front Office Administrator

Ms. Alexander was born in Antigua where she spent her early years of life. She then moved to the United States, where she continued her studies and obtained an academic scholarship to Berkeley College. Ms. Alexander has a degree in Criminal Justice, which is a main passion in her life. In 2016, she moved back to Antigua to ensure that her son got a solid foundation in his early education.

Ms. Alexander skill sets spans customer support and service and risk management. Her main role is to assist in covering classes and giving support to admin staff. She is pleased to embark on her new venture into the literacy program through the Fountas and Pinell literacy resources and excited about working at Island Academy.

In her spare time Ms. Alexander enjoys spending time on the beach, traveling, trying new adventures with her son and going for long drives. Over the past year she became a young entrepreneur and will continue to work towards her goal, which is to exel in life.

Primary School Teachers

Arnolyn Goodwin

Arnolyn Goodwin

Kindergarten

Arnolyn Goodwin has a Certificate in Early Childhood Education with Honors from the University of the West Indies. She has been teaching for the past twenty-three years and fifteen at Island Academy supporting and teaching lower primary school students. Miss Goodwin spent the last year teaching Grade 2 and is thrilled to return to teaching Kindergarten.

Over the years, Miss Goodwin has completed various courses in all aspects for primary education. She is passionate about literacy as such has been trained in Jolly Phonics and Jolly Grammar and has used her knowledge to assist students not only in the classroom but in the wider community as well. Miss Goodwin believes that every child can learn when they are happy, comfortable and given the right tools to aid in their educational journey. She has also presented early childhood workshops on island. Outside of school Miss Goodwin spends most of her time with family, cooking and baking.

Tiffani Edwards

Kindergarten Assistant

Tiffani Edwards is an early childhood educator from Antigua with a passion for nurturing curiosity and a love of learning in young children. She began her career over two years ago in the daycare sector, where she quickly discovered her natural gift for connecting with young learners.

A graduate of the Early Childhood Certificate Program at the Early Childhood Development Centre (October 2024), she also holds a Jolly Phonics certificate, equipping her with effective strategies to build early literacy skills. Her teaching philosophy focuses on creating a safe, caring, and engaging environment where every child feels valued and supported.

Dedicated to her growth, Ms. Edwards plans to continue her studies in early childhood education. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, music, exploring Antigua, relaxing by the beach, and spending time with her family—especially her nieces. She is excited to continue her journey in the kindergarten classroom, inspiring the next generation of learners.

Onisher Weston

Grade 1

Onisher Weston is no stranger to education as she taught at primary school for a total of 10 years. She attended teacher training and also the Business department at the Antigua State College where she focused on Accounting.

She shifted her career path and started taking business courses at University of the West Indies. However, she then made the decision to start her undergrad degree in Business Administration.
 
In her spare time, she loves giving back to the homeless and other less fortunate persons.

Cassie Archibald

Grade 1 & 2 Assistant

Ms. Cassie Archibald is from the island of Dominica. As a teen she looked forward to volunteering each summer at summer camps. In 2021, she completed her Early Childhood Education Certificate and is now furthering her education at the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Early Childhood Development. Her beliefs as an early childhood educator is that learning goes beyond the classroom. She also believes that structure and repetition is key, and enjoys encouraging communication between students and faculty.
Besides working at Island Academy, Cassie is part of a non-profit international non-governmental organization, Junior Chamber International (JCI). Junior Chamber International is a global organization that develops leadership skills and entrepreneurship in young people.

During her free time Cassie loves to go swimming and research new things. She also enjoys traveling, listening to music and watching movies.
Cassis is looking forward to seeing success and growth in the students.

Kate Wright

Kate Wright

Grade 2

Kate studied Fine Art at Staffordshire University and graduated (BA Hons) in 2001. She went on to complete her education at Bangor University (Wales) with a PGCE in (2003). Kate has taught in schools in Wales and around inner-city schools of Birmingham, with over 16 years’ experience. She has taught across the age range, teaching children with a variety of skills. During her time teaching in the UK she worked to promote communication, reading and language skills which were taught in both English and Welsh. Since joining Island Academy, Kate has taught in both primary and secondary classes, her speciality subjects including Art, Language Arts, Social Studies. She has run successful art exhibitions, clubs to promote community engagement, numerous art workshops and she specialises in garden design. Kate has worked in schools to promote drama, writing and producing small drama productions with children of all ages. In her spare time Kate enjoys reading, creative writing, gardening and loves makings all things crafty.

Robyn-Lee Coetzee

Grade 3

Robyn Coetzee, originally from the UK, graduated with a BA Hons in Applied Languages (French, Mandarin & Linguistics). She then went on to gain invaluable intercultural experiences in educational settings in France and China.

Robyn then completed a Primary Postgraduate Certificate in Education with an MA specialism in Primary Languages at University College London’s Institute of Education – deepening her passion for multicultural learning and inclusive education. She is committed to creating a nurturing, safe, and dynamic classroom where children can foster their curiosity for learning and feel inspired to grow and explore.

Outside of teaching, Ms Coetzee enjoys reading, hiking and travelling. She is excited to discover Antigua and its rich history and culture. 

Amara Isaac

Grade 4

Amara Isaac is a dedicated educator with a heart for nurturing young minds, bringing a wealth of experience and a global perspective to her Grade 4 classroom. Born in London and an Antiguan national by descent, her journey is a testament to a deep passion for student growth.

Her career, spanning 19 years, began at 15 in a local crèche and grew through diverse roles as a Speech and Language Assistant and SEN specialist. This path forged her profound understanding of how all children learn. A lifelong learner, she holds a BA in English Language and Linguistics and recently earned her Qualified Teacher Status through the Teach First programme.

Amara believes every child can succeed. She dedicatedly creates a calm, inclusive classroom where students feel safe to take risks, see mistakes as stepping stones, and learn the values of mutual respect and always trying their best.

Outside the classroom, Amara is a lifelong learner of the world, finding joy in nature, diverse global cultures, and music. She has recently rekindled her love for horse riding, drawing inspiration from the grace and serene presence of these majestic animals.

Akeba Fridye

Grade 5

Born, raised and educated in London UK, Akeba Fridye is an Antiguan national by descent. Akeba brings to IA his passion of teaching and nurturing the wellbeing of children since completing his degree in Education with Qualified Teacher Status, attained through the London East Teacher Training Alliance (LETTA) and Sheffield Hallam University (UK). Akeba also holds a certificate in Understanding Children’s and Young People’s Mental Health, as well as being a qualified Yoga teacher.

Akeba is an accomplished musician that holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Performance Management, and has performed at well known venues and festivals across England and Europe. He is also an avid sportsman who loves to watch and play football.

Georgia Derrick

Georgia Derrick

Grade 6, Primary Curriculum Co-ordinator

Georgia Derrick, originally from Antigua, is happy to be returning home and joining the IA team. Georgia graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with a Joint Advanced Major in Development Studies and Political Science from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, Canada. Georgia’s interests in Education led her to Trinity College School where she worked as an associate faculty member, supporting students in the classroom and outside the classroom. Georgia went on to complete a Bachelors of Education with primary and junior qualifications from Brock University in Ontario, Canada. She is passionate about all learners and learning styles, she particularly enjoys working with student to improve their literacy and communication skills as well as boosting self-confidence. Outside of school, Georgia enjoys spending time with her friends and family.

Jocelyn Beldman

Music & Drama, Primary Admin. Co-ordinator

Jocelyn Beldman has her bachelors (BMusTh, MTA) in Music Therapy and her Canadian Accreditation as a Music Therapist. Jocelyn completed her Masters of Music Education in 2021 from the University of Western Ontario Canada. She has experience teaching music and language arts across the age groups. She has achieved her Level III in the Kodaly Method for teaching Music and loves musical theater, applying this passion to various school productions. She is an avid musician outside of school, and you may see her performing live in and around Antigua with the band The Rift.

Mark Mitchell

Mark Mitchell

PE

Mark Mitchell holds a BA in Physical Education with Honours from Brock University, St. Catharines, Canada. Mark teaches Grades 4 to IB2. He holds several coaching certifications, including ASCA and FINA certifications. He recently earned his certification as a Youth Fitness Trainer with the International Sports Sciences Association. Outside of school Mark is a keen swimmer and coach. He coaches with a local club and also works with the Antigua and Barbuda Swimming Federation to develop the sport at the national level. He won the 2012-2013 Antigua and Barbuda “Top Sports Coach of the Year” award and the 2019 “Sports Club of the Year” award. Most recently, Mark acted as Head Coach for team Antigua and Barbuda at the 18th FINA World Swimming Championships in Gwangju, South Korea.

Randy St. Jean

PE & Spanish

Mr. Randy is a very versatile teacher. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a Masters in International Relations. Mr. Randy is also trained in Jolly Phonics, and IBDP Spanish. Since being at Island Academy he has worked at both primary and secondary level and founded the first competitive volleyball team at the school. Mr Randy is a Level 1 beach and indoor FIVB volleyball coach and also a certified personal trainer.

In 2017, Mr Randy worked with the Ministry of Social-Transformation in collaboration with the UN, in the “Community Rehabilitation Program”. He also worked as the Outreach Coordinator for the charity “Friends of Care Project”.

During the holidays, Mr. St. Jean spends time volunteering in academic and sporting programmes for young people. He has worked with the Flair Academy of Etiquette. This academy focuses on grooming young individuals to be good people in the society. When he is not volunteering, he is playing volleyball both indoor and at the beach, or at the gym. Mr. Randy enjoys whatever he does and always gives his 100%.

Esther Sanchez Garcia

Spanish

Esther graduated from her degree in English Studies in Spain in 2011 and holds two master’s degrees: one in Secondary School Education and another in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language. Since leaving Spain 15 years ago, she has taught Spanish across five continents – in Ireland, Australia, USA, China, and Qatar – bringing a wealth of international experience to the classroom.

Esther is excited to be embarking on her latest adventure: joining the vibrant educational community in Antigua. She is eager to deepen her connection with the island’s rich culture and contribute to the global-minded learning environment at Island Academy.

Outside the classroom, Esther is passionate about traveling, reading, and staying active. A sports enthusiast, she enjoys embracing new physical challenges and maintaining a healthy lifestyle – making Antigua’s natural beauty and outdoor opportunities the perfect fit for her

Laura Haynes

Art

Laura Haynes, originally from Ireland, studied for her Bachelors Degree in Ceramic Design in
2017 before completing a Professional Masters of Education in Art and Design with Digital
Media at the University of Limerick, Ireland in 2020. Laura has taught in a variety of educational settings as an Art Teacher and also has experience working as a School Completion Project worker, helping to engage young people in Ireland to attend and participate in school effectively.

Laura’s primary Art discipline is Ceramics but she enjoys challenging herself in other areas such
as film photography and embroidery. She is looking forward to developing the Art Department at Island Academy, and is very enthusiastic about discovering more about island life in Antigua. In her spare time, Laura loves to travel and experience new cultures, she likes to spend time at the beach, diving and trying new watersports.

Secondary School Teachers

Jenna Dicocco

Jenna DiCocco

English, Global Politics & EE Coordinator

Jenna DiCocco teaches English Literature; this includes a preparatory curriculum to Grade 9 students, English B to all CSEC students, and English A: Literature HL to all IB students. She also teaches IB Global Politics HL and the IB Extended Essay course. She has completed multiple IB training courses and attends all relevant regional and virtual CSEC workshops. She has a Bachelor of Arts and a Juris Doctorate. Before joining Island Academy, she was a Lecturer at Boston University, published articles in The International Lawyer and The Iowa Review, and guest-lectured at Tufts University. She has edited several textbooks and anthologies, is obsessed with impeccable grammar, and has lived in the US, England, and Zambia before moving to Antigua in 2014. She remains a licensed attorney.

Jessica Schlosser

Science and Biology

Jessica graduated with a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology and a Bachelor of Education from Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario, Canada, She has also completed 2 IB training courses. She will be teaching IB biology and chemistry. Jessica has been working with children from 1-16 years old as early as 2004. From athlete to coach to school – teacher, Jessica is passionate that learning is found all around you and teachable moments can happen at any time. Outside of school, you can find Jessica reading a book or back at teaching and helping her husband coach at Antigua Elite Gymnastics.

Olivia Duncan

Information Technology
Mrs Olivia Duncan is from the island of Barbados. She began her teaching career in 2016 in St Vincent. Olivia developed a love and passion for empowering young people through education. In 2022, she further continued her teaching career in Barbados and studied at Erdiston Teachers Training College to become a certified, trained teacher.
Additionally, she holds a BSc in Accounting from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill. Before teaching, she worked in corporate Barbados in the accounting field, then advancing to human resources management. 

Her love for people and helping them pursue their personal goals continues to grow. 

Outside of school, Olivia enjoys spending time with her family and at church activities. She loves a new adventure and looks forward to exploring Antigua with her family. 

Mikhiel Anthonyson

Mathematics

Mikhiel Anthonyson started her teaching career in 2004, teaching secondary school Mathematics and Integrated Science. She has taught from Grade 7 up to post-CSEC level, specializing in pre-calculus, calculus and SAT Maths. Mikhiel received an Associate’s Degree in Teacher Education at the Secondary Level in 2009. Her passion in mathematics education developed over the years, and in 2017 Mikhiel completed her Bachelors of Education at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Barbados.

In her spare time, Mikhiel enjoys reading, going on driving excursions and playing a game of dominoes with close friends. She believes life is its best teacher and one should “never stop learning, because life never stops teaching”.

Charlie Beeson

Mathematics and Physics

Charlie Beeson holds a Master’s degree in Physics with Astronomy, which she pursued as an undergraduate at the University of Southampton in the UK, followed by the Master’s at Harvard University in the US. Her research in the field of near-earth asteroids at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics was recognised by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) with the naming of an asteroid after her: Beeson 5241. She has also obtained a Masters in Financial Computing from UCL. Upon joining Island Academy she will have completed both an executive MBA from Warwick University and the IB Physics Teaching course.

Charlie is an experienced gymnastics coach and judge, has taught hundreds of adults how to write code and complete data analysis during her tenure in the financial services industry, and she is enthusiastic about igniting a passion for physics amongst IA students, and supporting a new generation of scientists!

Kayleen Walter

Mathematics and Physics Maternity Cover

Kayleen Walter teaches Physics and Mathematics at Island Academy International. She holds a BSc in Biology from Kent State University, Ohio, and an ASc in Environmental Studies from Antigua State College. With experience teaching the sciences and Human and Social Biology at the upper secondary level, she brings an engaging, inquiry-based approach to the classroom that helps students connect scientific concepts to the world around them. 

Outside of teaching, Kayleen is deeply committed to marine conservation. She volunteers with the Environmental Awareness Group’s Turtle Watch Programme and the Antigua and Barbuda Ocean Trust’s Sunscreen Initiative, and has led independent research on microplastic pollution on Antigua’s beaches. Her love for the ocean and dedication to environmental stewardship enrich her teaching, inspiring students to consider how science shapes both local and global communities.  

Jhonaton Thomas

Spanish

Mr. Thomas’ experience as a teacher of languages spans over 9 years to students in Asia, Europe, Africa and America. He fell in love with teaching English during his freshman year of Psychology in Moscow while researching how culture may affect how one acquires language. In 2017, after completing his Bachelor of Science in General Psychology at RUDN in Moscow, he went to Colombia and Spain to deepen his knowledge of Spanish before pursuing a Master of Arts in Applied linguistics with a focus in the translation and teaching of Spanish, French and Russian. After this, he went to France to fine tune his French. Jhonaton currently speaks Spanish, French and Russian as foreign languages and still follows his passion in Psychology and is a member of the British Psychological Society (MBPsS).

When he is not teaching or deepening his knowledge in psychology, he takes to the tennis court or joins his friends for volleyball. He enjoys travelling and does so often because to him part of living a language is being constantly immersed in it.

Esther Sanchez Garcia

Spanish

Esther graduated from her degree in English Studies in Spain in 2011 and holds two master’s degrees: one in Secondary School Education and another in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language. Since leaving Spain 15 years ago, she has taught Spanish across five continents – in Ireland, Australia, USA, China, and Qatar – bringing a wealth of international experience to the classroom.

Esther is excited to be embarking on her latest adventure: joining the vibrant educational community in Antigua. She is eager to deepen her connection with the island’s rich culture and contribute to the global-minded learning environment at Island Academy.

Outside the classroom, Esther is passionate about traveling, reading, and staying active. A sports enthusiast, she enjoys embracing new physical challenges and maintaining a healthy lifestyle – making Antigua’s natural beauty and outdoor opportunities the perfect fit for her interests.

Jocelyn Beldman

Music & Drama

Jocelyn Beldman has her bachelors (BMusTh, MTA) in Music Therapy and her Canadian Accreditation as a Music Therapist. Jocelyn completed her Masters of Music Education in 2021 from the University of Western Ontario Canada. She has experience teaching music and language arts across the age groups. She has achieved her Level III in the Kodaly Method for teaching Music and loves musical theater, applying this passion to various school productions. She is an avid musician outside of school, and you may see her performing live in and around Antigua with the band The Rift.

Victoria Ryan

English, Science & History

Tori Ryan has an interdisciplinary background, with a BA (Honors) in Philosophy and Liberal Arts from Florida Atlantic University, a Master of Arts in English Literature from the University of Bristol, and an Education Master of Science from Syracuse University. She has also completed additional graduate level Physics coursework. Prior to moving to Antigua, she taught at a diverse IB/MYP public high school in Syracuse, developing cross curricular units between History and English as well as Science and English for secondary students. She also taught A.V.I.D : a skills-based course that focuses on developing academic as well as social/emotional skills. Her hobbies include archival and archaeological research focused on Antigua’s past, hiking, and reading.

Karol Edwards

Karol Lyn Edwards

Science

Karol Lyn Edwards has a B.Sc. in Biology with a minor in Chemistry, and a B.Ed. in Biology, Chemistry, and Junior High School Science from Memorial University of Newfoundland. She also has an M.Ed. in Teaching Science to Exceptional Students from Queen’s University, Ontario. She has also been trained as an IB DP Coordinator and in MYP science. She has taught in several schools and countries and has taught many sciences and math courses, including Oceanography and Geology. She also taught ESL and was the director of a private language school for two years. She has over 30 years experience of international school teaching and administration. She has been fundamental in the development and success of the IBDP programme at the school and previously served as the IBDP Coordinator for 12 years.

 

Randy St. Jean

Social Studies & Humanities

Mr. Randy is a very versatile teacher. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a Masters in International Relations. Mr. Randy is also trained in Jolly Phonics, and IBDP Spanish. Since being at Island Academy he has worked at both primary and secondary level and founded the first competitive volleyball team at the school. Mr Randy is a Level 1 beach and indoor FIVB volleyball coach and also a certified personal trainer.

In 2017, Mr Randy worked with the Ministry of Social-Transformation in collaboration with the UN, in the “Community Rehabilitation Program”. He also worked as the Outreach Coordinator for the charity “Friends of Care Project”.

During the holidays, Mr. St. Jean spends time volunteering in academic and sporting programmes for young people. He has worked with the Flair Academy of Etiquette.This academy focuses on grooming young individuals to be good people in the society.When he is not volunteering, he is playing volleyball both indoor and at the beach, or at the gym. Mr. Randy enjoys whatever he does and always gives his 100%.

Una Trninic

English and Humanities

Una Trninic, originally from the UK, received her Bachelor Degree in History from the University of Southampton in 2021. Una then moved to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 2021, where she gained her PGDE (Post Graduate Diploma in Education) and taught at an IB world school for two years. There, she taught a mix of English and Humanities at the secondary level, English Language support at the primary level and Theory of Knowledge at the IBDP level. She also coached the Netball team and ran the Model United Nations club at her previous school.

Una has a passion for her subjects and is really excited to be part of the IA team and immerse herself in Antiguan culture. Outside of school, Una enjoys travelling, reading and being active. She hopes to be able to learn a lot about Caribbean culture and history and carry that over into the classroom.

Mark Mitchell

Mark Mitchell

PE

Mark Mitchell holds a BA in Physical Education with Honours from Brock University, St. Catharines, Canada. Mark teaches Grades Kinder to CXC. He holds several coaching certifications, including ASCA and FINA certifications. He recently earned his certification as a Youth Fitness Trainer with the International Sports Sciences Association.

Outside of school Mark is a keen swimmer and coach. He operates his own swimming school and competitive program and also works with the Antigua and Barbuda Swimming Federation to develop the sport at the national level. He won the 2012-2013 Antigua and Barbuda “Top Sports Coach of the Year” award and the 2019 “Sports Club of the Year” award.  Most recently, Mark acted as Head Coach for team Antigua and Barbuda at the 18th FINA World Swimming Championships in Gwangju, South Korea. He teaches PE to students from Kinder all the way to Grade 11.

Dinah Whittier

POA, POB, Mathematics & Science Teacher

Dinah is a qualified secondary school teacher in Business and Accounting with over ten years in the corporate business and accounting environment. She has been teaching for five years with consistently great results by supporting the holistic development of her students. She holds an MSc Distinction in Strategic Leadership and Management, a BSc in Management Studies and numerous certifications in the fields of Aviation and Accounting from her early career. She also has the unique ability to make Mathematics at any level interesting.

Dinah fully appreciates the international perspective having travelled widely and being a resident of Doha, Qatar. Dinah is an avid rescuer of dogs domestically and works to rehome canines to Canada, the USA and the UK.

Laura Haynes

Art

Laura Haynes, originally from Ireland, studied for her Bachelors Degree in Ceramic Design in
2017 before completing a Professional Masters of Education in Art and Design with Digital
Media at the University of Limerick, Ireland in 2020. Laura has taught in a variety of educational settings as an Art Teacher and also has experience working as a School Completion Project worker, helping to engage young people in Ireland to attend and participate in school effectively.

Laura’s primary Art discipline is Ceramics but she enjoys challenging herself in other areas such
as film photography and embroidery. She is looking forward to developing the Art Department at Island Academy, and is very enthusiastic about discovering more about island life in Antigua. In her spare time, Laura loves to travel and experience new cultures, she likes to spend time at the beach, diving and trying new watersports.

Special Services and Support

Colin Martin

Ceramics Instructor & Technician

Mr Colin Martin Esquire, was born and raised in Antigua and Barbuda, where he completed his education. After his studies, Collin completed a course in ceramics which he then turned into his career. Collin is also popularly known for designing and constructing ‘Queen of the carnival’ costumes In his spare time he enjoys gardening, pottery and creating magical costumes. In the near future, Collin intends to complete a Masters Degree in Pottery.

Ms. Bsoumai

Primary Duty Supervisor

Mrs. Eman Bsoumai, originally from Syria, moved to Antigua over 30 years ago. A past parent of an IB student, Mrs. Bsoumai, is dedicated to looking after our youngest students during break and lunch and using her gardening skills to beautify our campus with flowers and plants.

Donal Green

School Custodian

Mr Donal Green was born and raised in Manchester, Jamaica. He studied at the tertiary institution, the Jamaica Bible College, where he completed a diploma in Secretarial Science. After he completed his studies Donal worked in the engineering and agricultural sector. He settled in Antigua 5 years ago and particularly enjoys developing the campus flora and fauna.