Administrators
Wen-Lin Su – Interim Head of School, Director of Academics
Ms. Su received a Bachelor’s degree in Chinese literature from Cheng-Chi University and a Master’s degree in Teaching Chinese as a Second/Foreign Language from Taiwan Normal University. She has extensive experience teaching college-level Chinese at Washington & Lee University, Yale University, and Princeton in Beijing Program. She also taught Chinese at Miss Porter’s School in Connecticut for 8 years, during which time she was actively involved in the Chinese teaching community in the Greater Hartford area, serving as the principal of Chinese Language School of Greater Hartford. Ms. Su is a frequent speaker at regional, national and international workshops and conferences on a wide range of topics related to Chinese teaching. She is a passionate teacher and a lifelong learner herself, continuously learning and using a rich repertoire of teaching techniques, approaches and philosophies.
Ms. Su received a Bachelor’s degree in Chinese literature from Cheng-Chi University and a Master’s degree in Teaching Chinese as a Second/Foreign Language from Taiwan Normal University. She has extensive experience teaching college-level Chinese at Washington & Lee University, Yale University, and Princeton in Beijing Program. She also taught Chinese at Miss Porter’s School in Connecticut for 8 years, during which time she was actively involved in the Chinese teaching community in the Greater Hartford area, serving as the principal of Chinese Language School of Greater Hartford. Ms. Su is a frequent speaker at regional, national and international workshops and conferences on a wide range of topics related to Chinese teaching. She is a passionate teacher and a lifelong learner herself, continuously learning and using a rich repertoire of teaching techniques, approaches and philosophies.
Michelle Tan - Executive Director of Business Operations
Ms. Tan has been with YHIS since its inception in 2007. She has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and Bachelor of Science in marketing. She has more than 15 years of experience in the business field, where she co-owned a tutoring service that served students from preschool to elementary levels. At YHIS, Mrs. Tan supports teachers with her creativity and resourcefulness, and assists parents and guardians with enthusiasm and patience. She also finds great fulfillment in giving care and guidance to students of all ages.
Ms. Tan has been with YHIS since its inception in 2007. She has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and Bachelor of Science in marketing. She has more than 15 years of experience in the business field, where she co-owned a tutoring service that served students from preschool to elementary levels. At YHIS, Mrs. Tan supports teachers with her creativity and resourcefulness, and assists parents and guardians with enthusiasm and patience. She also finds great fulfillment in giving care and guidance to students of all ages.
Emma Nelson - English Section Head, IB Outreach Coordinator, English Teacher
Ms. Nelson has a Bachelor of Arts in education from Manchester Metropolitan University. She specialized in children’s literature, science and special educational needs. Ms. Nelson is originally from Manchester, England. She had worked as an English and Science teacher and the Assistant Director of the elementary school at the International School of Tucson for six years before she joined YHIS. Ms. Nelson is passionate about sharing literature with children of all ages and helping them find their love of reading and writing. In addition, Ms. Nelson was named the Top Elementary Science Teacher in Southern Arizona in 2012 and 2014, and loves exploring the scientific world with her students.
Ms. Nelson has a Bachelor of Arts in education from Manchester Metropolitan University. She specialized in children’s literature, science and special educational needs. Ms. Nelson is originally from Manchester, England. She had worked as an English and Science teacher and the Assistant Director of the elementary school at the International School of Tucson for six years before she joined YHIS. Ms. Nelson is passionate about sharing literature with children of all ages and helping them find their love of reading and writing. In addition, Ms. Nelson was named the Top Elementary Science Teacher in Southern Arizona in 2012 and 2014, and loves exploring the scientific world with her students.
Samantha Eng – Bookkeeper
Samantha has a master degree in business administration focused in accounting. While working with Deloitte, she obtained her CPA license. She was a senior accountant in a Princeton non-profit organization before starting her own business. Major clients include publishing firms, medical practices and preschools. She is excited to be part of YingHua financial team.
Samantha has a master degree in business administration focused in accounting. While working with Deloitte, she obtained her CPA license. She was a senior accountant in a Princeton non-profit organization before starting her own business. Major clients include publishing firms, medical practices and preschools. She is excited to be part of YingHua financial team.
Teaching Staff
Yongge Wang – Early Learning Homeroom Teacher
Ms. Wang graduated from Jilin University, Changchun, China, with a 2-year college degree in education specialized in library and information. Later on, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics education from Northeastern Normal University in China. Ms. Wang has more than 15 years of experience teaching mathematics to students ranging from elementary to high schools. In the U.S., she taught Chinese in after school programs for 3 years before joining YHIS. She loves children and is especially passionate about teaching math. Ms. Wang has been with YHIS since 2016.
Ms. Wang graduated from Jilin University, Changchun, China, with a 2-year college degree in education specialized in library and information. Later on, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics education from Northeastern Normal University in China. Ms. Wang has more than 15 years of experience teaching mathematics to students ranging from elementary to high schools. In the U.S., she taught Chinese in after school programs for 3 years before joining YHIS. She loves children and is especially passionate about teaching math. Ms. Wang has been with YHIS since 2016.
June Chou – PreSchool Homeroom Teacher
Ms. Chou has a Bachelor’s degree in public administration from National Taipei University, Taiwan. She is an experienced teacher of Chinese, having taught and inspired students of all ages from nursery to high school. Ms. Chou is resourceful, patient, and caring, and loves to work with young children. She has been with YHIS since 2014.
Ms. Chou has a Bachelor’s degree in public administration from National Taipei University, Taiwan. She is an experienced teacher of Chinese, having taught and inspired students of all ages from nursery to high school. Ms. Chou is resourceful, patient, and caring, and loves to work with young children. She has been with YHIS since 2014.
Xibo Joy Zeng – Associate ELP and PreSchool Teacher
Xibo Zeng most recently held a position as corporate secretary and co-owner for PathLights, Inc., a business consulting firm in New Jersey. She has a life long passion in teaching and making a positive difference in every children, and was a homeschool teacher for Pre-K - 6th grade students for four years. Additionally, she has been a Sunday school teacher for Pre-K to 3rd grade students since 2001 at the Harvest International Center in Somerset, NJ.
Xibo Zeng most recently held a position as corporate secretary and co-owner for PathLights, Inc., a business consulting firm in New Jersey. She has a life long passion in teaching and making a positive difference in every children, and was a homeschool teacher for Pre-K - 6th grade students for four years. Additionally, she has been a Sunday school teacher for Pre-K to 3rd grade students since 2001 at the Harvest International Center in Somerset, NJ.
Hui Whitney Wang – Homeroom Teacher of Pre-Kindergarten & Early Years Program Section Head
Ms. Wang has an Associate of Arts degree in early childhood education from Qingdao Teacher's College, China. During her 17-year tenure at a prestigious kindergarten in China, she advanced from head teacher to master teacher to vice principal, well known and loved for her professionalism and creativity. As a teacher with the longest tenure at YHIS, Ms. Wang is skilled at inquiry-based teaching and educating the whole child. Ms. Wang has been with YHIS since 2008.
Ms. Wang has an Associate of Arts degree in early childhood education from Qingdao Teacher's College, China. During her 17-year tenure at a prestigious kindergarten in China, she advanced from head teacher to master teacher to vice principal, well known and loved for her professionalism and creativity. As a teacher with the longest tenure at YHIS, Ms. Wang is skilled at inquiry-based teaching and educating the whole child. Ms. Wang has been with YHIS since 2008.
Yvonne Wang – Associate Pre-Kindergarten Teacher, Tutor
Ms. Wang received her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chinese from National Kaohsiung Normal University. Later, she focused her study on teaching Chinese as a second language in the graduate program at Rutgers University. While earning her master’s degree, Ms. Wang also taught Chinese at Murray Hill Chinese School in NJ, where she received the Teacher Merit Award in 2019.
Ms. Wang received her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chinese from National Kaohsiung Normal University. Later, she focused her study on teaching Chinese as a second language in the graduate program at Rutgers University. While earning her master’s degree, Ms. Wang also taught Chinese at Murray Hill Chinese School in NJ, where she received the Teacher Merit Award in 2019.
Hengshu Kao – Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Kao received her bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Eastern Connecticut State University. She has a passion for teaching Chinese that began more than 10 years ago as a Chinese teacher at Princeton Chinese Language School, where she received excellent teacher awards in 2012. Ms. Kao has always been attending various training sessions in order to continuously build upon and update her teaching methods to better accommodate students' varying learning styles. She strongly believes learning Chinese requires hard work and consistent dedication but that it ultimately should be a fun experience for all. Ms. Kao has been with YHIS since 2019.
Ms. Kao received her bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Eastern Connecticut State University. She has a passion for teaching Chinese that began more than 10 years ago as a Chinese teacher at Princeton Chinese Language School, where she received excellent teacher awards in 2012. Ms. Kao has always been attending various training sessions in order to continuously build upon and update her teaching methods to better accommodate students' varying learning styles. She strongly believes learning Chinese requires hard work and consistent dedication but that it ultimately should be a fun experience for all. Ms. Kao has been with YHIS since 2019.
Jiajing Jakila Liang – Associate Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Liang graduated from Communication University of Shanxi, China, with a Bachelor’s degree in film and TV advertising. She then studied in the graduate program of early childhood education at Oxford Brookes University, England, and later on received a Master’s degree in digital media production from the same university. Ms. Liang has been teaching Mandarin Chinese since 2012 when she found teaching to be her true calling. She loves to support children and help them to navigate and master a new language through daily activities and creative play. Outside of teaching, she enjoys painting, singing, calligraphy and sports. Ms. Liang joins YHIS for the 2018 – 2019 school year.
Ms. Liang graduated from Communication University of Shanxi, China, with a Bachelor’s degree in film and TV advertising. She then studied in the graduate program of early childhood education at Oxford Brookes University, England, and later on received a Master’s degree in digital media production from the same university. Ms. Liang has been teaching Mandarin Chinese since 2012 when she found teaching to be her true calling. She loves to support children and help them to navigate and master a new language through daily activities and creative play. Outside of teaching, she enjoys painting, singing, calligraphy and sports. Ms. Liang joins YHIS for the 2018 – 2019 school year.
Jane Lu – Grade 1 Homeroom Teacher
Ms. Lu graduated from National Chung-Hsing University in Taiwan with a Bachelor’s degree in history. She has also earned the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in the U.S. She is knowledgeable about child development and has many years of teaching experience in early childhood education settings. Ms. Lu is a strong advocate of helping children to find their own interests and passion and to learn in a natural and nurturing environment. Ms. Lu has been with YHIS since 2015.
Ms. Lu graduated from National Chung-Hsing University in Taiwan with a Bachelor’s degree in history. She has also earned the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in the U.S. She is knowledgeable about child development and has many years of teaching experience in early childhood education settings. Ms. Lu is a strong advocate of helping children to find their own interests and passion and to learn in a natural and nurturing environment. Ms. Lu has been with YHIS since 2015.
Ying Evelyn Zheng – Grade 2 Homeroom Teacher
Ms. Zheng has a Bachelor’s degree in music education from Shanghai Teachers College, China. She had more than 10 years of music teaching experience in elementary schools in China. Ms. Zheng has also been teaching Kindergarten Chinese at weekend community schools since 2004. Ms. Zheng connects with students deeply, and inspires them to do their best. Her expertise is to seamlessly integrate learning across multiple subjects. She has been with YHIS since 2012.
Ms. Zheng has a Bachelor’s degree in music education from Shanghai Teachers College, China. She had more than 10 years of music teaching experience in elementary schools in China. Ms. Zheng has also been teaching Kindergarten Chinese at weekend community schools since 2004. Ms. Zheng connects with students deeply, and inspires them to do their best. Her expertise is to seamlessly integrate learning across multiple subjects. She has been with YHIS since 2012.
Xiaoling Luna Deng - Grade 3 Homeroom Teacher
Ms. Deng received her Bachelor’s degree in English education in China to fulfill her childhood dream of being a teacher. She also holds a CSL (Chinese as Second Language) teaching certificate issued by Beijing Language and Culture University. After spending years teaching English in China and teaching Chinese as a second language in the United States, Ms. Deng has found herself deeply satisfied with being an early childhood educator. Before joining YHIS, Ms. Deng has taught in a Montessori school, ages 2-6, in South Jersey for three years. From the perspective of a teacher as well as parent, Ms. Deng appreciates the tremendous benefits of immersion learning. Besides enjoying teaching at YHIS and spending time with her son and daughter, Ms. Deng loves martial arts and gardening: her next big goals in life are to fill her house with beautiful plants and to learn new things. Ms. Deng has been with YHIS since 2017.
Ms. Deng received her Bachelor’s degree in English education in China to fulfill her childhood dream of being a teacher. She also holds a CSL (Chinese as Second Language) teaching certificate issued by Beijing Language and Culture University. After spending years teaching English in China and teaching Chinese as a second language in the United States, Ms. Deng has found herself deeply satisfied with being an early childhood educator. Before joining YHIS, Ms. Deng has taught in a Montessori school, ages 2-6, in South Jersey for three years. From the perspective of a teacher as well as parent, Ms. Deng appreciates the tremendous benefits of immersion learning. Besides enjoying teaching at YHIS and spending time with her son and daughter, Ms. Deng loves martial arts and gardening: her next big goals in life are to fill her house with beautiful plants and to learn new things. Ms. Deng has been with YHIS since 2017.
Danlei Li – 4th & 5th Grade Homeroom Teacher
Ms.Li holds a Bachelor’s degree of Asian Language and Culture from Rutgers, and a Master’s degree in Teaching and Learning from New York University. She is trained in professional bilingual teaching, and knows the latest learning theory in education. Ms. Li has rich experience in language class with different ages from 1st - 5th grade. She has been teaching local after-school Chinese programs for four years. She is good at integrating the most innovative teaching methods and ideas in contemporary education into the classroom, drawing on the most advanced experience and resources to create a relaxed and happy communication environment. Ms.Li believes that every student is unique, and the teacher's goal is to discover their potential and let them flourish. During her spare time, Ms. Li likes to play the GuZhen.
Ms.Li holds a Bachelor’s degree of Asian Language and Culture from Rutgers, and a Master’s degree in Teaching and Learning from New York University. She is trained in professional bilingual teaching, and knows the latest learning theory in education. Ms. Li has rich experience in language class with different ages from 1st - 5th grade. She has been teaching local after-school Chinese programs for four years. She is good at integrating the most innovative teaching methods and ideas in contemporary education into the classroom, drawing on the most advanced experience and resources to create a relaxed and happy communication environment. Ms.Li believes that every student is unique, and the teacher's goal is to discover their potential and let them flourish. During her spare time, Ms. Li likes to play the GuZhen.
Xiaoxiao Cheng – 6th - 8th Grade Homeroom Teacher
Ms. Cheng received a bachelor’s degree in Foreign Language and Literature from Beijing Normal University and a master’s degree in Learning Science and Technology from the University of Pennsylvania. She has 12 years of teaching experience in Beijing Sanfan middle school in China where she also worked as a mentor teacher and homeroom teacher of Grade 7 to 9 students. During the time she worked in Beijing, she actively participated in a variety of teaching research projects hosted by school district and educational organizations around the country. She participated in the language testing program of the University of Edinburgh and frequently presented model lessons in teaching research activities. As a teacher, she is committed to building learning communities in and out of school. She was awarded “Excellent Teacher of the Year” by Beijing Xicheng District Commission of Education twice.
Ms. Cheng received a bachelor’s degree in Foreign Language and Literature from Beijing Normal University and a master’s degree in Learning Science and Technology from the University of Pennsylvania. She has 12 years of teaching experience in Beijing Sanfan middle school in China where she also worked as a mentor teacher and homeroom teacher of Grade 7 to 9 students. During the time she worked in Beijing, she actively participated in a variety of teaching research projects hosted by school district and educational organizations around the country. She participated in the language testing program of the University of Edinburgh and frequently presented model lessons in teaching research activities. As a teacher, she is committed to building learning communities in and out of school. She was awarded “Excellent Teacher of the Year” by Beijing Xicheng District Commission of Education twice.
May Jean Cheah, Ph.D. – Science Section Head, Middle School Director, 6th - 8th Grade Science Teacher
Dr. Cheah received her Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from McGill University and a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Princeton University. She has teaching experiences with students across diverse settings, ranging from elementary school learners to middle school and college students. She loves sharing her passion for science and inquiry-based learning with students at YHIS. Dr. Cheah has been with YHIS since 2014.
Dr. Cheah received her Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from McGill University and a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Princeton University. She has teaching experiences with students across diverse settings, ranging from elementary school learners to middle school and college students. She loves sharing her passion for science and inquiry-based learning with students at YHIS. Dr. Cheah has been with YHIS since 2014.
Nien-Tzu Nancy Wang, Ph.D. – Section Head for Math, 7th & 8th Grade Math Teacher
Dr. Wang received her B.S. degree in Mathematics from Chung-Yuan Christian University in Taiwan. She then completed her Ph.D. degree in Mathematics from University of Utah. In that time period, she taught undergraduates various subjects in mathematics. Later on, she tutored high school students in SAT math. Since 2008, she taught Math at YHIS for two years and then rejoined YHIS in 2014. She developed the math curriculum for YHIS and gained the experience to teach from 1st - 8th grade. Dr. Wang loves devoting her time in improving the curriculum to keep it relevant as well as spreading her passion and knowledge in math to the students she teaches. At the end of the day, she likes to drink a cup of coffee with some dessert or snacks to unwind.
Dr. Wang received her B.S. degree in Mathematics from Chung-Yuan Christian University in Taiwan. She then completed her Ph.D. degree in Mathematics from University of Utah. In that time period, she taught undergraduates various subjects in mathematics. Later on, she tutored high school students in SAT math. Since 2008, she taught Math at YHIS for two years and then rejoined YHIS in 2014. She developed the math curriculum for YHIS and gained the experience to teach from 1st - 8th grade. Dr. Wang loves devoting her time in improving the curriculum to keep it relevant as well as spreading her passion and knowledge in math to the students she teaches. At the end of the day, she likes to drink a cup of coffee with some dessert or snacks to unwind.
Burgess Ekman – English Teacher
Burgess Ekman has been working in the field of education since 1994 with sojourns into computer training, and raising children. She has tutored, and taught in both public and private schools, focusing mainly on middle school and high school. She has experience as a Latin teacher, an English teacher and a Social Studies / History teacher. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Bryn Mawr College, and a Masters degree in Education from University of Pennsylvania. She is passionate about teaching and meeting children where they are to bring them along and increase their technical and intellectual abilities.
Burgess Ekman has been working in the field of education since 1994 with sojourns into computer training, and raising children. She has tutored, and taught in both public and private schools, focusing mainly on middle school and high school. She has experience as a Latin teacher, an English teacher and a Social Studies / History teacher. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Bryn Mawr College, and a Masters degree in Education from University of Pennsylvania. She is passionate about teaching and meeting children where they are to bring them along and increase their technical and intellectual abilities.
Julie Tam – Technology Director, SIS/LMS Database Manager, 1st – 5th Grade Technology Teacher, 6th - 8th Grade Design Teacher
Ms. Tam received a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts & Computer Graphic Design from Stockton University. Prior to joining YHIS, she worked as the Director of Digital and Database Design at Physicians' Education Resource. Ms. Tam sees her move to YHIS as an exciting opportunity to meaningfully and strategically engage her students with the world of technology, and inspire them to develop their problem solving and critical thinking skills within the inquiry-based learning environment at YHIS.
Ms. Tam received a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts & Computer Graphic Design from Stockton University. Prior to joining YHIS, she worked as the Director of Digital and Database Design at Physicians' Education Resource. Ms. Tam sees her move to YHIS as an exciting opportunity to meaningfully and strategically engage her students with the world of technology, and inspire them to develop their problem solving and critical thinking skills within the inquiry-based learning environment at YHIS.
Cecilia Tsao – STEAM Teacher, English Tutor
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” ― W.B. Yeats. Ms. Tsao has dedicated herself to becoming a life-long educator and learner, and she strives to instill a similar desire in all of the students with whom she works. Ms. Tsao holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Temple University, specialized in Special Education. She has worked with students with different ages from kindergarteners to middle school students. Additionally, she has been a volunteer Chinese teacher at Tzu Chi Academy for 3 years and has taught at a local after-school program for 2 years. Ms. Tsao believes that the most amazing teachers are those who believe in all their students!
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” ― W.B. Yeats. Ms. Tsao has dedicated herself to becoming a life-long educator and learner, and she strives to instill a similar desire in all of the students with whom she works. Ms. Tsao holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Temple University, specialized in Special Education. She has worked with students with different ages from kindergarteners to middle school students. Additionally, she has been a volunteer Chinese teacher at Tzu Chi Academy for 3 years and has taught at a local after-school program for 2 years. Ms. Tsao believes that the most amazing teachers are those who believe in all their students!
“Jun” Zhongjun Ge – P.E. Teacher
Mr. Ge graduated from Henan Normal University with a Bachelor’s degree in physical education with a concentration in teaching and research of gymnastics. He then taught gymnastics at the same university for 10 years. Mr. Ge went on to receive from Western Michigan University a Master’s degree in physical education with a focus on special physical education. As a U.S. Certified Men’s Coach, Mr. Ge coached the men’s team and a class of children with autism at Schafer School of Gymnastics from 2008 to 2011. He is also an experienced Chinese teacher, having taught Chinese at community-based Chinese schools including YingHua Language School in Lawrence and Fangcaodi Chinese School in Edison. Mr. Ge has been with YHIS since 2014.
Mr. Ge graduated from Henan Normal University with a Bachelor’s degree in physical education with a concentration in teaching and research of gymnastics. He then taught gymnastics at the same university for 10 years. Mr. Ge went on to receive from Western Michigan University a Master’s degree in physical education with a focus on special physical education. As a U.S. Certified Men’s Coach, Mr. Ge coached the men’s team and a class of children with autism at Schafer School of Gymnastics from 2008 to 2011. He is also an experienced Chinese teacher, having taught Chinese at community-based Chinese schools including YingHua Language School in Lawrence and Fangcaodi Chinese School in Edison. Mr. Ge has been with YHIS since 2014.
You Zhou – P.E. and Math Teacher, Mandarin Tutor
Ms. You Zhou received her bachelor’s degree in Russian and English Study from The Communication University of China in 2008, and an MA degree in Journalism from the Faculty of Economic Management at Moscow State University, Russia in 2011. She also holds a certificate in Packaging Engineering from Rutgers University. She worked as a journalist for the State Council of China from 2011 to 2012 , and as the Director of Social Media for the The Modern Bankers magazine from 2012 - 2013, before she immigrated to the US. In her spare time she volunteered multiple times as an elementary school teacher for underprivileged children in remote areas of China; she found much in common between being a teacher and a journalist, especially the necessity to express ideas accurately and vividly. She loves to teach her students not only to speak a language fluently, but also beautifully. She joined YHIS since 2019, and she has been teaching in the Weekend Program from YHIS. She is a decorated athlete in Taekwondo, plays violin, and is a fan of photography.
Ms. You Zhou received her bachelor’s degree in Russian and English Study from The Communication University of China in 2008, and an MA degree in Journalism from the Faculty of Economic Management at Moscow State University, Russia in 2011. She also holds a certificate in Packaging Engineering from Rutgers University. She worked as a journalist for the State Council of China from 2011 to 2012 , and as the Director of Social Media for the The Modern Bankers magazine from 2012 - 2013, before she immigrated to the US. In her spare time she volunteered multiple times as an elementary school teacher for underprivileged children in remote areas of China; she found much in common between being a teacher and a journalist, especially the necessity to express ideas accurately and vividly. She loves to teach her students not only to speak a language fluently, but also beautifully. She joined YHIS since 2019, and she has been teaching in the Weekend Program from YHIS. She is a decorated athlete in Taekwondo, plays violin, and is a fan of photography.
Yanlin Premo - Visual Arts Teacher
Ms. Premo graduated from Chenzhou Teachers College, China, with a major in art. Ms. Premo also received a certificate from Beijing Language and Culture University. She has had numerous extensive experiences with many forms of visual arts prior to deciding to teach in 2007. She is passionate about teaching and sharing her knowledge with students. She has since taught Chinese and Art to students ranging from preschool to high school. She enjoys being around young children and having a positive impact in their young lives. Ms. Premo has been with YHIS since 2011.
Ms. Premo graduated from Chenzhou Teachers College, China, with a major in art. Ms. Premo also received a certificate from Beijing Language and Culture University. She has had numerous extensive experiences with many forms of visual arts prior to deciding to teach in 2007. She is passionate about teaching and sharing her knowledge with students. She has since taught Chinese and Art to students ranging from preschool to high school. She enjoys being around young children and having a positive impact in their young lives. Ms. Premo has been with YHIS since 2011.
Kenneth Lightfoot – 3rd - 8th Grade Performing Arts Elective (String Ensemble) Teacher
Mr. Lightfoot comes to YingHua International School with years of experience teaching orchestra to middle and elementary students, including starting a successful new orchestra program for the Bridgeton Public School District in Bridgeton, NJ. He is a graduate of The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education as a cello major. He provides private instruction to students of all ages and abilities in cello, violin, and viola. He is also adept at playing bass guitar, guitar, trombone, and drums. It is Mr. Lightfoot’s diverse abilities and experience with music programs in the South Brunswick Public School District and Bridgeton Public School District that makes him an invaluable resource for our students in the string orchestra program.
Mr. Lightfoot comes to YingHua International School with years of experience teaching orchestra to middle and elementary students, including starting a successful new orchestra program for the Bridgeton Public School District in Bridgeton, NJ. He is a graduate of The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education as a cello major. He provides private instruction to students of all ages and abilities in cello, violin, and viola. He is also adept at playing bass guitar, guitar, trombone, and drums. It is Mr. Lightfoot’s diverse abilities and experience with music programs in the South Brunswick Public School District and Bridgeton Public School District that makes him an invaluable resource for our students in the string orchestra program.
Arthur Stephano – 4th - 6th Grade Music Teacher, 3rd - 8th Grade Performing Arts Elective (Band) Teacher
For more than 20 years Mr. Stephano, has been musician, composer, bandleader and teacher. His students have gone on to successful collegiate music programs, professional careers in music and years of enjoyment as players, bandleaders and teachers themselves. Mr. Stephano was educated at West Chester University and studied with masters such as Mr. Paul Klinefelter, Mr. Peter Paulsen and Ms. Heather Miller. Playing with many different musical groups of varying genres such as the Immaculata Symphony and several jazz ensembles, Mr. Stephano has recently released an album of all original music with a local recording group. Mr. Stephano inspires to bring out the wonder of music with his students and challenges them to connect all of life’s experiences with the joy of music while exploring the limitless musical universe with creativity and imagination.
For more than 20 years Mr. Stephano, has been musician, composer, bandleader and teacher. His students have gone on to successful collegiate music programs, professional careers in music and years of enjoyment as players, bandleaders and teachers themselves. Mr. Stephano was educated at West Chester University and studied with masters such as Mr. Paul Klinefelter, Mr. Peter Paulsen and Ms. Heather Miller. Playing with many different musical groups of varying genres such as the Immaculata Symphony and several jazz ensembles, Mr. Stephano has recently released an album of all original music with a local recording group. Mr. Stephano inspires to bring out the wonder of music with his students and challenges them to connect all of life’s experiences with the joy of music while exploring the limitless musical universe with creativity and imagination.
Heather Robbins – 3rd - 8th Peforming Arts Elective (Chorus) Teacher
Ms. Robbins comes to YHIS with over 20 years of experience teaching singing to students of all ages and abilities, as well as directing choirs and smaller ensembles. Her students have won prizes in competitions, held lead and supporting roles in musical theatre, and auditioned successfully for college programs. While such successes are exciting, her primary goal as a teacher is to help each student find his/her unique voice, learn how to use it in a healthy way, and to feel comfortable and confident using it in whatever situation desired, professional or pleasure, as a soloist or in an ensemble, and, most importantly, to have fun singing! Ms Robbins has a MA in music (vocal performance and pedagogy and choral methods). She is the founding director of the Kingston Women’s Chorus; as a performer she has worked in opera, in professional choruses, in jazz with a cappella groups and in a bossa nova band. She currently sings and plays bass with Kingston Ridge.
Ms. Robbins comes to YHIS with over 20 years of experience teaching singing to students of all ages and abilities, as well as directing choirs and smaller ensembles. Her students have won prizes in competitions, held lead and supporting roles in musical theatre, and auditioned successfully for college programs. While such successes are exciting, her primary goal as a teacher is to help each student find his/her unique voice, learn how to use it in a healthy way, and to feel comfortable and confident using it in whatever situation desired, professional or pleasure, as a soloist or in an ensemble, and, most importantly, to have fun singing! Ms Robbins has a MA in music (vocal performance and pedagogy and choral methods). She is the founding director of the Kingston Women’s Chorus; as a performer she has worked in opera, in professional choruses, in jazz with a cappella groups and in a bossa nova band. She currently sings and plays bass with Kingston Ridge.
Elizabeth (Liz) O’Donnell – Counseling Intern, After School Staff
Ms. Liz is currently a final-year graduate student at Rutgers University studying Social Work. She has over 10 years of after school programming experience and has worked the past 4 years as a substitute teacher. She currently works part time at Kean University in their Office of Disability Services as a supportive coach and spent her summer as a lead camp counselor at the Hillsborough YMCA Camp STAR. She absolutely loves working with children and supporting them through their elementary and middle school years and is super grateful for the opportunity to intern at the YingHua School.
Ms. Liz is currently a final-year graduate student at Rutgers University studying Social Work. She has over 10 years of after school programming experience and has worked the past 4 years as a substitute teacher. She currently works part time at Kean University in their Office of Disability Services as a supportive coach and spent her summer as a lead camp counselor at the Hillsborough YMCA Camp STAR. She absolutely loves working with children and supporting them through their elementary and middle school years and is super grateful for the opportunity to intern at the YingHua School.
Bianca Chan – After-school Staff
Ms. Bianca is currently a student at Princeton University studying in the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs and pursuing certificates in East Asian Studies and Statistics and Machine Learning. She has experience working with students from her time working at Kumon as a Reading and Math Grader, and through volunteering at the Princeton Nursery School during the school year. She enjoys working with kids and interned at YingHua over the summer.
Ms. Bianca is currently a student at Princeton University studying in the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs and pursuing certificates in East Asian Studies and Statistics and Machine Learning. She has experience working with students from her time working at Kumon as a Reading and Math Grader, and through volunteering at the Princeton Nursery School during the school year. She enjoys working with kids and interned at YingHua over the summer.
Mrs. Judy – After-school Staff
Ms. Judy is a retired schoolteacher who loves interacting with children. She began working at YHIS in 2018 in the after-school program.
Ms. Judy is a retired schoolteacher who loves interacting with children. She began working at YHIS in 2018 in the after-school program.
SzueNien Chai – After-school Staff
SzueNien Chai is working in the after-school program and is from Malaysia. She speaks English, Mandarín, Cantonese and Malaysian/Indonesian. She has been a music educator, choir conductor, and has been an assistant to the orchestra conductor at WWP in addition to being a Sunday school teacher. She enjoys working with children, and in her free time, she enjoys traveling and meeting new people from around the world. She enjoys dancing, reading, flower arrangement and interior decorating.
SzueNien Chai is working in the after-school program and is from Malaysia. She speaks English, Mandarín, Cantonese and Malaysian/Indonesian. She has been a music educator, choir conductor, and has been an assistant to the orchestra conductor at WWP in addition to being a Sunday school teacher. She enjoys working with children, and in her free time, she enjoys traveling and meeting new people from around the world. She enjoys dancing, reading, flower arrangement and interior decorating.
Melanie Tsai – After-school Staff
Ms. Melanie is part of the after-school team and an assistant in classes during the school week. She is currently a student at Rider University majoring in Elementary Education multidisciplinary, with a minor in Chinese and a certification in ESL. She has experience working with children from attending various summer camps as a counselor, as well as Startalk and Yinghua’s summer camps. She has experience teaching Chinese yoyo at Princeton Chinese Language school for a few years, as well as teaching Chinese traditional and folk dance during Startalk since 2017.
Ms. Melanie is part of the after-school team and an assistant in classes during the school week. She is currently a student at Rider University majoring in Elementary Education multidisciplinary, with a minor in Chinese and a certification in ESL. She has experience working with children from attending various summer camps as a counselor, as well as Startalk and Yinghua’s summer camps. She has experience teaching Chinese yoyo at Princeton Chinese Language school for a few years, as well as teaching Chinese traditional and folk dance during Startalk since 2017.