Our Community

Carmen Bernal

School Business Manager

I am originally from Madrid and moved to Norway in 2006. I have worked as a production manager in feature films all my years in Spain, although my education was in politics. I studied International Relations for the EU in Uppsala, Sweden, and Diplomatic Protocol in Madrid. When I moved to Oslo, due to family changes, I decided to move towards school and, more specifically, school leadership. I have since a bachelor's in Endringsledelse (Transformational and Transactional), building up with Rektorutdanning (UiO), Læreutdanning (INN), coaching and veiledning (OsloMet), Spanish and Latino American social and cultural studies (HiOf), and Norwegian as a second language (OsloMet). I have been a school leader both in public and private institutions and I still believe, deeply, that education, together with health care, is the strongest, most important achievement of society.

Brent Jane

PYP teacher

Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Education in 2007 and have been teaching since. I spent nearly 7 years as a Primary school teacher in Australia, teaching Grades 3 through 6, before moving to Norway in 2014. Since arriving in Norway, I have worked at Asker International School, where my primary role has been MYP Coordinator. I have filled various other roles including teaching Grade 1, Grade 5 and multiple subjects in the MYP. I was the lead Design & Technology teacher, and have recently completed additional studies at NTNU, specialising in teaching English.

I have a strong passion for educating learners. I am passionate about promoting technology and innovation in education.

I love spending time with my family, with 4 sons keeping me busy at home. I am a keen tennis player and am interested in health and fitness.

Wilhelm Daniel Valderrama

MYP Spanish

With a bachelor’s degree in Teaching English and Spanish, I started my career as an educator in my native Bogotá, Colombia in 1998. After 10 years working in language schools, I made a move into school classroom teaching in public schools in North Carolina, USA, where I was for 4 years. There, I completed my Master’s degree in TESOL from Greensboro College, and in 2012, I moved to China, where I started my experience with IB schools. There, not only did I continue to develop my teaching experience, this time with an international curriculum, but I also started to build on my leadership skills as a department leader and a curriculum coordinator. My passion for a holistic education that develops the student as an integral human being made me join the International Baccalaureate Educator Network (IBEN), which has brought me the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience about IB education in schools around the world as a workshop leader and visiting team member.

I am married to a wonderful woman who shares my passion for education, and we have two wonderful children. As a family, we believe in the power of sustainable living and respect for the global community. I am very excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growth and improvement of our school community here in Norway.

Julie Haugen

SFO Leader

Kesaia Naisara

PYP teacher

I have had the opportunity of working in Fiji, Norway, and China. My passion for empowering young minds in an international setting has been rewarding.

I received my education in Fiji. I enjoy new learning opportunities with colleagues and peers. I believe in mentoring and empowering younger teachers to engage in best practices for our students. My role in the International Baccalaureate as an IBEN member helps me to support students and teachers.

I enjoy mentoring and guiding teachers in their quest to become better educators and facilitators of learning. 

Ericson Gutierrez

MYP Science

Originally from the Philippines, I am fortunate to gain vast experience teaching Science in various international schools in the Philippines, Kazakhstan, and Singapore. I started teaching in 2005, delivering IB MYP, IB DP, and IGCSE curricula and frameworks.

Juan Fernandez

PYP Teacher & MYP Science

Born in a multicultural European family and raised in Montreal, Canada. I grew up with a strong sense of inquiry and curiosity for life, travelling, learning languages, and a particular interest and understanding of Mathematics and Physics. My passion for learning led me to complete a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering with Honours and later a Master's of Education in Curriculum Instruction.

My travels brought me to live and discover South East Asia where I lived for over 17 years and the later part of my life in Europe. My sense of discovery enabled me to understand the complexity and uniqueness of various subjects I have been privileged to teach across the MYP and DP.

This undertaking became integral to who I am now as an educator and brought me a unique vision of 21st-century education. I strongly believe in balanced technological and inquiry-based learning approaches that encourage students’ critical thinking skills and cognitive development. Students and educators can enjoy and learn as much as they want if the material has an interest, a purpose, and a rationale. A proper curriculum instructed holistically enables students to remember best when they are encouraged to communicate their questions, share personal connections, build upon prior knowledge, try something new, and receive meaningful feedback while reflecting on the process.

Connie Pedraza

PYP Teacher

I am a Colombian teacher with a bachelor's degree in early childhood education. I worked in the USA and China, where I had students from different cultures and languages. As a preschool and elementary teacher, I am enthusiastic and caring. Along with all the other creative initiatives in the classroom, I love to create mini museums and indoor gardens with my students. I believe in creating a learning environment where students have a voice and can pursue their learning by following their interests and passions.

Patrick Locufier

PYP teacher

I have a strong passion for educating learners. I am passionate about promoting technology and innovation in education. I love spending time with my family, with 4 sons keeping me busy at home. I am a keen tennis player and am interested in health and fitness.

Luanne May Downs

PYP and MYP Visual Arts

I am so excited to have your kids in my class this year. I am sure this year will be a learning journey, fun and adventure. I will be spending the first weeks of school learning more about your child and better understanding how I can best support them as they encounter exciting new opportunities for growth and discovery.

Henrique Caetano

MYP Design

I have 28 years of experience working in the design field in a global context with prestigious organisations such as National Geographic. I transitioned into the world of education, motivated to make a difference and encourage all learners to use the lens of sustainability when seeking solutions to problems as global citizens.

My career and passion for design blended with education have led me to work in international schools in China and Brazil. I now enjoy being at Romerike International School, collaborating with the whole community to develop a design-thinking mindset within and beyond our school community. 

Ericson Gutierrez

MYP Science

Originally from the Philippines, I am fortunate to gain vast experience teaching Science in various international schools in the Philippines, Kazakhstan, and Singapore. I started teaching in 2005, delivering IB MYP, IB DP, and IGCSE curricula and frameworks.

Susanna Andreassen

MYP Individuals and Societies / MYP Norwegian B

I am originally from Norway but lived in Hong Kong for fourteen years, and prior to that, I lived and studied in Denmark and Thailand. I have an MSc in Business Administration, but my passion for learning and working with people brought me into education. I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Education and worked in secondary and tertiary education in Hong Kong, of which nine years were in IB World Schools. I am currently in my third year of teaching at Romerike International School.

My main subject is Individuals and Societies, and I love how students can discuss current affairs and use critical thinking in my lessons.

Wilhelm Daniel Valderrama

MYP Spanish

With a bachelor’s degree in Teaching English and Spanish, I started my career as an educator in my native Bogotá, Colombia in 1998. After 10 years working in language schools, I made a move into school classroom teaching in public schools in North Carolina, USA, where I was for 4 years. There, I completed my Master’s degree in TESOL from Greensboro College, and in 2012, I moved to China, where I started my experience with IB schools. There, not only did I continue to develop my teaching experience, this time with an international curriculum, but I also started to build on my leadership skills as a department leader and a curriculum coordinator. My passion for a holistic education that develops the student as an integral human being made me join the International Baccalaureate Educator Network (IBEN), which has brought me the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience about IB education in schools around the world as a workshop leader and visiting team member.

I am married to a wonderful woman who shares my passion for education, and we have two wonderful children. As a family, we believe in the power of sustainable living and respect for the global community. I am very excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growth and improvement of our school community here in Norway.

Anne Lene Elfstedt

MYP Norwegian

After several exciting and educational years living in Switzerland and Spain, I returned to Romerike, where I grew up, in 2006. I finished my language bachelor’s degree and graduated as a teacher in 2014. Since then, I have been working in a public middle school, teaching mainly Norwegian and German.
We live in a society and a contemporary that, in many areas, has greater diversity and more tolerance than a few decades ago. Nevertheless, we must not take this for granted, and it is vital to help our children become good at collaboration, critical thinking and reflection, and developing good oral and written communication skills.
Because of this, teaching the younger generation is one of our society's most rewarding tasks. My students must respect each other and be exploratory, willing to learn and motivated. As a teacher, I am humbled and, at the same time, very excited to contribute to this at Romerike International School.

Megan Korsman

MYP English 

I am fascinated by the power of courage and growth. Having obtained my degree in English and Psychology from Stellenbosch University in South Africa, I approach all I do with a curious mind and a willingness to learn. This also forms the basis of my teaching philosophy – always strive for growth through relationships and mutual respect. I am in my 15th year of teaching, 7 in South Africa and 7 in the UAE.

In my free time, I adore the outdoors and the cosy winters. This makes Norway my ideal location!

Enyo Afele

MYP Mathematics

I was born in a small village in Ghana and moved to London UK where I spent most of my childhood. My desire to learn about different cultures led me to live and work in some fantastic countries: The Netherlands, Trinidad and Tobago, Switzerland, Portugal, and Malaysia.

I was the first in my family to complete a university education with a BSc in Economics specialising in Development Studies, an M.A. in Politics/Economics at the University of London and a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) at Greenwich University.
I had the opportunity to work with several NGOs and The UN on Women's and children’s Rights before moving into education. I have loved my 18 years of teaching, sharing my passions with students, and equally learning more about myself in the process. I am excited to be here at the start of an incredible journey for RIS, and I hope to make a valuable contribution to the school and the local community.

Juan Fernandez

PYP Teacher & MYP Science

Born in a multicultural European family and raised in Montreal, Canada. I grew up with a strong sense of inquiry and curiosity for life, travelling, learning languages, and a particular interest and understanding of Mathematics and Physics. My passion for learning led me to complete a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering with Honours and later a Master's of Education in Curriculum Instruction.

My travels brought me to live and discover South East Asia where I lived for over 17 years and the later part of my life in Europe. My sense of discovery enabled me to understand the complexity and uniqueness of various subjects I have been privileged to teach across the MYP and DP.

This undertaking became integral to who I am now as an educator and brought me a unique vision of 21st-century education. I strongly believe in balanced technological and inquiry-based learning approaches that encourage students’ critical thinking skills and cognitive development. Students and educators can enjoy and learn as much as they want if the material has an interest, a purpose, and a rationale. A proper curriculum instructed holistically enables students to remember best when they are encouraged to communicate their questions, share personal connections, build upon prior knowledge, try something new, and receive meaningful feedback while reflecting on the process.

Rachael Axon

Director of Sport & Outdoor Education

I am a native of London, England, and I have always had a passion for sports and physical activity for as long as I can remember. Having graduated from Oregon State University with a Bachelor's in Sports & Exercise Sciences and a Master's in Physical Education Teacher Education, I’ve built much of my career in quite a unique setting. I spent 12 years as a professional soccer player, which allowed me to live and play in six different countries across three different continents (and was what initially brought me to Norway). Before pursuing my teaching career, I worked as Daglig Leder for Kolbotn Fotball Kvinner, responsible for the club’s women’s professional team and “breddelagene”. I have previously taught at Haugesund International School on the west coast and Norlights International School in Oslo. In my free time, I love to hike. The higher the mountain, the better!

Vilde Kaunatjike Synnestvedt

PYP Norwegian

Graduating from the Norwegian School of Sport Science in 2010 with a bachelor's degree in sport science, I kickstarted my teaching career in South Africa, alongside Sport, Culture and Development studies at the University of Western Cape. Living and working in S.A. has so far been one of the most incredible experiences in my life!

In addition, I have higher education in English from Østfold University College and Norwegian from Oslo Metropolitan University.

I have been employed at Neskollen primary school since 2012, where I taught in a range of year groups from grades 4 – 7. When I teach, I want my students to learn discipline, structure, creativity and collaboration. I am a big fan of peer leadership, and I try to use teaching methods that emphasize learning, how to become independent and motivated, and taking ownership.

Milica Kovačević

PYP Teacher

After living in three different countries and completing my education, I moved to Norway in 2017 to study International Teacher Education for Primary Schools for my bachelor’s degree.
Since then, I have taught in different international schools in Asia and Norway. As an educator, I am passionate and caring; students always come first in my classroom. I aim to create a learning environment that is safe and inclusive and nurtures students to be independent, thoughtful, creative, reflective and self-confident critical thinkers whose voice is being represented in the classroom and whose interests and passions are being reflected in their learning.

Finja Kruse

PYP Teacher

Born and raised in Hamburg, Germany, I loved travel and culture. My education allowed me to study and work in various countries including Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Scotland, Thailand and Russia. After graduating with a BA Honors in Teacher Education from Absalon University College, I went to the UK. I moved to Bath in 2018 to pursue a MA in International Education and Globalisation. Soon after, I started my career as a Homeroom Teacher at Dwight London.

I believe that the heart of teaching lies in the inquiry approach that supports the learners in becoming agents in their learning through enthusiasm and a holistic approach. I enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring new food and being active. 

Finja Kruse

PYP Teacher

Born and raised in Hamburg, Germany, I loved travel and culture. My education allowed me to study and work in various countries including Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Scotland, Thailand and Russia. After graduating with a BA Honors in Teacher Education from Absalon University College, I went to the UK. I moved to Bath in 2018 to pursue a MA in International Education and Globalisation. Soon after, I started my career as a Homeroom Teacher at Dwight London.

I believe that the heart of teaching lies in the inquiry approach that supports the learners in becoming agents in their learning through enthusiasm and a holistic approach. I enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring new food and being active. 

Kesaia Naisara

PYP teacher

I have had the opportunity of working in Fiji, Norway, and China. My passion for empowering young minds in an international setting has been rewarding.

I received my education in Fiji. I enjoy new learning opportunities with colleagues and peers. I believe in mentoring and empowering younger teachers to engage in best practices for our students. My role in the International Baccalaureate as an IBEN member helps me to support students and teachers.

I enjoy mentoring and guiding teachers in their quest to become better educators and facilitators of learning. 

Brent Jane

PYP teacher

Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Education in 2007 and have been teaching since. I spent nearly 7 years as a Primary school teacher in Australia, teaching Grades 3 through 6, before moving to Norway in 2014. Since arriving in Norway, I have worked at Asker International School, where my primary role has been MYP Coordinator. I have filled various other roles including teaching Grade 1, Grade 5 and multiple subjects in the MYP. I was the lead Design & Technology teacher, and have recently completed additional studies at NTNU, specialising in teaching English.

I have a strong passion for educating learners. I am passionate about promoting technology and innovation in education.

I love spending time with my family, with 4 sons keeping me busy at home. I am a keen tennis player and am interested in health and fitness.

Gladdys Cuadra

Assistant Teacher

Originally from the Philippines, I have been overseas for the last 10 years and have experience being a PYP teaching assistant in two IB World Schools in Singapore for the last 5 years.

Having completed a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications, I opted to be in the field of education dealing with young minds right after my university graduation. I am very passionate about young learners. I enjoy witnessing how they explore and discover the world around us.

My husband also teaches at Romerike International School in the secondary level as a Science Teacher and we have three children. During my free time, I enjoy cooking, baking and cycling.

Victoria Skarpsno

PYP Norwegian

Soon!

Kesaia Naisara

PYP teacher

I have had the opportunity of working in Fiji, Norway, and China. My passion for empowering young minds in an international setting has been rewarding.

I received my education in Fiji. I enjoy new learning opportunities with colleagues and peers. I believe in mentoring and empowering younger teachers to engage in best practices for our students. My role in the International Baccalaureate as an IBEN member helps me to support students and teachers.

I enjoy mentoring and guiding teachers in their quest to become better educators and facilitators of learning. 

Brent Jane

PYP teacher

Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Education in 2007 and have been teaching since. I spent nearly 7 years as a Primary school teacher in Australia, teaching Grades 3 through 6, before moving to Norway in 2014. Since arriving in Norway, I have worked at Asker International School, where my primary role has been MYP Coordinator. I have filled various other roles including teaching Grade 1, Grade 5 and multiple subjects in the MYP. I was the lead Design & Technology teacher, and have recently completed additional studies at NTNU, specialising in teaching English.

I have a strong passion for educating learners. I am passionate about promoting technology and innovation in education.

I love spending time with my family, with 4 sons keeping me busy at home. I am a keen tennis player and am interested in health and fitness.

Gladdys Cuadra

Assistant Teacher

Originally from the Philippines, I have been overseas for the last 10 years and have experience being a PYP teaching assistant in two IB World Schools in Singapore for the last 5 years.

Having completed a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications, I opted to be in the field of education dealing with young minds right after my university graduation. I am very passionate about young learners. I enjoy witnessing how they explore and discover the world around us.

My husband also teaches at Romerike International School in the secondary level as a Science Teacher and we have three children. During my free time, I enjoy cooking, baking and cycling.

Gladdys Cuadra

Assistant Teacher

Originally from the Philippines, I have been overseas for the last 10 years and have experience being a PYP teaching assistant in two IB World Schools in Singapore for the last 5 years.

Having completed a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications, I opted to be in the field of education dealing with young minds right after my university graduation. I am very passionate about young learners. I enjoy witnessing how they explore and discover the world around us.

My husband also teaches at Romerike International School in the secondary level as a Science Teacher and we have three children. During my free time, I enjoy cooking, baking and cycling.