The AISB Times
We Celebrate 100% University Acceptance Rate/ 2023-24 Squad
March 29, 2023 Edition
Featuring
- 100% University Acceptance Rate
- The 2023/2024 Faculty
- End of 3rd Quarter/Report Cards
- Third Quarter Awards
- Spring Break
- Parent-Teacher Conferences
- MAP Test
- IB Consultant Visit
- Teacher Appreciation Week
- International Day
- Promotion Ceremonies for Pre-K4, Kindergarten, Grade 5 and Grade 8
- Prom
- 12th Grade Graduation
University Acceptances
AISB Celebrates 100% University Acceptance Rate
The success of AISB's college placement process is represented by the 100 percent college acceptance rate. Our graduates receive multiple acceptances, with many receiving acceptances to their first and second-choice schools.
Our team of experienced faculty provides assistance and guidance in navigating the process with students beginning in 9th grade right through to twelfth grade. Finding the right fit for each individual is a goal and an important key to achieving future success.
AISB is proud to have graduates accepted to prestigious colleges and universities including Penn State University, Louisiana State University, University New Brunswick, University of Concordia, University of Houston, Oklahoma University, Hult International Business School, just to name a few.
Aiyana Livane Kabore
Aiyana has been accepted into:
The Algonquine College in Ottawa, Canada.
University of Ottawa, Canada
She will be pursuing her degree in Human Resource Management.
Congratulations, Aiyana!
Georgia State University
Jean-Philippe Ndoutabe will proceed to Georgia State University in the United States of America.
He will major in Business Administration/ Accounting.
Congratulations, Jean-Philippe!
Gael Ngoga Muyango
Gael will be making a choice between:
- University of Concordia and
Carleton university in Canada
His is ready to major in Civil Engineering in Canada.
Congratulations, Gael!
Nassa Nkonongo
Nassa has been accepted into the following universities:
- Hult International Business School (London)
- University of New Brunswick (Canada)
- University of Calgary
Nassa will major in Business Administration in the UK.
Congratulation, Nassa!
Julius Awasume
Julius has been accepted into the following universities in Canada:
- University of New Brunswick
- Concordia University.
Julius intends to major in Computer Science.
Congratulations, Julius!
Mohamed Traore
Mohamed has been accepted into Hult International Business School in Boston, USA.
He will pursue his degree in Business Administration come Fall 2023.
Congratulations, Mohamed!
Frederick Eyebe
Frederic has been accepted into the following universities:
- University of New Brunswick
- Mount Allison University
- New Brunswick Community College
Frederic intends to study Business Administration in Canada.
Congratulations, Frederic!
Nicia Isimbi
Nicia has been accepted into the following universities:
- University of Rhode Island (USA)
- University of New Hampshire (USA)
- Florida Memorial University (USA)
- University of New Brunswick (Canada)
Nicia intends to pursue her studies in Finance/Analytical Economics or Business Administration.
Congratulations, Nicia!
Thorsten-Jones Viban
Thorsten has received acceptances from the following universities in the United States of America:
- Penn State University
- University of Houston
- Oklahoma University
- Louisiana State University
Thorsten would be pursuing a degree in Petroleum & Natural Gas Engineering.
Congratulations, Thorsten!
Meet The 2023/2024 Squad
Ms. Gunjan Bhagchandani: Kindergarten Teacher
Mrs. Gunjan Bhagchandani, known as Ms. Gunjan, has been teaching for over eight years at various levels (both National and International schools) in elementary grades, including, Preschool and Kindergarten.
She came to Brazzaville with her husband four years back, and since then, she has been part of this inspiring community, ASIB. She truly values the AISB experience.
She has earned a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Education. In 2017, alongside on-campus teaching, she worked as a part-time online English teacher in Albert Learning, a renowned International online learning platform. She has a certificate in Virtual Learning for Early Years Educators conducted by ISS. She has an active role in extracurricular activities like dance, creative art, and graphic designing.
Ms. Gunjan believes every child is unique and deserves a caring, inspiring, and engaging atmosphere to grow emotionally, intellectually, and socially. As an educator, she wants to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing a safe, risk-taking, and collaborative environment.
In her 5th year returning to AISB, Ms. Gunjan wholeheartedly commits to the school community. She will be the Kindergarten teacher next year, 2023/2024.
She is excited to accompany each child in her class on their learning journeys!
Ms. Andrea Bavouidi: PYP Assistant Teacher
Ms. Andrea Bavouidi Mbombolo has been the Kg and 1st grade Teacher Assistant, is happily married and has three lovely kids.
She is a Pilot by training. In 2016, she graduated from the CAE Oxford Academy (Phoenix Arizona, USA), Mediterrane Air Training in Montpelier, and Aerosim in Paris. She also obtained a certificate and Pilot License from PPL, MCC, France. In 2014, she studied Aviation and obtained a diploma from CAE Oxford Academy in Brussels, Belgium after her Air Hostess training in 2012.
Apart from aviation, Ms. Andrea also has a passion and potential for teaching, and customer service. Before joining AISB in January, she was teaching preschoolers and later elementary students at the American Day Care.
She joined AISB school in January, 2019 as a third Grade Assistant Teacher and is very happy because of the way she was welcomed to the school. The interaction and the working environment with Ms Travis, her homeroom teacher and all the staff was very positive. This made her work easy, lovely, and encouraged her to dedicate herself even more.
Also the support and the assistance from Dr. Laura and all the team helped to integrate her well in the school. She appreciates everyone and is sometimes overwhelmed by the parents' understanding , cooperation and engagement or involvement in their kids' education. All these made her love the community so much. These experiences made her give all her best as Mr Sean's assistant for this year.
Ms. Andrea will love to continue with the AISB community to offer all her support to the school, to educate, to guide, and develop the students to their maximum potential.
Ms. Grace Arreneke: ELL & Drama Teacher
Ms. Grace Eyong Arreneke Bessala is married and a mother of five. She's currently the English Language Support (ELL) teacher for Elementary, Middle and High school at the American International School of Brazzaville. She also teaches Middle and High School Drama.
Ms. Grace has been a Drama and ELL teacher for over 14 years. She has a Diploma in the Performing Arts from the University of Calabar, Nigeria, a B.A (Hons) in English from the University of Buea, Cameroon, and a Master's in Education degree from the University of Essex in the United Kingdom. She is also Certified to teach English as a Second Language Learners by the European Council of International Schools.
Her passions are in teaching Drama and language acquisition. In addition to weaving yarns, her other pastimes include beading, sewing, cooking, and gardening.
Her son Julius Sumelong Awasume is graduating from AISB this June, and her daughter, Rosamond will be in Grade 7 next academic year 2023/2024
Mr. Christopher Magambo: MYP & High School Math & Physics Teacher
"I possess over a decade of teaching experience and have served as a versatile and well-organized mathematics teacher in various international schools across the region. I am a proactive and open-minded individual who emphasizes self-awareness and cultural sensitivity in my pedagogical approach. My collaborative and communicative approach fosters a positive and constructive working relationship with my students. While I strive for personal improvement, I also possess a competitive drive.
As a mathematics teacher, I place a strong emphasis on creating an equitable learning environment that accommodates various learning styles and embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion. My pedagogical approach enables students to acquire mathematical knowledge, visualize and explore mathematical patterns, communicate their understanding of mathematics, and apply their knowledge to solve everyday life problems.
In terms of my educational qualifications, I hold a Master's degree in Advanced Learning in Mathematics from the United States of America, a Bachelor of Science in Education with a focus on Mathematics and Physics, an Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education, and an Ordinary Certificate of Education. I have also achieved a TEFL- 150-hour curriculum certification from OISE University of Toronto, certifications in A level Cambridge and IGCSE Mathematics, certification in the IB DP & MYP curriculum, and a certification in the effective usage of teaching materials".
Bertrand Mbioko: PYP/MYP & HS PE Assistant /Swimming Teacher
Mr. Bertrand Mbioko started his professional career as a swimming instructor. He’s been the technical director of the ‘Avenir’ swimming club since the year 2000. Moreover, he’s trained the national swimming team of Congo from the year 2008 to 2012. He started working at AISB in 2012 as the physical education teacher assistant as well as swimming instructor.
Five years ago, he also took on the responsibility of swimming pool maintenance at AISB. His professional experiences abroad includes interning in the swimming and triathlon teachers' programs in Morocco, Algeria and Cameroon. He’s travelled with the national swimming team to the DRC, Gabon, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Angola and Nigeria for swimming competitions.
His experience so far at AISB has been nothing short of pleasant. He enjoys the diversity and collegiality at AISB and looks forward to the future with a positive mindset and
seriousness of purpose.
Mr. Brandon Clemmons: MYP Coordinator /Social Studies Teacher
Hello again AISB Family! My name is Brandon Clemmons and I am an American from Virginia. I hold a Master’s of Education in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in History and Social Science with Secondary Education.
I have spent the past year leading, teaching and learning at AISB as the MYP Coordinator and an additional 10 years living teaching and leading internationally. I hold a teaching qualification from my home state of Virginia as well as QTS from the Department for Education in England.
My passions are reading, cycling, discussing current events and traveling. I hope that we will be able to continue the positive growth we have seen in implementing the MYP program at AISB and look forward to becoming a fully authorized MYP school next year.
Mr. Basil Kwatinyuy: PYP/MYP/HS Assistant Teacher/Elementary PE Teacher & Soccer Coach
Mr. Basil Kwatinyuy joined AISB a year ago as a special education assistant and later became the PE Teacher Assistant.
He is very excited by the prospect of returning next year after a very fulfilling experience with the wonderful students of the American international school of Brazzaville.
Before coming to AISB, he taught at several schools and served as a soccer coach in Best Star Academy.
He holds a Bachelor's degree in History and Political Science from the university of Buea in 2015.
He is passionate about sports, especially coaching soccer and intends to impact his energetic students even better next year.
Mr. Michel Kadaba: PYP 5 Co-Teacher
Mr. Michel Kadaba has worked at the American International School of Brazzaville since 2012. He is a Congolese national, who attended the Teacher Training College (E.N.S) at Marien Ngouabi University, in Congo-Brazzaville. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Teaching English and French. In 2020, Mr. Michel earned his Upper Elementary Teaching Diploma from the North American Montessori Center(NAMC).
Mr. Kadaba believes that AISB has helped him improve as a teacher, gain knowledge about international best practices in teaching and learning, and has given him the opportunity to be qualified as an international associate supervisor and proctor for the PSAT, SAT, and TOEFL exams.
After spending an amazing part of the school year as the PYP 5 and later PYP 3 & 4 Co-Teacher, Mr. Michel is excited to co-teach the PYP 5 class next year.
As an educator, Mr. Michel Kadaba believes that every child is unique, and all children learn in different ways.
He looks forward to next year at AISB!
Ms. Simone Tchagou (T): PYP 3 & 4 Teacher
Originally from Georgetown Guyana, Ms. Simone Tchagou is a traditional teacher who believes teaching is her calling. Known to everyone as “Ms. T,” Simone Tchagou has been at AISB for eight years. In addition to being the Lead Elementary teacher, Ms. T will be teaching Third and Fourth Grade.
Ms. T, was able to gain her experience of the last 27 years at 6 different schools. Before joining the staff of AISB in 2015, Ms. T has previously worked in the United States for over eleven years and Yaoundé Cameroon for four years. As an elementary teacher, she has taught kindergarten to fourth grade. She started teaching in 1996 after graduating from Pensacola Christian College with a Bachelor’s degree in Commercial Writing and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education.
Ms. T came to Brazzaville with her son Joshua who is currently in high school.
Ms. Jadmire Feret: Pre-School Co-Teacher
Ms. Feret is deeply committed and enthusiastic about education, with a particular interest in inspiring and guiding children and young people. She has both a Master's degree in Education from Funiber University and a Bachelor's degree in Accountability and Finance Management from Ead University.
With over eight years of experience teaching in various local and international schools in Brazzaville, she has developed strong teaching skills and leadership abilities. Her recent appointment as an IB Pre-K co-teacher has reinforced her expertise, particularly in building self-esteem and confidence in her students. Ms. Feret is eager to continue to empower both herself and her students as they embark on their learning journey this academic year.
Mr. Colin Hauck: MYP & High School Social Studies/Economics Teacher
Mr. Hauck has over ten years teaching experience in many social studies subjects to both middle and high school, and in both the International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement programs.
He has previously taught in Eritrea, Cameroon, Burkina Faso and Venezuela. He has two MA degrees in International Relations/Diplomacy and History, in addition to a BA in Anthropology & History.
This will be Mr. Hauck's third year at AISB where he will be teaching courses in both the middle and high schools.
Ms. Gladys Tabe: ELL Assistant Teacher
Ms. Gladys Tabe is a Nigerian and a mother of two lovely kids. She joined AISB in 2022 in the second semester as a teacher assistant in the English language department. She was born in Nigeria and partly raised in Cameroon where her entire family currently resides. She has taught in some schools in Cameroon both in elementary and in middle school.
She holds a Grade 1 Teacher's Training Diploma and joined the AISB community with her experience that she hopes to share with the students in the next academic year.
Ms. Perpetua Ngembane: Pre-School Co-Teacher
Ms. Perpetua Ngembane hails from Cameroon and Joined AISB in 2013. Since then, each academic year has opened a great opportunity for her to help students build their confidence, learn, socialize and also to improve on their skills.
Come August 2023, she will be embarking on her third year of serving as a co-teacher in Pre-K, following several years as a teacher assistant, and elementary art teacher. She believes in the unique development of children at all stages in life and strive to build a positive working relationship with students, parents and her co-teacher through mutual collaboration and communication.
She holds a teacher training Diploma for elementary school, a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, and an International teaching diploma for lower elementary from North American Montessori Training School. Through AISB, She has been privileged to participate in several IB Professional development workshops and training programs.
She look forward to an exciting, challenging and learning opportunity in the new academic year."
Mr. Alioune Diagne: PYP & MYP French Teacher
My name is Alioune DIAGNE. I am from Senegal but have been living in The Republic of Congo for a while. I have about 16 years in total of teaching experience. I hold a Certificate of Aptitude for Secondary Education, a Master's degree in French as a Foreign Language and a BA of Modern Letters. For the past 9 years, I have taught students from elementary to high school in French language and culture at the American International School of Brazzaville.
What made me decide to be a teacher?
One main reason for me to become a teacher is to impact the education system. I believe that teachers have the potential to interact with students at all stages of development and from all walks of life. As a teacher, I have the opportunity to help students along this path and to play a part in shaping the person they will ultimately become. I am always glad to help children who struggle with low self-esteem, encouraging and pushing them to realize their potential. Becoming a teacher lets me impart life lessons my students will never forget and puts me in a position to influence their decisions, behaviors, strengths, weaknesses and imagination. Becoming a teacher lets me take part in shaping the next generation.
What am I excited about for the upcoming school year?
I am very excited to be teaching at A.I.S.B and be able to make learning fun and exciting for my students. As an International Educator, I believe that children can be successful if there is a teacher who believes in them! I work to create a learning environment where students feel safe to take risks, to make mistakes, and try each day to do better and be better. I look forward to working with all of the families and building a wonderful community together and believe that 2023-2024 is going to be a successful year!
Ms. Allyson Auger: School-Wide Counselor & PYP 1&2 Teacher
Hello my name is Allyson Auger and I'm originally from a small town near Daytona Beach Florida. My bachelor's degree is in Exceptional Student Education and it is from the University of Central Florida. I have been teaching for over 15 years and I'm married and have a son who both are Kenyan.
My teaching career began in the US but has spread to several countries including Sudan, Kenya, Morocco, Egypt, Uganda and now Congo. During that Journey I acquired a Master’s degree in Education from Capella University in the US, and a love for Africa.
One of my favorite moments in teaching is when I see the look on my student's face when they finally understand something they have been struggling with and that's what they'll never forget and neither will I. Many of those moments will happen with the grade 1 and 2, and all the students here at AISB.
Mr. Albert Authority: School-wide Music Teacher
Albert Authority, feels delighted to teach music and to do so in a way that each student under his teaching feels special, valued and encouraged. He is a very positive fellow who believes that every child under his tutelage has something to offer, if provided with the right information, motivation and opportunity.
Prior to his joining the AISB’s team of achievers, Albert Authority was the (expatriate) Head of Music Department at Singapore International School, Mumbai, India. Mr. Authority is a committed and versatile music educator and director. He completed a Diploma in Music Education and Bachelor of Arts in music (Composition Major) from the University of Nigeria Nsukka in 1998 and 2000 respectively. He further also got a certificate in Advanced Diploma in Human Resources and Personnel Management and Master of Arts degree in Musicology (Theory and Composition) from the University of Lagos in 2010 and 2011.
Authority as an astute scholar got several certificates from high-ranking global universities these include Certificate in Teaching and Leadership (CTL) from Robinson College Cambridge University, 2012, Certificate in Arts of Choral Direction (CACD) from Sherborn School of Music, Dorset, England, United Kingdom, 2013, and Certificate in Choral Conducting (CCC) University of Buffalo USA 2016.
Albert is a multi-instrumentalist who teaches instruments such as piano, saxophone, trombone, euphonium; directs choirs, raising and coordinating orchestras and bands. He travels far and wide in Nigeria, Ghana, England, Scotland, Wales, Spain, UAE, USA (i.e., Maryland, New York, Atlanta Georgia, Texas, Washington D.C., Delaware, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Virginia etc), The Netherlands, Australia, India and several oversea countries for music shows, music conferences, performances and workshops.
Albert has attended well over 18 Career Professional Development (CPD) courses in the United Kingdom with certifications and has published in a handful of international Music Journals. Mr. Authority has got over Twenty-Three (23) years of experience working professionally as a music director, fourteen (14) out of the Twenty-Three years in middle management positions (i.e., head of faculty / department).
He is an individual member of European Community of International Schools (ECIS) and also Council of British International Schools (COBIS). He is a trained and certified COBIS middle manager. Currently, he is enrolled in the Education Certificate for American Teachers Licensure with the Teach-Now Graduate School of Education, Washington D.C. 20006 USA.
Albert is experienced in the IGCSE, Montessori and IPC curricula, including the International Baccalaureate Programmes – PYP, MYP, DP. He is well equipped with the knowledge of latest trends in education thinking & pedagogy, students learning styles and assessments. He has got experiences teaching and supervising Music Extended Essay (EE), CAS and Theory of Knowledge (TOK).
Albert is a prolific composer with well over a thousand and fifteen (1015) musical compositions. He is a skilful arranger, seasoned vocalist and a virtuoso conductor. He is an author with an eloquent pen, having eighteen (18) books to his credit, published also on Amazon.
Dr. Pierre Moukala: IT Technician
Dr. Pierre Moukala Mpele, also known as “Doctor Peter” or “Doctor P” has been the IT Technician at the American International School of Brazzaville since September 2022.
Prior to his Ph.D., Dr. Peter earned a Masters in Telecommunications (2016) and a Bachelors in Electronics and Telecommunications (2013) from Marien Ngouabi University. These programs provided him with a comprehensive understanding of telecommunications systems, including both theoretical and practical applications.
In addition to his academic qualifications, Dr. Peter holds professional certificates in computer networks (CCNA & CCNA Security) and computer maintenance, which gave him a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in ICT and telecommunication industries. Dr. Pierre is well-versed in network design, configuration, and troubleshooting, as well as system administration and maintenance.
Dr. Peter is a highly qualified and motivated telecommunications professional with a Ph.D. in Telecommunications (2021) from Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences Technology and Innovation hosted at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (Kenya). With a strong passion for teaching and research, Dr. Peter has accumulated two years of experience as a part-time lecturer at both Marien Ngouabi and Denis Sassou-Nguesso Universities, where he has been teaching courses such as Antennas and High Frequency Circuits, Digital Filters Design, Computer Networks, Analog and Digital Signal for Telecommunications, Microelectronics, Computer Maintenance, and Computer Architecture and Organization. He is an active researcher and his current research interests are computer systems and networks, multiband and ultra-wideband planar antennas and filters, metamaterials and metasurface, reconfigurable antennas, MIMO and array antennas, terahertz technologies and applications, artificial intelligence, and computer vision.
Throughout his academic career, Dr. Peter has conducted extensive research in the areas of microwave engineering, including planar antennas and filters, wireless communications, and Internet of Things. His research has been published in several regarded academic journals from reputed publishing groups such as Springer Nature, Elsevier, IET, Wiley, Hindawi, and De Gruyter. Besides, Dr. Peter is a qualified peer-reviewer in several scientific and international journals (Australian Journal of Electrical & Electronics Engineering; Alexandra Engineering Journal; Journal of Infrared, Millimeter, and Terahertz Waves; Journal of Electronic Science and Technology; Facta Universitatis-Series Electronics and Energetics journal, and Heliyon journal) where he provides valuable feedback to authors on their research work.
Dr. Peter is confident in his ability to excel in any role related to ICT, telecommunications, computer networks, or computer maintenance. He is also qualified as an administrator and proctor for TOEFL, WIDA MODEL Online, and MAP test exams at AISB.
With his combination of academic achievement, teaching experience, practical experience, and peer-reviewing, he is well-equipped to make a significant contribution to any organization that values technical excellence, innovation, and collaboration like AISB.
Mr. Sean Neary: PYP 5 Teacher
Mr. Sean grew up near San Francisco, California, as the son of two teachers. He completed one year of each high school and university in South Africa, then received a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship to study history at the University of Namibia. His Master of Education degree was earned from The College of New Jersey.
Mr. Sean spent much of his working life at Internet companies in San Francisco. Since obtaining a teaching credential he has taught in the United States, South Africa, Denmark, Egypt, Vietnam, and Guinea. This is his fourth year teaching at AISB. Mr. Sean is accompanied in Brazzaville by the love of his life, Makeme, and their two energetic children.
Mr. Thony Samba: PYP/MYP/HS Music Assistant Teacher
Mr Thony Samba is the Music Assistant teacher. He has been teaching at AISB for the past 7 years. He completed his studies at the National School of Arts in Brazzaville and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Study and Arts. He is a holder of the DEMA degree which is a Diploma of Music and Art. He studied English in Accra, Ghana where he also built his capacity to instruct students.
Mr. Samba often says that music is his life and he enjoys working as a professional musician, and has music contracts with his band, ULTRASOUND…performed at the Jazz Festival in Kinshasa. in 2012, Mr. Samba’s band was invited to perform in Equatorial Guinea for the African Union Summit in Malabo City. In his personal time he is an active member of his church, where he is responsible for conducting the gospel choir and other church activities.
He comes from a large family and enjoys working with children. He recently had the opportunity to work in the USA, where he performed as an invited guest at the Jazz Bar, Harlem, New York City.
Mr. Desire Essis: MYP & High School Science Teacher
Mr. Desiré Essis teaches MS/HS Science, Mathematics. He has two master’s degrees in Biochemistry and in Clinical Laboratory Science. In addition, he earned a graduate certificate in Organic Chemistry.
Mr. Desiré Essis taught in middle schools, high schools, and college in the United States for more than a decade before venturing into international education that took him to China, Qatar, Georgia (Eastern Europe), and Congo. He joined AISB seven years ago with A-Levels and IB Sciences / Mathematics experiences.
Mr. Desiré Essis uses his rewarding research skills acquired at Brown University, one of the leading research institutions in the United States, to teach Sciences and Mathematics with technology in a way that is related to its direct applications.
Mr. Essis has been a teacher for more than 20 years since his first appointment with Denver Public Schools in Colorado.
Mr. Charles Olomo: PYP Coordinator & MYP Science Teacher
I am Charles Olomo and I joined AISB as the High School Science Teacher and the PYP curriculum Coordinator in August 2022. Joining AISB has extended my streak in teaching the IB curriculum, following the five years I served at Acorns International School, Kampala- Uganda, which is an IB World school offering PYP, MYP and DP in addition to Cambridge A levels.
Prior to joining AISB, I worked at Kabojja International School, Kampala offering the Cambridge Assessment International Education curriculum which added on my previous experience at Dr. John Garang International School Juba, South Sudan which offered the Cambridge Assessment International Education curriculum too.
I am at the completion phase of a Master's degree in Education Management & Administration and hold the following qualifications:
Bachelor of Science Degree
IB Diploma Program Category 1 Biology teacher training
Numerous IB Professional Development workshop certificates for both the PYP and MYP.
I have kicked off my pursuit for the authorization of AISB to become an IB world School offering the IB PYP, which will add to my previous record of successfully applying for and coordinating the authorization process that resulted in Acorns International School becoming a Cambridge School offering Cambridge AS and A Levels and IGCSE, and being part of the authorization process which resulted in Acorns International School becoming authorized to offer the IB DP and MYP (January 2019 – May 2020).
My first year at AISB has been pleasurable and fruitful and I look forward to a more productive academic year, characterized by the attainment of major milestones in our journey towards becoming an IB world PYP school .
Mr. Gracia Boukas: PYP Technology Teacher and IT Technician
Mr. Boukas has a bachelor's in computer science and a master's degree in networks and telecommunications. He led the sales team at MTN Congo and served as the head of the IT division at a bank in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire.
He has worked as a youth educator at the Baobab Foundation for 15 years. He has also taught technology in a number of technical institutions and moderated conferences on technology.
He loves working with kids and is a proud father of three. His motivation comes from sharing his knowledge and learning from others, and the diversity of the AISB personnel provides him with the chance to do so.
Ms. Crystalyn Davis: MYP English Language Arts Teacher
I am originally from Houston, Texas. I graduated from the University of St. Thomas-Houston with a bachelor's of Business Administration with a concentration in Management Information systems.
I also hold a master's degree in Education-English Language Learners. I have six years of experience teaching English as a second language and seven years total teaching English. My passion is educating the youth of the future.
My focus is reading with comprehension and academic writing. When I am not teaching, I spend time with my two children and take long rides around the city of Houston.
Ms. Exaucee Bissangui: MYP Chinese Teacher
Ms. Bienvenue Exaucée BISSANGUI B. has been at the American International School of Brazzaville for two years. Excited to work at AISB, she has taught in some schools (Confucius Institute, Chinese International School, La Paix High, Les Elites High and AISB) in Brazzaville and has almost 5 years of teaching experience as an English and Chinese teacher.
She is a graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English (2015) from Marien Ngouabi University and Chinese language and literature (2018) from the Communication University of China.
Ms. BISSANGUI is happy about being one of next year's Chinese teachers at AISB because she thinks that Chinese is a language of the future, and giving our students the opportunity to learn it is an invaluable asset.
Ms. Sonia Essis: School Storekeeper & Support Staff Coordinator
Ms. Sonia Maryse Essis is from “La Perle des Lagunes” Abidjan, Ivory Coast and has a diploma in Marketing and Management. She has more than 15 years of professional experience in the commercial, communication and advertising fields.
Before joining AISB, in 2019 she held the office of the sales representative of Onro Chemicals in Abidjan. This is her fifth year at the American International School of Brazzaville as the Stores Accountant and Support Staff Coordinator.
Sonia is passionate about helping others. On weekends, she mostly works with a non-profit organization in Makélékélé Hospital and in Bakongo Hospital providing humanitarian aid towards the patients. Sonia is the treasurer of the network of Missionaries for the salvation of Africa (RMSA) and a member of Medical and Paramedical Union of Congo (UCMP).
Ms. Vania Gulston: MYP Math & Technology
Ms. Vania Gulston has taught in the areas of social studies and STEM for almost 20 years. She is interested in creating dynamic educational spaces via broadcast media and within brick and mortar classrooms. She has been involved in public media and education since the 1990s.
Her journey in education started after she had an epiphany one day while riding her bicycle through New York City after deciding to leave college after a year. She loved the projects she was involved in as a volunteer radio producer, but she was not earning a living from it. It was the power that access to the radio waves provided her to open people’s horizons about their world and help them to interact more respectfully with others around them that excited her about her work in public media. At some point during that bike ride, she realized that she would be able to have a comparable effect as a social studies teacher. With that thought, she re-enrolled with enthusiasm in college, subsequently earning a BA with honors in history and folklore and a masters in education in 2004. She has been teaching in public and private school classrooms ever since.
She is currently an online graduate student at New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering’s Integrated Design and Media Program. She also founded WJYN Radio, a low power FM radio station in Philadelphia Before that, she was involved in several public radio stations as a producer and a member of their management teams.
Her involvement in media projects over the years has made her aware of the obstacles that exist for women to learn technology. She has experienced being actively blocked from learning important media tech skills while seeking them out as a volunteer with a community radio station. Because of that and other experiences, she is passionate about opening up the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Technology & Maths (STEM) to students from social groups that have historically been underrepresented in it as innovators and pioneers..
She is very excited about continuing her work in the field of education with the students at the American International School of Brazzaville.
Mr. Herman Bankousso: MYP & HS Spanish Teacher
I have been at the American International School
of Brazzaville for 4 years. Before working at AISB,
I taught in several schools in Brazzaville and I
have 4 years of experience teaching Spanish and
French.
I hold a Master's degree in Business Law
from Marien Ngouabi University (2017) and a
diploma in teaching, translation and interpretation
of the Spanish language from the Hugo Chavez
Frias Intercultural Training Center (Embassy of
Venezuela).
I like to interact with my students and play soccer.
Dr. Rebecca Naigum: ELL Teacher Assistant/ Secondary PE & Health Teacher
Dr. Rebecca Naigum was born in Mauritius where she did her Primary and secondary school education. After having brightly succeeded her Higher School Certificate of Cambridge (HSC – scientific side), she worked in a French owned call center for two years and she also helped her father who is a teacher with his private lessons by teaching his students Math and English.
In 2013, she flew to Russia to pursue her college education and graduated in 2019 as a Doctor in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS). She came to Congo as her husband works here. She worked in a few public hospitals in Brazzaville before joining AISB community.
She is ELL assistant for Grade 6, 8 and 9/10. She enjoyed working with Ms. Grace, from whom she learned a lot about teaching and, Mr. Essis who encouraged her to take responsibilities like handling field trips and working on the Science Fair/Pie Day. She loves teaching as much as working in the hospital and she wants to acquire more experience in teaching. She is passionate about sports, reading and spending quality time with her family. She is thankful to the AISB community for her integration
Dr. Paule-Sarah Mombouli: School Medical Doctor & PYP Chinese Teacher
Dr. Paule Sarah MOMBOULI is the School Doctor at AISB. She has been working at the school since May of 2018 as the School Doctor. Added to her School Doctor responsibilities, was the position of part time Elementary Chinese teacher.
She was born here in Congo and received most of her elementary to high school education here in Congo, after graduating with high distinction from her final year in high school in 2009, she was awarded by the government with a full funded Chinese Government Scholarship to go study medicine in China where she graduated with a MBBS Degree (Doctor in Medicine and Surgery) with distinction from Dalian Medical University in July 2016.
She has also worked as an ER Physician at the University Teaching Hospital of Brazzaville prior to her coming to AISB. She is very passionate about young people’s mental health advocacy, nutrition, traveling, baking, intercontinental cuisine, books, decoration, and languages. Outside school she enjoys to create new recipes, prepare all types of food using different cooking styles from different parts of the world, caters for private and small events with or without dietary restrictions, hanging out with friends and family, and is an avid reader.
She is blessed with a great family, good health, and a wonderful place to work. AISB is an amazing place for kids to learn and grow, and she loves being a part of it!
Mr. Delmas Louvoumina: PYP & MYP French Teacher
Mr. Delmas Louvoumina Nzaou has been at the American International School of Brazzaville for 8 years. Prior to working at AISB, he has taught in several schools in Brazzaville and has 12 years of teaching experience in both English and French.
He graduated with both Bachelor of Arts in English (2012) and Professional Master’s degree in Translation and Interpretation (2015) from Marien Ngouabi University. In addition to these degrees from the same university, he obtained an associate degree (DEUG) on Literature and Social Studies of English-speaking countries. He also obtained his International Elementary Teaching Diploma from North American Montessori Training School. Furthermore, he successfully completed a Child Protection Training held at AISB.
Mr. Louvoumina is excited about being one of next year’s French teachers at AISB. He has not only benefited from obtaining lots of professional development and experience in an enriched American international curriculum school, but he also qualified as an administrator and proctor for PSAT, SAT, and TOEFL exams at AISB. With his basic principle of determination to achieve excellence, he is also qualified in the IB PYP and Middle Year Programs.
He always believes that better education is the best legacy to bequeath to our children.
Ms. Louisa Jivirnyuy: PYP Assistant Teacher
Ms. Louisa Jivirnyuy who is from Cameroon with a diploma in Business management from the Catholic university institute of Buea and a degree in Business from the Biaka university institute she has been assisting throughout from pre-k to grade four since she joined the school in 2022
Ms. Louisa joined AISB last year with a strong educational background in business management. She obtained her diploma in Business Management from the Catholic University Institute of Buea and later earned a degree in Business from the Biaka University Institute.
Ms. Louisa has a passion for education and has been assisting in classrooms for students from pre-K to PYP 4 since joining AISB in 2022. She is dedicated to providing a positive and engaging learning environment for her students and works hard to create effective lesson plans that cater to their individual needs.
Ms. Louisa is known for her friendly and approachable nature, which allows her to build strong relationships with her students and colleagues. Her effective communication skills enable her to collaborate effectively with other teachers, parents, and school administrators to create a cohesive learning experience for her students.
Overall, Ms. Louisa is a committed and enthusiastic educator who strives to help her students reach their full potential. She can’t wait to work with her next set of students ! .
Ms. Eunice Mbangowah: PYP Assistant Teacher
My name is Eunice Ngwebi Mbangowah. I am a holder of a Second Cycle Technical School Teacher Diploma in ICT from the Higher Technical Teacher Training College (HTTTC) of the University of Bamenda in Cameroon. I have over seven years of teaching experience in Cameroon and Brazzaville.
I equally hold a master’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Douala-Cameroon. I look forward to my 2nd year at AISB. Prior to this, I worked as an elementary teacher in the American Daycare School Brazzaville.
Ms. Yvonne Fola: Account & Cashier
Ms. Yvonne is a graduate from the Atlantic International University of Hawaii, USA, with a Master’s Degree in Accounting. She also graduated from the University of Buea, Cameroon with a Bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance and a minor in Accounting. Before she came to AISB in January 2020 as an Accountant/Cashier, she had been working in the same role for 9 years in a Mineral Water production Company and for two years in an Insurance Company.
Working in AISB is a complete fulfillment of her dream because she has always wanted to work in an Institution with diverse cultures and backgrounds. Apart from the passion she has for her career, she also enjoys working for Youths and Women Empowerment. As a result, she joined an NGO called Women for a change (WFAC), Cameroon, where she participates with grass root communities to empower women and girls through Education and Forum discussions amongst others.
During the period in which she has been at AISB, she has grown tremendously especially in meeting her career goals, thus a great accomplishment. Yvonne believes everybody is unique and has something to offer, thus ready to learn and grow with her colleagues.
She hopes to learn more and to contribute to the growth of the school. She is excited for next Academic year.
Mr. Regis Zoula: Business Manager
Mr. Regis Zoula is the Business Manager at American International School of Brazzaville (AISB).
Raised in a multicultural environment, he was born in Brazzaville, grew up in Addis-Abeba, Ethiopia, where he attended French school Lycée Guebre-Mariam. He pursued his College Education in Daytona Beach, Florida, majoring in Business Management, then graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic College where he obtained a bachelor degree in International Business, and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Strategic Management.
A staunch believer in Global citizenry, he strongly adheres to AISB vision, mission and core beliefs, to which he is committed to fostering and imparting to all who will be willing to share the AISB experience.
Mr. Regis has a growing passion for Basketball and overall healthcare that he enjoys sharing with colleagues and students. His hobbies include entrepreneurship, African Affairs and reading. With hybrid learning and a mild addiction to technology, he is currently self-learning computer programing language Python while benefiting from the knowledge-rich environment of AISB.
Mr. Ronny Endzandza: Receptionist/Basketball Coach
Mr. Ronny ENDZANDZA started working at AISB in the 2015-16 school year as a teacher assistant and community center overseer.
He took on the position of school store manager in the year 2017-2018 school year in addition to his teaching assistant position. The year 2018-2019 was his first as the administrative receptionist as well as coach of the AISB Hawks, the school’s basketball team. In the year 2020-2021 he took on the position of secondary school Physical Education teacher until the end of the 2021-2022 school year.
He received most of his elementary to High school education in Mauritius and Zimbabwe and Majored in Marketing and Sales at IHEM Brazzaville. He is a sports enthusiast and is passionate about movies, books, dance and various art forms.
He is thrilled to continue the AISB adventure in the year 2023-2024 and work towards a common goal of ensuring a nurturing environment that is characterized by diversity and the pursuit of excellence through hard work and discipline.
Dr. Laura Viban: AISB Director
Dr. Laura Viban is the Director of AISB. She began her teaching career in 2000 after graduating with a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics (ESL) as an English language teacher at the British Council in Douala, Cameroon. She later joined the American School of Douala, where she taught for 10 years before moving to Germany. She has 21 years of experience at international schools, and she served in a number of roles as classroom teacher from Pre-K to High school, as well as English teacher for adults at the Congolese Foundation for Education and at La Congolaise de Banque (LCB). She has been at AISB since 2013 and was the Elementary Lead for five years prior to being appointed as School Director in 2018.
Her educational experiences have afforded her the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of educators and curricula including the IB, IPC, Montessori, and the Common Core standards. Having studied and worked in Africa, Europe, and the USA, Dr. Viban is a visionary leader, problem-solver, and a strategic planner for school improvement. She is responsible for and supervises the implementation and delivery of innovative instructional methods at AISB.
With her team, she wants each child to develop the skills they need to be successful in the 21st century- effective Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Creativity. The 4Cs +Character approach initiated four years ago, supports robust and engaging opportunities for students to experience an interdisciplinary approach to learning, supported by specialized instruction from credentialed teachers.
Her educational philosophy is based on her uncompromising belief that all students can learn, given a positive learning environment, strong and knowledgeable leadership, a committed and focused educational team, an encouraging community and a supportive family, all of which AISB possesses.
Dr. Viban has extensive experience in professional development and has been an active member of the Association of International Schools in Africa (AISA) since 2003 and the Association for the Advancement of International Education (AAIE). She was instrumental in the Accreditation Planning Team that resulted in the school's accreditation in 2017, later championed the K-12 Middle School Association (MSA) Substantive Change Accreditation with the school's addition of grade 11 and 12 after the initial accreditation, led the Mid-Term Report team, which resulted in very positive feedback from the MSA and is currently coordinating the re-accreditation process.
Dr. Viban earned her Doctorate of Education (Ed.D) in Leadership and Educational Management and her Administrator Certification from William Howard TAFT University Denver, Colorado. She also has a Certificate of School Management and Leadership (CSML) from the Harvard Business School in association with the Harvard School of Education. She had a 2nd Master's degree in Education as well as her Teaching Certification from The College of New of Jersey (TCNJ), USA. Her Bachelor's degree was in English language & Literature with a minor in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea- Cameroon.
In addition to her extensive teaching and administrative experience, Dr. Viban is married and a mother of four robust boys, two of whom are in AISB (Thorsten-graduating from Grade 12 and Junior-moving up to Grade 5.) In her free time, she enjoys a quiet or fun family time, reading, traveling, and watching a good movie.
Dr. Viban continues to advocate for progressive reforms resulting in enhanced levels of student achievement and creativity. She passionately promotes programs and opportunities that attempt to inspire academic, technological, and athletic excellence. She is proud to have successfully launched the International Baccalaureate (IB- PYP & MYP) programmes this year.
She looks forward to a successful end of this year and an eventful 2023/2024.
End of 3rd Quarter, Report Cards & Awards Assembly
The third quarter comes to an end on March 30th and report cards will go home on March 31st for grades 11 and 12. PYP and MYP students will only receive Progress Reports as needed.
Parents need not worry if they don't receive their child's report at this time. Please take note that PYP and MYP report progress twice only at the end of semester 1 and semester 2.
3rd Quarter Awards Assembly
Recipients of the 3rd Quarter awards will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 11 as from 8:15 am at the gym. Concerned parents will be invited to this event.
Tuesday, Apr 11, 2023, 08:15 AM
American International School of Brazzaville, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
Spring Break
AISB will be closed for the spring break from Monday April 3- Monday April 10. School will resume on Tuesday, April 11. Please plan accordingly to enable your child(ren) be at school on time.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent Teacher Conferences will take place on April 13 and 14 as from 1:00PM. These will be student-led and everyone is encouraged to attend.
Elementary parents will receive a schedule while secondary parents will be on a first come, first served basis.
Thursday, Apr 13, 2023, 01:00 PM
American International School of Brazzaville, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
RSVPs are enabled for this event.
PYP Consultant Visits
The PYP Visit will be done virtually on April 24 & 25.
Monday, Apr 24, 2023, 07:45 AM
American International School of Brazzaville, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
MYP Consultant Visit
The MYP visit will take place on campus on May 8 & 9.
Monday, May 8, 2023, 07:45 AM
American International School of Brazzaville, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Testing
AISB administers the MAP test twice a year, in the Fall and Spring.
A MAP assessment measures a student's proficiency in Math, Literacy and Science against grade-level standards. Based on a student's current achievement results, MAP also predicts (with guidance from a teacher) how much a student should achieve over the coming year.
Elementary students in grades K-5 will be taking their Spring MAP test from May 2-5, while secondary students will take the test from May 8-11, 2023.
International Day Celebration
AISB will celebrate this year's international Day on May 5, 2023. More details will be communicated to you later.
Friday, May 5, 2023, 01:00 PM
American International School of Brazzaville, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
Teacher Appreciation Week
May 8-12 is Teacher Appreciation Week. Please show your child's teacher appreciation for their hard work and for bringing the best out of your children. A "Thank You" note goes a long way.
Pre-K4, Kg, Grade 5 & 8 Promotion Ceremony
This year's Promotion ceremony for Pre-K4, Kindergarten, Grade 5 and Grade 8 will take place on Wednesday, June 7th on campus. Parents of these classes should take note.
Wednesday, Jun 7, 2023, 01:00 PM
American International School of Brazzaville, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
AISB 2023 Prom
This year's Prom will take place on Friday June 9th at Elbo Suites Hotel. It is an exclusive event for the Seniors and high school students with a few teacher chaperones.
Friday, Jun 9, 2023, 03:52 PM
Hotel Elbo Suites, rue Faidherbe, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
12th Grade Graduation
AISB will celebrate her 4th graduation batch of students on Wednesday June 14, 2023.
You are all invited to this event. More details will be communicated in due time.
Wednesday, Jun 14, 2023, 10:00 AM
American International School of Brazzaville, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
The Last Day of School for 2022/2023/ First Day of 2023/2024
The last day of school is around the corner. On Wednesday, June 21, school will dismiss at midday for the summer break.
AISB will resume school for the 2023/2024 school year on Thursday, August 24, 2023. Please make your travel plans accordingly.
Business Office News
In addition to our TD bank and Societe Generale accounts, AISB now has a bank account with UBA. Please find the new UBA RIB and feel free to use any of our banks for tuition and other fees.
Lunch Menu
Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Laura Viban
Ed.D in Educational Leadership & Management
Director
American International School of Brazzaville
director@aisbrazza.org / www.aisbrazza.org