Empowering Educators for Transformative Learning: Faculty insights reveal how teachers cultivate a culture of innovation and support
At AISG, transformational learning begins with empowered educators. From the Early Years to the IB Diploma Programme, teachers are trusted as professionals and given the space to lead with expertise and innovate with intention.
AISG sees teachers as changemakers; mentors, designers of learning, and champions of student growth. Across every programme and discipline, faculty are equipped with the support, autonomy, and professional learning they need to grow their practice, build deep connections with students, and bring real-world relevance into the classroom.
In the Early Years, Maria Evans is redefining what inclusive, responsive learning looks like. A SENIA advocate and DEI leader, Maria integrates belonging into every aspect of classroom life; creating emotional safety, building learning confidence, and helping every child find their voice. She regularly engages in professional learning tied to the school’s equity goals, modeling how inclusive practice starts with empowered educators.
“When children feel a true sense of belonging, when they know their voice matters and they can show up as their full selves, everything changes,” Maria shares. “Engagement rises, confidence grows, and learning follows. That’s why it’s so important to build this foundation from the earliest years. It’s the same for adults. When we’re supported through professional learning, it builds our knowledge and expertise, and that builds the confidence we need to drive meaningful change.” Maria’s work exemplifies AISG’s commitment to creating learning environments where all community members feel seen, supported, and empowered.
As a Curriculum-Based Knowledge (CBK) leader and student council advisor, Haley Osbourne brings learning to life by modeling how teacher growth drives student growth.
In the Elementary School, she empowers Grade 3 learners through the Building Thinking Classrooms framework, creating a space where students take ownership of their mathematical thinking. By fostering collaboration, curiosity, and resilience, Haley helps young mathematicians build the confidence to tackle rich problems and learn from one another. “AISG has given me the space to grow professionally, and in turn, my students have grown into confident, curious problem-solvers through Building Thinking Classrooms,” she shares. Her work bridges academic rigor with student voice and empowers students to lead their own learning.
In Secondary School, Mario Fuang takes a holistic approach to mathematics. He coaches math the same way he coaches tennis: with patience, purpose, and a belief in every student’s ability to improve. “Setbacks are part of the game. What matters is how you come back,” he says. “You’re not bad at math, you’re just unlocking your own way in.”
Whether mentoring students over lunch or guiding creative projects like laser maze design and zoo modeling, Mario meets learners where they are. “When a student says, ‘I’ve never liked math, but I like this,’ that’s everything.”
At AISG, educator empowerment is built into the culture. A great example of this is every Wednesday, students leave early so teachers can dive deep into professional development. It’s a weekly commitment to growth that sets AISG apart as educators continually work together to elevate teacher impact.
Through the AISG Training Center, peer coaching, and the EdTechGZ conference, professional growth is part of everyday practice. Faculty tap into global networks, lead workshops, and grow through hands-on leadership development. It’s a dynamic model where teacher growth fuels student success, and empowered educators drive innovation.
“At AISG, I feel the freedom to innovate,” says English teacher Audrey Boettcher. “I can take students to the kitchen to explore symbolism, use costumes from the theater for Shakespeare, or bring AI into poetry lessons because I know I’m trusted to try new things. That trust changes everything.”
This is what makes learning at AISG transformational. It’s not just what happens in or outside the classroom, it’s the culture of impact and empowerment that surrounds it.