Primary Division Faculty (Early Childhood & Lower School)
Thuy Bui
Year Appointed:
House Armstrong
Mrs. Bui brings nearly a decade of teaching experience and a passion for early childhood education to IST. Originally from Sydney, Australia, she earned a Bachelor of Education from The University of Sydney. Before becoming a teacher, her work in public relations, event management, and as a nanny and tutor helped shape her strong communication skills and deep appreciation for partnering with families.
Mrs. Bui is a passionate advocate for social-emotional development in the early years, believing that children learn best through play, sensory exploration, and secure, nurturing relationships. Guided by the IB philosophy, she is committed to creating a classroom where kindness, connection, and curiosity help children build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.
Outside of school, Mrs. Bui enjoys watching movies, reading, and sharing dinners with friends. One of her favorite parts of teaching at IST is witnessing the joy, wonder, and excitement her students bring to learning each day. She believes, as Aristotle wrote, that “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.”
Milla Nyaga
Year Appointed: 2026
House Armstrong
Ms. Nyaga brings 15 years of experience in education, having most recently served in teaching roles at St. Michael’s Prep. She has a deep passion for creating meaningful learning experiences for young children that foster excitement and joy. She is dedicated to nurturing the whole child, supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional development while building strong, trusting relationships with students and families. Her classroom is grounded in curiosity, care, and the belief that every child has the potential to grow and thrive.
Ms. Nyaga is especially passionate about creating a warm and welcoming learning environment where children feel confident exploring, asking questions, and discovering the world around them. She values the sense of connection and collaboration at IST and is inspired by the school’s commitment to respect, integrity, confidence, intellect, and service.
Outside of school, Ms. Nyaga enjoys archery and is a certified Level 2 Archery Instructor. She also loves working on puzzles and spending time with her family.
Ana Barbosa
Year Appointed: 2016
House Earhart
Mrs. Barbosa brings a unique blend of scientific expertise and decades of early childhood teaching experience to IST. Born in Belgium and raised in Brazil, she earned a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, followed by postdoctoral research in Molecular and Developmental Biology at UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Her research on learning and memory unexpectedly sparked a passion for education, inspiring her to earn her teaching certification and begin a new career working with young learners.
Since 2002, Mrs. Barbosa has taught in international schools, and she has been a valued member of the IST community since 2016. After serving as a PreK Lead Teacher for many years, she transitioned into the role of PreK Support Teacher in 2026. She is passionate about creating a warm, nurturing environment where young children feel safe to explore, ask questions, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Outside of school, Mrs. Barbosa enjoys reading, walking, hiking, and traveling with family and friends. She and her husband have two children, including one attending the University of Washington in Seattle, and share their home with a lovable black rescue dog who is happiest curled up beside someone reading a good book.
Sara Jane Pickett
Year Appointed: 2022
House Malala
Mrs. Pickett brings nearly four decades of teaching experience and a lifelong passion for education to IST. Inspired by her own childhood growing up overseas, she discovered her love of teaching at an early age while living in international communities and connecting with children from around the world. She earned her degrees from Hood College and has taught students from Kindergarten through Grade 4 throughout her career, including 28 years in Leander ISD, six years in Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland, and at IST since 2022.
Having lived in Nigeria, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Taiwan, and across several U.S. states, Mrs. Pickett values the rich perspectives that come from experiencing different cultures. She is passionate about nurturing each child’s natural curiosity, fostering a love of learning, and partnering closely with families to help every student grow with confidence and joy.
Outside of school, Mrs. Pickett enjoys spending time with her husband, Bob, their two sons, Ethan and Wyatt, and their lively collection of pets, including two dogs and a cat. Whether attending concerts and movies, cheering on Wyatt at lacrosse games, or simply enjoying time together as a family, she treasures opportunities to make lasting memories with the people she loves.
Amy Munson
Year Appointed: 2022
House Malala
Mrs. Munson brings more than two decades of educational experience and a deep passion for inquiry-based learning to IST. Originally from Austin, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation and Psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University and a master’s degree in Elementary Education from Texas State University. Before joining IST, she taught in both Austin ISD and Leander ISD, including eight years at Grandview Hills Elementary, an International Baccalaureate World School, where she further developed her expertise in the IB Primary Years Programme.
An experienced IB educator, Mrs. Munson has completed multiple IB professional development courses in concept-driven learning, inquiry, literacy, science, and social studies, along with extensive training in gifted education and mindful leadership. She is passionate about the IB philosophy and believes it empowers both students and teachers to become curious, reflective, and lifelong learners who make meaningful connections with the world around them.
Outside of school, Mrs. Munson enjoys reading, hiking, sailing, traveling, treasure hunting, and spending time with her family. She is inspired by Maya Angelou’s words, “When you learn, teach; when you get, give,” and believes that education is not only about gaining knowledge but also about using it to positively impact others.
Stephanie O’Neil
Year Appointed: 2022
House Earhart
Mrs. O’Neil brings 38 years of elementary teaching experience and a deep passion for helping young learners thrive. Originally from Ohio, she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Elementary Education from Kent State University. Throughout her career, she has taught students in Kindergarten through Grade 4, and at IST she has taught Kindergarten, Grade 2, and now Grade 1. She also holds certifications and training in Gifted and Talented Education, ESL, Love and Logic, David Langford’s Quality Learning Principles, Kagan Cooperative Learning, and multiple International Baccalaureate professional development programs.
Mrs. O’Neil is passionate about building meaningful relationships with students and their families while creating a classroom where curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning flourish. She especially values the close-knit community at IST and enjoys knowing students across the school, celebrating their growth, and watching them become active participants in their own learning.
Outside of school, Mrs. O’Neil enjoys spending time with her husband of more than 27 years, their two daughters, and their two lovable dogs. She believes that strong relationships, collaboration, and joyful learning create the foundation for every child’s success.
Mina Slimi
Year Appointed: 2022
House Armstrong
Mrs. Slimi brings more than 25 years of experience in early childhood and primary education to IST. Originally from Cedar Park, Texas, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and holds a Certified Montessori Diploma. Before joining IST, she spent 17 years teaching at a Montessori school in Cedar Park and nine years at Austin International School. Throughout her career, she has developed a deep appreciation for inquiry-based, internationally minded education.
As a Primary Division Support Teacher, Mrs. Slimi enjoys collaborating with teachers across multiple grade levels to help create rigorous, nurturing, and welcoming learning environments where every student can thrive. She values the diversity of the IST community and is passionate about supporting students as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally within the International Baccalaureate framework.
Outside of school, Mrs. Slimi enjoys hiking, cooking, gardening, and traveling. She believes that a caring, collaborative classroom community helps children develop the confidence, curiosity, and resilience they need to become lifelong learners.
Ansley Bridges, M. Int’l Ed.
Year Appointed: 2023
House Mandela
Ms. Bridges is passionate about global education and helping every child discover a love of learning. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Baylor University and a master’s degree in International Education (International Baccalaureate) from The University of Melbourne. An ESL-certified educator, she has taught multiple grades in Lewisville ISD and at IST, where she has taught both Grade 3 and now Grade 2.
Her commitment to expanding educational opportunities extends well beyond the classroom. Ms. Bridges founded PinK Girl, a tutoring program in Ethiopia that supports girls in graduating from high school and pursuing higher education. She has also provided professional development for educators in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, reflecting her dedication to empowering teachers and students around the world. She is known for creating unique, engaging lessons that spark curiosity and inspire her students to think creatively.
Outside of school, Ms. Bridges enjoys reading, traveling, spending time with her beloved dogs, and meeting people from different cultures. Students also know her for the classroom porch goose that has become a beloved part of her classroom community. She believes that meaningful relationships, curiosity, and global perspectives help students become compassionate, lifelong learners.
Kelly Nodurfth
Year Appointed: 2026
House Mandela
Ms. Nodurfth brings more than 10 years of international teaching experience to IST, having taught in Hong Kong and Scotland before joining the IST community. Originally from Arkansas, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Louisiana State University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of Sunderland.
Ms. Nodurfth is passionate about creating inclusive, engaging classrooms where students feel supported, curious, and excited to learn. She believes in nurturing each child’s natural curiosity and encouraging students to become confident, thoughtful learners. She is especially excited to work with Grade 2 students and build meaningful relationships with them throughout the school year.
Outside of school, Ms. Nodurfth enjoys listening to audiobooks and podcasts and practicing Pilates.
Elena Mazza
Year Appointed: 2026
House Mandela
Ewelina MacDonald
Year Appointed: 2024
House Armstrong
Mrs. MacDonald brings more than a decade of international teaching and educational leadership experience to IST. Originally from Poland, she has lived and studied in Poland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom before making the United States her home. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Kindergarten and Primary Education from Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland, and later completed studies in Politics and School Management at the University of Warsaw. She is also an experienced International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) educator and leader.
Prior to joining IST, Mrs. MacDonald served in a variety of leadership roles at the Canadian School of Warsaw, including PYP Coordinator, Head Teacher, and Principal. Since joining IST, she has taught both Grade 5 and Grade 4 before being named PYP Coordinator in 2026. She is passionate about creating inquiry-driven classrooms where students develop independence, confidence, and the critical-thinking skills needed to make a positive impact on the world.
Outside of school, Mrs. MacDonald enjoys reading, biking, and spending time with her husband and two daughters. She believes that every child brings something unique to the classroom and loves helping students discover their strengths as lifelong learners.
Athira Nair
Year Appointed: 2026
House Mandela
Ms. Nair brings more than 10 years of International Baccalaureate experience to IST, having taught as an IB homeroom teacher across Grades 2, 3, and 4. She holds a Master’s degree in Education and has completed IB Category 1, 2, and 3 professional learning in inquiry, curriculum, and assessment.
Ms. Nair is passionate about creating classrooms where students feel safe to wonder, take meaningful risks, and grow in confidence. Guided by the IB philosophy, she believes in teaching the whole child and creating learning experiences that are engaging, purposeful, and joyful. Her approach centers on inquiry, student agency, and helping each learner develop the skills and confidence to take ownership of their learning.
What Ms. Nair finds most rewarding about teaching is watching students move from curiosity to confidence—asking questions, pursuing their own ideas, and realizing that they are capable of more than they initially imagined. She strives to create a classroom where students feel genuinely known and encouraged to explore, make mistakes, and celebrate their growth along the way.
Yara Cantu
Year Appointed: 2016
House Earhart
Mrs. Yara Sittler Cantu was born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico, and earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Sciences from Universidad de Monterrey. With more than 18 years of teaching experience, she has taught in both Mexico and the United States, including at a private English immersion school in San Pedro Garza García, a former IB school in Lakeway, and IST, where she has helped students develop a love of the Spanish language for nearly a decade.
Mrs. Cantu is passionate about creating engaging, joyful learning experiences that help students build confidence while discovering the many opportunities that come with learning a new language. She believes that meaningful relationships and a love of learning are at the heart of every successful classroom.
Outside of school, Mrs. Cantu enjoys reading, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, going to the movies, hiking, and spending time with her family, kids, and friends.
Juan Hui
Year Appointed: 2013
House Mandela
Mrs. Hui brings more than 15 years of Mandarin language teaching experience and a passion for helping students become confident global communicators. Originally from Clemson, South Carolina, she earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Northeast Normal University and has completed extensive professional development in International Baccalaureate education and language acquisition, including IB Primary Years Programme training, MYP Language Acquisition training, and Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling (TPRS).
Since joining IST in 2013, Mrs. Hui has taught Mandarin to students from Pre-K through Middle School, helping cultivate a love of language and Chinese culture through engaging, inquiry-based learning experiences. Prior to IST, she taught Mandarin in Austin-area public, charter, and community language programs, working with learners from elementary school through high school. She believes language learning should be joyful and interactive, incorporating games, movement, storytelling, and playful activities that inspire students to communicate with confidence.
Outside of school, Mrs. Hui enjoys traveling and singing. One of her favorite aspects of IST is the school’s engaged students, supportive families, collaborative faculty, and celebration of diverse cultures. She is passionate about creating an encouraging classroom where every student feels excited to explore new languages and perspectives.
Dan Malnor
Year Appointed: 2017
House Program Leader (Neutral/No House Affiliation)
Mr. Malnor joined IST in 2017 and has been inspiring students to develop healthy habits, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for physical activity ever since. He began his career in education as an English instructor for Disney in Shanghai before transitioning to physical education and coaching in 2013.
Mr. Malnor earned a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education with a concentration in Sports Management from Denison University. He is passionate about creating an encouraging and active learning environment where students build teamwork, resilience, and a love of movement.
Outside of school, Mr. Malnor stays busy with his two children, two dogs, and, as he jokes, “no time.” When he does find a quiet moment, he enjoys reading books about dragons, aliens, and other imaginative adventures.
Jennifer Passi
Year Appointed: 2021
House Malala
Mrs. Passi brings 39 years of experience in education and a passion for inspiring young learners through hands-on exploration and innovation. Originally from Ohio, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education from The University of Texas at Austin. Throughout her career, she has taught college-level STEM education courses, presented at state and international conferences on Technology Applications, facilitated International Baccalaureate professional development focused on STEM integration, and earned multiple Google certifications.
At IST, Mrs. Passi has spent the past six years developing an engaging STEM program for Primary Years Programme students, serving children from age three through Grade 5. She is passionate about bringing learning to life through LEGO engineering, robotics, coding, and other inquiry-based experiences that spark creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of discovery.
Outside of school, Mrs. Passi enjoys playing tennis, practicing yoga, reading, relaxing at the beach, and tackling 1,000-piece puzzles. She is the proud mother of twins who both work in STEM fields and enjoys volunteering at Dell Children’s Medical Center, teaching children’s church, caring for her aging parents, and supporting the game of golf through volunteer work at tournaments. She believes that every child can become an innovative problem-solver when given opportunities to explore, create, and learn with joy.
Kristen Lemon
Year Appointed:
House Earhart
Mrs. Lemon has been inspiring young artists for more than 17 years, specializing in elementary art education. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Design with a minor in Studio Art from Texas Tech University before completing her post-graduate studies and teaching certification at Wayland Baptist University. A proud Texan at heart, she is passionate about helping students discover their creativity in a supportive, student-centered environment where every child feels encouraged to express themselves.
As a cancer survivor, Mrs. Lemon is deeply committed to giving back to the cancer community through art therapy services and by creating artwork for charitable auctions that benefit nonprofit organizations. She believes that art has the power to heal, inspire, and help students build confidence while developing their unique creative voices.
Outside of school, Mrs. Lemon enjoys spending time with her husband, three children, and their dog, Maggie. She also loves traveling, reading by the water, meditating, exploring art history, and experimenting with new artistic mediums in her studio.
Bethany Becker
Year Appointed: 2025
House Earhart
Mrs. Becker brings more than six years of experience teaching music and fine arts in the Lakeway area. A lifelong Austin resident and summa cum laude graduate of Berklee College of Music, she is passionate about helping students discover confidence, creativity, and joy through music.
In addition to teaching, Mrs. Becker is an accomplished singer-songwriter, actress, and performer. She has released multiple award-nominated albums and EPs, toured nationally, and performed at venues and events including ACL 3TEN, Rodeo Austin, Six Flags Over Texas, and on television programs such as Good Morning Texas and Good Day Austin. Her work as an actress has earned numerous accolades, including Best Actress at the Branson International Film Festival.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Becker teaches private music lessons, serves as a music director and sound designer for local theater productions, and owns PopStardust Princess Parties, an entertainment company that combines character experiences with interactive music education. She is passionate about inspiring young musicians to develop their talents, express themselves creatively, and discover the transformative power of the arts.
Secondary Division Faculty (Middle School & Upper School)
Dr. Quinn Smith
Year Appointed: 2025
House Armstrong
Dr. Quinn Smith came to IST with a diverse background in science, research, education, and entrepreneurship. With experience spanning academic research, scientific publishing, and the classroom, she is passionate about helping students develop curiosity, critical thinking skills, and a lifelong appreciation for scientific discovery.
Dr. Smith earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the College of William & Mary and a Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry from the University of Southern Mississippi. She completed a research fellowship at The University of Texas before going on to serve as an editor for several academic chemistry journals. Most recently, she taught science at Westlake High School before joining IST in 2025.
In addition to her work in education, Dr. Smith founded Remnant Studios, a nonprofit porcelain jewelry business that donates its profits to organizations combating human trafficking around the world. Her commitment to using science, creativity, and service to make a positive impact reflects the values she strives to instill in her students.
Outside of school, Dr. Smith enjoys traveling, infrared photography, ceramics, and biking. She and her husband have been married for more than 22 years and are proud parents of three children.
Eric Nguyen
Year Appointed: 2025
House Mandela
Mr. Nguyen came to IST in 2025 with more than 20 years of experience teaching mathematics, from fifth grade through IB Mathematics and AP Calculus AB. An experienced IB educator for more than nine years, he is passionate about helping students build confidence, think critically, and develop a deep understanding of mathematics through meaningful, real-world connections.
At IST, Mr. Nguyen enjoys creating engaging learning experiences that encourage curiosity, perseverance, and problem-solving both inside and outside the classroom. He also helps lead the IST Garden, where students gain hands-on experience with gardening, plant care, sustainable farming practices, and environmental stewardship.
Outside of school, Mr. Nguyen enjoys playing volleyball, gardening, and running. He believes that learning flourishes when students are encouraged to explore, grow, and connect with the world around them.
Joe England
Year Appointed: 2023
House Mandela
Mr. England joined IST in 2023 and has been a valued member of the community ever since. After teaching fifth grade at both the Bee Cave and Hudson Bend campuses, he transitioned to Middle School Humanities and Language & Literature in 2026. He is passionate about creating engaging, student-centered learning experiences that foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning.
Mr. England earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona and a Master of Education from the University of Hawaiʻi. Before beginning his career in education, he spent 10 years in hotel management and hospitality, experiences that shaped his collaborative leadership style and commitment to building strong relationships.
Beyond the classroom, Mr. England advises several student clubs and enjoys supporting IST’s experiential learning opportunities, including serving as a chaperone on the Upper School’s 2026 Trip Week journey to Japan. Outside of school, he enjoys traveling and following the English Football League.
Fran Knaggs
Year Appointed: 2022
House Earhart
Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Ms. Knaggs joined IST in 2022 after teaching English Language Arts for two years at a public charter school in Austin. Since then, she has taught MYP Humanities, coached cross country and track, served as a grade-level advisor and yearbook coordinator, and developed several innovative MYP courses, including Mythology, History Through Film, and Medical Studies.
Ms. Knaggs graduated summa cum laude from Beloit College with a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and a minor in Journalism. During college, she was a camp counselor, writing tutor, daycare teacher, editor-in-chief of the college newspaper, and captain of the women’s cross country and long-distance track teams.
Outside the classroom, Ms. Knaggs is a published and award-winning nonfiction writer. She is passionate about inspiring students to think critically, communicate effectively, and discover meaningful connections between history, literature, and the world around them.
Michelle Overman
Year Appointed: 2024
House Malala
Ms. Michelle Overman serves as Assistant Head of Secondary Division for Teaching and Learning (MYP & DP Coordinator) at The International School of Texas, where she supports teaching and learning across the Middle Years and Diploma Programmes. Since joining IST in 2024, she has played an integral role in strengthening the school’s IB programming, first serving as IB Diploma Programme Coordinator and Psychology teacher before stepping into her current leadership role in 2026.
Ms. Overman brings extensive international education experience, having taught IB at schools in Texas, China, and Thailand, including Avenues World School, Concordian International School, Qingdao Amerasia International School, and Sam Houston High School. She earned both her Master of Arts in Rhetoric and Composition and Bachelor of Arts in English from Texas State University and completed her certification in Instructional Leadership through the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Passionate about instructional excellence and the IB philosophy, Ms. Overman is dedicated to supporting teachers, fostering meaningful learning experiences, and helping students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in an interconnected world.
Tina Schwettmann
Year Appointed: 2025
House Mandela
Ms. Schwettmann came to IST with decades of international teaching experience, having lived and taught in the United States, Spain, Nigeria, Japan, and Mexico. Her global perspective and passion for language and culture help create engaging learning experiences that encourage students to become confident communicators and globally minded citizens.
She earned two bachelor’s degrees from Texas A&M University and a Master of Arts from the University of Houston. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to fostering curiosity, cultural understanding, and a lifelong appreciation for the diversity of our world.
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Schwettmann enjoys running, camping, hiking, kayaking, traveling, and spending time outdoors. Her adventurous spirit and love of exploration reflect the same curiosity and global mindset she encourages in her students.
James Emley
Year Appointed: 2024
House Malala
Mr. Emley joined IST in 2024 as a Science Teacher and now serves as a STEM & Design Teacher, bringing nearly two decades of experience as a STEAM educator and technology coach. Before coming to IST, he spent 17 years with the Los Angeles Unified School District and has also worked in data analytics, machine learning, and instructional design, collaborating with industry experts from organizations including Google, Mars, and Cruise.
Mr. Emley earned a master’s degree in Secondary Science and holds teaching credentials in Physics and Career & Technical Education. He also completed a Python certification through The University of Texas at Austin with a focus on artificial intelligence. Passionate about inquiry-based learning, he believes in using Universal Design for Learning to help students of all abilities explore the connections between science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics.
Throughout his career, Mr. Emley has partnered with organizations such as NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Austin Film Society, Teachers in Space, Honeywell Space Academy, Code.org, and the Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot program to create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for students. Outside of school, he enjoys music and film production, kung fu, tennis, mountain biking, and exploring the Texas Hill Country with his wife and their two Balinese cats.
Dan Malnor
Year Appointed: 2017
House Program Leader (Neutral/No House Affiliation)
Mr. Malnor joined IST in 2017 and has been inspiring students to develop healthy habits, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for physical activity ever since. He began his career in education as an English instructor for Disney in Shanghai before transitioning to physical education and coaching in 2013.
Mr. Malnor earned a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education with a concentration in Sports Management from Denison University. He is passionate about creating an encouraging and active learning environment where students build teamwork, resilience, and a love of movement.
Outside of school, Mr. Malnor stays busy with his two children, two dogs, and, as he jokes, “no time.” When he does find a quiet moment, he enjoys reading books about dragons, aliens, and other imaginative adventures.
Bethany Becker
Year Appointed: 2025
House Earhart
Mrs. Becker brings more than six years of experience teaching music and fine arts in the Lakeway area. A lifelong Austin resident and summa cum laude graduate of Berklee College of Music, she is passionate about helping students discover confidence, creativity, and joy through music.
In addition to teaching, Mrs. Becker is an accomplished singer-songwriter, actress, and performer. She has released multiple award-nominated albums and EPs, toured nationally, and performed at venues and events including ACL 3TEN, Rodeo Austin, Six Flags Over Texas, and on television programs such as Good Morning Texas and Good Day Austin. Her work as an actress has earned numerous accolades, including Best Actress at the Branson International Film Festival.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Becker teaches private music lessons, serves as a music director and sound designer for local theater productions, and owns PopStardust Princess Parties, an entertainment company that combines character experiences with interactive music education. She is passionate about inspiring young musicians to develop their talents, express themselves creatively, and discover the transformative power of the arts.
Staff
Francesca Bracho, MEd
Year Appointed: 2018
House Earhart
Mrs. Bracho brings a unique blend of corporate and educational experience to her role as School Counselor. Before transitioning into education, she spent 10 years in the corporate world, serving as a Human Resources Generalist in the aerospace industry and as a Project Manager across the medical, engineering, and information technology sectors. Over the past 20 years, she has taught and counseled students in public, private, and international schools in Singapore, Shanghai, Houston, and Austin, including eight years in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Mrs. Bracho earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Latin American History, and History from The University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Education in School Counseling from the State University of New York at Buffalo. She is passionate about supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth while helping them build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging.
Outside of school, Mrs. Bracho enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, cooking, and relaxing with her two dogs, Oreo, a Labradoodle, and Yugi, an Australian Shepherd.
Claudia Goldberg
Year Appointed: 2022
House Mandela
Ms. Goldberg brings a lifelong passion for working with children and supporting student success. After volunteering with young people for more than 20 years, she returned to college at age 45 and began her teaching career at age 50, demonstrating her belief that learning and growth can begin at any stage of life.
She earned a degree in Liberal Studies with supplemental certifications in Humanities and English Language Development. During her career, she taught history, math, and AVID to middle school students for 10 years at Borrego Springs Middle School in California and also holds certifications in Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) and Adult English Language Development (ELD). She was honored as Teacher of the Year in both 2014 and 2018 before relocating to Texas in 2018 to be closer to her family.
At IST, Ms. Goldberg is known for her joyful spirit, legendary cooking club, and dedication to fostering a warm and welcoming community. She also serves as Chair of the Staff Sunshine Culture Committee. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, gardening, traveling, cooking, and, most of all, spending time with her grandchildren.
Laura Woolsey
Year Appointed: 2021
House Armstrong
Mrs. Woolsey serves as Office Manager at The International School of Texas, where she helps keep the daily operations of the school running smoothly. Since joining IST as the Food Services Coordinator and Front Desk Coordinator, she has grown into a central leadership role, supporting everything from curriculum orders, snack and food service management, transportation and field trip coordination, licensing compliance, and countless behind-the-scenes operations that help the school thrive.
Originally from Princeton, Texas, Mrs. Woolsey attended Austin Community College and is certified in Child Abuse and Neglect Identification as well as licensed through the Texas State Food Manager Certification program. With eight years of experience working in schools, she is passionate about creating safe, organized, and welcoming environments where students, families, and faculty feel supported. She especially values IST’s close-knit community and enjoys being part of the school’s continued growth.
Outside of school, Mrs. Woolsey enjoys hiking, paddle boarding, gardening, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. She believes that “it takes a village to raise a child,” a philosophy that guides her commitment to serving the entire IST community with care, dedication, and heart.
Bethany Reed, BSN RN
Year Appointed: 2021
House Armstrong
Ms. Reed serves as School Nurse and Wellness Coordinator at The International School of Texas, where she is dedicated to supporting the health, safety, and well-being of every student. A native Texan, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, graduating magna cum laude, and began her career specializing in women’s health, providing labor and delivery and postpartum care before bringing her expertise to the school setting. Since joining IST in 2021, she has become an integral part of the school community, caring for students with exceptional compassion while helping oversee school health systems, licensing requirements, and emergency preparedness.
Beyond caring for students’ everyday health needs, Ms. Reed is passionate about building a school culture that prioritizes wellness, prevention, and belonging. She also advises several student clubs, enjoying the opportunity to connect with students beyond the health office and support their growth in meaningful ways.
Outside of school, Ms. Reed enjoys beach volleyball, yoga, running, reading, puzzles, and exploring Austin’s vibrant food and social scene. She also loves traveling, learning new languages, and experiencing cultures around the world, especially through dance. She believes that caring for the whole child—physically, emotionally, and socially—is an essential part of helping every student thrive.
