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.