Faculty & Staff

Jim Belcher, Head Principal

Mr. Belcher has seventeen years teaching and administrative experience at public elementary and secondary schools in California and in China. He has been teaching at CDIS since 2005. He loves the Chinese people, having been back and forth between the US and China for a total of eleven years in China stretching back to the early 1980's.

Education: B.S. in Microbiology from California State Polytechnic University Pomona; M.Ed. in Educational Management from University of LaVerne; Teaching and Administrative Credentials issued by the State of California.

Daniel Choe, Secondary School Principal

Coach Choe comes from California (USA) with 10 years of teaching and administrative experiences in the public schools. He has had the privilege and honor serving students and teachers in almost every facet of schools. He truly enjoys coaching students. He is married with two daughters.

Education:B.A. in International Relations (University of Southern California). Advanced graduate studies in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (CSU, Northridge) and in international relations, Asian studies, and economics (Johns Hopkins University). Teaching and administrative credentials issued by the State of California.

Steven Dorgelo, Primary School Principal

I was born, raised and educated in The Netherlands, Europe. After some years of traveling around the world and teaching in schools for special education, I moved to Chengdu in 2002 with my wife and 2 children. In my free time I love to travel and do some photography, read a good book or listen to classical music.

Karen Jiang, National Staff Coordinator

I was born and grew up in Chengdu. Before I came to CDIS, I once worked in a middle school as a Chinese teacher, and then worked in office for many years. I love kids and I also have a child. I believe that challenges will help people make progress.

Linda Yang, Office Manager

I was born in Chengdu, but my family hometown is Shenyang. I'm not good at singing or acting, but somtimes I like to imitate people's performances. Before I came to CDIS, I was a news reporter in a small television station. I love working at CDIS. I always view it as my home, every staff here is my family member. I feel so happy that I can work with them. I also love the kids around me. I love their shiny smiles and their innocent faces.

Education: B.A. in Scientific English, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China

Pearl Pu, Secondary School Principal's Secretary

I love kids and spicy foods!

Education: BA in English, Sichuan University

Adelle Schanely, Registrar, Math Teacher

I was born and raised in the Carolina's and have spent most of my life living in North Carolina. For eight years of my early years I spent time in Papua New Guinea. After living in PNG I went to middle and high school in the small town of Waxhaw, NC. After graduation I traveled about 8 hours away to the state of Ohio where I spent four awesome years at the best university in the world - Cedarville! I majored in Middle School Education and love working with middle schoolers. I teach Algebra Half, Algebra I, Algebra II, and Advanced Math.

Education: BA in Childhood Education: emphasis im Math and Science, Masters in Curriculum and Instruction, Cedarville University

Yonkyung Choi, Korean Community Liaison, Teacher

I was born in Seoul, Korea. I had worked in CCU, Severance hospital in Seoul for 6 years. After marriage I quit my job and studied linguistics. I have three children. I love reading books, especially Christian books.

Education: B.A. of nursing science, EHWA Women's University, studied 2yrs linguistics at Graduate Institute of Applied Linguistics in Dallas.

Vicky Wang, Primary School Principals' Secretary

I like drawing, reading, sports, traveling, music, and watching TV.

Education: BA in English, University of Electronic Science Technology of China

Cecilia Li, Purchase Manager

Christine Wei, Head Principal's Secretary

Rebecca Leng, Receptionist

David Yost, 12th Grade Home Room & Theology Teacher

I grew up mostly in the Mid-West states of the U.S. I taught Math and Music at an International School in Uijongbu, South Korea for three years. Most recently my wife and I worked as Family Teachers to troubled youth in San Antonio, Texas. We have two kids, Marissa and DJ.

Education: BA in Liberal Arts from Crown College, MM in Christian Studies from Master's International Divinity School

Elaine Moss, 10th Grade Home Room & Math Teacher

I was born and grew up in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. I majored in Mathematics and minored in Philosophy at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky. After graduating, I spent two months teaching English in Thailand. Before coming to CDIS, I taught middle and high school math for two years at a private school in my hometown. I enjoy reading, the beauty of mathematics, and hearing people's stories.

Education: Bachelor of Science, Murray State University

Glen Walanda, Science Teacher

I grew up in the Ozark Foothills region of Missouri. I lived 15 miles from my "hometown" of 405 people (there were only around 5000 people in the entire county). After college I moved to Los Angeles were I spent four years. I have taught integrated science, physical science, biology, chemistry, and physics in public and charter schools in both Missouri and California.

Education: BS in Education (BSE) in Physics from Central Missouri State University. Unified Science Teaching Certification in Missouri and a Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential: Physics in California.

Kirsten Rodgers, 7th Grade Home Room & History Teacher

Doug Flowers, 6th Grade Home Room & Social Studies Teacher

Katia Flowers, 8th Grade Home Room & Psychology Teacher

I was born and raised in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where I attended a British School from JK - grade 9 and an American School from grade 10 - 12. I am married with two children, and I love reading and interacting with students.

Education: Bachelor and licensure in Psychology and teaching, Pontifical Catholic University

Alison Allen, 7th Grade Home Room & English Teacher

Travis Miller, 9th Grade Home Room & High School English Teacher

My wife, Kathy, and I are excited to be new members of the CDIS team. We have two daughters, Kayla and Sofie, who will be attending the school. Our son, Jonah, was born shortly after out arrival in Chengdu.

Education:I received my undergraduate degree from Western Oregon University in 2003 and my graduate degree from the same school in 2004. I have six years of teaching experience in rural Alaska and Oregon.

Matt Perdue, 11th Grade Home Room & Social Studies Teacher

I was born in Tuscaloosa, AL USA (Roll Tide!). I have been married to Sarah Storm Perdue since December 1, 2006. We welcomed our only child, Brynn, to this world on February 28, 2009. In my spare time, I love to watch/play sports, watch movies/TV shows and play video games.
Education:B.S. in Mass Communications with a Journalism Concentration from the University of Montevallo. Teaching certification in Secondary Social Sciences from the University of West Alabama.

Sara Dwight, Middle School ESL English & Math Teacher

I grew up in beautiful Minneapolis, Minnesota. In addition to educating students, I enjoy sports, hiking, watching movies, and reading. I am excited to be a part of the CDIS community!
Education:North Park University in Chicago, Illinois where I majored in Elementary Education and History.

Du Qiang, Science Co-Teacher

I'm interested in flowers and I like mountain climbing. Tennis is my favorite sport.

Education: BS in Biology, Sichuan Normal University

Bethany Broesder, Band & PreK-1st Grade Music

I grew up in Lakeland, Florida and moved to Charlotte, North Carolina just before high school. After high school I attended Cedarville University in Ohio where I studied flute and Music Education. I believe my purpose at CDIS is to have a personal impact in the lives of my students and to instill in them a love for music and a desire to strive for musical excellence. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for CDIS and for the music department!

Education: Cedarville University, Music Education

Tom Ford, Choir and 2nd-5th Grade Music Teacher

I grew up in Taiwan where my parents ran an orphanage. After high school I returned to the U.S. where I received my undergraduate degree in Music Education and have taught music for 10 years, and love working with kids of all ages.
Education:Master of Music Education, Lebanon Valley College, PA

Harmony Liu, Music Teacher Assistant

I was born in Luzhou. After graduation, I've been teaching piano and vocal. I love music and teaching.

Education: Bachelor of Music Education, Sichuan Conservatory of Music

Katie Spata, Art Education

I was born in Ashland, OH USA, but lived in Bellefontaine, Ohio for the majority of my life. I went to Taylor University in Indiana for four years, graduated in May 2005, got married July 9, 2005, and moved to China two weeks later. I enjoy the arts in every aspect, and I love to exercise, especially swimming, hiking and exploring the unknown world around me. I am a traveler at heart!

Education: BS in Art Education, Taylor University

Sophia Cheng, Art Co-Teacher

I love arts. That is why I study art in college. I like singing, dancing, traveling, etc. I enjoy working with arts & kids in CDIS!

Education: Bachelor of Art, Sichuan University

Brian Spata, Physical Education (Secondary School)

Originally from Chicago, IL, I graduated from Taylor University in May of 2005. Katie and I were married in July 2005, and moved to China 2 weeks later. I enjoy almost every outdoor activity from soccer to biking, as well as tennis, skiing and golf.

Education: Taylor University, Bachelor of Science; Health and Physical Education

Bryan Hou, Technology Director & Computer Science Teacher

I was born and grew up in Guangzhou, China. After finishing graduate schools in Philadelphia, I stayed in that area and worked as an Information Analyst and Programmer in financial and healthcare industries. I enjoy tennis and badminton.

Education: Bachelor of Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical College; Masters of Science, Temple University; Masters of Business Administration in MIS, LaSalle University

Michael Meng, Technology Support

I worked in the financial auditing area before I came to CDIS. I enjoy digital multimedia.

Education: Graduated from 4 yrs Computer Science program from University of Electronic Science and Technology, China

Andy Whitlock, High School Science Teacher

Zack Brewer, Technology Integration Coordinator

I am from Knoxville, Tennessee. In 2004 I moved to Johnson City, Tennessee and attended ETSU. In my spare time I like to explore Chengdu, write music, write short stories, take pictures, and make movies.

Education: BS in Elementary Education from East Tennessee State University

Kira Brewer, 3rd Grade Teacher

Kimberly McGiverin, 5th Grade Teacher

My home country is the United States, and I lived in Portland Oregon. I am proud to call China my new home! Teaching has been a passion of mine for a long time, and I am now excited to teach the first graders at CDIS. I am having a great time exploring Chengdu, and learning about the customs that are so new to me. I love swimming, photography, a good book, laughing, and anything green.

Education: B.S. in Early & Elementary Education from George Fox University

Sara Lawrence, 4th Grade Teacher

My home country is the United States of America. Though I was not born in Oregon, I still consider myself a transplanted Oregonian. I enjoy hiking in the mountains, being in nature and a good rainstorm. My hobbies include reading, watching movies,gardening, cooking and many artistic and crafty pursuits including drawing, painting, beading, and stained glass.I also love learning about Chinese language and culture and feel privileged to be able to live and teach in China.

Education: Bachelor in Elementary Education, Western Oregon State College

Amanda Elliott, 2nd Grade Teacher

I am from Ellsworth, Maine. I graduated from Cedarville University in 2005. This is my fifth year working at CDIS. I very much enjoy getting to know the students and families here, and love the school atmosphere and dynamics. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling, outdoor recreational activities, reading, and experiencing and seeing more of the world than I had before coming to China.

Education: BA in Early Childhood Education, Cedarville University

Catie Walker, 1st Grade Teacher

I grew up in a small town in Michigan but went to college in Ohio. I graduated from Cedarville University in 2006 and moved back to Michigan. Before coming to China I lived and worked at a family camp near my hometown. I love yellow flowers, reading, laughing, and watching movies.

Education: BA in Early Childhood Education, Cedarville University

Jane Liang, 5th Grade Co-Teacher

I was born and grew up in Chengdu. I studied in Kenya for IGCSE in an English International School, and then went to study in England in business administration. Before coming to work at CDIS, I had heard about it a lot. Now here I am!! I love the working environment, the teachers and of course the students.

Education: Associate Degree in Business Administration, West London College, UK

Jake Tang, 3rd Grade Co-Teacher

I was born and raised in Guanghan, Sichuan. I went to college during 1996 to 2000, majoring in English education. I have been a teacher all the time since my graduation. I love my parents, sisters and friends. I have a wide range of hobbies, and especially like to workout.

Education: Bachelor of Arts, Sichuan Normal University

Rejoice Huang, 4th Grade Co-Teacher

I am a typical Cantonese and seafood is my favorite food. I studied at South China Normal University and got a bachelor's degree in biology education. I moved to Chengdu when I graduated. I have been working at CDIS as a science co-teacher for three years. I was married in 2004. I love watching movies and practicing calligraphy.

Education: BS in Biology Education, South China Normal University

Michelle Zeng, 2nd Grade Co-Teacher

I was born and grew up in Sichuan. I graduated from Sichuan Normal University in 2004. This is my 5th year teaching in CDIS. I love dancing, traveling and spicy food. I enjoy teaching kids a lot!

Education: BA in English Education, Sichuan Normal University

Summer Zeng, 1st Grade Co-Teacher

I came to CDIS in 2003. I taught at Chengdu Financial and Trade Vocational High School from 2000 to 2003.

Education: Bachelor of English, Sichuan University

Minnie Choe, Kindergarten Teacher

Lily Leng, Kindergarten Co-Teacher

Education: Associated degree of English Interpreting, Sichuan International Study’s University (Chengdu College)

Nannico Zhang, Junior Kindergarten Teacher

I love kids, and like to learn.

Education: Associate Degree in English, Sichuan Normal University

Mikey Gao, PE Teacher (Primary School)

My first job was a martial art coach. After graduating from Sport's University in 2005, I have been working in CDIS since. I love physical education, kids and enjoy teaching.

Lu Xia, Kindergarten Co-Teacher

Caleb Xiao, PE Teacher

Molly Yang, Chinese Teacher

I was born in Jingzhou of Hubei Province. I came to Chengdu for my University study. My major was Chinese in University. After graduation, I taught for one year at a Chinese training center. This is my second year teaching at Chendgu International School. I enjoy working with such wonderful colleagues and being a part of CDIS. I love spicy food very much!

Education: Bachelor of Chinese in Southwest University for Nationalities

Joy Wu, Chinese Teacher

I was born in Dazhou, a city in the east of Sichuan, where I spent most of my childhood. In 2000, I was accepted as an English Education major by Sichuan Normal and studied there for 4 years. In college, I received many schoolwide scholarship awards. In 2004, I graduated from my university as one of The Excellent College Students and got the job at CDIS. In 2001, I met my boyfriend (now my husband), Colin, in another university. We were baptized together and got married both on Easter in 2005 (We think that's meaningful). I love being with kids and teaching them. And I love running and doing outdoor activities (by the way, I was a distance runner for many years).

Education: BA in English Education, Sichuan Normal University

Wendy Tang, Chinese Teacher

I was born in Chengdu. I graduated form Sichuan University in 2006 majoring in Journalism. After that I served ICBC as a personal assistant for 1 year. I love reading books and raising pets.

Education: Master degree of Literature, Sichuan University

Rebecca Pan, Chinese Teacher

I was born and grew up inChengdu. This is my 4th year working at CDIS. I love reading and being around my dogs and cats. There is nothing more wonderful than watching chidren growing and growing with them.

Sherrie He, Chinese Teacher

I was born in and grew up in Guang'an of Sichuan Province. Now my parents live in Mianyang. During 2001-2005, I went to college in Chongqing. After graduation, I furthered my study in Sichuan University for a Master degree. For seven years, I have majored in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language. Besides my study, I also did a lot of practice Chinese teaching in several universities. I like teaching Chinese. I like challenging myself to improve my teaching skills. I enjoy being a part of CDIS.

Education: Master degree of Literature, Sichuan University

Natasha Tan, Chinese Teacher

I am from the Guangxi Province which is known for its love of singing. I also enjoy singing as well as dancing, reading, watching movies, and traveling.

Education: Associates Degree in English, South West Minority University

Julia Deng, Chinese Language Teacher

I was born in Shanxi Province which is a famous historical and cultural place. Because of this, I was getting more and more interested in history and culture. My major in college is Chinese literature. After my graduation, I have taught Chinese in CDIS for six month, and then I started Language Center until I went to the Philippines in 2007. I am very happy and excited to be back to CDIS and share my knowledge with my students here.

Education: BA in Chinese literature, MA in classical Chinese literature from Southwest University for Nationalities

Dandan Liu, Chinese Tutor

Gloria Cheng, Chinese Tutor

Judd Jiang, Chinese Tutor

I have two years teaching and training experience at a public middle school in Mianzhu, Sichuan. I've worked at CDIS since 2002 as cashier and Chinese tutor.

Education: Bachelor of business management of Sichuan University

Bill Gandy, Guidance & Counselor

Lynn Lin, ESOL Teacher

Mercy Xie, ESOL Co-Teacher

I was born in nature. When I recall my childhood my memory is filled up with all the countryside beauty. That's why I have deep love of trees, plants, flowers and animals. So I love traveling from places to places especially hiking. And also I love sports and exercises.

Education: I was graduated from Xihua University, the former Chengdu Teachers' College. My major is Education English.

Zhou Li, ESOL Co-Teacher

I love teaching and enjoy being with students very much. I'm from Chengdu so I speak Chengduhua very well. I love Sichuan food especially hotpot!

Education: B.A English and Literature from Sichuan Normal University

Angel Mei, ESOL Co-Teacher

I was born in a town near Chengdu in 1979. After graduating from college, I worked for two years in a public middle school in my hometown, then, I studied English for two years in Sichuan University. I'm very happy to work here with my colleagues.

Education: English, Sichuan University

Andrew Zeng, Accountant

I was born in Luzhou of Si Chuan and went to Si Chuan Wu Zi Institute of accounting in 1981. I got married in 1994 and we have one girl. I worked almost 5 years for a publicly traded company in Hai Nan.

Steve Chen, Accountant

I was born and raised in Shenyang, Northeastern China. In 1997 I received my bachelor degree in Business Finance from the University of Toledo, Ohio, and subsequently went on to study for my MBA which I received in 1999. Overall I spent more than a decade studying and working in the US. This experience had proved to be invaluable because it offered me a great opportunity to understand a different culture. An in-depth understanding in both cultures, East and West, allows me to see myself and the world in a much more meaningful way. I feel both honored and humbled to find myself in CDIS where I could develop myself both professionally and spiritually. I am looking forward to working with each and everyone of the staff members of the international school system to enjoy a wonderful career and spiritual growth.

Education: BA, MBA, University of Toledo, Ohio

Helen Hu, Cashier

My first job was in sales for a warehouse. Later I worked in the office in another international school. Now, I am a casher in CDIS. I like every change in my life for it will lead me to a new world.

Education: BS in Economic Trade, Northwestern Polytechnical Univercity, XI'an