Meet our new AIELOC Fellows!

Dr. M. Jonathan Sheppard is an international educator, now in his 16th consecutive year abroad. His career has been based entirely in Asia, with his tenure equally divided between South Korea and Vietnam. Dr. Sheppard places strong emphasis on professionalism, ‘faculty’ competence, and individuality—a trio of qualities he considers essential for international school educators. He notes, “The prerequisite for teaching has always been, and remains, essential educational skills, and with good reason. Coupled with professionalism, these qualities equip educators with the authority to present their unique identities, which also happen to serve as a distinctive point of connection for families and students when choosing international schools.”

 

His doctoral dissertation, The Experiences of Black Male Teachers in International Schools in East and Southeast Asia, explored human resource practices and the experiences of minority teachers in relation to colleagues occupying  the racial majority positionality. Reflecting on his research, he explained, “While completing my dissertation, it became clear that AIELOC is doing crucial work by providing guidance not only for racial minorities, but also for individuals from any minority positionality—including age, gender, or religion, to name a few.” He is honored to continue the work of his previous AIELOC Fellows and members who have dedicated themselves to advancing equity in international education.

 

Dr. Sheppard currently resides in Vietnam with his wife and three children.

Liz Cho is a leader in the international schools, with experience as a senior administrator and a classroom teacher since 2003. Liz is dedicated to empowering students and teachers alike, honoring the intersectionalities of their identity that enrich a school community. Over two decades of experience in the U.S. public and international school systems have instilled in Liz the value of a competent, empathic leader who models lifelong learning. An Apple Distinguished Educator who is also certified in Educational Technology, Liz avidly believes in using creative and innovative approaches to inspire all learners. This is evident in her professional sharing at various international conferences in the East Asia region as a keynoter and presenter.

Liz is also a passionate believer in creating safe spaces for both students and teachers in schools. As such, she is committed to the work of honouring diversity, equity, and inclusion within international schools. She strives to amplify all voices, especially of those traditionally marginalized, finding ways to listen to them as invaluable thought partners and change makers of the future.

 

Any other professional details about Liz can be found on her website, lizcho.org, and you can connect with her on LinkedIn: in/lizhjcho.

Fellowship

The Association of International Educators and Leaders of Color (AIELOC) is devoted to amplifying the work of international educators and leaders of color with a focus on advocacy, learning, and research.

Our vision is a global community where

  • All of our members are supported in order to develop and reach their full potential
  • Principles of diversity, inclusion, and equity are highly valued and embedded in all international education organizations

We are looking to provide fellowships for educators each year. The fellowship responsibilities will include:

  1. Research and Writing. Fellows would have the opportunity to conduct, analyze, and write reports highlighting educators and leaders of color globally.
  2. Leadership.AIELOC organizes and participates in online forums and will start organizing institutes. A fellow would collaborate with the team to develop innovative programs and materials and contribute to professional learning opportunities.
  3. Personal Project.We will work with fellows on creating a new resource for the international education community.

AIELOC seeks two resourceful, intelligent, detail-oriented, hard-working educators who are capable of excelling in an intellectually stimulating work environment.  Research experience is desired, strong writing skills a must, and Internet experience greatly welcome. The time commitment is 3-5 hours virtually a week for this one-year volunteer fellowship.You must be a member of AIELOC. To join us visit https://aieloc.org/membership/

To apply please send a resume and a two minute video introducing yourself and why you are interested in this fellowship to AIELOC2019@gmail.com. Select candidates will be interviewed.