With over 20 years of experience in teaching and educational leadership, Vanessa Gay-Rice is dedicated to advancing teaching excellence and fostering literacy. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. Throughout her career, Vanessa has worked across Florida, Georgia, the UAE, and Japan, bringing a global perspective to her work and a deep understanding of diverse educational environments.

In her current role as the Director of Teaching and Learning, Vanessa specializes in unpacking curriculum to ensure rigor and alignment with best practices. She has successfully led initiatives to enhance instructional strategies through data analysis, professional learning communities, and targeted professional development. A particular area of expertise for her is the use of assessments and assessment tools to monitor student progress, inform instruction, and drive continuous improvement. Her skills in curriculum mapping, pacing, and assessment data analysis have consistently supported increased achievement and engagement.

Driven by a belief that education must be intrinsically motivated and meaningful, Vanessa is committed to creating inclusive, engaging learning environments where every student and teacher can thrive. Her leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, continuous growth, and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.

Eli Ghazel has dedicated his career to innovation, consistently aiming to improve the existing standards. He is a renowned author and editor of textbooks, addressing a wide array of subjects, including Science, Health, and English language education, partnering with publishers and educational ministries. Furthermore, he has designed curricula and trained thousands of teachers for both governmental educational bodies and private international schools. Eli gained notable recognition for his TEDx talk titled “Here Comes The Learning Designer,” where he introduced a model for learning and assessment.
In his role as Academic Director for the 21st Century Academic Forum in the USA and as the director of CELTD (Center for English Language Teacher Development, MoE, KSA), he has delivered numerous presentations. A highlight of his career was serving as the keynote speaker at the First Annual Conference on Curricula in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, in 2012. More recently, he has discussed technology-enhanced learning at conferences at Harvard University and presented innovative assessment models for the 21st century as a keynote speaker in Berkeley, CA, USA. As a lifelong learner, Eli is committed to inspiring high-quality education to enhance students’ futures.

Dr. Jamie Lynn Cardwell has been teaching various classes in ESL/EFL, curriculum methods (instruction/assessment), and teacher education for the past 25 years. Originally from Alton, IL, her experience ranges from children to adults in multilingual, diverse contexts in the U.S., Uganda, Turkey and the UAE. Dr. Cardwell holds a B.S. in Education, an M.A. in English/TESL, and a Doctorate in Education: Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. She recently earned the National Profession Qualification for Headship through a sponsorship program with Aldar Education. She is also an active participant in various organizations, conferences and roundtables. She is also a founding member of the Common Core Bootcamps. Her latest research focuses on Emirati achievement in the ADEK charter school project. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, playing the flute and traveling. Dr. Cardwell currently works as a Vice Principal at Al Ghad Charter School with Aldar Education in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Sherri Jenio is a licensed and credentialed Educational Therapist with expertise in addressing complex learning processes related to students’ difficulties or disabilities. She provides tailored therapy programs to help students reach their full potential. Originally from the United States, Sherri has been living in Dubai since 2013, bringing her extensive experience in special education from both private schools and medical clinics in the city. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Special Education from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor of Science in Social Behavior from Old Dominion University.

In addition to her role as Inclusion Governor at Dubai British School Jumeirah Park—rated as outstanding in the KHDA inspection and recipient of the IQM Inclusion Award—Sherri is also a CDA-licensed professional, KHDA-certified teacher, school inspector credentialed, and the founder of EdFluential. She moderates and facilitates training sessions for teachers and educational professionals, with a focus on capacity building, effective instructional strategies, and inclusive practices.

Dr. Chassie Selouane is an innovative and visionary international school leader, currently serving as Head of School at MLS International School in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. As a self‑described “education disrupter,” she champions bold, transformative approaches aimed at reimagining 21st‑century learning. Under her leadership, MLS International has embraced forward‑thinking pedagogy, student‑centered design, and the responsible integration of technology to foster meaningful and equitable educational experiences.

In addition to her executive role, Dr. Selouane is Vice‑Chairperson of the Copperstone Education Governing Board, where her guidance helps lead Copperstone’s special projects such as Common Core Boot Camp and early college initiatives. Her influence stretches far beyond any single institution. As a highly sought‑after speaker and consultant, she regularly presents to global audiences on the critical intersections of technology, inclusion, and learning innovation.

A respected voice in the movement for education reform, Dr. Selouane advocates passionately for policies and classroom practices that elevate student agency while maintaining rigorous digital stewardship. Her leadership continues to inspire educators worldwide to harness the responsible power of technology and to design learning environments that prepare tomorrow’s leaders—critically, creatively, and ethically—today.

Jailan Elosta is a Curriculum Development Manager with expertise in K–12 American curriculum education across the UAE. She leads curriculum design, instructional alignment, and school improvement initiatives across private schools under the Arabian Education Development Company. Her work ensures alignment with California CCSS, NGSS, and UAE MoE standards, supporting both academic rigor and cultural relevance. Jailan has developed unified K–12 curriculum frameworks, spearheaded national identity integration, and enhanced science and AI education. She is recognized for her leadership in inspection readiness (ADEK, KHDA), policy development, and data-driven strategies using MAP, PISA, TIMSS, and AP metrics. She also supports AP coordination and elective planning to ensure compliance with university and graduation requirements. Currently pursuing a PhD in Educational Leadership, Jailan contributes to national and international education forums, including the College Board and regional summits. With a career marked by strategic leadership and measurable impact, Jailan continues to shape the future of education through her commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and equity. Her experience reflects a balanced integration of policy, practice, and pedagogy, positioning her as a key contributor to educational transformation in the region.

Misti-Dawn Curry received her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Tuskegee University, and her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction; Specialization in Literacy from Lesley University. She is a native of Tuskegee, Alabama with 20 years of experience in the educational field. She has served in various roles including, K-8 teacher, gifted and talented and intervention educator, undergraduate level instructor and coordinator in the United States and/or the United Arab Emirates. She holds several certifications including Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) from University of Toronto and Transformational Leadership from Murdoch University. Misti-Dawn current works as an academic trainer and consultant. Her passion has led her to currently provide curriculum design support; and deliver professional development and program training sessions to educators on a range of topics in an in-person and virtual learning environment across the MENA Region. I believe passion becomes powerful when it is practiced and made practical.

Chelsea Wilson is a dedicated and dynamic educational leader with 17 years of experience in international schools across the UAE, China, Mali, and Kuwait. Currently serving as Director of Curriculum and Academic Standards at GEMS Al Khaleej International School, she leads with both vision and practicality—driving curriculum design, professional learning, and accreditation efforts with a steady focus on continuous growth.

Chelsea is deeply rooted in American curriculum frameworks, with particular strength in standards-based design, meaningful assessment practices, and instructional leadership. She’s also a passionate mentor, regularly facilitating Train the Trainer programs and empowering emerging leaders to grow in confidence and impact.

With a strong background in multilingual learner support, inspection readiness, and faculty development, Chelsea approaches each initiative with thoughtfulness and a commitment to inclusivity. She holds advanced qualifications in K–12 educational leadership and special education, and she has shared her insights at global conferences, speaking on innovative strategies for multilingualism and academic success.

Jonathan Coxall is a Senior Director with over three decades of publishing experience in educational resources. Based in the Gulf Cooperation Council region, he has established himself within the publishing industry across the Middle East and North Africa.

With specialized expertise in English Language Teaching, Jonathan has thrived on being part of the rapidly evolving landscape of educational content development and delivery. His career encompasses extensive collaboration with major educational institutions and government ministries, delivering materials spanning diverse fields including English language acquisition, business education, health administration, and cybersecurity.

Jonathan’s strategic vision and deep understanding of regional educational needs have enabled him to bridge cultural contexts while delivering high-quality educational resources tailored to specific market requirements. His approach combines pedagogical excellence with practical implementation strategies that resonate with both educators and learners.

Throughout his career, Jonathan has embraced the Italian expression “patti chiari, amiciza lunga” which translates to “clear agreements, long friendship.” With a demonstrated ability in building enduring partnerships, and friendships, he believes that understanding curriculum requirements, and aligning publishing initiatives with national educational objectives is key to delivering content that surpasses expectations.

Heath Bailey is an accomplished school leader with more than 20 years of experience in K–12 and higher education across the USA and UAE. He currently serves as Principal at Elite Private School in Abu Dhabi, where he champions academic rigor, inclusive learning environments, and student well-being.

A former NCAA Division I athlete and basketball coach, Heath draws on the discipline, and team-oriented mindset he developed on the court to lead with purpose and passion in every educational setting. His leadership is marked by a relentless drive for excellence and a deep belief in the transformative power of education.

In 2018, Heath co-authored Going Global, a book which highlights life living outside of the United States. In 2017, he co-hosted the Global Brothers podcast, amplifying the voices of people living and thriving aroind the world.

Heath is the founding leader of Vernus International School in Dubai, established in 2020 as an innovative, future-ready early years and primary school model. His progressive vision continues to shape schools as dynamic centers of inquiry, equity, and global citizenship.

Outside of his service in education, Heath partners with his wife Elfaz, Managing Director of Snowie Time Beverages LLC, a UAE-based shaved ice company known for its presence in schools and major events. He is the proud father of Cameron, owner of Dash Motors and Maya, his high spirited daughter, a student at Elite Private School.

Heath brings grit, and global perspective to everything he does—driven by a lifelong commitment to inclusion, innovation, and impact.

Dr. Adrianna Joy Chestnut is an accomplished education consultant and founding school leader with over 13 years of principalship experience across the U.S. and the UAE. She currently partners with schools to strengthen leadership capacity, improve teaching and learning, support accreditation readiness, and implement high-impact improvement strategies.

Dr. Adrianna has successfully led the founding of three schools in the UAE, spanning public, private, and charter sectors. Her expertise includes American curriculum implementation, instructional leadership, and building inclusive, data-driven school cultures. She is known for her ability to raise student outcomes, retain strong talent, and guide schools through national inspection frameworks.

Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Adrianna holds a doctorate in Organizational Leadership and brings a grounded, empathetic leadership style to every partnership. She is also a proud mother, and her commitment to educational excellence is deeply personal. Dr. Adrianna believes that every child deserves access to great teaching and that strong, supported leaders are the key to making that happen.

Dane Satchell is currently the Senior Manager for Curriculum and Assessment with Aldar Education Charter Schools.

With 16 years in the field of education, he brings a wealth of experience and expertise. He holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Education, specializing in International Education Administration and Leadership. His career has taken him across the globe, from Canada to Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and now the UAE, focusing on American Curriculum Schools.

He began his career teaching English, then transitioned to roles as a Grade 4 Homeroom Teacher, Physical Education Teacher, Head of the PE Department, Athletic Director, Acting Vice Principal, Vice Principal, Acting Principal, and now Senior Manager. His journey into curriculum specialization was driven by necessity but has become a passion.

He currently serves on the governing board of three schools, helping one to improve from Acceptable to Good and actively working with the other two to achieve similar progress. He mentors multiple school leaders in school operations, coaching, curriculum development, and overall school improvement, with two mentees now leading their own schools.

Education is a journey and one he endeavors to make enriching for myself and others. He leads educators to be dedicated to their purpose, patient in their efforts, resilient through challenges, and humble in their successes. He is excited about the future of education and proud to be part of the Leadership Committee of Common Core Boot Camp, shaping the educational landscape in the UAE and beyond.

Award Winning Inclusion Advocate, Founder, International Inspector, Iron (Wo)Man, passionate about SDG8

Dr. Catherine O’Farrell is one of the founders of Incluzun.com, an organisation supporting people of determination in a holistic way across the MENA region. Catherine has been working in education and inclusion for almost 20 years, she has degrees in Education, Psychology and a masters in Engineering. She is passionate about developing opportunities for children with individual needs. She is an award winning, international school inspector, has been a Group Head for some of the region’s largest educational providers and has worked with international and national committees from the Global Sustainability Network to the Ministry of Education here in the UAE to push for a more sustainable and inclusive world. Catherine has spoken at UNESCO, representing the Committee for Inclusive Education in the Gulf, she is a regular media contributor and conference speaker.

Canace Newby is an educational consultant with the Center for Model Schools at HMH/NWEA, where she partners with schools to accelerate school improvement through sustainable systems of leadership, collaboration, and data-driven instruction. With over 25 years of experience in education—as a science teacher, instructional coach, and school leader—Canace brings both classroom credibility and strategic leadership to her work.
Canace believes that growth only happens when we are willing to take risks and learn from our missteps. One of her core principles is to Fail Forward—creating a culture where reflection, feedback, and resilience are embedded into every layer of a school’s work. She brings this mindset into all her partnerships, helping educators embrace challenges as opportunities for innovation and impact.

Her expertise lies in middle-level leadership development and strengthening the capacity of PLC Data Teams to use evidence and inquiry to drive student achievement. She has also successfully coached building leaders to establish clear instructional priorities and support high-leverage collaboration that moves schools forward.

With over a decade of experience in international education, Dr. Carla Caviness brings a proven track record of opening, leading, and transforming international schools across the region. Her leadership style is inclusive and results-driven, with a strong emphasis on curriculum innovation, school improvement, and smooth transitions across all stages of learning from early years through to high school.

Dr. Caviness brings deep expertise in curriculum development and instructional leadership. She has successfully led schools through major start-up phases, accreditation processes, and system-wide improvement plans that have positively impacted student achievement and community engagement. She is also an Adjunct Professor of Teacher Leadership and Leadership Licensure, contributing to the development of the next generation of educational leaders through her work with Sharjah Education Academy.

A key accomplishment includes growing and developing a successful K–8 American curriculum school rooted in Islamic values and global competencies. She leads strategic initiatives aligned with national priorities and international accreditation standards, while cultivating a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement. In addition, she contributes her expertise by serving on both appointed and volunteer boards.

My name is Jim Pastore and I am currently the campus principal of the Al Ittihad Private School, Jumeira campus, in Dubai. My background spans multiple countries and curriculums, with most of my career in American Curriculum schools – including the PYP, MPY and DP programs in several of them.
One of my skills is trying to connect people inside and outside of schools and I look forward to working with the team to enhance the impact of the Common Core Bootcamp in the UAE.
I am a firm believer that working in schools is a PEOPLE driven endeavor, and that how we relate to and connect with people – students, parents, staff, and the larger community around us – is THE most important aspect of being an educator. The Common Core Bootcamp is a great way for educators to come together and connect and to learn from each other in a holistic, professional and caring way.
I have been in this business for 37 years (ad in schools since i was 2 years old…I can’t escape! LOL) and all my best memories revolve around the people I have known and worked with on four continents and in many countries. I hope that my presence will help bring few smiles to the group and that everyone will forgive me for my “school daze” anecdotes about my own childhood in schools and my years working in them.

Joy Buckner is a passionate educator, dynamic presenter, and Founder of Buckner Education, where she leads high-impact coaching, mentoring, and professional development for educators across the globe. With over 24 years of experience spanning classrooms, leadership teams, and international consulting roles, Joy partners with teachers, school leaders, nonprofits, and education organizations to create inclusive, innovative, and student-centered learning environments.

Diagnosed with dyslexia at age twelve, Joy draws deeply from her lived experience to inform her work—not only as an advocate, but as an expert in instructional coaching, curriculum design, and educational leadership. She has served as a Consultant, Senior Leader, Literacy Specialist, Instructional Coach, School Inspector, and Facilitator, supporting education ministries and schools in the U.S., UAE, and beyond.

Joy’s approach is grounded in equity and evidence-based practice. She specializes in structured literacy, adaptive teaching strategies, and designing systems that support neurodivergent learners. Her work also explores how AI can be leveraged to improve accessibility, differentiation, and executive functioning across educational settings.

She is the creator and host of The Joy of Neurodiversity podcast, a platform that amplifies lived experience and expert insight to challenge assumptions and reimagine inclusive education.

At the heart of her work is a simple belief: when we honor how all minds learn, we unlock potential not only in students, but in the educators and systems that serve them.

Crystal C. Goodwin, a school leader and educator with 23 years of experience, expresses immense pride in the school community she has helped cultivate. She believes that fostering a strong school community, encompassing teachers, students, parents, and stakeholders, is essential for a school’s success, especially when entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring proper student education.

Crystal highlights that at her current school as Vice Prinicipal, students view her as approachable and responsive, understanding that their thoughts are valued. Similarly, teachers recognize her respect for their expertise and appreciate her efforts in leveraging their unique strengths to empower them in leadership roles both within and outside the classroom.

Crystal prides herself on leading by the philosophy, “Build a team so strong no one can point out the leader.” She cherishes her role, which provides her with the opportunity to coach and mentor both teachers and students, guiding them to become their best selves for the collective betterment of the school community.

Michael Norton began his career as a Secondary English teacher and is currently the Head of Secondary at Collegiate International School in Dubai. Originally from Canada, Michael has experience in various curriculum models across the UK and in the UAE. Michael holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Management and is currently completing his NPQH qualification.

A firm believer in authentic leadership and inclusiveness, Michael utilizes best-practice and research-based approaches to support the development of both staff and students. Michael finds value in exploring leadership frameworks and understands the importance of context in student success. Michael has extensive experience in aligning curriculum and assessment and is passionate about the development of middle leadership to foster sustainable school improvement.

Abbas Zeeb Abdulsamad is a certified school inspector and seasoned educational leader with over 20 years of experience driving academic excellence and organizational growth. His career spans roles from English teacher to senior leadership, culminating in his current position as Vice Principal at Elite Private School, where he oversees academic affairs, compliance, curriculum alignment, and strategic initiatives for a diverse student body.

He has participated in inspections and consulting projects across Sharjah and Dubai, leveraging his expertise to enhance school performance and educational quality. Abbas has successfully elevated school inspection ratings—including raising Elite Private School from Acceptable to Good—and led Cognia and AIAAsc accreditation readiness. His leadership consistently drives enrollment growth, instructional improvement, and strengthened stakeholder engagement.

Key accomplishments include directing a school of nearly 2,000 students and 200 staff, launching innovative learning initiatives recognized by the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Smart Majlis, delivering impactful professional development, and building strategic partnerships with organizations such as the British Council and College Board.

Guided by a philosophy that education is a catalyst for societal transformation, Abbas leads with integrity, innovation, and a commitment to continuous improvement—ensuring every initiative empowers students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.