Educators & Support
Our Instructional Team
At Irvine Chinese Immersion Academy, we're not just building classrooms—we're shaping futures with a team that's as passionate as it is pioneering. Our educators aren't simply teachers; they are mentors, champions of curiosity, and architects of your child's success.
What truly sets our team apart is their relentless dedication to crafting a vibrant and immersive learning experience. Here, education goes beyond textbooks. Our teachers weave language mastery, cultural richness, and holistic growth into every lesson, ensuring that your child doesn’t just learn—they flourish. With innovative teaching strategies and the latest educational tools, we make learning an adventure that’s both engaging and impactful.
When you join us at ICIA, you're choosing a path where our immersion model and extraordinary team create a transformative educational journey. Together, we’ll help your child unlock a world of possibilities, one inspired step at a time.
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Liz Hsueh
CLA, Kindergarten University of Illinois Chicago -
10 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Sciences in Curriculum and Instruction, California State University, Fullerton
Bachelor of Arts in Chinese Literature, Tunghai University, Taiwan
Teacher’s Certification, Taiwan
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6 Years of Classroom Teaching
Masters of Arts in Education, Chapman University
Bachelors of Science in Mathematics, Univeristy of California, Santa Barbra
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3 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Education in Education, University of California, Santa Barbara
Bachelor of Arts in English, Shanghai Jianqiao University

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10 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Teaching, University of California, Irvine
Bachelor of Arts in International Studies – Chinese Studies & Education, University of California, San Diego
Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, University of California, Irvine
Ms. Chou has extensive experience within the Irvine Unified School District, where she has served in a variety of roles including elementary teacher, site coordinator, and program leader. She is dedicated to creating a positive, engaging classroom environment that supports all learners. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading everything from historical fiction to fantasy, traveling with family and friends, and all things related to Disney, Harry Potter, and Marvel.

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10 Years of Classroom Teaching
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts, California State University, Fullerton
Multiple Subject Clear Credential, California State University, Fullerton
Ms. Goodale has taught students across Orange County in a variety of settings, including preschool, kindergarten, and first grade, and has spent the past five years teaching in a Mandarin immersion environment. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing and engaging classroom where young learners can build strong foundations and a love of learning. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys traveling to new places, spending time in nature, and reading great books.
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Bachelors of Arts in Economics, University of California, Los Angeles
Montessori Credentialed
Ms. Yiu has taught in Montessori settings for many years, including at multiple campuses of Montessori Schools of Irvine, and has continued her teaching journey at ICIA. She is dedicated to fostering independence, curiosity, and a love of learning in her students while creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment.

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4 Years of Classroom Teaching
Masters of Arts in Chinese Language and Literature, Soochow University, China
Bachelors of Arts in Chinese Language and Literature, Soochow University, China
Multiple Subject Teaching Program, California State University, Long Beach
Mandarin World Language Authorization, California State University, San Jose
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1 Year of Classroom Teaching
Master of Sciences in Curriculum and Instruction, California State University, Fullerton
Bachelor of Arts in Education Sciences, University of California, Irvine
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10 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Bilingual Education, New York University
Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and Childhood Education, SUNY Geneseo
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7 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Bilingual Education, Loyola Marymount University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of Connecticut
Gate Certified, University of California, San Diego

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Peiyao Wang
CLA, Grade 1 Pepperdine University -
5 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Education, Boston University
Bachelor of Arts in English Education, Shenzhen University
Business Leadership Program, Harvard University
Teacher Credential Program, California State University, East Bay

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Olivia Yu
CLA, Grade 1 USC -
4 Years of Classroom Teaching
Masters of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Los Angeles Pacific University
Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, Brigham Young University
Ms. Suitor has served as a college instructor for group dynamics and has extensive experience supporting students of all abilities, including teaching physical development classes for special needs students for seven years. She has also worked as a gymnastics coach, church director, substitute teacher, and online first grade teacher. Outside of the classroom, she is a proud mother of two daughters and enjoys bringing her passion for working with children into everything she does.
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9 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Dual Language Education, San Diego State University
Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, University of California, San Diego
Ms. Chen has been embracing the philosophy of teaching students to be creative, life-long learners and independent thinkers. She strongly believes that students not only need to be equipped with academic knowledge but also socio-emotional well-being. By providing ownership for students to grow and reach their best potentials. Ms. Chen supports and challenges students with scaffolded and individualized curriculum. To ensure learning by doing, she is passionate about creating theme-based and interdisciplinary activities, in order to foster a joyful learning classroom environment for students. During her free time. she enjoys singing, fashion, and exploring new travel spots.
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4 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Education, University of California, Davis
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, California State University, Long Beach
Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, BCLAD, University of California, Davis
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3 Years of Classroom Teaching
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, California State University, Fullerton
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3 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, Pepperdine University
Bachelor of Arts in Applied Linguistics, University of California, Los Angeles
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9 Years of Classroom Teaching
Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Psychology, University of California, Irvine
Master of Arts in Teaching, University of California, Irvine
With her background in understanding how students think and learn, Ms. Huynh is dedicated to creating thoughtful, engaging lessons that support academic growth and foster confidence. She strives to build a positive classroom environment where students feel challenged, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential.

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As a first year teacher, Ms. Hsiao is excited to begin her teaching journey at ICIA.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication, University of California, Santa Barbara
Master of Arts in Teaching, Multiple Subject and Special Education Concentration, University of Southern California
Ms. Hsiao has experience teaching across a wide range of grade levels, from Kindergarten through 7th grade. She has a specialized background in Special Education, having worked in self-contained Special Day Classes (SDC) and delivered targeted interventions aligned with Individual Education Program (IEP) goals. Outside of the classroom, she has also coached for girls basketball team, where she focused on communication and inclusive coaching techniques.
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2 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Education in Education Leadership, Organizations, and Entrepreneurship, Harvard University
Bachelor of Arts in Education in Elementary Education (Educating Multilingual Learners), Arizona State University
Ms. Wang is dedicated to creating an inclusive, student-centered learning environment where every child feels supported, empowered, and inspired to grow academically and personally.
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16 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), San Francisco State University
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and Music, Concordia University Irvine
Ms. Ma is a National Board Certified Teacher and has taught students from preschool through fourth grade. She has also served as a summer camp director, further demonstrating her commitment to nurturing and guiding young learners. Ms. Ma loves teaching English, social studies, and music, and she is dedicated to making third grade a joyful, engaging, and truly memorable year for her students.
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15 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, University of Southern California
Bachelors of Arts in English Language Arts, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
GATE Certificated
Ms. Tan values strong partnerships with families and colleagues and is dedicated to nurturing the whole child. She considers it a privilege to guide students as they grow into thoughtful, capable, and compassionate learners. She designs meaningful interdisciplinary learning experiences that connect language, inquiry, creativity, and real-world application, helping students build strong academic foundations, a lasting love of learning, and the skills to thrive as global citizens.

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As a first year teacher, Ms. Allan is excited to begin her teaching journey at ICIA.
Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, California State University, San Bernardino
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, California State University Fullerton
GATE Certificated
Ms. Allan served as a student teacher and substitute teacher for three years in the Irvine Unified School District, where she developed her skills in supporting diverse learners and creating engaging classroom environments. She looks forward to fostering a welcoming, supportive space where students feel confident, valued, and excited to learn each day. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Allan enjoys ballet, exploring fashion and thrifting, reading science fiction, cats, and playing video games.
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8 Years of Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Educational Technology, California State University, Los Angeles
Bachelor of Arts in Chinese, University of California, Los Angeles
GATE Certificated
Ms. Situ creates engaging and meaningful learning experiences that support student growth and curiosity. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys traveling to new places and discovering new matcha spots, bringing her sense of exploration and enthusiasm into her teaching each day.

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7 Years in Classroom Teaching
Master of Arts in Education, Claremont Graduate University
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Creative Writing, Pitzer College
GATE, ELD, and STEAM certified
In addition to his classroom experience, Mr. Lim has served as a camp counselor, ultimate frisbee coach, and tutor, and he enjoys creating educational, kid-friendly music “Lim Music” to make learning engaging and fun. He is dedicated to building a positive classroom community where students feel inspired, supported, and excited to learn each day.

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Na Bai
CLA, TK University of Pacific -
Phebe Lo
CLA, TK Cal Poly Pomona -
2 Years of Classroom Teaching
Bachelor of Arts in Education, Psychology, William Jessup University
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Yan Zhang
CLA, TK Shenyang Normal University -
28 Years of Classroom Teaching
Masters of Science in Education Technology
Bachelors of Science in Psychology
Ms. Fong holds both multiple subject BCLAD and single subject teaching credentials and has taught in a variety of settings, including private and public school districts. In addition to her classroom experience, she has worked as a behavioral therapist, further strengthening her ability to support diverse student needs. Ms. Fong was honored as an Elementary Teacher of the Year in the Capistrano Unified School District and was also nominated for Orange County Teacher of the Year. She is dedicated to creating a supportive, engaging learning environment where all students can thrive.

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4 Years of Classroom Teaching
Bachelors of Music in Music Education, California Baptist University
With a background in teaching music at multiple private schools and providing private lessons for over five years, Ms. Sparks has been dedicated to music education since high school. Additional experience includes leading summer music camps and developing a successful after-school music program. Ms. Sparks is committed to fostering a love for music in all students and believes that music can fully support the California Arts Standards while remaining engaging, creative, and fun.
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7 Years of Classroom Teaching
Masters of Science in Educational Technology, California State University, Fullerton
Bachelors of Science in Liberal Studies, California State University, Dominguez Hills
Computer Science Supplementary Authorization
Ms. Duran-Sibucao has extensive experience teaching upper elementary students and supporting STEM education across K–12 settings, and she is trained in Project-Based Learning (PBL) and recognized as an Apple Teacher. Her skills include curriculum development, 3D printing, and coding in Python, Swift, and block-based languages. She is dedicated to creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving in all students.
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6 Years of Classroom Teaching
Masters of Science in Educational Technology, California State University, Fullerton
Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton
Single Subject Credential PE K-12, California State University, Long Beach
Leadership
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Estefania Castro
Head of Operations UCI, APU, USC -
Candy Lin-Huang
TOSA LMU, USC -
Carin Truong
Special Education Coordinator Concordia University, CSUF, National University -
Celine Chang
Instructional Coach and Curriculum Coordinator UCLA -
Dr. Benson Kwok
Executive Director APU, USC
Student Support Services
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Jasmine Balladares
Counselor Chapman University -
Michelle Dominguez
Library Tech Long Beach College -
Whitney Gonzalez
Health Assistant CSN, UNLV -
Laura Oliveros & Andrea Segura
Nutrition Service Coordinators CSUF -
Alieska Ruiz
Health Assistant CSULB -
Charlotte Tu
After School Program Coordinator UCI -
Helen Wu
SLP CSUF
Front Office
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Nicole Lam
Office Assistant UCI -
Maria Loera
Attendance Clerk CSULA -
Maribel Paz
School Community Coordinator CBU -
Olivia Shih
Office Assistant Emerson College
Support Staff
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Owen Chavez
Custodian CSUF -
Irvine Garcia
Custodian -
Jose Ramirez
Custodian -
Micah Vinh
Technology Services Intern CSUF -
Joseph Wong
HR Tech UCLA
Instructional Aides
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Luhan Cao
Afterschool Aide Saddleback College -
Evelyn Castro
Campus Monitor/Afterschool Aide CSULB -
Elizabeth Chae
Afterschool Aide Biola University -
Jennifer Chu
Art Instructional Aide Shanghai Theatre Academy -
Saul Diaz
Afterschool Aide -
Kyle Donaldson
Afterschool Aide SJSU -
Anastasiia Dovhal
Mandarin Instructional Aide CSULB -
Ryan Ehara
Campus Monitor/Afterschool Aide UCI -
Jaden Fong
Campus Monitor/Afterschool Aide Cal Poly Pomona -
Grace Huang
Music Instructional Aide Tianjin Conservatory of Music, Westcliff University -
Vivian Jiang
Mandarin Instuctional Aide NAU, Chapman University -
Cassie Kao
Mandarin Instructional Aide Concordia University Irvine, UCR -
Alice Liao
Mandarin Instructional Aide CSUF -
Weina Li
Mandarin Instructional Aide Inha University, CSULB -
Emily Liu
Mandarin Instructional Aide BNU, ECNU, UCLA -
Jasmine Liu
Mandarin Instructional Aide University of Houston -
Monica Mejia
Instructional Aide UMass Global -
Anthony Suazo
Afterschool Aide CSUF -
Sirena Sun
Mandarin Instructional Aide UCI, LMU -
Zoe Sun
Mandarin Instructional Aide JWU, FIU -
Sophia Wang
Mandarin Instructional Aide SISU -
Silvie Wong
Mandarin Instructional Aide -
Sherry Xu
Mandarin Instructional Aide -
Jaqueline Zambrano
Campus Monitor Lead CSUF -
Jen Zeng
Mandarin Instructional Aide Saint Louis University -
Vickie Zhang
Mandarin Instructional Aide CSULA, HIU
