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Irvine Chinese Immersion Academy

Rooted in Growth, Reaching for the Sky.

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.

  • 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

     

      msLienTeacher                    msLienTeacher

  • 6 Years of Classroom Teaching

    Masters of Arts in Education, Chapman University

    Bachelors of Science in Mathematics, Univeristy of California, Santa Barbra

     

  • 3 Years of Classroom Teaching

    Master of Education in Education, University of California, Santa Barbara

    Bachelor of Arts in English, Shanghai Jianqiao University

     

    mschenteacher

  • 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.

     

    mschouteacher             mschouteacher

  • 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.

  • 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.

     

    Ms.YiuTeacher     Ms.YiuTeacher     Ms.YiuTeacher

     

  • 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

     

  • 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

  • 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

     

    MsZhouTeacher             MsZhouTeacher

  • 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

     

    mslianTeacher

  • 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

     

    MsXuTeacher

  • 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.

  • 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.

     

    mschenteacher                 mschenteacher

  • 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

  • 3 Years of Classroom Teaching

    Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, California State University, Fullerton

  • 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

  • 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.

     

    LynnaHuynhTeacher

  • 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.

     

    mshsiaoteacher

  • 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.

     

    AngieWangTeacher             AngieWangTeacher2

  • 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.

  • 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.

     

    MsTanTeacher                MsTanTeacher2

  • 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.

  • 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.

     

    YuQiSituTeacher               YuQiSituTeacher2

  • 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.

     

    JordonTeacher                       JordonTeacher2

     

  • 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

     

  • 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.

    MsFongTeacher                         MsFongTeacher

  • 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.

  • 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.

     

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • Nicole Lam

    Office Assistant UCI
  • Maria Loera

    Attendance Clerk CSULA
  • Maribel Paz

    School Community Coordinator CBU
  • Olivia Shih

    Office Assistant Emerson College

Support Staff

  • Owen Chavez

    Custodian CSUF
  • Irvine Garcia

    Custodian
  • Jose Ramirez

    Custodian
  • Micah Vinh

    Technology Services Intern CSUF
  • Joseph Wong

    HR Tech UCLA

Instructional Aides

  • 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