Message from the Principals

MESSAGE FROM THE SECONDARY PRINCIPAL

I am excited to join Boston International School and be a part of this vibrant and diverse community. With more than 30 years of experience in the field of education and over 10 years in educational leadership, I bring a wealth of knowledge to my role. My deep understanding of international education systems, close work with accreditation organizations such as IB, CIS, and NEASC, and regular participation in school accreditation assessments have prepared me well for this exciting opportunity. My passion for developing an inclusive learning environment has prompted me to develop expertise in the areas of curriculum development, learning diversity, and language development.

As a member of the school's leadership team, I am dedicated to supporting the school community as a whole to nurture all students to achieve their personal best. I am committed to teacher training and parent educational programs to build a village of care around our children.

My goal is to nurture an environment where every student feels confident and safe to explore their interests and develop the lifelong skills and foundational knowledge they will need to be engaged citizens ready to participate in the global community.

The coming school year promises to be an exciting and engaging experience. We are preparing classrooms, gathering resources, and finalizing learning plans. Students will engage with a holistic learning plan which balances subject-specific inquiry with life-long learning skills in areas like reading, social-emotinal learning, and critical thinking skills. I am confident that together, we can create a learning environment that inspires and challenges our students to be the best they can be.

Renee Rehfeldt

Secondary Principal

MESSAGE FROM THE ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL

I am a passionate, energetic, and dedicated educator with over 17 years of teaching and leadership experience. My dynamic approach and optimistic attitude are key components of my leadership style, which emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and open communication. I believe that effective educators model resilience, determination, and a positive mindset for both their students and colleagues. These values have guided my journey through classrooms and leadership roles around the globe.

Originally from London, UK, I have worked in various international contexts, including Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and China. I hold a BA (Hons) in Psychology and French, a PGCE with QTS in Primary Education, and a Master's in Education. I'm a certified IB Programme Leader, IB Workshop Leader, WASC School Evaluator, and Positive Discipline Educator.

I have taught and held leadership roles across various schools in Bristol (UK), Paris, Panama City, Dubai, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Guangzhou. My positions have included Deputy Head of Primary, PYP Coordinator, middle school French teacher, and subject coordination roles in English, Maths, and PE. I have played an integral role in school inspections, accreditation and authorization processes, crafting professional learning communities and creating inclusive, inquiry-based environments that empower both students and educators.

With a strong background in curriculum development, change management, and teacher mentorship, I have played a pivotal role in strategic planning, curriculum alignment, and fostering a culture of innovation and inquiry. My leadership has been key in implementing student-centered approaches,professional learning initiatives, and data-driven decision-making to enhance student outcomes.

Throughout my career, I have been inspired by the positive influence of international education and is deeply committed to fostering compassionate, collaborative school cultures. I describe my leadership style as collaborative, transformative, and supportive.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, snowboarding, Latin dance, cooking, and travelling. I am excited to explore new opportunities in Wuxi and looks forward to joining the Boston International School community as the new Head of Elementary.

Jonathan Harris

Elementary Principal

MESSAGE FROM THE EARLY YEARS PRINCIPAL

I am thrilled to be starting the school year at Boston International School as the new principal of the Early Years program. I firmly believe that every child is capable of learning and growing, and I look forward to fostering an environment that brings out the best in each and every student. Watching young learners discover the world around them and develop new skills is truly inspiring to me.

I am honored to be a part of such a diverse and amazing learning community, where students from all backgrounds can come together to explore, create, and thrive. My passion for early childhood education drives me to design curriculum and learning experiences that are engaging, meaningful, and tailored to the unique needs of toddlers and preschoolers.

I cannot wait to collaborate with the dedicated faculty and staff to continue Boston International School's tradition of educational excellence. As head of Early Years, I will work tirelessly to ensure all children feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

This is an incredible opportunity, and I am excited to get started and make a lasting impact on the lives of our youngest learners.

JoAnna Marx-Talarczyk

Early Years Principal