Pre-K and Kindergarten Team

Who are we?

Our team of educators and staff come from diverse corners of the globe, creating a truly international experience for our students. From the moment students arrive in the morning or step onto the school bus, they are fully immersed in an English-only environment. At Oakwood, we are dedicated to fostering a nurturing and caring atmosphere for every child.

Mrs. Liz - K2 Teacher

B.A. Linguistics from the University of California, trained in TEFL
I was born in Mexico but lived in San Diego, California, USA my whole life.
I moved to Japan in 2019.
My hobbies are going to karaoke, singing, and dancing to my favorite songs. My life advice is "Live everyday like it's your last."
Ms. Orawan - K1 Teacher

B.A. Sociology from Ritsumeikan University, trained in IB-PYP and Montessori
Hello! I am Orawan. My father is from the USA and my mother is from Thailand! I have a degree in the Social Sciences and years of experience as a preschool homeroom teacher. I am very excited to lead the K1 class here at Oakwood.
Mr. Kenneth - P.E. Teacher

B.A. Elementary and Preschool Education from the Catholic University of the Philippines, Licensed Elementary School Teacher, trained in IB-PYP.
I was born in the Philippines but grew up in many different places. I moved to Japan in 2016. My hobbies are physical training, cooking and film photography. My favorite slogan is: Action speaks louder than words.
Ms. Alisat - Pre-K Co-teacher

B.A. Urban Planning from the Islamic University of Uganda. Training in Montessori
I am from Uganda. I moved to Tokyo in 2019 and before that I lived in Germany for 2 years. My hobbies are reading, dancing, and going on adventures. My advice for you is "Keep raising the flag until you achieve."
Ms. Moni - Pre-K Co-teacher

B.A. Linguistics from University of Samarkand. Trained in Montessori
Ms. Moni is from Uzbekistan. She is certified in CPR and life-saving techniques and is a mother of 2 with another one on the way!
Ms. Kristin - Assistant Teacher

Ms. Kristin is from the USA. She is an artist and an educator from the bayou of Florida. She rounds out our fulltime kindergarten team with her unwavering love and commitment towards children.

Nursery Team

Mrs. Thilini - Seedlings Lead Teacher

B.A. Psychology and Child Development from the American College of Kuwait. Certified Montessori Teacher
I am from Sri Lanka.
I moved to Japan in July 2012
My hobbies are painting, dancing and traveling.
My favorite piece of advice is 'Believe in yourself and never give up.'
Ms Ato - Lead Acorns Teacher

B.A. in Management and experienced Nursery Teacher
Ms. Ato is from New Zealand. She brings warmth and fun to our children and our team. She also assists with the bus route in the mornings.
Ms Tenko - Japanese Licenced Teacher

I am from Tokyo, Japan.
I left Japan to experience life in Australia, but I returned home in April 2021. My hobby is making accessories.
My favorite piece of advice is 'Keep your fingers crossed and keep dreaming about your life!'
Ms Janeth - Acorns Assistant Teacher

I am from the the Philippines. I moved to Tokyo in 2018.
My hobbies are reading spiritual books.
The advice that guides me is simple: 'Be nice.'
Ms. Piumi - Assitant Nursery Teacher

Ms. Piumi is from Sri Lanka. She is in Japan earning her Master's Degree and studying for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. She is kind and patient, always bringing serenity and happiness to the Nursery.
Ms. Kanae - Japanese Licensed Teacher

Ms. Kanae is one of our licensed Japanese preschool teachers. She is from Osaka and is excited to help us maintain a safe and caring nursery program!

School Bus Team

Mr Ersel - Head Bus Driver

I am from Izmir, Turkey
I moved to Japan in 2018.
My hobbies are water sports and fishing.
My favorite advice is: Family is everything.
Mrs Mineko- Bus Driver
Mr. Kazuki - Bus Driver

Mr. Kazuki enjoys the gym on his days off.
Ms Tenko - Bus Assistant
Ms Janeth - Bus Assistant
Ms Piumi - Bus Assistant
Ms. Andressa

Martial Arts and Korean Teacher
Andressa is ranked #1 in Tokyo in her age group in Taekwondo. She brings a zest for physical education and Korean language to our school.