Darning Cultures: Esther Baumann

By Mimi Yao This year, the newly established history club (RKNHS) hopes to spotlight members of the SAS community with unique cultural stories. In this interview, Esther Baumann shares the challenges and rewards of being part of three different cultures.  SAS is a proud host of bilingual speakers, multi-cultural families, and students and faculty from around the world. Esther Baumann, a new member of the SAS community who runs the academic support program at Flex, is a representative for all three of these identities.   Ms. Baumann was born and raised in Hungary, which she jokingly refers to as “the depressed … Continue reading Darning Cultures: Esther Baumann

Once an Eagle, Always an Eagle: Farewell to Ms. Litushko  

By Katelyn Lu and Charlotte Lai As the 24-25 school year draws to an end, the SAS community prepares to say goodbye to Ms. Litushko, a beloved English teacher who has been with the school for four years. From teaching Innovation Institute and AP Language, to performing self-written songs at Relay for Life, she has adorned the school with her talents and invigorated not only the classroom but the entire community.   Ms. Litushko’s time at SAS has been marked by unforgettable moments and profound lessons. One of her most cherished memories, surprisingly, comes from the difficult COVID-19 pandemic. She shared. … Continue reading Once an Eagle, Always an Eagle: Farewell to Ms. Litushko  

Teacher Profiles: Kyle Gallagher

By Chun Yuan Ong and Jeffrey Du Meet Mr. Gallagher, our physical trainer here at SASPD. He enjoys staying active through running, golfing, and playing softball. He’s also found a balance between work and personal life—keeping up with the latest recovery techniques and hanging out with his dog Sage.  From a young age, Mr. Gallagher had a keenness for sports. He enjoyed playing soccer, baseball, football, and golf. However, after an injury in his freshman year of high school, Mr. Gallagher realized he wouldn’t be around sports forever. However, he soon discovered an alternative to staying close with sports—becoming an … Continue reading Teacher Profiles: Kyle Gallagher

Mr. Gertzfield on “The Great Gatsby,” Stephen King, and more 

By Mimi Yao and Ivy Li From its meticulous symbolism to its shrewd criticism of the American Dream, The Great Gatsby is regarded by many to be one of the finest works of modern literature. Its critical denunciation of empty promises and corrupted dreams has cemented it as a favorite among readers worldwide, including SASPD high school’s co-head of English—Jeremy Gertzfield.   Mr. Gertzfield embarked on his teaching career 20 years ago and has been teaching at SAS for more than 10 years. He currently teaches English 10, AP Literature and Composition, and IB Literature. Join us on an interview with … Continue reading Mr. Gertzfield on “The Great Gatsby,” Stephen King, and more 

Teacher Profiles: Merissa Corrigan

By Gavin Chen At the beginning of this school year, we welcomed Ms. Merissa Corrigan to our school as a new member of the P.E. department, where she teaches 9th grade physical education. Ms. Corrigan brings a wealth of experience, having taught in two different countries and lived in three. She also has a variety of hobbies outside of school that reflect her passion for sports and outdoor activities.  Join us for an interview that explores Ms. Corrigan’s experiences before arriving at SAS, her time at SAS, and her life in Shanghai.  1. Can you describe your teaching experiences as … Continue reading Teacher Profiles: Merissa Corrigan

How does one transition from bringing stories to life on stage to helping students craft their own real-life narratives? 

From starring as Mercutio in Romeo and Juliet on a live stage to working on the screen for film The Martian, directed by Ridley Scott, Mr. O’Brien once immersed himself in stories that had already been written.  As the grandson … Continue reading How does one transition from bringing stories to life on stage to helping students craft their own real-life narratives? 

Teacher Profiles: Kevin Spachuk

Mr. Kevin Spachuk was a new addition to the English department last year! From teaching English in Manila to directing APAC Forensics at SAS, Mr. Spachuk’s teaching career has been nothing short of impressive. Currently, he serves as an 9th and 10th grade teacher, along with the coach of Forensics and JV Boys Soccer.  Known for his Shakespearean acting sessions and unfaltering enthusiasm for a great read, Mr. Spachuk has truly enlivened the SAS hallways with his presence. In this interview, we explore his experience as he and his family transition between distinct cultures, navigate the alleys of Shanghai, and welcome … Continue reading Teacher Profiles: Kevin Spachuk

Teacher Profiles: Bett Alter

Ms Bett Alter is SAS Pudong’s interim vice principal for the 2022-23 school year, and an individual with vast amounts of experience. Students see her in the commons or outside greeting kids as they come in or saying goodbye as they walk out. As a new face in the administration, we decided to ask her some questions about her past, and her plans as the interim vice principal. Q: Where have you worked previously? A: Previously, I helped start a school in Kunshan, for Dipont Education, and so I worked there prior to going to the Puxi high school of … Continue reading Teacher Profiles: Bett Alter