Faculty & Staff Directory

Began at CAIS 2024

Olivia shares, “I relocated to the US and started my family four years ago. I now live with my husband and two little ones in SF. Prior to that, I studied public health at school and have worked in government settings for several years in Taiwan, gaining expertise in administration, management, and data analysis. After spending lots of time with my little ones, I developed an interest in child development and multilingual education. I am excited to bring my professional skills to CAIS and be part of contributing to the program.

During my leisure time, I like to learn about healthy eating and food nutrition. I am currently researching how to quickly prepare healthy and nutritious meals. I welcome everyone to exchange ideas with me!”

Bilingual in Cantonese and English, Ms. Yan was born in China but raised in New York City from the age of three. Over the course of ten years, she has taught children of various ages, from preschool to fifth grade in New York City and San Francisco. She earned her master’s degree in education from Bank Street College of Education. Ms. Yan believes that every child has the potential to learn beyond expectations when they feel safe, loved, and excited to learn. In her free time, she loves to hike, camp, practice yoga, and complete 1000 piece puzzles. Ms. Yan joined the Advancement Team in 2022.

BEGAN AT CAIS 1999

With a wellspring of enthusiasm, Yang Laoshi gets children singing and smiling their way through the day. An alumni parent herself (Aaron ’07), Yang Laoshi has been teaching kindergarten at CAIS since 1999. Originally from Beijing, Yanmei also taught Kindergarten for over ten years in her hometown upon graduation with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She loves singing and dancing, and her hobbies include gardening, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

BEGAN AT CAIS 1999

We are celebrating Yang Laoshi’s 22nd year educating and supporting students at CAIS. Prior to joining CAIS, Yang Laoshi served as editor for the Taiwanese National Math Curriculum and as math master teacher and consultant for the Taiwan Province. She continues to bring her expertise not only to her classroom, but to her peers as well.

Began at CAIS 2014

See School Spotlight—Annie Yu

Began at CAIS 2019

Preschool Teaching Associate Daisy Yu speaks fluent Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. She grew up in China, and immigrated to the United States more than a decade ago. She graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA degree and a major in Early Childhood and Adolescent Development. She joined CAIS in 2019 and worked as an after-school advisor for three years. She then started to work at the lower school front desk in the third year she joined CAIS. After spending much time with children at CAIS, she decided to gain experience and focus on her interest in younger children this year. She loves to see smiles and how children learn while spending time with them. In free time, she loves to make homemade Chinese desserts and Gelato at home.

BEGAN AT CAIS 2020

Zhang Laoshi joined CAIS in 2020 having taught Mandarin and coordinating the Mandarin immersion program for the previous five years at Pacific Beach Middle School. Prior to that she held teaching positions at Harvard University, Columbia University, and Mesa College. Zhang Laoshi holds an M.Ed. from Harvard University, an MA from Peking University, and a BA from Beijing Language and Culture University. In addition, she has presented at numerous conferences and received a number of awards for outstanding teaching.

Began at CAIS 2024

Originally from Guangzhou, China, Bonic Zhang taught in Hong Kong before moving to the Bay Area, where he spent five years teaching at SFUSD. He is also a skilled badminton player, achieving success in tournaments worldwide. Beyond teaching and badminton, he enjoys snowboarding, motorcycling, and car meeting.

Began at CAIS 2024

Preschool Teaching Associate Suki Zhang graduated from San Francisco University with a major in Early Childhood Education, where she learned a wealth of educational theories. Afterward, she gained two years of practical experience at PKS, where she learned how to apply these theories in real teaching scenarios. She discovered how to inspire children’s learning interests through games and activities, nurturing their creativity and social skills. She believes that every child is unique, and my teaching approach is tailored to meet each child’s individual needs and development.

When not teaching, she enjoys cooking and sometimes incorporates it into fun classroom activities. She also loves sports, which keeps her energetic and active with the kids. Additionally, she has a passion for music and often uses it as a tool to enhance learning and development. 

Began at CAIS 2024

Preschool Teaching Associate Xiaowen Zhang was born and raised in China and is a dedicated preschool assistant teacher. She earned her Bachelor’s in Visual Communication Design from San Francisco State University and later obtained a Site Supervisor Permit in Early Childhood Education from City College of San Francisco. 

Xiaowen’s passion lies in creatively integrating art into her teaching style through painting, storytelling, and daily activities. With over two years of experience working in preschool, she believes every child is unique and customizes learning methods based on individual needs. Xiaowen strives to create an inclusive and nurturing classroom environment where children can thrive emotionally, socially, and cognitively.