Faculty & Staff Directory

Began at CAIS in 2016

Chang Laoshi is originally from Kaohsiung,Taiwan. She has been teaching for 21 years which includes seven years at Mandarin immersion school,14 years at Montessori school, and this will be her 6th year at CAIS. She really enjoys teaching the children.

Began at CAIS in 2018

Chen Laoshi was pleased to join CAIS in September 2018. She likes the warm, mutually helpful, and positive atmosphere of the CAIS community. She was born and raised in China, graduated from Teacher’s University, and has continued child development courses at San Francisco City College since 2019. In addition, she has 22 years of working experience in a bilingual international kindergarten in China. She believes children learn in many different ways, and works to create an inclusive learning environment where children can approach learning from many entry points in a joyful way. In her spare time, she likes to enjoy food, reading, and outdoor nature.

Began at CAIS in 2018

Chen Laoshi was born and raised in Taiwan. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a master’s degree in early childhood special education. She has many years of experience working with young children in various educational environments, including their homes, communities, and schools. Ten years ago, she started her career in Chinese teaching. She completed a Chinese teaching certification program from UC Berkeley extension and holds a California teaching credential. She has been teaching in mandarin immersion classrooms for over eight years.

Began at CAIS in 2011

In the outskirts of Taipei, Taiwan, Ena was raised in a family of four. In her childhood, she liked hanging out at bookstores with her dad, building and taking LEGOs apart with her brother, exploring traditional markets with her mom, and reading (her favorite hobby). After earning a degree in language education from Taipei University of Education, she moved and eventually settled in San Francisco. Her passion and profession led her to several jobs and volunteer opportunities in adult education and K-5 schools. Since joining CAIS in 2011, she has been and continues to advancing in her role of support and enhance students’ Chinese learning experiences.

Began at CAIS 2023

Ms. Chen shares, “I am an ABC with roots in Shanghai. I moved to San Francisco from the East Coast and have enjoyed the cultural richness of this city. I am excited to be part of a community whose mission is so near and dear to my heart.”

Began at CAIS 2024

Preschool Support Teacher Justin Cheung hails from China and is  an enthusiastic learner and problem-solver with a passion for education. In his free time, he enjoys various outdoor activities. Hiking is one of his favorite pastimes, as it allows him to exercise and relieve stress. Swimming is another sport he loves. 

Began at CAIS 2024

Preschool Teacher Zhidan Chi graduated from Shenyang Conservatory of Music with a major in Music Education and then pursued a Master’s degree in Piano Performance at the University at Buffalo. Music has always been a vital part of her life, and she is eager to incorporate rich musical elements into her classroom, embarking on an enchanting musical journey with the children. After completing her graduate studies and driven by a deep curiosity about early childhood education and child psychology, she obtained Montessori AMS credentials for ages 0-3 and 3-6. 

In her classroom, she loves using music, games, stories, and crafts to spark children’s interests and curiosity. She respects the unique personality of each child and strives to help them discover and develop their own interests and talents. 

Began at CAIS in 2013

Originally from the Midwest, Ms. Clark graduated from Cal with a B.A. in Anthropology. After working in China as a tour guide for American medical professionals, she returned to Berkeley and pursued a Ph.D. in Linguistics and Anthropology. Before joining CAIS, she was the learning center director at Immaculate Conception High School in the Mission. Ms. Clark lives in San Francisco with her son and husband, and her beloved, ancient chocolate lab!

Favorite quote (Victor Hugo): “To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.”

Began at CAIS 2024

Preschool Teaching Associate 彭芝瑜 (American name Vivian Dahlstrom) has a background in early childhood education and a passion for nurturing young minds. She spent several years as a Lead Preschool Teacher, developing and implementing creative, engaging curricula that support children’s holistic development. Her approach emphasizes cognitive growth, as well as emotional and social well-being. Outside the classroom, she is an avid traveler and nature enthusiast. Exploring different cultures and landscapes has broadened her perspective and deepened her appreciation for diversity. Photography is another passion of hers, particularly capturing the beauty of nature.