Staff

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL ST LUCIA
Management

The Teaching and Administrative Team 2025 - 2026

At the International School St. Lucia, we celebrate the richness that comes from both local and international teaching expertise. Our globally diverse faculty creates a vibrant learning environment where students are exposed to a wide range of perspectives, cultures, and experiences.
While our curriculum is rooted in Canadian educational standards—naturally attracting many talented Canadian educators—we remain deeply committed to recruiting exceptional teachers from around the world. What matters most is a passion for teaching and a dedication to student growth.
All ISSL teachers are required to hold a university degree and formal teacher training qualifications. Prior classroom experience is highly valued, as it contributes to the dynamic, student-centered approach we foster across our campus.
Together, our educators bring the world into the classroom—preparing students not just for academic success, but for global citizenship.

Principal

With over 30 years in education—as a classroom teacher, instructional facilitator, Vice Principal, and Principal—I’ve had the privilege of serving students in many roles, each deepening my belief in the transformative power of learning. At ISSL, I’m proud to lead a team of exceptional educators from both Saint Lucia and Canada, whose diverse backgrounds enrich our classrooms and reflect the global spirit of our school.
Together, we foster a vibrant, inclusive environment where every student is known, challenged, and supported. Our shared commitment is to prepare learners not only for academic success, but for life as thoughtful, engaged global citizens.
— Sharon Knights, Principal

Business Manager

Mrs. Danielle de Freitas brings over 25 years of experience in the family business, where she skillfully managed administrative operations, accounting, and brokerage services. Her professional background reflects a strong foundation in organization, leadership, and attention to detail.
Beyond her business acumen, Danielle has a deep love for working with young people. Over the years, she has led teen clubs and mentorship programs designed to empower young girls with strong values, confidence, and a sense of purpose. Her commitment to nurturing character and community makes her a valued member of the ISSL team.
Danielle’s blend of professional expertise and heartfelt dedication to youth development aligns beautifully with our mission to support students both academically and personally.

Administrative Assistant

Lindy Joseph joined the ISSL team in May 2025, bringing strength, resilience, and wholehearted dedication to her role. Known for her unwavering commitment to excellence, Lindy approaches every task with care and determination, ensuring her work reflects the highest standards.
Her love for children shines through in everything she does—bringing joy to their lives is one of her greatest passions. Outside of work, Lindy finds inspiration in reading, music, singing, nature, and meaningful conversations with new people. Her warmth and positivity make her a valued member of the ISSL community.

About

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL ST LUCIA
Elementary Program

Miss Alana Lapointe

Miss Alana Lapointe is a Canadian-certified teacher (New Brunswick) who brings energy, enthusiasm, and a bilingual flair to our ISSL community. Fluent in both English and French, she first arrived in Saint Lucia in the spring of 2024 to complete the practical component of her teacher training—and quickly fell in love with the island, the culture, and the spirit of our school.
Her passion for movement, wellness, and student growth made her a natural fit for our team, and we’re thrilled to welcome her as our Health and Physical Education teacher for the 2025–2026 school year. Whether she’s leading a game on the field or encouraging students to discover their strengths, Miss Lapointe brings positivity and purpose to every class.

Ms. Sarah Hyppolite

Sarah Hyppolite is a dedicated and passionate bilingual educator originally from Saint Lucia, bringing over two decades of teaching experience to her role. With a strong foundation in education, she has spent more than 20 years shaping young minds as a secondary school teacher in Saint Lucia, where she developed a reputation for excellence in instruction and a deep commitment to student success.
Sarah continued her educational journey in Canada, teaching in French Immersion programs and enriching the learning experiences of students at the elementary level. Her dual experience in both elementary and secondary education allows her to bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to the classroom. Fluent in both English and French, she has a proven ability to create inclusive, engaging, and supportive learning environments for diverse student populations.
Sarah’s international experience, cultural awareness, and deep understanding of bilingual education make her a valuable asset to the ISSL school community. Her commitment to academic excellence, along with her nurturing approach, reflects her lifelong passion for education and student development.

Mrs. Samantha Sweeney (nee Laviolette)

Mrs. Sweeney is a highly qualified Canadian educator whose passion for teaching and love for Saint Lucia have led her to make the island her permanent home. With a strong background in curriculum delivery and student engagement, she brings both expertise and heart to every classroom she enters.
For the 2025–2026 school year, Mrs. Sweeney will be teaching Grade 7 Science and Geography, Grade 9 Geography, and Health & Physical Education for Grades 3–4. Her dynamic teaching style, commitment to student growth, and collaborative spirit make her a valued long-term member of the ISSL team.

Mr. Yakub Nestor

Mr. Yakub Nestor joined ISSL in March 2025, bringing a wealth of experience supporting students with diverse learning needs. With specialized training in visual impairments and ESL methodologies, he works both in classrooms and small-group settings to provide targeted support for differently abled learners and English language students.
A dedicated educator and advocate, Mr. Nestor holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and has extensive experience developing inclusive curricula. His student-centered approach and deep commitment to educational equity help ensure that every child at ISSL feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Miss Alex Dingman

Miss Dingman is a dedicated and passionate educator who earned her Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. As a fully bilingual teacher in French and English, she brings a dynamic, inclusive, and student-centered approach to her classroom. Miss Dingman has extensive experience coaching students in a variety of sports including and providing individualized tutoring across multiple subjects. She is deeply committed to helping students develop not only their academic abilities but also their confidence, resilience, and personal growth. For the 2025-2026 school year Miss Dingman will be our Grade 3-4 teacher.

Ms. Kathleen Berlasso

Kathleen Berlasso is thrilled to teach grades five and six at ISSL. She was born and educated in Ontario, Canada. Kathleen brings experience in a wide variety of teaching roles. Outside of school she enjoys reading, walking and exploring. Kathleen is very much looking forward to living in beautiful St. Lucia and being part of the ISSL community.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL ST LUCIA
Secondary Program

Mrs. Marifel Michel

Mrs Marifel Michel has nearly 20 years as an educator, Marifel Michel has been privileged to work with students and teachers in a variety of K-12 settings. She has worked as an Education Specialist for LAUSD’s special education program, a Grades 4-6 classroom teacher, and at ISSL a Grades 7 Language and Geography teacher, and Grades 11/12 History/Media/Digital Productions teacher. Mrs Michel obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from UCLA and her teaching credential from the California State University at Northridge. Currently, she teaches and learns with the exceptional students and colleagues at International School Saint Lucia (ISSL). Her goal is to create academically engaging learning experiences through an environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and kindness.

Mrs. Jacqueline John

Mrs. John returns to ISSL for the first semester of the 2025–2026 school year, bringing her signature warmth, deep expertise, and unwavering passion for teaching. With a strong background in the sciences and a gift for connecting with students, she will be leading Grade 12 Biology and Grade 10 Science.
Her thoughtful approach to instruction and genuine care for student success make her a valued member of our academic team. We’re delighted to welcome her back as she continues to inspire curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning in every classroom she enters.

Mr. Benjamin Kuska

Mr Benjamin Kuska has over a decade of experience in teaching at the elementary and secondary level. He has also held the positions of Education Manager, Deputy Director and Vice Principal of a private elementary school. He has BSc in Biomedical Science with a specialization in Biochemistry and a BEd in Elementary Education. He is currently pursuing a MSc in Management and Educational Leadership.
Mr Kuska is passionate about teaching Mathematics and Science. He believes that everyone can learn and love Mathematics and every child should embrace Science.
The belief that parents, teachers and children should work collaboratively is one of his strongest guiding principles. For the 2025- 2026 school year Mr. Kuska will be teaching intermediate/senior Math, senior Chemistry and Biology and senior Nutrition.

Ms Julitta Alexandre

Ms. Alexandre brings a wealth of experience and a deep love for language and culture to her teaching. A seasoned educator, she spent the majority of her career at St. Mary’s College, where she served with distinction until 2016. Her academic journey includes a Diploma in French from l’Université de Clermont-Ferrand in France, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta, and a Master of Education from the University of Montreal.
For the 2025–2026 school year, Ms. Alexandre continues to inspire students across Grades 5–11 in French, while also teaching Grade 8 History and Geography. Her weekly French Club is a beloved fixture of campus life, offering students a lively space to explore francophone culture beyond the classroom.
We’re proud to have Ms. Alexandre’s passion, expertise, and joyful spirit enriching our school community.

Ms. Deborah Castello

Ms. Deborah Castello is a dedicated educator with a deep passion for teaching and lifelong learning. Over the years, she has served in a variety of roles in education, including as an executive member of the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario, a course director for pre-service teachers at York University's Faculty of Education, as well as an experienced elementary and high school teacher.
In addition to her work in education, Ms. Castello is a professional singer and songwriter who brings her love of the arts—especially dance, music, and drama—into her teaching practice.
Her strong Christian faith inspires her commitment to service, compassion, and equity in education. She believes in the inherent worth and potential of every child and strives to nurture a learning environment where all students feel seen, valued, and empowered to succeed. For the 2025-2026 school year she will be teaching senior English, Intermediate/Senior Arts, and Intermediate Language Arts.

Miss Melanie Wilson

Ms. Wilson joined ISSL in the fall of 2023, bringing over a decade of teaching experience and a strong academic foundation in Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science from the University of the West Indies. Her dedication to creating safe, inclusive learning environments allows students to thrive both academically and personally.
During her time at ISSL, Ms. Wilson completed the final stages of a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching, and she’s excited to apply her new insights and strategies in the classroom. For the 2025–2026 school year, she will be teaching senior-level Mathematics and Physics, continuing to challenge and support students as they prepare for future academic and career success.
Her thoughtful approach, steady work ethic, and genuine care for student well-being make her a valued member of our faculty.

Ms. Tammy King

Tammy King is an experienced educator with a strong background in teaching, and library and information science. She holds a BA in Education Studies and Digital Technology with a focus on early childhood education, a Master’s degree in Education, and a diploma in Library and Information Science. Passionate about fostering literacy, digital learning, and student engagement, Tammy is dedicated to creating inclusive and innovative learning experiences that support both academic growth and personal development. For the 2025-2026 school year she will be teaching Grade 9 Learning Strategies, Senior English, Senior World Issues and Media Studies.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL ST LUCIA
Other Staff

In the Halls

Nadjh Flavius – full time custodian and lunch supervisor.
Ancillia Flavius – part time custodian