Blisbilkent Laboratory & International School

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Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Bilkent Laboratory & BLIS International School

Bilkent Laboratory & International School 8 İhsan Doğramacı Boulevard TR-06800 Bilkent, Ankara, Turkey Phone: +90-312-290-5361 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Fax: +90-312-266-4963 E-mail: [email protected] blis.bilkent.edu.tr Bilkent Educational Institutions include:

• Bilkent University • Bilkent University Music Preparatory School • İhsan Doğramacı Foundation, Bilkent Ankara Schools • İhsan DoğramacıFoundation, Bilkent Erzurum Laboratory School • İhsan Doğramacı Erbil Foundation, İhsan Doğramacı Bilkent Erbil College • İhsan Doğramacı Foundation, Bilkent Laboratory & International School, Ankara (BLIS)

Bilkent Laboratory & International School (BLIS) is located on 6,000 m2 of secure, landscaped grounds on the east campus of Bilkent University. BLIS staff and students come from over 20 countries around the world, strengthening the cultural diversity and expanding global perspectives within the school. The rigorous educational program distinguishes itself by requiring all students to succeed in the International IB World Scho ol, Ac cre di ted by the Co un cil of In ter na tio nal Scho ols and the New Eng land As so ci ati on of Scho ols and Col le ges, Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, the International General Certificate of Secondary Education, and Re cog ni zed by the Tur kish Mi nistry of Edu ca ti on, Eu ro pe an Co un cil of In ter na tio nal Scho ols. Na tio nal As so ci ati on of In de pen dent Scho ols, Na tio nal As so ci ati on of La bo ra tory Scho ols. the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Welcome

Welcome to Bilkent Laboratory & International School

Bilkent Laboratory & International School (BLIS) is a proud member of the Bilkent family. Located on the rolling hills of Bilkent University high above the city of Ankara, BLIS provides a rigorous academic program from the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program in Kindergarten through the 12th grade IB Diploma.

A school for international students and Turkish nationals, BLIS provides a unique blend of national and international education, preparing leaders of the future. Our English immersion early childhood program progresses to the bilingual elementary grades, through the transitional middle years, concluding with the mandatory international English programs of the Cambridge IGCSE and the IB Diploma Program. The rich traditions of Bilkent altruism and humanitarianism are evident as our students build libraries, houses and friendships. We are proud of them as they become exemplary citizens in the community, nation and the world.

We welcome you to the Bilkent family.

Chris Green, Director General Bilkent Laboratory & International School

1 Bilkent Laboratory & International School History and Mission

Achieving the Highest International Standards

Bilkent Laboratory & International School (BLIS) offers students an educational program of the highest national and international academic standards. The educational activities of our school foster the development of ethical values and behavior leading to exemplary citizenship in the community, nation and world. The curriculum promotes academic, aesthetic, physical and social growth encouraging the students to inquire independently, evaluate and acquire knowledge critically and respect diversity. As a result, we anticipate exceptionally high performance from our students in the university and beyond.

In 1984, Bilkent University was founded by Prof. İhsan Doğramacı as the first private university in Turkey. With the aim of expanding excellence in education, BLIS opened in 1993 (originally founded as Bilkent University Preparatory School). In 1997, Bilkent International School was added as a division to welcome international students. In 2009, the establishment of Bilkent Laboratory School was approved by an act of Parliament, creating a unique category of "laboratory schools" to offer educational excellence within Turkey. Bilkent Laboratory & International School has a formal working relationship with the Bilkent University Graduate School of Education, creating a center of excellence in elementary and secondary education and research.

2 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Internationalism

Respecting Diversity

At BLIS, we develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding, respect and action. We promote international-mindedness among the members of our school community. International-mindedness is embodied in our implementation of the IB Learner Profile, which challenges students to be communicators in multiple languages, principled in their promotion of international justice, risk-takers in the spirit of exploring new cultures, knowledgeable about world issues, thinkers about complex problems, caring and committed to service, inquirers about the world, open-minded toward other perspectives, balanced in their approach to life, and reflective about their own personal development.

We not only value international-mindedness in theory, but also actively foster it by providing students with rich opportunities to learn about world issues and to become involved in activities that encourage responsible global citizenship. We value the diversity within our own school's community; we also become aware of the diversity in the world around us.

3 Bilkent Laboratory & International School Students

Anticipating Exceptionally High Performance

There are approximately 800 students enrolled in Bilkent Laboratory & International School. While the majority of our students are Turkish, many have lived abroad and have dual citizenship. Our international students come from over 15 countries around the world. The diversity of our student body creates a rich multi-cultural environment for learning.

The internationalism at BLIS is celebrated throughout the year. Our curriculum supports international-mindedness; all students study multiple languages and develop global perspectives. Our students make lasting friendships with classmates from all over the world.

Our students are selected and characterized by a desire to learn and to meet the challenges of a demanding academic program. Most of the students graduate from BLIS with a bilingual IB Diploma and a solid foundation for success at leading universities throughout the world.

4 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Service

Fostering the Development of Ethical Values

Community service is an important focus at BLIS. Students are supported in developing the values, characteristics and culture embodied in the IB Learner Profile.

In the early childhood program and elementary years, understanding the needs of others and the value of service is woven throughout the curriculum. Students have opportunities to be of service to their classmates as classroom volunteers. Elementary school students have their own Student Council which provides a variety of services. Faculty members work with elementary students on special projects to serve groups beyond the school.

The Student Councils take an active role in planning social activities and supporting school service projects. The IB Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) program supports a wide range of service activities to organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the Ankara Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Center. The International Award for Young People (also known as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award) program is a voluntary and non-competitive opportunity for students who are interested in leadership and service opportunities. It offers individual challenges and encourages students to undertake exciting, constructive and enjoyable activities.

5 Bilkent Laboratory & International School Language

Encouraging Independent Inquiry

Bilkent Laboratory & International School is an academically rigorous school in which students prepare for internationally recognized exams in English. BLIS aims to provide all students with a strong foundation in English language and literacy. We recognize the importance of Turkish language and literature.

The early childhood program is an intensive English program. Fourth grade classes increase emphasis on English. Grades five through twelve are taught in English with the exception of Turkish language and literature and Turkish social studies. Language support (such as English as an Additional Language - EAL) is provided for students who need it.

Modern language instruction is provided for all students in grades six through twelve. Students may choose to study an additional modern language at the IB Diploma level, if their schedules permit. Most of our students graduate with strong abilities in multiple modern languages.

6 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Fine Arts

Promoting Aesthetic Growth

The fine arts hold a prominent position in BLIS life. Visual arts, music, dance and drama are integral parts of each student's program from the earliest years, through middle school and into high school where students select which fine art they want to pursue further.

Developing from our relationship with the Bilkent University Faculty of Music and Performing Arts, BLIS produces several concerts each year. These concerts highlight the skills that students develop in school, and provide them with opportunities to showcase the talents that they develop independently outside of school.

Drama helps students develop motor coordination and self confidence in the primary grades. Building upon these skills, they move into physicalization and characterization as they explore space, time and the world both internally and externally. Each year major productions are presented by the middle and high schools.

The culmination of the visual arts program is the annual school-wide art show. It displays the breadth and depth of students' explorations through various media. Elementary students' works are exhibited together with middle and high school students' sculptures, paintings, personal expressions and creative investigations.

7 Bilkent Laboratory & International School Early Childhood Program

Fostering Development

Our early childhood program offers kindergarten classes for our youngest children. This is a full day program based on the philosophy that young children benefit from developing skills of personal independence. All classes are taught in English. Our team-teaching approach provides a full-time international teacher and a full-time Turkish teacher in each homeroom class. Students in the early childhood program enjoy the benefits of multinational specialists for physical education, visual arts, music, drama, and library. The international backgrounds and experiences of the BLIS community create a learning environment rich in diversity.

Our early childhood program's International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program offers an international education through a learner-centered, inquiry-based, team-teaching approach. Our program utilizes a wide range of resources. As our students begin to develop the skills of lifelong learning and international-mindedness, they apply their learning to the real world.

We promote academic, aesthetic, physical and social growth. By recognizing the individual abilities, interests and talents of each child, our young learners are encouraged to question ideas and search for knowledge. We foster critical thinking and creativity.

8 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Elementary School

Promoting Academic and Social Growth

Our elementary program offers classes for students in grades one through four. The elementary school continues the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) and demonstrates a learner-centered, inquiry- based, team-teaching approach. Each year, students engage in challenging units of inquiry that explore the trans- disciplinary themes of Who We Are, Where We Are in Place and Time, How We Express Ourselves, How the World Works, How We Organize Ourselves, and Sharing the Planet.

The bilingual program focuses on developing strong academic English language skills. Each bilingual homeroom class has a full-time international teacher and a full-time Turkish teacher. Our rigorous academic program includes study in languages, mathematics, science, social studies, and the arts. Multinational specialists strengthen the curriculum with instruction in physical education, visual arts, music, drama, dance, library and information communications technology. Our co-curricular program offers field trips, sports, arts and other extracurricular activities.

At the end of fourth grade, students present a culminating exhibition demonstrating successful completion of their IB PYP education.

9 Bilkent Laboratory & International School Middle School

Guiding Social Growth

The middle school program at BLIS is designed to nurture the students’ intellectual, physical, psychological, aesthetic, and social needs during their transition from childhood to adolescence. During this time, students experience rapid growth and a dramatic shift in cognitive abilities as they move from concrete to abstract levels of thinking. We promote academic excellence, personal organization, and independence as students move through this pivotal time.

Our faculty understands and is committed to the interests and needs of the middle years learner. We strive to make all students successful, honoring their talents, challenging them to meet their potential, and encouraging lifelong learning. At BLIS, we believe that the middle school years are productive and exciting years, meeting the challenges of physical change and the uncertainties of identity formation associated with the age group. We channel the energy, enthusiasm and natural curiosity of emerging adolescents with guidance and structure to make the successful transition to high school.

All students are introduced to an additional modern language. Co-curricular activities in the middle school include an expanded music program, Community Service, Destination Imagination, Robotics, the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition, and Model United Nations.

10 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World High School

Evaluating Knowledge Critically Plus More

What goes into a good high school?

We seek comparability with other schools throughout the world through IGCSE (The International General Certificate of Secondary Education) from the University of Cambridge International Examinations and the IBDP (The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme). Grades 9 and 10 use the results of the IGCSE as a measure of solidly learned skills in multiple areas of study. This combined with the IB Diploma allows a BLIS student to apply to universities in Turkey and around the world.

Our school offers much more because we center our educational program around the whole child, the world citizen in us all. We offer multiple languages, trips, sports and the arts to round off the individual to be a global citizen. This emphasis on who one is as well as what one accomplishes makes a BLIS student stand out as someone special.

11 Bilkent Laboratory & International School High School International Programs

IGCSE

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is an externally moderated program run by the University of Cambridge in England. At Bilkent Laboratory & International School, IGCSE courses have been offered to our Grade 9 and 10 students since 1993. These courses include First Language English, English Literature, Mathematics, International Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, First Language Turkish, Foreign Language German, French, Spanish, Drama, Art & Design, Music, Global Perspectives, and History.

12 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World

Percentage of Students Who Scored A+ or A in IGCSE Courses in 2011

Percentage of Students Who Scored A+ or A in IGCSE Courses in 2012

13 Bilkent Laboratory & International School

IBDP

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a rigorous pre-university course of studies, leading to examinations that meet the needs of highly motivated high school students between the ages of 16 and 19. Designed as a comprehensive two-year curriculum that allows its graduates to meet the requirements of various national educational systems, the diploma model is based on the pattern of no single country but incorporates the best elements of many. The IBDP is available in English, French and Spanish.

The IBDP at Bilkent Laboratory & International School was started in 1996. IB Programme is mandatory at BLIS for every student in Grades 11 and 12. In order to graduate, students must be successful in their IB courses.

Percentage of IB Diplomas Awarded in IBDP Schools in 2011 and 2012

14 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Athletics and Activities

Encouraging Student Growth

Extracurricular activities offer our students the opportunity to learn the value of team work, individual and group responsibility, physical strength and endurance, competition, diversity, and a sense of culture and community. These activities reinforce lessons from the classroom, allowing our students to apply academic skills in a real-world context, as part of a well rounded education.

Physical education is an ongoing feature of all students' schedules throughout our school. Many students participate in our school's competitive volleyball, basketball and soccer teams. These teams compete in regional and international tournaments throughout Europe.

Field trips are an essential component of our school's educational program. BLIS students from kindergarten through grade twelve enjoy many opportunities to travel within Turkey and abroad on curriculum-based and extracurricular trips. Elementary students visit many sites within Ankara and throughout Turkey. As part of the international social studies program our middle school students extend their classroom experience by visiting many embassies.

Our Model United Nations club is among the many popular extracurricular activities offered at BLIS. Students play the role of diplomats from many of the United Nations member states. They participate in conferences in the Netherlands and other countries. Our own authorized MUNESCO conference is entirely organized by students and recognized by THIMUN.

15 Bilkent Laboratory & International School Facilities

Developing and Learning Community

The school is located on our secure, landscaped grounds covering 6,000 square meters, 12 km from the center of Ankara on the East Campus of Bilkent University. The facilities are comprised of two kindergarten buildings, the early elementary building (for grades 1-2), the intermediate elementary building (for grades 3-4), the middle school building (for grades 5-8) and the high school building (for grades 9-12). Athletic facilities include a multi-purpose sports hall, a smaller sports annex, an all weather artificial turf pitch and an outdoor basketball court.

Our performance wing in the high school building includes a performance hall for music and drama productions for all ages, band practice rooms, a choir room, studio, a drama room, individual practice rooms and classrooms. There is a black box theatre for drama and musical performances. The main library is a spacious, bright and well-equipped facility with studying capacity for 90 people. The main collection is over 23,000 print and non-print materials. The majority of the resources are in English with a substantial collection of works in Turkish. The elementary library is located in the intermediate elementary building and contains over 10,000 books in English and Turkish. Our school has three computer labs, wireless classrooms, three cafeterias, five science labs and three art studios.

16 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Faculty

Encouraging Students

The Bilkent Laboratory & International School faculty includes approximately 115 teachers from internationally diverse backgrounds. The majority of our teachers come from the United States, Canada, U.K., Australia, New Zealand and Turkey. Many of our teachers have taught in a variety of countries throughout the world.

Many of our faculty hold Master's Degrees and our relationship with Bilkent University allows teachers and administrators to pursue graduate degree programs. Research conducted by graduate students informs and improves our pedagogical practice.

Faculty members provide academic inspiration and personal attention to our students. This is a major focus of our school. The teachers at BLIS produce integrated curricula which enable them to work with each other in a collaborative manner. In addition to their classroom duties, teachers and administrators coach sports teams, advise extracurricular activities, and give students extra help with coursework. Most importantly, every staff member takes an interest in each student as an individual.

17 Bilkent Laboratory & International School Alumni

Performing in the University and Beyond

“Academically, [BLIS] provided an environment that allowed me to grow and develop while presenting me with a great perspective on the world.” Besi Bezhani, Yale University

“My time at [BLIS] was simply when I became who I am today. I appreciate the values, knowledge and experience [BLIS] has offered me and miss the school's warm and safe atmosphere.” Aslı Özyar, Stanford University

“Thanks to consistent support and a stellar education, I gained knowledge in a wide range of topics, which allowed me to become the well-rounded individual I am today. All in all, I'm grateful to [BLIS] for the education I received, because it not only gave me the motivation to aim high, but also to succeed.” Baran Ali Saltık, London School of Economics

“The most valuable things that my education at [BLIS] endowed me with are self-confidence, leadership skills and social consciousness.” Eren Sıla Sayan, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

"I am very proud to be a BLIS graduate. As a university student, I can clearly see that BLIS not only educated me very well, but also taught me how to learn, not memorize." Melis Atalar, Bilkent University

"BLIS meant endless hardwork and tons of effort but, at the end of the day, a place where we became a family." Mine Örer, Koç University

18 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World Leadership

Guiding the Direction

Bilkent Laboratory & International School was founded by Bilkent University, one of Turkey's leading universities. As an institution established by the İhsan Doğramacı Foundation, it is governed by a School Board which consists of administrators from BLIS and Bilkent University. Our school is led by the Director General together with a team of Turkish and international divisional administrators.

The fundamental aim of Bilkent University is to create a center of excellence in higher education and research. Bilkent Laboratory & International School proudly continues that tradition. It is the mandate of the governance and leadership to provide a rigorous educational environment in which its students excel and develop into exemplary, well-rounded students and citizens.

The administration team manages our school's operations and provides vision and direction for all decisions made within our school. Our administrators work closely with the teaching faculty to develop programs and curricula to achieve the goals established as our school's mission.

19 The Board of Governors

Ali Doğramacı, Honorary Chair • President, Bilkent University • Ph.D., M.S., M.Phil., Columbia University, New York, USA • M.S. Stanford University, California, USA • B.S. Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey

Abdullah Atalar, Board Chair • Rector, Bilkent University • Ph.D., M.S., Stanford University, California, USA • B.S. Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey

Kürşat Aydoğan, Member • Vice Rector, Bilkent University • Ph.D. Syracuse University • M.B.A., B.S. Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey

Mehmet Baray, Member • Acting Dean, Faculty of Education • Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley, California, USA • M.S., B.S. Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey

Margaret Sands, Member • Director, Graduate School of Education, Bilkent University • Ph.D. Nottingham University, Nottingham, England • B.S. University of London, England • Post Graduate Certificate in Education, University of London, England

Chris Green, Member • Director General, BLIS • M.A. University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA • B.A. University of California, Berkeley, California, USA

Zeren Katlav Önal, Member • Turkish Elementary School Principal, BLIS • M.Ed., B.Ed. Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey

Tümay Krugman, Member • Turkish Middle School Principal, BLIS • M.A., B.A. Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, İstanbul, Turkey • Teaching Certificate, Marmara University, İstanbul, Turkey

Ayşegül Erdem, Member • Turkish High School Principal, BLIS • B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey • Teaching Certificate, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey

20 Administration

Chris Green • Director General, BLIS • M.A. University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA • B.A. University of California, Berkeley, California, USA

Zeren Katlav Önal Faye Smith • Turkish Elementary School Principal • Assistant International Principal, • M.Ed., B.Ed. Ankara University, Elementary School Ankara, Turkey • Teaching Certificate, University of London, England

Nurdan Karaca Luke Walbridge • Assistant Turkish Principal, • International Middle School Principal Elementary School • M.Ed. Nazareth College of Rochester, • M.A. Selçuk University, Konya, Turkey New York, USA • B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey • B.S. State University of New York, Plattsburgh, USA

Tümay Krugman Michael Safferewich • Turkish Middle School Principal • International High School Principal • M.A., B.A. Mimar Sinan Fine Arts Univ., • M.A. Worcester State University, İstanbul, Turkey Massachusetts, USA • Teaching Certificate, Marmara University, • M.Ed. The College of New Jersey, İstanbul, Turkey New Jersey, USA • B.A. Jersey City State Univ., New Jersey, USA

Ayşegül Erdem Ülfet Okbay • Turkish High School Principal • International School Principal • B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, Turkey • M.Ed. Univ. of the West of England, • Teaching Certificate, Hacettepe University, Bristol, England Ankara, Turkey

Gülcan Ataman • Administrative Manager • B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, Turkey

21 Faculty Anne Akay Gizem Alvan • English Teacher (HOD) / • Kindergarten Classroom Teacher IGCSE Coordinator • B.A. Boğaziçi Univ., İstanbul, Turkey • B.A. Univ. of Notre Dame, Indiana, USA

Kıvanç Aker Aylin Alver • Turkish Teacher / CAS Coordinator • Grade 3 Classroom Teacher • M.A., B.A. Ankara University, • B.Ed. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey Ankara, Turkey

Hazel Nehir Akgül Gülsema Ant • History & Ethics Teacher • Counselor • M.A., B.A. Gazi University, Ankara, • B.Ed. Boğaziçi Univ., İstanbul, Turkey Turkey

Nalan Akgül Berna Arıkan • Grade 1 Classroom Teacher • Spanish Teacher • B.Ed. Başkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey • B.A. Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey

Pınar Akpınar Aslı Arman • PE Teacher • Kindergarten Classroom Teacher • B.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey • B.Ed. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Gamze Akyüz Rasha Ashkar • Grade 1 Classroom Teacher • Grade 1 International Teacher • B.Ed. Başkent University, Ankara, • B.A. University of Aleppo, Aleppo, Syria Turkey • Certificate of Education, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon

Gülten Altunyaldız Funda Aslan • Language Programs Coordinator • German Teacher (HOD) • M.S. South Bank University, • B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, Turkey London, United Kingdom • B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey

22 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World

Şelale Atalar Özgür Bayam • Chemistry Teacher (HOD) • Turkish Language and Literature • M.S. University of Maryland at Teacher College Park, Maryland, USA • B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, • B.S. Boğaziçi University, İstanbul, Turkey Turkey

Işıl Ateş Megan Bickert • Grade 3 Classroom Teacher • Kindergarten International Teacher • B.Ed. Mustafa Kemal University, • B.S. Northern Arizona University, Hatay, Turkey Arizona, USA

Nihan Çubuk Aydın Katherine Bingham (HOD) • Grade 2 Classroom Teacher • Drama Teacher • B.Ed. Başkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey • M.Ed. The Evergreen State College, Washington, USA • B.A. Principia College, Illinois, USA

Fatma Balcı Burcu Bozgeyik • Grade 3 Classroom Teacher • Grade 4 Classroom Teacher • B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara, • B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, Turkey Turkey

Uğur Barlas Marc Chenault • Physics Teacher • ICT Teacher • M.A., M.Ed., B.A. Gazi University • B.A. The College of William and Ankara, Turkey Mary, Virginia, USA

Merve Başbay Kim Cleary • Kindergarten Classroom Teacher • Grade 3 International Teacher • B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, • B.A. University of Washington, Turkey Washington, USA

Sarp Baturalp Dilruba Çağran • PE Teacher • Kindergarten Classroom Teacher • B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, • B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey Turkey

23 Bilkent Laboratory & International School

Merve Çevik Nicholas Douglas • Language Teacher • Grade 2 International Teacher • B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara, • M.S. Walden University, Minnesota, USA Turkey • B.Ed. University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica

Brennan Davis Sinead Dunigan • Grade 4 International Teacher • Grade 2 International Teacher • M.S. Mercy College, New York, USA • B.S. Tarleton State Univ, Texas, USA • B.A. Lewis University, Illinois, USA • Certificate of Education, Tarleton State University, Texas, USA

Brian Donalson İlkcan Düzel • Science/Chemistry Teacher • Art Teacher • B.S. Michigan State University, • B.A. Gazi Univ., Ankara, Turkey Michigan, USA

Sandra de Sissing Dixie Enersen • Kindergarten International Teacher • Learning Support Teacher • B.Ed. University of South Africa, • M.S. Minnesota State University, Pretoria, South Africa Minnesota, USA • B.S. University of Nebraska, Nebraska, USA

Çiğdem Turan Deveci Elif Ezber • Social Studies Teacher • Art Teacher • M.A. Marmara University, İstanbul, • B.A. Gazi Univ., Ankara, Turkey Turkey • B.A. İstanbul University, İstanbul, Turkey

Andrew Dittgen Ufuk Genç • Music Teacher • Math Teacher (HOD) • M.A. University of Michigan, • M.A. Bilkent University, Ankara,Turkey Michigan, USA • B.S. Middle East Technical University, • B.A. University of Toronto, Ontario, Ankara, Turkey Canada

Jonnah Douglas Sam Gençtürk • Grade 4 International Teacher • PYP Coordinator • M.S. Walden University, Minnesota, • B.A. Deakin Univ., Victoria, Australia USA • B.Ed. University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica

24 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World

David Goodman Zeynep Gürses • Drama Teacher • Elementary Music Teacher • B.F.A. York Univ., Toronto, Canada • B.Ed. Gazi Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Ayşegül Güçlü Jonell Hemingay • Grade 2 Classroom Teacher • English Teacher • M.Ed. Middle East Technical • B.S. Baylor University, Texas, USA University, Ankara, Turkey • B.Ed. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Merve Gültekin Tom Hemingway • Psychologist • TOK Teacher / Extended Essay • B.A. Haliç Univ., İstanbul, Turkey Coordinator • M.D.A., B.A. Western Michigan University, Michigan, USA

Nevin Gümüş Jennifer Hutchings • Grade 2 Classroom Teacher • International Social Studies Teacher / • M.Ed., B.Ed. Ankara University, College Counselor Ankara, Turkey • M.Ed. Florida Atlantic Univ., Florida, USA • B.A. Indiana Univ., Indiana, USA

25 Bilkent Laboratory & International School

Linda Jaworski Arzu Kattsir • Grade 3 International Teacher • Librarian • M.A. Regent Univ., Virginia, USA • B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, • B.S. Eastern Michigan University, Turkey Michigan, USA

Ayça Yıldırım Karadeniz Elan Kattsir • Philosophy Teacher • English Teacher • M.A., B.A. Gazi University, Ankara, • M.A. Bilkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey Turkey • B.A. York Univ., Ontario, Canada • Certificate of Education, McGill University, Quebec, Canada

Kirsten Karahan Berna Uslu Kaya • Grade 2 International Teacher • Turkish Language Teacher • M.Ed. Seattle University, • B.A. Balıkesir University, Balıkesir, Washington, USA Turkey • B.A. Tufts University, Massachusetts, USA

Esra Karlıdağ Muna Kaya • Turkish Language Teacher • Math Teacher • M.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, • B.S. University of Singapore Turkey • M.Ed. Başkent University, Ankara, Turkey • B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey

26 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World

Meltem Kılıç Jacob William Livingston • Turkish Language and Literature • Science / Math Teacher Teacher (HOD) • B.A. Indiana Univ., Indiana, USA • B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey

Lale Kızıldenizli Marion Martus • German Teacher • Science Teacher • B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, • B.S. East Stroudsburg University, Turkey Pennsylvania, USA

Aynur Köksal William Joseph Marzen II • Geography Teacher (HOD) • Economics Teacher • M.A., B.A. İstanbul University, • B.A. The Ohio State University, İstanbul, Turkey Ohio, USA

Carol Köse Edmund Melville • Grade 1 International Teacher • Kindergarten International Teacher • B.Ed. Huntington University, • M.S. Mercy College, New York, USA Indiana, USA • B.A. University of North Carolina, North Carolina, USA

Yasemin Köşker Joanie Nadeau • Librarian • French Teacher • B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, • B.Ed. University of Sherbrooke, Turkey Quebec, Canada

Elizabeth Le Duc Yimika Ogunjide • English Teacher • Music Teacher • M.Ed. University of Washington • M.Ed. Walden Univ., Minneapolis, University, Washington, USA USA • B.A. University of California at • B.A. Obafemi Awolowo University, Santa Barbara, California, USA Ile-Ife, Nigeria • Certificate of Education, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria Gretchen Letvin Özlem Oğuz • Grade 5 International Teacher • Counselor • M.Ed. Univ. of Phoenix, Texas, USA • M.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey • B.S.E.E. University of Florida, • B.A. Gazi Univ., Ankara, Turkey Florida, USA

27 Bilkent Laboratory & International School

Ülfet Okbay Barbara Prust • Math Teacher / BIS Principal • Language Teacher • M.Ed. University of the West of • M.A. Saint Michael’s College, England, Bristol, England Vermont, USA • B.A. University of Wisconsin, Wisconsin, USA

Seda Özcan Steve Prust • Art Teacher / EAL • Biology Teacher • B.A. Middle East Technical • M.A. Iliff School of Theology, University, Ankara, Turkey Colorado, USA • M.A., B.S. University of Wisconsin, Wisconsin, USA

Yunus Emre Özdem Laura Reilly • Grade 1 Classroom Teacher • Psychology Teacher • B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara, • B.A. Charleston University, South Turkey Carolina, USA

Feray Özdemir Kathryn Rhodes • TOK Teacher / IBDP Coordinator • Grade 1 International Teacher • M.A. Bilkent University, Ankara, • B.Ed. Concordia Univ., Oregon, USA Turkey • B.A. Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey

Ünal Özmen Sıla Sagun • Physics Teacher • Science / Biology Teacher • B.S. Middle East Technical • M.A. Bilkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey University, • B.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey Ankara, Turkey

Andrew Painter Paola San Martini • Elementary PE Teacher • Math Teacher • B.S. Colorado State University, • M.Ed. Pennsylvania State University, Colorado, USA Pennsylvania, USA • B.A. Bates College, Maine, USA

Rebecca Painter Daniel Schulte • Grade 5 International Teacher • Grade 3 International Teacher • M.Ed. St. Joseph College, • B.A. Harvard University, Connecticut, USA Massachusetts, USA • B.A. University of Maryland, Maryland, USA

28 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World

Hanife Schulte Victoria Swank • Kindergarten Classroom Teacher • Grade 1 International Teacher • M.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey • M.A. Framingham State University, • B.Ed. Middle East Technical Massachusetts, USA University, Ankara, Turkey • B.Ed. Central Missouri State University, Missouri, USA

Dale Scroggins Kathleen Swope • English Teacher • Art Teacher (HOD) • M.Ed. Drury Univ., Missouri, USA • B.F.A. Rhode Island School of • B.A. University of Missouri, Design, Rhode Island, USA St. Louis, Missouri

Rukiye Seryanoğlu Emel Şenol • Turkish Language Teacher • Grade 4 Classroom Teacher • B.A. Ege University, İzmir, Turkey • B.Ed. Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey

Nilay Sürücü Erol Tanrıbuyurdu • Grade 1 Classroom Teacher • Turkish Language Teacher • B.Ed. Başkent University, Ankara, • M.A., B.A. Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey Turkey

29 Bilkent Laboratory & International School

Sadia Tariq Sarah Walker • Kindergarten International Teacher • Kindergarten International Teacher • M.S. University of Groningen, • M.Ed. Lesley University, Maine, USA Groningen, the Netherlands • B.S. University of Texas at Austin, • B.Ed. Middle East Technical Texas, USA University, Ankara, Turkey

Jan Toyne Kristen Lynn Weiss • Grade 5 International Teacher • Grade 4 International Teacher • M.A. University of Phoenix, • B.A. University of Northern Colorado, Arizona, USA Colorado, USA • B.A. Upper Iowa University, Iowa, USA

Merve Tuncar Frances Ann White • Language Teacher • Grade 4 International Teacher • B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara, • M.Ed., B.A. University of Turkey Washington, Washington, USA

Gonca Tüker İclal Yaltırık • Math Teacher • Kindergarten Classroom Teacher • M.A. Bilkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey • B.A. Boğaziçi University, İstanbul, • B.S. Middle East Technical Turkey University, Ankara, Turkey

Bülent Uzunoğlu Ayşe Yayla • PE Teacher (HOD) • Ethics Teacher • B.Ed. Middle East Technical • B.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey University, Ankara, Turkey

Belgin Üvez Nilüfer Yetkin • Math Teacher • History Teacher • M.A. Bilkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey • M.A., B.A. Gazi University, Ankara, • B.S. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey Turkey

Sadagat Velibekova Alona Yıldırım • Accompanist • Kindergarten International Teacher • B.Mus. Baku Academy of Music, • B.Ed. Kazakh University of Baku, Azerbaijan International Relations & World Languages, Almaty, Kazakhstan

30 Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World

Gözde Baç Yıldırım Kutlu Çağrı Yüksel • Counselor • Grade 4 Classroom Teacher • Ph.D. Ankara University, Ankara, • B.Ed. Abant İzzet Baysal University, Turkey Bolu, Turkey • M.A., B.A. Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey

Ahu Bozkurt Yıldız Saadet Zoraoğlu • Grade 2 Classroom Teacher • Grade 1 Classroom Teacher • B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, • B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey Turkey

Deniz Algül Yılmaz • Grade 3 Classroom Teacher • B.Ed. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Bilkent Educational Institutions include: