Melissa Barnes Dholakia ~ Superintendent & Principal
Melissa is a lifetime public school educator, beginning as a humanities teacher in Washington state and then at a K-12 bilingual school in Taiwan. In 2002, she received a New Leaders fellowship and spent the next decade co-founding, building, and leading Lighthouse Community Public Schools, a K-12 charter district serving the marginalized students of Oakland, California. It closed the achievement gap during her tenure, using a project-based and whole child approach coupled with high expectations and love. She has spent the last decade coaching leaders through charter development, authorization, and implementation and spent five years as a leader of the Bend-La Pine Schools Board of Directors. She earned her BA and teaching credential at Whitman College, her MA at University of Oregon, her Administrative credential through New Leaders at National-Louis University, and is a doctoral student at University of Oregon. When not working, Melissa enjoys time with her family and two dogs, enjoying all seasons of the great outdoors, reading great literature, attending live music, and too many pints of Bonta gelato.
Lucina Hernandez ~ Business & Nutrition Services Manager
Maestra Lucina has been a valued member of the BIS community since its founding, initially joining as a parent. In 2019, she became a dedicated part of the BIS staff, contributing to our support team. Currently, Lucina serves as both an office assistant and our Nutrition Manager. A proud mother of three, two of her children are BIS alumni. Outside of school, Lucina enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with her family.
Kristen Wiest ~ K-8 Counselor & SEL Teacher
Maestra Kristen was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, spending most of her summers in Central Oregon. She graduated from the University of Redlands with a degree in sociology and Spanish. While at Redlands she studied abroad in Madrid and discovered a passion for travel. After working in fitness and banking, Kristen returned to Oregon State Cascades to earn her master’s degree in school and mental health counseling. As a counselor she uses a strength-based approach, working with each student as an individual promoting equity and inclusion. When not working she can be found with her two kids, Lily and Wes, paddle boarding, or running. Maestra Kristen is excited to be a part of the amazing team at Bend International School, and is looking forward to getting to know all of the students.
Ana Moll ~ Kindergarten Teacher
Maestra Ana served as the Founding Kindergarten Teacher for two years at BIS, developing our program and vision. After nine years living and teaching Kindergarten in Germany with her family, she is returning to central Oregon and our team. Maestra Ana is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Portuguese – and speaks German to boot! We are excited about strengthening our foundational Spanish program with her at the helm. Prior to her eleven years teaching Kindergarten, she worked as a school counselor for eight years bring a deep understanding of child development, consciusness, and the whole brain. She earned her MA in Counseling from Oregon State University and holds both an Oregon State Teaching Credential and Counseling Credential.
Sarah Torosian ~ 1st Grade Teacher
Meet Sarah Torosian, our newest addition to the BIS family. With a passion for cultivating inclusive learning environments and empowering students to realize their utmost potential, Sarah is thrilled to once again have a class of her own. After pursuing her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education at Northern Arizona University, Sarah’s adventurous spirit then led her to a nursery school in Thailand, followed by nurturing preschoolers in Flagstaff and teaching kids to ski in Tahoe. She embarked on a transformative teaching experience on the
Navajo reservation, where she spent three years immersed in the culture and language of her students. She’s thrilled to infuse her classroom with her deep appreciation for nature and community, fostering a warm and supportive environment where every child can thrive.
Gretchen Dierking ~ 2nd Grade Teacher & K-2 Lead Teacher
Maestra Gretchen earned her Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) from Western Washington University and a Master’s degree in teaching from the University of Portland. At sixteen, Maestra Gretchen had her first experience being immersed in the Spanish language when she lived in Chile.¡Fue una experiencia increible! From then on being immersed in different cultures and learning languages would continue to be a part of her life. After her undergraduate degree, she spent two years teaching English abroad in Spain and then glacier guided in Alaska and New Zealand, so she loves the outdoors. She is originally from Juneau, Alaska, which usually doesn’t get much sun. Most recently, Maestra Gretchen worked in Portland as a second grade Spanish Dual Language teacher. She is passionate about the importance of Bilingual education in her student’s lives and the doors that language opens when students are empowered to communicate with people from a diverse range of countries and cultures. Ella está muy emocionada por el aprendizaje que tendremos en este año escolar y no puede esperar para conocerles a todos.
Amy Olson ~ 3rd Grade Teacher
Maestra Amy was born and raised in Bend, Oregon and has moved back to the area with her husband, and her 6-year-old twin boys. After leaving Central Oregon in 2000, she went to university in Seattle and lived overseas for 17 years in the Marshall Islands, Mexico (Chiapas and Mexico City), and most recently in Jakarta, Indonesia. Amy feels so lucky to have had the opportunity to work in international schools in all of these locations and has taught in Kindergarten, grade 1, grade 2, and grade 3 classrooms for over 10 years. You can find her riding her bike around town and exploring nature with her family. Amy loves to read and is taking full advantage of the amazing public libraries to read books with her curious kids. When she needs to unwind, Amy loves listening to music, singing and playing the piano, and attending the bustling concerts, plays, and art events that make up the thriving cultural scene in Central Oregon.
Drew Branstrom ~ 4th grade Teacher
Maestro Drew is a lifelong learner with a passion for exploring and sharing knowledge. He graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in PreK-12 Bilingual Education along with minors in Anthropology and Spanish. During his undergraduate years, he lived and studied in Spain and Argentina and became a fluent speaker of Spanish. He has teaching experience in schools as well as summer camps, working with students of all ages. Drew is excited to help fulfill the Bend International School mission to increase the academic achievement of each student, and also looks to inspire students to think critically and creatively through hands-on and investigative activities. Drew loves living in Bend and fits in well with the community as he enjoys mountain biking, backcountry skiing, and hiking in the mountains during his free time.
Vidal Cid ~ 6th Grade & Middle School Science Teacher
Maestro Vidal was born and raised in a border town in south Texas. His parents were migrant workers originally from Zacatecas, Mexico. Growing up, his family visited ‘El Rancho’ in Zacatecas annually, during the summers they would work in Michigan, Indiana, and Nebraska. Vidal earned two degrees from The University of Texas at Austin—a Bachelor of Science in physics and a Master of Arts in science education. His teaching philosophy is built around the idea that experience is the best teacher. His goal is to cultivate rich and transformative experiences within the classroom and in the field. He does this through unique and exciting projects, hands-on lessons, and memorable field trips. He likes to challenge students so they can reach their maximum potential as learners. Cid taught middle school science for 12 years in Austin, Texas, then he and his family moved to Central Oregon 6 years ago. He is excited by the opportunity to build a powerful culture of learning at Bend International School.
Josh Colvin ~ 8th Grade & Middle School Humanities Teacher
Maestro Josh has been actively exploring the world since his childhood growing up in the high desert of Central Oregon. After graduating from the University of Oregon with his Master’s degree in Teaching and Learning. He went to pursue his passion for teaching and international travel in Thailand. After stints teaching around the world in Bangkok, Switzerland, and Beirut, Lebanon, Josh returned to the United States to teach Social Studies, English, and Outdoor Sports for 4 years at an international boarding school near Lake Tahoe. He is passionately devoted students obtaining a growth mindset during their middle school careers. He has always taken a keen interest in the humanities and international affairs and looks forward to sharing his knowledge and expertise with the students of BIS. One of his favorite parts of teaching is establishing relationships with students to make his class a safe inclusive community where all voices are heard and respected.
Lisa Fahnke ~ 5th - 8th Mathematics Specialist & CARE Coordinator
Maestra Lisa loves traveling and getting to know people from around the world. She has a Masters in Education and has been a teacher, administrator, tutor, and educational program developer in South Korea, China, Japan, Germany, England, and most recently in the Lake Tahoe area where she worked at a college preparatory school teaching English and Math to international students. In addition to indoor education, Lisa has been a ski and snowboard instructor, kayak guide, and outdoor program coordinator. She recently launched a mountain safety program, mountain bike and dirt jump program, and co-founded the outdoor club for high school students. She’s excited to get to know the students of Bend International School while enjoying all the activities Central Oregon has to offer.
Jill Tisdale ~ Art Teacher
Maestra Jill is an artist and educator originally from Lawrence, Kansas. She received her BAE and BFA at the University of Kansas. After an amazing experience student teaching with DOD school in Naples, Italy, she continued to pursue international teaching assignments in Wiesbaden, Germany and finally Tampico, Mexico. While in Tampico she gained an understanding of the Spanish language and hopes to practice her spanish at BIS. Jill returned to the states to complete her Masters in Painting from the Cal State, Fresno and then teach in both California and Colorado. Jill has now been in Oregon for the last 3 years with her two young children. She enjoys painting, gardening and home remodeling, along with exploring the beauty of Central Oregon. Jill has an endless love of travel, art and teaching; she has adventured in China, Costa Rica, Thailand, Panama, Europe and much of Mexico. Jill’s teaching philosophy is that every child should have the opportunity to express themselves through art, her goal is to foster a love and appreciation of visual art in each student. And at the same time, have a lot of fun! While working part time at Bend International School she is a practicing artist and is part of a weekly figure drawing group. Jill is thrilled to be a part of Bend International School, also you can view her artist website at www.jilltisdale.com
Elizabeth Colvin ~ Instructional Technology & Programs Coordinator
Maestra Elizabeth received her Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Colorado and her Master’s in English Education from the Teachers College at Columbia University. Elizabeth has lived and taught in Italy, Switzerland and Lebanon. Elizabeth has twelve years of experience teaching and working with students from all over the world. She has over 15 years of experience teaching ELL students how to improve their English skills. Over her career she has spent time as an academic dean, college counselor and English teacher. She is very excited to be curating our library and teaching English Language Learners. Outside of school she spends her time mountain biking and skiing with her family all around Central Oregon. Elizabeth loves sharing her passion for reading and literature with students and helping them discover the magical world of fiction.
Alisha Tschantz ~ Director of Operations & Administrative Services
Michael Langston ~ Student Success Coach
Maestro Langston joins Bend International School as our Student Success Coach and Dean of Students. Originally from Florida, Maestro Langston brings seven years of experience working in education and youth programs. Before joining BIS, he worked with J Bar J Youth Services, where he supported students in building positive habits and personal growth. Langston holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master of Science in Environmental Sciences, blending his passion for teaching with a deep understanding of the natural world. He has a natural knack for connecting with students and fostering a respectful, engaging school environment. His steady approach to discipline and commitment to student success make him a valuable part of our team.
Brandon Russell ~ K-8 Learning Specialist
Isabel Leal ~ Kindergarten Education Assistant
Maestra Isabel was born and raised in Mexicali, Baja California. She graduated from BENUFF University in 2006. She has been a teacher for almost 14 years and it is a big satisfaction to see how a lot of generations have grown up all this time. She recently moved to Bend with a bunch of dreams and goals to reach, she believes that every day is a new opportunity to learn something new.
Jeanvieve Wilson ~ 1st Grade Educational Assistant & Lead EA
Maestra Jeanvieve grew up in San Luis Obispo, California. She lived in the San Francisco Bay area for 10 years, where she met her husband of 17 years. In 2004 they decided to move to Bend, where her husband grew up. She has been an educator for 7 years. Her favorite part of working in a school is watching the students grow and learn throughout the school year. When not at school she likes to spend time with her daughter and husband going camping, mountain bike riding, hanging out at the lakes and cooking for family and friends. She is thrilled to be a member of the Bend International School family.
Madison Palmer ~ 2nd Grade Educational Assistant
Maestra Madison joins us as our 2nd Grade Educational Assistant for the afternoons, providing additional support for 4th – 5th grade in the morning. Madison served as the program manager for our Campfire program over the last two years, knowing many of our children well and supporting them in their academic, social, and emotional growth. She has extensive experience in both after school and environmental education settings. She is excited to make the switch from our enrichment programs into our core program. Madison earned her BA at Oregon State University. Madison was born and raised in Maryland and has always loved spending time outdoors and staying active. She enjoys trail running, hiking, camping, and swimming, and is happiest when she is exploring somewhere new or spending time in nature. She is looking forward to bringing her enthusiasm, creativity, and experience with children into the classroom and getting to know our students in a new way this year!
Jamie O'Connell ~ 3rd Grade Education Assistant
Maestra Jamie is originally from New England. As an educator and artist with over ten years of experience working with children, she endeavors to empower students to find their strengths and to gain self-awareness through creative exploration and adventure. Jamie studied English, Writing, and Philosophy at the University of Colorado and received her Masters in Fine Arts from California College of the Arts in San Francisco. Since moving to Bend five years ago, she has led nature immersion, creative writing, and performing arts classes to elementary schoolers; before joining the team at BIS in Fall 2022, she managed and taught at a local children’s studio for two years. She is also an outdoor educator and multi-sport instructor, with significant experience teaching mountain biking, skiing, paddling, rock climbing, and wilderness survival skills. Jamie is passionate about travel, multicultural education, and geography; her experiences include a semester abroad in New Zealand, solo backpacking in South America, and an interdisciplinary art course in Iceland. She most enjoys spending her time creating art and exploring the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest.
Amanda Wright ~ 5th Grade Teacher & 3-5 Lead Teacher
Maestra Amanda is a passionate teacher and world-traveler. Having grown up with a strong sense of curiosity and passion for learning, Amanda excitedly dove head first in many facets of education. She graduated summa cum laude from Western Oregon University in 2009, having completed studies in both Psychology and Health. After graduation, she felt a strong pull towards helping children through vibrant, welcoming learning opportunities, as well as developing their own personal goals and passions. Amanda used this motivation to travel to China to help a publishing company write curriculum materials, and to come home and complete her Masters of Teaching at Willamette University in 2012, with additional endorsements in Mathematics, Health Education, and as a Reading Specialist. Additionally, Amanda volunteers for a non-profit as their Education Coordinator serving an orphanage in Haiti, and was recently added to board of directors for Nerds Abroad. As an educator, her teaching style is defined by both her enthusiasm towards learning and the strong relationships she fosters with all students in her class, allowing her to focus on differentiated instruction, reaching all students, and making learning fun. Those who know Amanda are often struck by her magnetism and deep commitment to her work of making the world more loving and equitable for everyone.
Margy Hoffman ~ 7th Grade & Middle School Math Teacher
Maestra Margy is thrilled to have landed at Bend International School as a middle school math teacher. She received her BA from Miami University (in Ohio) and her Master of Teacher Education degree from Eastern Oregon University. After starting her career as a science educator at Marshall High School, she started teaching math as well and realized that was what she truly loved. She eventually moved on to teach math at High Desert Middle School before joining the team at B.I.S. Math is her passion, and she loves solving problems and puzzles of all types. She loves having the opportunity to build relationships with students over the course of the three years of middle school at BIS, as well as working with the dedicated staff and enthusiastic families of our school. She loves living in Bend and having access to all of the adventures that Central Oregon has to offer.
Jim DiCenzo ~ 5th-8th Spanish Teacher & 2nd Grade Educational Assistant
Jim joined the staff at Bend International School in August 2024 as the middle school Spanish Teacher. Growing up on the East Coast, Jim earned his BA degree in Spanish from Bucknell University in Pennsylvania and MA degree in Italian Linguistics from Middlebury College in Vermont. He spent time leading summer language and cultural immersion experiences for students in Florence, Barcelona, Oxford, and Berkeley and later instructed and directed programs with students and adults at an environmental and outdoor education facility on Cape Cod. Prior to joining the staff at BIS, Jim taught high school Spanish and coached varsity soccer and other sports in the greater Boston area. Jim‘s passion is exploring his roots in Puerto Rico and Italy, and he loves to encourage others to be curious about their own origins. In his free time he enjoys traveling, cooking, spending time outdoors, biking, hiking, paddlesports, and practicing survival skills. He has been obsessed with soccer from an early age and proudly supports Tottenham Hotspur. Audere est facere.
Matt Wells ~ Physical Education Teacher & Athletic Director
Nick Wright ~ Music Teacher
Maestro Nick joins our team formally this year, after serving as our long-term substitute this past year. Nick brings a broad range of musical training to this position – from music theory, to strings, to keyboard and vocals, and beyond. Nick has worked as the music teacher at the Waldorf School in Bend and will continue to work across our two schools in the coming year, bringing experience and insight across the two schools. Nick earned his BA from Oregon State University.
Austin Ross ~ Global Lunch Coordinator & Chef
Maestro Austin has been working in the culinary industry for over ten years. He has experience in creating dishes from all over the world. From Spanish Tapas to Sushi, Lebanese dishes to French cuisine, he is a lover of all food. In addition to cooking, Austin also loves spending time outdoors with his wife and 17 month old son. He is also a huge fan of music and plays in two local bands. Sr. Austin is excited to use his Spanish and cooking skills, and join the vibrant BIS community!
Beth Bengtson ~ Permanent Substitute
Maestra Beth is delighted to return to Bend International School as our permanent substitute teacher. A familiar and beloved member of the BIS community, Beth previously taught third grade at BIS for 10 years and has worked in education for 18 years. Beth is a passionate lifelong learner with a special interest in the connection between learning and well-being. After nearly 30 years of practicing yoga, she completed a 200-hour certification in yoga, social-emotional learning, and mindfulness in 2023. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Education specializing in these areas. Beth believes in supporting the whole child by nurturing students’ physical, emotional, and mental well-being. She is excited to be back at BIS, reconnect with students and families, and bring her warmth, experience, and growing knowledge to classrooms throughout the school.