Faculty and Staff
Who are the teachers at QSI Shenzhen?
QSI as a worldwide organization oversees the staffing of teachers at all QSI schools. QSI seeks out only the most qualified teachers, mainly from the U.S.A. Teachers are native or fluent English speakers.
55% of our teachers hold a Master's Degree or higher, and many hold additional certifications to teach English Language Learners. Since QSI is a great organization to work for, it is common to find that teachers at QSI Shenzhen have taught at other QSI schools in other countries and have chosen to stay in the QSI family.
QSI Shenzhen has a large support team for teachers and students including a dedicated counselor at each campus to work with students and teachers. In addition, two learning support teachers support the individual needs of students, and a regional learning support coordinator is available to provide additional support when needed. Our lower preschool provides two paraprofessionals to assist each teacher in their classrooms, and we also include one paraprofessional in all classes up to the 8 year old class.
We currently have approximately 300 staff at QSI Shenzhen with 200 of those staff members directly supporting students as part of the teaching faculty.
Who are the administrative team at QSI Shenzhen?
Leading with Vision and Purpose
At the heart of QSI Shenzhen is Jon Routh, the Director of the school. Through his leadership, he ensures that every aspect of school life runs smoothly, fostering a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Supporting Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Penny Blackwell, Jonathan Hay, and Jessica Hu, our Directors of Instruction, work closely with teachers to promote high-quality learning experiences. Through QSI's mastery learning approach, they help educators create lessons that challenge, inspire, and support every student. Their guidance empowers students to build confidence, develop essential skills, and achieve meaningful academic growth.
Preparing Students for the Future
At QSI Shenzhen, our Academic Coordinators play a vital role in supporting teachers and enriching student learning. Marie Shelton and Mike Thorniley serve the Main Campus, working alongside educators to strengthen instructional practices and enhance the learning experience. Zach Bliznakov, based at the Secondary Campus, provides leadership and support that helps teachers create engaging, effective, and student-centered classrooms.
Together, they help bring The QSI Way to life by promoting innovative teaching practices, meaningful student engagement, and continuous improvement. Through coaching, collaboration, and professional development, they empower teachers to integrate technology, nurture creativity, encourage teamwork, and develop critical thinking skills.
A Unified Commitment to Student Success
Together, these dedicated leaders help ensure that QSI Shenzhen remains a vibrant and inspiring learning community. By embracing The QSI Way, promoting Mastery Learning, and preparing students with the skills needed for the future, they create meaningful opportunities for every student to grow academically, socially, and personally. The result is a school where learning is celebrated, achievement is attainable for all, and every student is encouraged to pursue excellence with confidence.
