exemplary citizens in the community, nation and...

Exemplary Citizens in the Community, Nation and World


Bilkent Laboratory & International School

8 İhsan Doğramacı Boulevard

TR-06800 Bilkent, Ankara, Turkey

Phone: +90-312-290-5361

Fax: +90-312-266-4963

E-mail: [email protected]

blis.bilkent.edu.tr

BLIS Bilkent Laboratory &

International School

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, 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 dentScho ols, Na tio nal As so ci ati on of La bo ra tory Scho ols.

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

Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, the International General Certificate of Secondary Education, and

the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.

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


1

Welcome


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

History andMission


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

Internationalism


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

Students


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

Service


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

Language


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

Fine Arts


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

Early ChildhoodProgram


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

Elementary 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

Middle 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

High School


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


High SchoolInternationalPrograms

13


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

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.

14


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

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

Athletics and Activities


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


Facilities

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

Faculty


Performing in the University and Beyond

“Academically, [BLIS] provided an environment that allowed me to grow and develop while presenting me with a greatperspective 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 allowedme 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 andsocial 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 verywell, 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

Alumni


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

Leadership


20

Abdullah Atalar, Board Chair • Rector, Bilkent University

• Ph.D., M.S., Stanford University, California, USA

• B.S. Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey

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

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

The Board of Governors

21

Administration

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

Ankara, Turkey

Nurdan Karaca• Assistant Turkish Principal,

Elementary School• M.A. Selçuk University, Konya, Turkey• B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey

Tümay Krugman• Turkish Middle School Principal• M.A., B.A. Mimar Sinan Fine Arts Univ.,

İstanbul, Turkey• Teaching Certificate, Marmara University,

İstanbul, Turkey

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

Ankara, Turkey

Faye Smith• Assistant International Principal,

Elementary School• Teaching Certificate, University of

London, England

Luke Walbridge• International Middle School Principal• M.Ed. Nazareth College of Rochester,

New York, USA• B.S. State University of New York,

Plattsburgh, USA

Michael Safferewich• International High School Principal• M.A. Worcester State University,

Massachusetts, USA• M.Ed. The College of New Jersey,

New Jersey, USA• B.A. Jersey City State Univ.,

New Jersey, USA

Ülfet Okbay• International School Principal• M.Ed. Univ. of the West of England,

Bristol, England

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

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

Anne Akay• English Teacher (HOD) /

IGCSE Coordinator

• B.A. Univ. of Notre Dame,

Indiana, USA

22

Gizem Alvan• Kindergarten Classroom Teacher

• B.A. Boğaziçi Univ., İstanbul, Turkey

Kıvanç Aker• Turkish Teacher / CAS Coordinator• M.A., B.A. Ankara University,

Ankara, Turkey

Aylin Alver• Grade 3 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Hazel Nehir Akgül• History & Ethics Teacher• M.A., B.A. Gazi University, Ankara,

Turkey

Gülsema Ant• Counselor• B.Ed. Boğaziçi Univ., İstanbul, Turkey

Nalan Akgül• Grade 1 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Başkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Berna Arıkan• Spanish Teacher• B.A. Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey

Pınar Akpınar• PE Teacher• B.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Aslı Arman• Kindergarten Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Gamze Akyüz• Grade 1 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Başkent University, Ankara,

Turkey

Rasha Ashkar • Grade 1 International Teacher• B.A. University of Aleppo, Aleppo, Syria• Certificate of Education, American

University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon

Gülten Altunyaldız• Language Programs Coordinator• M.S. South Bank University,

London, United Kingdom• B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Funda Aslan• German Teacher (HOD)• B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Faculty

Şelale Atalar• Chemistry Teacher (HOD)• M.S. University of Maryland at

College Park, Maryland, USA• B.S. Boğaziçi University, İstanbul,

Turkey

23


Özgür Bayam• Turkish Language and Literature

Teacher• B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Işıl Ateş• Grade 3 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Mustafa Kemal University,

Hatay, Turkey

Megan Bickert• Kindergarten International Teacher

• B.S. Northern Arizona University,

Arizona, USA

Nihan Çubuk Aydın• Grade 2 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Başkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Katherine Bingham (HOD)• Drama Teacher• M.Ed. The Evergreen State College,

Washington, USA• B.A. Principia College, Illinois, USA

Fatma Balcı• Grade 3 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Burcu Bozgeyik• Grade 4 Classroom Teacher• B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Uğur Barlas• Physics Teacher• M.A., M.Ed., B.A. Gazi University

Ankara, Turkey

Marc Chenault• ICT Teacher• B.A. The College of William and

Mary, Virginia, USA

Merve Başbay• Kindergarten Classroom Teacher• B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Kim Cleary• Grade 3 International Teacher• B.A. University of Washington,

Washington, USA

Sarp Baturalp• PE Teacher• B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara,

Turkey

Dilruba Çağran• Kindergarten Classroom Teacher

• B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Merve Çevik• Language Teacher• B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

24


Nicholas Douglas• Grade 2 International Teacher• M.S. Walden University, Minnesota, USA• B.Ed. University of the West Indies,

Mona, Jamaica

Brennan Davis• Grade 4 International Teacher• M.S. Mercy College, New York, USA• B.A. Lewis University, Illinois, USA

Sinead Dunigan • Grade 2 International Teacher

• B.S. Tarleton State Univ, Texas, USA

• Certificate of Education, Tarleton State

University, Texas, USA

Brian Donalson• Science/Chemistry Teacher• B.S. Michigan State University,

Michigan, USA

İlkcan Düzel• Art Teacher• B.A. Gazi Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Sandra de Sissing • Kindergarten International Teacher• B.Ed. University of South Africa,

Pretoria, South Africa

Dixie Enersen• Learning Support Teacher• M.S. Minnesota State University,

Minnesota, USA• B.S. University of Nebraska,

Nebraska, USA

Çiğdem Turan Deveci• Social Studies Teacher• M.A. Marmara University, İstanbul,

Turkey• B.A. İstanbul University, İstanbul,

Turkey

Elif Ezber• Art Teacher• B.A. Gazi Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Andrew Dittgen• Music Teacher• M.A. University of Michigan,

Michigan, USA• B.A. University of Toronto, Ontario,

Canada

Ufuk Genç• Math Teacher (HOD)• M.A. Bilkent University, Ankara,Turkey• B.S. Middle East Technical University,

Ankara, Turkey

Jonnah Douglas• Grade 4 International Teacher• M.S. Walden University, Minnesota,

USA• B.Ed. University of the West Indies,

Mona, Jamaica

Sam Gençtürk• PYP Coordinator• B.A. Deakin Univ., Victoria, Australia

25


David Goodman• Drama Teacher• B.F.A. York Univ., Toronto, Canada

Zeynep Gürses• Elementary Music Teacher• B.Ed. Gazi Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Ayşegül Güçlü• Grade 2 Classroom Teacher• M.Ed. Middle East Technical

University, Ankara, Turkey• B.Ed. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Jonell Hemingay• English Teacher• B.S. Baylor University, Texas, USA

Merve Gültekin• Psychologist• B.A. Haliç Univ., İstanbul, Turkey

Tom Hemingway• TOK Teacher / Extended Essay

Coordinator• M.D.A., B.A. Western Michigan

University, Michigan, USA

Nevin Gümüş• Grade 2 Classroom Teacher• M.Ed., B.Ed. Ankara University,

Ankara, Turkey

Jennifer Hutchings• International Social Studies Teacher /

College Counselor• M.Ed. Florida Atlantic Univ., Florida, USA• B.A. Indiana Univ., Indiana, USA

Linda Jaworski• Grade 3 International Teacher• M.A. Regent Univ., Virginia, USA• B.S. Eastern Michigan University,

Michigan, USA

26


Arzu Kattsir• Librarian• B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara,

Turkey

Ayça Yıldırım Karadeniz• Philosophy Teacher• M.A., B.A. Gazi University, Ankara,

Turkey

Elan Kattsir• English Teacher• M.A. Bilkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey• B.A. York Univ., Ontario, Canada• Certificate of Education, McGill

University, Quebec, Canada

Kirsten Karahan• Grade 2 International Teacher• M.Ed. Seattle University,

Washington, USA• B.A. Tufts University,

Massachusetts, USA

Berna Uslu Kaya• Turkish Language Teacher• B.A. Balıkesir University, Balıkesir,

Turkey

Esra Karlıdağ• Turkish Language Teacher• M.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey• M.Ed. Başkent University, Ankara,

Turkey• B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Muna Kaya• Math Teacher• B.S. University of Singapore

Meltem Kılıç• Turkish Language and Literature

Teacher (HOD)• B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

27


Jacob William Livingston• Science / Math Teacher• B.A. Indiana Univ., Indiana, USA

Lale Kızıldenizli• German Teacher• B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Marion Martus• Science Teacher• B.S. East Stroudsburg University,

Pennsylvania, USA

Aynur Köksal• Geography Teacher (HOD)• M.A., B.A. İstanbul University,

İstanbul, Turkey

William Joseph Marzen II• Economics Teacher• B.A. The Ohio State University,

Ohio, USA

Carol Köse• Grade 1 International Teacher• B.Ed. Huntington University,

Indiana, USA

Edmund Melville• Kindergarten International Teacher• M.S. Mercy College, New York, USA• B.A. University of North Carolina,

North Carolina, USA

Yasemin Köşker• Librarian• B.A. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Joanie Nadeau• French Teacher• B.Ed. University of Sherbrooke,

Quebec, Canada

Elizabeth Le Duc• English Teacher• M.Ed. University of Washington

University, Washington, USA• B.A. University of California at

Santa Barbara, California, USA

Yimika Ogunjide• Music Teacher• M.Ed. Walden Univ., Minneapolis,

USA• B.A. Obafemi Awolowo University,

Ile-Ife, Nigeria • Certificate of Education, University

of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria

Gretchen Letvin• Grade 5 International Teacher• M.Ed. Univ. of Phoenix, Texas, USA• B.S.E.E. University of Florida,

Florida, USA

Özlem Oğuz• Counselor• M.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey• B.A. Gazi Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Ülfet Okbay• Math Teacher / BIS Principal• M.Ed. University of the West of

England, Bristol, England

28


Barbara Prust• Language Teacher• M.A. Saint Michael’s College,

Vermont, USA• B.A. University of Wisconsin,

Wisconsin, USA

Seda Özcan• Art Teacher / EAL• B.A. Middle East Technical

University, Ankara, Turkey

Steve Prust• Biology Teacher• M.A. Iliff School of Theology,

Colorado, USA• M.A., B.S. University of Wisconsin,

Wisconsin, USA

Yunus Emre Özdem• Grade 1 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Laura Reilly • Psychology Teacher• B.A. Charleston University, South

Carolina, USA

Feray Özdemir• TOK Teacher / IBDP Coordinator• M.A. Bilkent University, Ankara,

Turkey• B.A. Middle East Technical


Kathryn Rhodes• Grade 1 International Teacher• B.Ed. Concordia Univ., Oregon, USA

Ünal Özmen• Physics Teacher• B.S. Middle East Technical


Sıla Sagun• Science / Biology Teacher• M.A. Bilkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey• B.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Andrew Painter• Elementary PE Teacher• B.S. Colorado State University,

Colorado, USA

Paola San Martini• Math Teacher• M.Ed. Pennsylvania State University,

Pennsylvania, USA• B.A. Bates College, Maine, USA

Rebecca Painter• Grade 5 International Teacher• M.Ed. St. Joseph College,

Connecticut, USA• B.A. University of Maryland,

Maryland, USA

Daniel Schulte• Grade 3 International Teacher• B.A. Harvard University,

Massachusetts, USA

Hanife Schulte• Kindergarten Classroom Teacher• M.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey• B.Ed. Middle East Technical


29


Victoria Swank• Grade 1 International Teacher• M.A. Framingham State University,

Massachusetts, USA• B.Ed. Central Missouri State

University, Missouri, USA

Dale Scroggins• English Teacher• M.Ed. Drury Univ., Missouri, USA• B.A. University of Missouri,

St. Louis, Missouri

Kathleen Swope• Art Teacher (HOD)• B.F.A. Rhode Island School of

Design, Rhode Island, USA

Rukiye Seryanoğlu• Turkish Language Teacher• B.A. Ege University, İzmir, Turkey

Emel Şenol• Grade 4 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Mustafa Kemal University,

Hatay, Turkey

Nilay Sürücü• Grade 1 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Başkent University, Ankara,

Turkey

Erol Tanrıbuyurdu• Turkish Language Teacher• M.A., B.A. Ankara University, Ankara,

Turkey

Sadia Tariq• Kindergarten International Teacher• M.S. University of Groningen,

Groningen, the Netherlands• B.Ed. Middle East Technical


30


Sarah Walker• Kindergarten International Teacher• M.Ed. Lesley University, Maine, USA• B.S. University of Texas at Austin,

Texas, USA

Jan Toyne• Grade 5 International Teacher• M.A. University of Phoenix,

Arizona, USA• B.A. Upper Iowa University, Iowa,

USA

Kristen Lynn Weiss• Grade 4 International Teacher• B.A. University of Northern Colorado,

Colorado, USA

Merve Tuncar• Language Teacher• B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Frances Ann White• Grade 4 International Teacher• M.Ed., B.A. University of

Washington, Washington, USA

Gonca Tüker• Math Teacher• M.A. Bilkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey• B.S. Middle East Technical


İclal Yaltırık• Kindergarten Classroom Teacher• B.A. Boğaziçi University, İstanbul,

Turkey

Bülent Uzunoğlu• PE Teacher (HOD)• B.Ed. Middle East Technical


Ayşe Yayla• Ethics Teacher• B.A. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Belgin Üvez• Math Teacher• M.A. Bilkent Univ., Ankara, Turkey• B.S. Ankara Univ., Ankara, Turkey

Nilüfer Yetkin• History Teacher• M.A., B.A. Gazi University, Ankara,

Turkey

Sadagat Velibekova• Accompanist• B.Mus. Baku Academy of Music,

Baku, Azerbaijan

Alona Yıldırım• Kindergarten International Teacher• B.Ed. Kazakh University of

International Relations & World Languages, Almaty, Kazakhstan

31


Kutlu Çağrı Yüksel• Grade 4 Classroom Teacher• B.Ed. Abant İzzet Baysal University,

Bolu, Turkey

Saadet Zoraoğlu• Grade 1 Classroom Teacher • B.Ed. Hacettepe University, Ankara,

Turkey

Gözde Baç Yıldırım• Counselor• Ph.D. Ankara University, Ankara,

Turkey• M.A., B.A. Middle East Technical


Ahu Bozkurt Yıldız• Grade 2 Classroom Teacher

• B.A. Hacettepe Univ., Ankara,

Turkey

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

Turkey

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, 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 dentScho ols, Na tio nal As so ci ati on of La bo ra tory Scho ols.

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

Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, the International General Certificate of Secondary Education, and

the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.




8 İhsan Doğramacı Boulevard

TR-06800 Bilkent, Ankara, Turkey

Phone: +90-312-290-5361

Fax: +90-312-266-4963

E-mail: [email protected]

blis.bilkent.edu.tr

BLIS Bilkent Laboratory &

International School

exemplary citizens in the community, nation and...

Documents