“I love our students and families at ISKL – it’s our home. Some families only stay for a few years, but they often count it as their favorite place of learning and favorite community. I’m lucky we’ve had it as our home for many years!”
Meet Maria Sarnacki, an HS IB English and Literature Teacher who joined the ISKL community in 2010. Originally from Michigan in the USA, Maria worked in Switzerland for ten years before moving to KL with her family. In her free time, Maria has coached the U11 Girls Basketball team for the past two years and enjoys keeping active by hiking, skiing, and biking.
Here is Maria’s story:
Please tell us more about yourself.
I was born in Michigan and grew up with my five older brothers. Sports and friendly competition have always been a big part of my life. I also love outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and biking, among my favorites. Being active with friends or family is one of my favorite ways to spend a beautiful day.
When and why did you join ISKL?
My husband Sim Huang and I taught at a boarding school in Switzerland for ten years before coming to ISKL in 2010. We’d been looking for a great school and community for our boys, who were 6 and 4 at the time. Once we settled into ISKL, we knew we’d found a great new home – not only for us as educators but also for our boys. They’ve had amazing teachers who challenged and nurtured them throughout their time at ISKL.
Can you tell us more about your HS IB English and Literature Teacher position? What are your daily activities?
We study literary and nonliterary texts in IB Language and Literature, so it’s an ever-evolving course. We research everything from literature to photographs, ad campaigns, and speeches.
Can you tell us something you are working on now that you are excited about?
I am helping my students prepare for their IB mock exams. The students complete all their mocks in March to prepare for the IB exam better. It’s rewarding to watch their growth and achievement over the two-year course.
What is the most enjoyable and most challenging part of your job?
I love connecting with and teaching students. Juniors and Seniors are still growing, but by Grade 11, most of them are mature. I love our discussions and hearing their points of view on what’s happening in the world today. Their creativity and diligence inspire me.
Can you tell us more about your hobbies and interests? What do you do after work?
I’ve coached the U11 Girls’ basketball team these past two years. Coach Lisa Hughes joined me this year, and the girls won gold! They are a bright, tenacious group with awesome grit and talent.
Who or what inspires you?
MS faculty member Karen Palko always inspires me! From the planning of Malaysia Week to the extraordinary dance shows, she inspires all of us. This past year, she planned a community folk dance for International Fest, where anyone could join. Her inclusivity and joy for movement keep me in awe.
What is your best memory (or most memorable moment) so far working at ISKL?
Our IASAS moments have been some of my favorites. We always have the best cheer sections of any school. Hosting IASAS Soccer last year was an incredible way to celebrate after the Covid lockdown. I will never forget the stress of watching the bronze match go to penalty shoot-outs – watching the boys’ team win the bronze medal before a packed home crowd is a favorite memory.
Playing basketball in Manila and winning bronze is another favorite memory from last year – I never realized how basketball-crazed Manila is! The gyms were packed to the gills with roaring crowds, and the team and coaches couldn’t even hear one another over the chants. I love the IASAS traditions and friendships made there. My older son Kai has friends in university that he keeps in touch with from his IASAS travels.
What does ‘”Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world”‘ mean to you?
This means finding your voice and using it. Tapping into your inner voice can make you more caring and loving. Your community will understand you better, and you will also share with them, and this naturally creates a better world.
I love our students and families at ISKL – it’s our home. Some families only stay for a few years, but they often count it as their favorite place of learning and favorite community. I’m lucky we’ve had it as our home for many years! “Once a panther, always a panther” rings true for our community.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff who always have an anecdote to tell, love to share some insights into their passions and interest, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.
