Welcome, Luz Garcelon, Director of IB Programming

September 23, 2021

Tell us about your background and your journey to Léman?

I identify both as a Chilean and American citizen. Out of 4 girls, I am the only one of my sisters born in Chile. Therefore, my background in a glimpse is that I grew up in Denver, Honduras and Chile. I was an IB student myself, and IB coordinator for a total of 8 years, as I was also the IB Coordinator at an international school in Chile before I moved to NYC. 

I did my masters in education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and graduated in 2015. I have vast experience in teaching Spanish and English to all age groups, coordinating a high school student and teacher body, understanding classroom management, and ensuring the IB program is embedded in the core of the school from junior school to high school regardless of having all IB programs or not. 

I am joining Léman after 10 years at UNIS and gaining great experience running the IB program, becoming an IB Examiner, CIS Evaluator, and completing the new Evaluation Pilot Program for the IB. 

What are your priorities for the IB Diploma Programme at Léman? 

The first year is always about learning and understanding the school and the existing protocols. I am getting to know all the teachers, have stepped into a few classrooms, and have had the opportunity to meet most 11th and 12th graders in Assembly and a handful of one-to-one meetings. My priority is to continue to foster a thorough understanding of the IB program across divisions and most importantly during the IB course selection process in 10th grade. 

What results do you hope to achieve as Director?

I hope to see more students attempt the IB Diploma program, and challenge themselves in the courses they are taking. Léman has shown a significant increase in the pass rate since the first cohort graduated with the IB Program. This year’s  96% pass rate is a cause to celebrate, and I wish to keep the results above 90% pass rate in the following years. 

What excites you about taking on this role?

When I first interviewed for the job, I realized the mission and vision of Léman aligned with my belief in education: cross-cultural global context, personalized learning, and innovation. This is what initially excited me and then came to life these past 6 weeks I have worked here. The constant conversation about teaching and learning, focus on the students and strong collaboration is evident. I am looking forward to an undoubtedly refreshing and inspiring school year.