Welcome to the New ACS Faculty and Staff 2026-2027

Andrew Cruz - Social Emotional School Counselor and Student Support Team Coordinator

What truly inspired me about ACS is the merit based system of admission because of the opportunity it provides to those students who truly apply themselves and have the desire for personal success. In addition, I believe the leadership at ACS has created a culture of high standards and support that allows all to thrive. I have been an educator for the last 14 years and have had many different roles that have helped me gain an appreciation for all aspects being an educator.

I received my bachelors degree in Sociology with a Business Administration minor from University of the Pacific and Masters in Counseling Psychology with a Pupil Personnel credential from University of San Francisco. I hope to bring my unique outlook on the education field to the SST department and continue the amazing work the team is already doing. A fun fact is that I am an avid gardener, loving being in nature and enjoy playing football recreationally.

Sabi Teodosiev - Physics and Astronomy Teacher

I joined ACS because I heard that it is the most prestigious private school in Bulgaria.

I graduated at Sofia University: BSc in Physics, MSc at Teaching currently graduating MSc at Laser technology. I worked as a physics teacher for 2 year at the National high school for mathematics and natural sciences preparing the physics team in class 10, 11 and 12.

I also taught for two years at the Zlatarski International School in Sofia.

I would love to participate in the preparation for competitions.

I do nature photography, read Fantasy books and do trail running when not at the Faculty of physics.

N. Christine Turpin, Physics teacher

I was inspired to join ACS by the enthusiasm, pride, and love which Emily and Maria (and everyone else I spoke with) had for their students here. I have been teaching around the US and the world for decades - from Physics to English, Environmental Systems to Graphic Design - multiple subjects, a wide variety of students, but never Bulgarians.

While here, I hope I can persuade every student that physics is awesome, our planet is a gift, and we all have more power than we realize. Outside of work, I like to make things, grow things, enjoy the natural world, and read. Fun fact - despite having actually been a paid calligrapher at one point, I have really sloppy handwriting. (Life is a mystery.)

Deborah Johnston - 9th grade Geography Teacher

I am excited to be working internationally again and can’t wait to get to know Bulgaria better. My colleagues here at ACS have impressed me with their content expertise, their commitment to their students, and their interest in American pedagogy with European rigor. My background is in world geography and history. Having studied and traveled extensively, I look forward to sharing a worldview with students that includes the study of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. I would love to work with the Model UN program and offer electives in International Relations.

I have been teaching humanities to students Grades 6-12, college students, and practicing teachers for almost 40 years in the US (New York, Massachusetts, Washington state, and California) and China (eight years in Shanghai and Beijing). I have a special love for geography, world history, and international relations. My favorite course I have ever taught is International Relations with a focus on Protest and Resistance.

My undergraduate degree is in International Affairs and Russian Studies. My graduate degree from Columbia University is in International Relations and Security Studies with a Teaching Certificate in Social Studies. My doctorate from Northeastern University was in World History. I have served as a consultant for the National Geographic Society training teachers and students in geographic education. I worked with the College Board for over 20 years for their AP world history program, teaching students, training teachers, and participating in the reading.

I love to travel, read, and cook. I can’t wait to explore Bulgaria and other places nearby. I have traveled to over 80 countries, but this is my first time here. Fun fact: My husband and I spent our honeymoon in the Soviet Union in 1985 with a group of 36 university students. I particularly enjoy reading historical fiction, especially about places where I am living or traveling. I am exploring the possibilities of writing an historical novel based on my own travels! I also love to cook local foods. Please share favorite travel destinations, book titles, and recipes!

Nicole Li - English Language and Literature Teacher

My name is Nicole, and I am from Ontario, Canada, where I originally gained my teaching certification. After becoming certified, I immediately moved abroad to Vietnam, where I stayed for four years teaching English and Maths, before now landing in Bulgaria to work at ACS.

I was inspired to join ACS after reading the school's mission and realizing how strongly the school dedicates itself to helping students grow. I am most excited to learn more about the vibrant and diverse community of educators and students at ACS, and hope to contribute to the school community both inside and outside of the classroom.

Outside of work, I enjoy anything creative and crafty, especially any sort of hands-on arts. I really enjoy DIY projects and finding ways to create using new mediums. Aside from that, I also enjoy going to the movies, as well as cooking/baking (although fun fact: I am never fully satisfied with the food I cook, so I much prefer to cook for others!)

Kristiyan Petrov - Physical Education (PE) teacher

I’m happy to be part of ACS because I see it as a positive and motivating environment where I can continue to learn and grow every day. I have experience working with all age groups, from kindergarten to 12th grade, and for the past 10 years, I have worked as a Physical Education and Sports teacher and a football coach.

At ACS, I want to support students in their physical and emotional development and, most importantly, help them become good people. Outside of work, I enjoy music, nature, and anything that brings an adrenaline. And one fun fact about me is that when I hang out the laundry, I always arrange the clothes by color. 

Bradley Gielen- English Language and Literature Teacher

I was inspired to join the American College of Sofia because of the school's dynamic and passionate approach to education, which mirrors my own love of teaching and learning. Having taught for three years in New Zealand, I'm excited to apply myself to the talented, hardworking and multicultural environment of ACS.

I chose to become an English teacher because it sits at the intersection of two things I am very passionate about; helping people and enjoying quality literature. It's a privilege to be here and to contribute to the vibrant community of the school.

Outside the classroom, you will find me hiking, snowboarding, playing cricket, or making music.

Ralitsa Danguleva - Sports teacher

I was inspired to join the American College of Sofia because I really like the idea of being part of a community that values both education and personal development. As someone who has always been closely connected to sport, I believe that physical activity teaches much more than just skills — it builds discipline, confidence, teamwork, resilience, and responsibility.

I have recently completed my university degree and have developed experience working with children and young people through sports activities and educational programs. I am also a football player - learned a lot about teamwork, communication, responsibility, and leadership.

I am most excited to bring my energy and passion for sport to the ACS community. I would like my students to see PE not simply as another class, but as an opportunity to challenge themselves, have fun, work together, and develop habits that can benefit them throughout their lives.

Sport is naturally a big part of my life, especially football. I enjoy training, staying active, spending time outdoors, and exploring new places.

One fun fact about me is that I’m a central defender in football — so I’m probably naturally inclined to notice when something is about to go wrong and try to fix it! I think that mindset follows me off the pitch as well: I like being dependable, working as part of a team, and always having my teammates’ backs.

Francisco de Borja Miera Lobeto -  Teacher of Spanish

I was inspired to join the American College of Sofia because of its strong commitment to academic excellence, student-centred learning, and the development of well-rounded, independent learners. I was particularly attracted by the school’s international environment and its emphasis on preparing students to engage confidently with the world around them.

I have been teaching Spanish since 2011, and throughout these years I have had the opportunity to work in different educational institutions and in a wide range of international contexts, from Tunisia to Russia, including France. These experiences have allowed me to work with students of different ages, cultural backgrounds, and profiles, and have greatly enriched my perspective as an educator.

I have been living in Bulgaria for the past two years, where I have continued to develop my professional career. I hold a degree in History and a Master’s degree in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language. My academic background and professional experience have led me to see language teaching not only as a way of learning a language, but also as an opportunity to introduce students to other cultures and ways of understanding the world.

I am excited to contribute my experience and enthusiasm for language teaching to the ACS community. I would like to create a classroom environment where students feel motivated and confident to communicate in Spanish, while also developing their curiosity about the Spanish-speaking world and its cultures. I am also looking forward to learning from my colleagues and continuing to develop professionally.

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, discovering new places and cultures, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

One fun fact about me is that I really enjoy learning about other languages and cultures. As a language teacher, I find it fascinating to see how different languages shape the way we communicate and understand the world.

Paige Swinston - Biology Teacher

What inspired me the most to join the American College of Sofia was its rich history in Bulgaria. I was amazed at the resilience and perseverance of the original scholars that started the school and you can see that pride in today's students.

I have been in education for eight years now. I have taught a variety of subjects mostly in ESL, medical research and education, tourism and hospitality, business, and biology. My main passion is teaching biology and I am excited to pass on my scientific knowledge to the younger generation.

Outside of work you will find me salsa dancing, reading, hiking, or swimming. I love being active!

Finally, one fun fact about me is that I once swam with sharks!

Aleksandra Dimitrova - Mathematics Teacher

My name is Aleksandra Dimitrova, and I am delighted to have joined the Mathematics Department at ACS. I have two years of teaching experience. Over the years, I realized that school is not just a place for acquiring knowledge, but a vibrant environment where students discover their strengths, build character and learn to think critically.

I joined ACS, not only because of its strong reputation, but also because I am convinced that the environment here is conducive to personal growth. This year I am teaching Grade 10 and 11.

In my spare time, I like to spend time with friends, listen to music, and discover new hobbies.

Elizabeth McGeough - Grade 8 ESL Teacher

Hello, ACS Community! I'm Elizabeth McGeough. I was born and raised in South Dakota, in the United Sates. My husband and I have been overseas for 10 years. We have lived and taught in South Korea, Curaçao, Pakistan, and now Bulgaria. We have visited about 20 countries around the world, each unique and special to us.

I enjoy nature, forests, lakes, and hiking. I love time alone with a great book and time together with family and friends. I love history and cultures.

I have taught elementary students for 20 years and I am very excited for this shift in my teaching career, as I get the amazing opportunity to work with the Grade 8 students. I will be teaching English as a Second Language (ESL). My husband, Bradylee, teaches Entrepreneurship and Economics. We are here with our two dogs. I am inspired by ACS's commitment to student learning. I am excited to be in this lovely city and beautiful country!

Peter Iltchev - College Counsellor (Intern)

Hi! I'm Peter, and I am delighted to join the College Counselling team at ACS this year as an intern! I am Bulgarian, although I grew up and studied in the UK. Some of the things I love are music, linguistics, and my dog, Almond.

I have had a short but varied experience in education thus far: since graduating from Cambridge University in 2017, I have worked as a summer school assistant at Eton and Cambridge, I have taught English at a primary school in rural Guatemala, and I have prepared students for the IELTS exam. For the most part I have worked in various tech companies in the start-up and corporate world as a customer support specialist and a content writer.

What I came to discover over the years is my passion for working 1-on-1 with students in a mentorship capacity. having worked with local organizations such as Tuk-Tam and ABLE Mentor. I believe this is the environment in which I really thrive and can be of help to others, and I feel that now is the perfect time in my career to embark on this adventure and help students navigate their own futures.

I am really excited and honoured to join the ACS community this academic year. Specifically, I am looking forward to learning the ins-and-outs of the College Counselling department as well as getting to know the students themselves - their passions, their dreams for the future. Junior and senior year are an exciting and overwhelming time; my hope is to be able to empower students to make authentic choices and to explore different possible paths both during and after their time here.

Catherine Beveridge - 8th Grade ESL Teacher

My name is Catherine Beveridge, and I’m an eighth-grade ESL teacher. I was inspired to join the American College of Sofia because of its rich educational legacy and its vibrant community of educators and students.

Originally from Arizona and New Mexico in the United States, I have taught internationally for nearly two decades in Germany, Spain, and Morocco. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communications and Foreign Languages (Spanish concentration) from New Mexico State University, as well as a CELTA Pass A ESL teaching qualification, and an International Baccalaureate Educator Certificate for the Middle Years Programme in English. I’m currently a Master of Education in International Education, ESL Specialization candidate at Endicott College. I’m especially excited to bring my teaching and international experience to ACS, support our students, and build connections across our many cultures and perspectives. I look forward to learning from the ACS community as much as I hope to contribute to it.

Outside of work, I enjoy visiting museums, hiking, traveling, and learning about new places and cultures. I love animals and spending time in nature, so I’ve found the ACS campus to be a particularly peaceful and soothing place for the soul! One fun fact about me is that I’m a fraternal twin. People often assume that my sister and I are identical when they first meet us, and I’m eight minutes older than she is. I speak intermediate Spanish and German, as well as a little Darija (Moroccan Arabic), and I can understand some basic French and Portuguese. One of my goals is to learn to read the Cyrillic alphabet and continue improving my Bulgarian.

I’m honored to be part of the ACS community and am very much looking forward to the year ahead!

Ramazan Yozgyur - Mathematics Teacher

Joining the American College of Sofia is an exciting opportunity for me to share my passion for teaching mathematics within a vibrant, multicultural environment. Throughout my background in mathematics and education, my primary focus has always been on inspiring students, making math accessible, and fostering strong analytical thinking in the classroom.

At ACS, I am most excited to contribute engaging teaching methods that help students build confidence in problem-solving and discover the practical power of mathematics. Outside of school, I love staying active and exploring—you can usually find me going for walks, swimming, or discovering new places with friends.

Bradylee Mcgeough - Business and Economics Teacher

I joined ACS because of its wonderful reputation within the international school community. I also sensed it was a great fit for my wife, Elizabeth McGeough, and I due to the thoughtful and considerate interviewing process. Finally, I wanted to learn more about Bulgaria (I've never been here before) and I enjoy learning from cultures which are new to me.

Amber Pinter - Geography Teacher

I am very happy to join the ACS community. The strong academic reputation of ACS is one of the reasons I chose to come teach here. My experience is primarily in Advanced Placement social studies courses including human georgraphy, US history and US government.

I hope to contribute to the development and expansion of the AP program. This is my first experience with international teaching, and I have loved learning about Bulgarian culture and history.

Sol Boucher - Computer Science Teacher

Hello ACS! I have been teaching high school computer science for four years, most recently in Jakarta, Indonesia. In a previous life, I taught introductory undergraduate data structures and computer systems courses at Carnegie Mellon University while a graduate student there. Having taught at both levels, I particularly enjoy two aspects of high school: incorporating interactive activities into lessons, and reaching students before they decide on a major. Here at ACS, I am excited to work with academically-inclined students, and to introduce AP courses and computer systems electives.

When not teaching, I enjoy spending time outdoors, especially cycling and walking. I am already cherishing Bulgaria's less tropical weather. I also like board games, especially tile placement and social deduction.

Back in 2013, I studied abroad in Dubrovnik, Croatia. It was there, staring at the faint outline of the Italian coastline across the Adriatic as I walked to school, that I realized I wanted to teach. Over a decade later, I am excited to finally be back in the Balkans!

Stephen Cain - History Teacher

I was inspired to join the American College of Sofia after many years of teaching in a suburb of Washington, DC. For over 30 years I encouraged my scholars to study overseas and learn by travelling and exploring. When I was offered a position at ACS I was excited with the opportunity to teach highly motivated and talented students in such a thoughtfully prepared program of studies.

Outside of school, I enjoy hiking and exploring nature. I also love to learn history through art, music, and film. A fun fact about me is that I am born on the same day as Hristo Stoichkov who played his final year for my city's team DC United.

Michelle Marinangel - Biology Teacher

My name is Michelle Marinangel. I am originally from Florida and grew up in Texas. This is my first time teaching at an international school and am so happy for the opportunity to work here at ACS, be able to contribute to this incredible school community, and share about a subject that brings me joy.

My career in education has consisted of 12 years teaching science both formally and informally. At a public middle school in Texas, I taught advanced biology to highly gifted students advanced biology for four years. In Florida at various zoos, aquariums, and nature center, I spent time educating on animals, topics, and research methods in marine science, environmental science, and biology, including opportunities to translate work of scientists, get students outside and hands-on in their learning, and teach science within real-world applications.

In my spare time, I enjoy getting outside in nature, cooking, spending time with family and friends, and playing chase with my dog Annie.

Yoana Manova - Grade 8 ESL Teacher

My name is Yoana Manova and I’ll be teaching Grade 8 ESL this year.

I have been teaching English in various educational settings for 17 years, both here in Bulgaria and in Singapore, where I lived and worked for seven years.

What inspired me to join the American College of Sofia are the impressive qualities of the student community and the expertise of the teaching staff. Working in an environment where highly professional, driven teachers guide high-achieving students with such diverse interests and talents motivates me to bring my absolute best to the classroom every day. I was also fascinated to learn about the long history of the college, and I am very proud to now be part of this community.

A fun fact about me is that I enjoy cooking and I once had a recipe published in BBC Good Food Magazine.

Stephanie Alcantara - Physics teacher

My name is Stephanie Alcantara. I am a graduate of the International Baccalaureate at an international school in the Philippines. Since then, I have spent almost 20 years teaching science and mathematics at international schools all over the world. I was most recently in Osaka, Japan for 8 years. This is my first time teaching in Europe, and I am excited to be in Bulgaria. I am enjoying the food, the rich history, and Bulgarian kindness.

I am especially excited to be working at ACS. I have always believed that high-quality education should be accessible to all who are interested and that knowledge should be applied in service of others. I am looking forward to working with the talented students at ACS and being part of this warm community!

Dr. Janessa Bower - English Language and Literature Teacher

Hello! I am Dr. Janessa Bower. This is my 15th year of teaching, and I am so pleased to be spending it here at ACS! Prior to my experience here, I have taught English in many grades across elementary and secondary levels in Texas, and I taught educational psychology to first year university students, also in Texas. I was born and raised in Canada and spent much time traveling around the United States, but this is my first international teaching experience.

My previous schools hosted students from all around the world, and after teaching in such a multicultural classroom, I wanted to travel to explore some of the cultures for myself. Teaching here at ACS is an exciting opportunity to engage authentically with one culture while I travel around Bulgaria and Europe to explore others.

I hope my love of reading, learning, and thinking will be evident to the students as we engage on an English language journey together. As much as I care about literature and language, I am even more pleased to encourage students to be thinkers and life-long learners who will glean self-help skills and independent confidence to tackle any problem in life, beyond the academic.

Yvonne Marcoux, Research Design and Analytical Specialist

My name is Yvonne Marcoux and I will be working in the makerspace (the SCI FI center) and supporting students in data analysis and research design. My background is in engineering: my bachelor's degree is in materials engineering and I spent 5 years working as an engineer after that. I'm currently working on a data science masters degree.

Outside of work my main hobby is playing Ultimate frisbee. I've been playing for over half my life now and have played in tournaments in Asia and North America and am hoping to add playing in Europe to my resume.

Madeleine Corcoran - English Language and Literature Teacher

I’ve known about ACS for a long time - in fact, whilst at university in the UK I met alumni of the school and this was the first word I heard of a school that has now become a part of my life. My journey towards the school has continued serendipitously; by chance I’ve met teachers around Sofia, and even met ACS President Emily Sargeant Beasley in person at a book shop event. I’ve long wanted to work there and every time I met a new person associated with the school my intuition about it as the right place for me was further confirmed. I’m thrilled to finally be here in my ideal role.

My background: I’ve done many things professionally so far. I studied English Language and Literature at Oxford University and I am deeply passionate about my subject area and its value in the world. I then studied a Masters in Documentary Photography. I’m interested in how images and words interact and interreflect to shape meaning. I worked as an English Language and Literature teacher at a small school in London and have worked for many years as a personal tutor - especially helping speakers of other languages to access and gain confidence in English literary study. I’ve also worked in Public Relations, branding, as a photographer, and as a writer, and artist.

I’m most excited to fully embrace a career in teaching among some truly inspiring and supportive colleagues in a country that has become my home over the past nine years. I hope I can contribute a sincere and infectious enthusiasm for my subject, this school, this country, and the huge potential in every one of our students.

Outside of work, I enjoy time with my children and family; I draw and write; and I love it when I can get time in the gym. My fun fact - I was once interviewed on the BBC World Service about the poet Coleridge. I was called in at the last minute and just about managed to sound like an expert, I hope.

Eric Johnston - Director of Innovation and Applied Learning Programs, Teacher of Computer Science, and co-Chair of the Computer Science Department

I was drawn to ACS by the opportunity to join a strong academic community and to work alongside teachers and students to connect curriculum with innovation, technology, and meaningful applied learning. My career has included teaching, faculty coaching and mentoring, technology integration, and developing programs that help turn ideas into authentic learning experiences. I am especially excited to help create opportunities for students to explore, design, make, test, and put their learning into practice, while supporting teachers and building connections across disciplines, programs, people, and resources. I look forward to learning from the ACS community, building on the great work already underway, and seeing what we can create together.

Outside of school, I enjoy exploring new places, spending time outdoors, and working on creative projects. A fun fact about me is that I founded and led an educational technology and media company, working with educators, students, publishers, and organizations around the world.

Petar Milev '17 - Director of Alumni Relations 

I am an ACS alumnus from the Class of 2017. Knowing what being on campus feels like was my initial motivation to join the team. ACS is an environment that nurtures learning, creativity, and meaningful relationships. Whenever I have interacted with students in my professional life, I have come away feeling inspired and refreshed, which is why working among the College’s students is such a pleasure.

My main goal is to strengthen the alumni network (which I am a part of) and find innovative ways to create opportunities for deep and fruitful (re)connections. I imagine the College as a focal point, a shared part of our lives, that fosters reciprocity and encourages the exchange of knowledge, opportunities, and resources. I envision the alumni network as a force for cultivating meaning and humanity, not only within ACS but also throughout the broader Bulgarian community.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading and spending time in nature, ideally combining the two. I am passionate about unlocking the full potential of Bulgarian chitalishta (community centers) as institutions at the heart of every neighborhood, as spaces that invite people to think, share, feel, and discuss the issues that shape our lives and society. Don’t be surprised if you find me hugging a tree around the city or hugging a cow out of town.

Finn Evans - Social Media Specialist and Photographer

I got inspired to join the ACS team because of the opportunity to meet and work with an international staff and faculty team, something I have been missing since graduating University of East Anglia in England. As an American-born and Bulgarian-raised, I find ACS to be a place where two of my homes meet and it is my honor to share its evergrowing story through my photography lens.

I hold a BA in Media Studies and an MA in Theatre Directing. Outside of ACS, I am a film and theatre director and the founder of the multidisciplinary production company CHUDATSI, dedicated to amplifying and representing the stories of diverse minority communities. In recognition of my work, I was shortlisted for the Creative Entrepreneur’s Freemen’s Award for Business Opportunity in Norwich, UK.

In my free time, I enjoy writing poetry, gaming, traveling, and spending time with animals. A fun fact about me: I am a huge cat lover and run a dedicated Instagram page just for the photos and videos I take of them every day. Fair warning, if you ever go on a walk with me, expect me to stop along the way to pet every single cat we meet!

Slavka Zlatkova- Assistant to Registrar

My name is Slavka Zlatkova and joining the American College of Sofia marks an exciting new chapter for me. Before coming to ACS, I spent years working in project management in the translation and localization industry, primarily with Scandinavian languages. Although I am new to education, I was drawn to the College by its strong sense of community, its international character, and the opportunity to contribute my experience in organization and coordination. I am looking forward to learning more about ACS from within, supporting students and colleagues, and gradually finding the areas where I can contribute most.

Outside of work, I enjoy photography, hiking, and dabbling in essential oils. I also love art, movies, long walks, and spending time with family and friends.