Career English, Literature and ESL teacher (26 years experience)

Jason B.

Teaching a student to write is really about teaching them new ways to think and giving them tools to express their thoughts and feelings. Writing isn’t just about vocabulary and rules—it’s about curiosity, logic, and learning how to express ideas clearly. That belief has guided me through more than twenty-five years of teaching English, Drama, English as a Foreign Language, and Literature around the world.

I earned my B.A. in English Education in Florida, where I started out teaching and performing in local theaters. I also worked at a performing arts magnet school, teaching Stagecraft. Eventually, I decided to see more of the world. I spent five years teaching college writing and ESL at graduate and post-graduate levels at Jiangsu University in China, then moved on to BKC International House in Moscow for two years—but Moscow is too cold!

For the past sixteen years, I’ve been at a private international school in Sumatra, Indonesia, focusing on Cambridge IGCSE ESL, Drama, and Literature. Over time, I’ve become known for helping students express themselves formally and informally, in both speaking and writing. I take pride in teaching grammar as something useful and creative rather than a list of rules. My students learn how to shape their thoughts into strong sentences, organize essays that make sense, and communicate with confidence.

Outside the classroom, I’ve directed musicals, coached wall climbing, and led a Dungeons & Dragons club—each a chance to help students think creatively, gain confidence, and work together. I’m passionate about these activities because imagination, courage, and communication are priceless skills in the pursuit of happiness.

Now that I’m back in Central Florida, I’m excited to keep doing what I love most: helping students strengthen their writing, master grammar, and see how language can change the way they think.