Meet our leadership team

Dr. Jay B. Teston has led Nibras International School since 2020, first as Head of School and later as the school’s first Superintendent. His appointment to this expanded role came as NIS more than doubled in enrollment, a reflection of the school’s growing reputation for academic excellence confirmed through rigorous inspections and international accreditations.
With a career that spans education systems in the United States, Asia, and the Middle East, Dr. Teston brings a truly global perspective to his leadership. He holds advanced degrees in educational leadership and special education, along with certifications in international school governance. In addition, he is a trained WASC accreditor and a certified UAE school inspector, roles that keep him closely connected to the highest standards of international education.

Throughout his career, Dr. Teston has been dedicated to raising academic standards, supporting teacher growth, and enhancing student achievement. At NIS, he has expanded opportunities for students through programs such as Advanced Placement, inquiry-based learning, and project-based learning. Beyond his work on campus, he has served on accreditation teams across the Asia Pacific region and led professional forums, including a national conference focused on supporting English language learners.

Respected for his vision and collaborative approach, Dr. Teston continues to guide NIS as a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-looking international school where students are inspired to achieve their best.

Althea grew up in South Africa before relocating to Muscat, Oman with her family and then moving to Dubai in 2002. Althea studied Human Resources Management which has given her invaluable administrative and recruitment experience. Althea then went on to complete her Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) through the University of Sunderland followed by a Master’s in Education from Murdoch University.

Althea is an experienced educator with more than 13 years in international education. Althea is passionate about a student-centered learning environment where students use hands-on, real life learning experiences to develop their communication and thinking skills along with learning through inquiry, problem solving, and developing a student’s independent learning skills as key focus areas.

Althea has held various leadership roles within primary education and as a passionate educator, has led various authorization and evaluation processes within the UAE. She has been a part of the development of teachers and middle leaders alike and has implemented various systems to ensure the smooth running of a primary school. Althea has worked collaboratively with the school community; namely students, parents, and teachers alike to foster and develop a high quality education that meets the needs of all students.

Althea enjoys walking, going to the gym, travelling, and spending time with her family.

Fazeela Khan has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics from The University of Sheffield. She then continued her studies and pursed Master of Science Degree in International Finance and Economics from the same university. Her working experience in both the UK and the UAE has provided her with enough insight as the Data and Assessment Manager for Nibras International School, in charge of data analysis assessments.

With over 25 years of experience in education—20 of those in the United States—Jason Sanservino is a seasoned and dynamic educational leader. He joined Nibras International School (NIS) in 2020 as the Assistant Head of Secondary and was promoted to Head of Secondary in 2023. In 2025, he assumed an additional leadership role as the Assistant Superintendent of Systems Operations, reflecting his deep commitment to operational excellence and strategic development.

Jason holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration. Prior to relocating to the UAE, he served for two decades in the U.S. as a teacher, grant coordinator, and Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) coordinator at two of the country’s most highly regarded high schools. His work in these roles was marked by a consistent focus on student achievement, well-being, and systemic improvement.

Since arriving in Dubai, Jason has made a significant impact at NIS. As Assistant Head of Secondary and later as Head of Secondary, he has led with a clear vision for academic excellence, student-centered growth, and continuous school improvement. Under his leadership, the secondary division saw notable gains in student progress and attainment across all subject areas, contributing to the school’s overall rating being elevated from ""Acceptable"" to ""Good."" In recognition of his expertise, Jason has also earned the School Inspector Competency Certificate, qualifying him as a certified UAE school inspector.

Jason's leadership philosophy centers on the belief that students must ""earn it""—a mindset that has meaningfully shaped the school's approach to character education and social-emotional learning. His initiatives have fostered resilience, accountability, and self-awareness among students.

With a proven track record of raising standards, cultivating strong school culture, and driving operational systems, Jason continues to be a key leader in shaping the future of education at Nibras International School and beyond.

Ruba Alakkad holds a degree in Law and began her journey as a practicing lawyer in her home country, where she worked for three years before moving to the UAE in 2014.
 
Starting from 2015 and before joining Nibras, she worked in the HR Human Resources in different educational companies; Al Nahda National Schools, Aldar Academies, and Bloom Education in Abu Dhabi where she had been responsible for a wide range of HR functions, including talent acquisition, employee onboarding, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and HR compliance.
 
In December 2022, she joined Nibras International School as HR Manager, where she currently leads the HR department, play a key role in policy development and workforce planning, ensuring that all HR initiatives are aligned with the school’s values and culture, supporting both academic and non-academic staff, planning and overseeing all the HR functions and ensuring the compliance with UAE labor laws and KHDA regulations.

Yasmeen Husain has a Bachelor's degree and Master's degree in Business Administration. She has experience working for schools in Dubai as part of the admissions team. She has joned Nibras International School in  2021 as our Admissions Manager, responsible for driving enrollment growth and retention in our school community. She is responsible for helping prospective families navigate through the enrollment joruney by providing them with comprehensive information about NIS' programs, offerings, and services.

Yasmeen Husain is an accomplished Admissions Manager with a proven track record in guiding students and families through the enrollment process while driving institutional growth. With over a decade of experience, she combines strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and personalized support to ensure a smooth admissions journey from inquiry to enrollment.

Sabina Pecoraro is a passionate, innovative, and globally-minded educator with a wealth of experience in international education. Her professional expertise spans Teaching and Learning, Curriculum Design, Educational Leadership, Student Agency, and Technology & Innovation. She has held various leadership roles, including Assistant Principal, Assistant Head Teacher, MYP Coordinator, and K-12 Head of Learning Technology and Innovation. A believer in the power of lifelong learning, Sabina is deeply committed to inquiry-based education and impactful service learning. Her educational philosophy centers on inspiring students and educators to embrace the mind-expanding potential of education and to engage meaningfully with the world around them.

Sabina has trained as an IB Workshop Leader, coaching and mentoring educators globally to become facilitators of learning through inquiry. She has also served as a curriculum moderator, assessing and reviewing Units of Inquiry within secondary schools curriculum development, and has been an active member of the IB School Evaluation and Authorization Visiting Team, supporting schools on their journey towards accreditation.

An advocate for innovation in education, Sabina has taught Artificial Intelligence and has been a key contributor to the implementation of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies in schools.  

As part of her professional practice Sabina has been a guest speaker at the GESS Dubai conference, presenting on the topic “Immersive Learning Through Virtual and Augmented Reality”, at EduTech Arabia presenting on the topic ""AI & Emerging Technology in K12 Education"", a speaker at the International Schools Conference presenting on the topic ""Innovation, Transformation and Balance in International School Leadership"" as well as sharing insights as a panelist on EdTech integration in UAE schools.

Beyond her work in schools, Sabina is an active educational thought leader who has also contributed to the article “Fostering Global Citizenship Through Service Learning,” published in The National (UAE), and contributes regularly toTeach Middle East Committees, where she shares insights on innovation, service learning, and leadership in international education. Her work continues to shape future-ready learning environments that empower students with the skills and mindset to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Through her visionary leadership, innovative mindset and deep commitment to professional growth, Sabina continues to inspire excellence, agency, creativity and impact across every learning community she serves.

Erik Rivera has a degree  in Psychology and Philosophy from Dickinson College in Pennsylvania, United States. He then went to study a Master of Education Degree for Secondary Education and Training at The John Hopkins University. Before arriving to Dubai, he worked as a SPED Coordinator and Teacher in the United States. As the Dean of Students at Nibras International School, he provides personalized academic advising to high school students, supporting course selection, academic planning, and career readiness. He is also one of the schook's Designated Safeguarding Lead in charge of leading safeguarding and wellbeing initatives to ensure that Nibras International School is a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

Hannelie Cranko was born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa. She attended the University of Pretoria and graduated with a Bachelor of Education degree. Recently, she completed a Masters Degree in Leadership and Management in Education from Middlesex University in Dubai. This is her first year at NIS and her 13th year in the Middle East. She has 10 years experience in the American Common Core Curriculum and two years in the Cambridge Curriculum.

Louise Allen was born and raised in the UK. She gained her BA (Hons) Childhood Studies in 2001 and has recently completed and passed her NPQML. Her international teaching career began in 2003 in Dubai. She has extensive Early Years’ experience and has taught in American Curriculum, IB PYP, and the EYFS.

Charlene Le Roux is a seasoned Inclusion teacher and leader with more than 5 years of experience at Nibras International School. She holds Honors in Psychology and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from University of Stellenbosch and University of the Free State.

Emam Mahmoud has been with Nibras International School for more than 5 years. Before leading our Arabic and Islamic Department, she was an Arabic teacher responsibel for crafting lesson plans that would help students learn the language and culture, and gain skils such as communication and teamwork. This experience has prepared her for the role of Head of MOE Subjects, focusing on Arabic and Islamic studies.

Educational background/ Degrees: Doctor of Education (Educational Leadership), Master of Science (Special Education), Licensed Educator (K-12), School Principal, School Superintendent (State of Maryland, USA)
Countries worked in: Republic of the Philippines, United States of America, People's Republic of China, United Arab Emirates

Educational background/ Degrees: Master of Education, Murdoch University
Countries worked in: South Africa, Oman and United Arab Emirates

With over 25 years of experience in education—20 of those in the United States—Jason Sanservino is a seasoned and dynamic educational leader. He joined Nibras International School (NIS) in 2020 as the Assistant Head of Secondary and was promoted to Head of Secondary in 2023. In 2025, he assumed an additional leadership role as the Assistant Superintendent of Systems Operations, reflecting his deep commitment to operational excellence and strategic development.

Jason holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration. Prior to relocating to the UAE, he served for two decades in the U.S. as a teacher, grant coordinator, and Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) coordinator at two of the country’s most highly regarded high schools. His work in these roles was marked by a consistent focus on student achievement, well-being, and systemic improvement.

Since arriving in Dubai, Jason has made a significant impact at NIS. As Assistant Head of Secondary and later as Head of Secondary, he has led with a clear vision for academic excellence, student-centered growth, and continuous school improvement. Under his leadership, the secondary division saw notable gains in student progress and attainment across all subject areas, contributing to the school’s overall rating being elevated from ""Acceptable"" to ""Good."" In recognition of his expertise, Jason has also earned the School Inspector Competency Certificate, qualifying him as a certified UAE school inspector.

Jason's leadership philosophy centers on the belief that students must ""earn it""—a mindset that has meaningfully shaped the school's approach to character education and social-emotional learning. His initiatives have fostered resilience, accountability, and self-awareness among students.

With a proven track record of raising standards, cultivating strong school culture, and driving operational systems, Jason continues to be a key leader in shaping the future of education at Nibras International School and beyond.

Educational background/ Degrees: Bachelor's in Business Administration
Countries worked in: India, Oman and United Arab Emirates

Educational background: MA in International Business Management
Countries worked in: Canada, UK, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia

Educational background: MSc Applied Psychology
Countries worked in: United Kingdom and United Arab Emirates

Educational background: Bachelor of Arts English, Sociological and Political Studies; Post Graduate Certificate in Education; Master of Arts Educational Leadership and Management
Countries worked in: Europe, Africa, Middle East

Dr. Jay B. Teston has led Nibras International School since 2020, first as Head of School and later as the school’s first Superintendent. His appointment to this expanded role came as NIS more than doubled in enrollment, a reflection of the school’s growing reputation for academic excellence confirmed through rigorous inspections and international accreditations.
With a career that spans education systems in the United States, Asia, and the Middle East, Dr. Teston brings a truly global perspective to his leadership. He holds advanced degrees in educational leadership and special education, along with certifications in international school governance. In addition, he is a trained WASC accreditor and a certified UAE school inspector, roles that keep him closely connected to the highest standards of international education.

Throughout his career, Dr. Teston has been dedicated to raising academic standards, supporting teacher growth, and enhancing student achievement. At NIS, he has expanded opportunities for students through programs such as Advanced Placement, inquiry-based learning, and project-based learning. Beyond his work on campus, he has served on accreditation teams across the Asia Pacific region and led professional forums, including a national conference focused on supporting English language learners.

Respected for his vision and collaborative approach, Dr. Teston continues to guide NIS as a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-looking international school where students are inspired to achieve their best.

With over 25 years of experience in education—20 of those in the United States—Jason Sanservino is a seasoned and dynamic educational leader. He joined Nibras International School (NIS) in 2020 as the Assistant Head of Secondary and was promoted to Head of Secondary in 2023. In 2025, he assumed an additional leadership role as the Assistant Superintendent of Systems Operations, reflecting his deep commitment to operational excellence and strategic development.

Jason holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration. Prior to relocating to the UAE, he served for two decades in the U.S. as a teacher, grant coordinator, and Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) coordinator at two of the country’s most highly regarded high schools. His work in these roles was marked by a consistent focus on student achievement, well-being, and systemic improvement.

Since arriving in Dubai, Jason has made a significant impact at NIS. As Assistant Head of Secondary and later as Head of Secondary, he has led with a clear vision for academic excellence, student-centered growth, and continuous school improvement. Under his leadership, the secondary division saw notable gains in student progress and attainment across all subject areas, contributing to the school’s overall rating being elevated from ""Acceptable"" to ""Good."" In recognition of his expertise, Jason has also earned the School Inspector Competency Certificate, qualifying him as a certified UAE school inspector.

Jason's leadership philosophy centers on the belief that students must ""earn it""—a mindset that has meaningfully shaped the school's approach to character education and social-emotional learning. His initiatives have fostered resilience, accountability, and self-awareness among students.

With a proven track record of raising standards, cultivating strong school culture, and driving operational systems, Jason continues to be a key leader in shaping the future of education at Nibras International School and beyond.

Erik Rivera has a degree  in Psychology and Philosophy from Dickinson College in Pennsylvania, United States. He then went to study a Master of Education Degree for Secondary Education and Training at The John Hopkins University. Before arriving to Dubai, he worked as a SPED Coordinator and Teacher in the United States. As the Dean of Students at Nibras International School, he provides personalized academic advising to high school students, supporting course selection, academic planning, and career readiness. He is also one of the schook's Designated Safeguarding Lead in charge of leading safeguarding and wellbeing initatives to ensure that Nibras International School is a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

Darine Abdulkhalek is an Educational psychologist and a student counselor at our school, dedicated to supporting students’ emotional, social, and academic well-being. She holds a Master’s degree and is certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With specialized training in conflict de-escalation, Darin works closely with students, staff and parents to create a safe and supportive environment.

Amena Saleem is a qualified School Counselor with over 16 years of experience in educational and organizational psychology. As an active member of the Safeguarding Team, she is dedicated to promoting student safety and wellbeing by working closely with families to ensure that concerns are always addressed with care, sensitivity, and respect for privacy.

Prabu Rajamanickamn has more than 5 years of experience working in schools as a facilities supervisor and officer. As the Health, Safety, and Facilities Manager, he is responsible for ensuring a safe, healthy, and well-maintained school environment for students, staff, and visitors. He oversees our health and safety regulations, manages risk assessments, and supervises the effective maintenance and operation of school facilities.