Leadership

Dr. Pethan’s educational career took root more than 25 years ago when he volunteered to teach elementary school students to read. From that experience grew his appreciation for the craft and artistry of teaching. He taught Spanish and coached sports in the United States before continuing the profession in the Philippines. There, benefiting from examples and mentorship of fellow teachers, coaches, and skilled administrators, he increasingly took on school leadership responsibilities. He then put these skills to use by serving as an administrator for dynamic school communities in Saudi Arabia, Beijing, and Kuwait. He feels fortunate to now serve as the Raffles American School Superintendent where he hopes to build on the solid foundation of those who have come before him.

Demonstrating his commitment to lifelong learning, he earned a bachelor’s degree in zoology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Lehigh University, and a doctoral degree in leadership and learning in organizations from Vanderbilt University.

Mr. James Elliott is from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and he joined RAS in 2020 as a teacher and admissions representative. Mr. Elliott holds a BA in Rhetoric and Writing from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee as well as Professional Teaching Licenses for Elementary Education and ESOL. His career in education began back in 2014 as a Pre-K teacher at a private school in Wisconsin, where he discovered his passion for teaching and mentorship. Since then, he has taught students at every level, from early childhood to university. Since joining RAS, Mr. Elliott has taught ELL, 4th grade, 5th grade, and a multitude of CCAs while also assisting the admissions department in enrolling hundreds of new students. James believes that authenticity is the key to properly pairing families with a school to ensure that it suits their child’s educational needs, and he utilizes his experience as an RAS teacher to educate prospective families about the opportunities that Raffles American School can offer them.

Mrs. Darla Her is from Missouri, USA, and she joined RAS in 2022 as the Elementary School English Language Learner (ELL) teacher and Learning Support Specialist (LS) before becoming the Elementary School Assistant Principal. Darla holds a Bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education, a Master’s in Special Education from Nyack College, and an Education Specialist degree in Teacher Leadership from Southeast Missouri State University. Her career began in 2016 as a special education teacher at a charter school in New York City, where she worked closely with parents, teachers, and students to ensure all students had access to a quality and rigorous education. She has also taught special education and assisted in leadership roles in public schools in Missouri.  Since joining RAS, Darla has assisted in various projects for the school, including yearbook, founding the sewing club, and organizing standardized testing across the school. Darla believes that all students can learn and achieve their potential if the right supports are in place, and she is a passionate advocate for students to be lifelong learners in both academic and nonacademic skills.