Our Teachers

NeuLingo is committed to providing the highest level of professional service to its students. We ensure our teachers are highly qualified, experienced, and enthusiastic. We provide training before teachers begin and offer continued professional development in striving for the highest quality instruction. Here’re some of our Star Teachers:

Sara Shotwell

Hi, I’m Hsiao-Yun Shotwell, also called Sara. I have a B.A. in Chinese Literature and a Master’s degree in TESOL, and have been teaching Chinese in the United States since 2006. I enjoy working with learners of all ages, and have helped the Oregon Department of Education with foreign language textbook adoption criteria for K-12 schools. Currently, I am the program and curriculum coordinator for the University of Portland’s Chinese Department. I like to employ task-based and project-based activities in class so that students can apply skills in authentic situations. I’m excited to share my passion for Chinese and look forward to seeing you soon!

Sara (Xinyi) Liu

My name is Xinyi Liu, but people often call me Sara. I’m from the southwestern Chinese city of Kunming, and I earned a B.A. in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language from Yunnan University. Afterwards I did my student teaching at Honghe University, where for two years I instructed international students ages 6 through 45. I also taught Mandarin at Rachineebunana High School in Thailand.

In 2012, I came to the U.S, where I have since been employed as a Mandarin Chinese teacher for Maryland’s Howard County Public School System. Teaching is my passion, so I’m proud to say that in 2018 I received my Master’s of Science in Advanced Teaching and Learning from National University in San Diego. I strive to inspire students with activities that are both instructive and fun, and I’m looking forward to starting this journey with you.

Jessie Jiao

Hi, my name is Jessie Jiao, and I’m a professional Chinese language teacher from mainland China. I began my career in 2014 as a volunteer teacher for the Confucius Institute in Thailand. I now have have four years’ teaching experience, with students hailing from all over the world, including England, Korea, and Japan. You will never be bored in my class—I work hard to foster a fun, friendly atmosphere. Looking forward to seeing you in class!

Mini Wang

Hello! My name is Wang Xiao but I go by Mini. I am originally from northeast China, and have years of Mandarin-teaching experience in both China and the US. I teach all levels and ages, from 5 years old to 70! I have taught one-on-one and in small class settings, and have also led Chinese festival celebrations with local schools and universities in Colorado. I love teaching Chinese and sharing Chinese culture with others, and my passion is making my classes fun and interesting. I am looking forward to seeing you in class!

Joyce Zhao

Hi! My name is Joyce Zhao. I was a student of Northeast Normal University, spent my last two years of college at Portland State University, and graduated with two Bachelor’s degrees, one in English and one in Psychology. I do not only help students gain language skills, but also support them in realizing their potential and in broadening their view of the world. Learning a second language is not easy, especially Chinese—but don’t worry, I am here for you. I look forward to teaching you, and hope my work in arts and culture can make you love Chinese.

Joe Zhou

Hello! My name is Joe Zhou. I’m a professional Mandarin teacher from China. I spent nine years in California for university and work. It has been two years since I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics with a minor in TESL. I have been working in the education field ever since I received my Qualification Certificate of Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages back in 2011. Being a teacher is empowering and fulfilling, particularly teaching languages, as this helps students grow into well-rounded individuals. I place a special emphasis on speaking ability, and am eager to put in the work to make students successful in language learning. Can’t wait to see you in class!

Coco Ying

Hi, I’m Coco Ying! I am a dedicated professional with 12 years’ experience in language training and relevant projects. I got my Bachelor’s in Bilingual Education and a Master’s in Business and Administration from the Inner Mongolia University of Technology in China, and have been tutoring children and adults in Mandarin since 2008. I was Head Teacher at Wall Street Institution in Beijing, and then the Teaching Director for New Oriental Training School. I now live in Chicago, where I’m pursuing teaching licensure issued by District of Columbia Public Schools. Teaching brings me great joy, and I look forward to meeting you guys and introducing you to the mystery and beauty that is Mandarin Chinese!

Tammy Tang

Hi, my name is Tammy Tang, and I’m from Guangzhou, China. I received my Bachelor’s of Science and Master’s of Business Administration from Johnson & Wales University in the US. In 2018 the Chinese University of Hong Kong certified me as being proficient in standard Mandarin, and I began teaching Chinese that year. In 2020 I started teaching for the Boys & Girls Club’s new language program while pursuing another Master’s, this time in teaching, a profession that brings me great fulfillment. I would love to introduce Mandarin Chinese and all of its cultural and historical elements to you. Let’s have fun and learn together!

Sophia Zhang

Hello everyone, my English name is Sophia, and my Chinese name is 张晓宇. I’m a Chinese teacher from Dalian, China. With a certificate of accreditation in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language at a senior level, I have been an instructor since 2019. I am a patient, friendly, and enthusiastic teacher that enjoys teaching Chinese classes online. I’m looking forward to seeing you in the classroom!