About the authors

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Anissa Zotos is an experienced counselor, learning support teacher, and behavioral specialist who has served learning communities across the globe. 

Anissa has an extensive background in supporting students with diverse needs within a wide range of national and international settings including the United States, United Kingdom, and Vietnam. She holds a Masters in Special Education: Teacher of Students with Severe Disabilities and a Certificate of International School Counseling. 

Anissa’s professional passions include building cultures of belonging, facilitating restorative conversations, and assisting students and their families as they successfully navigate the challenges and opportunities of relocation and transition. 

Anissa holds certifications in international school counseling and supporting students with emotional disability, as well as degrees in special education and social and behavioral sciences. Committed to creating inclusive learning environments, Anissa has also engaged in professional learning with like-minded organizations including the Special Education Network and Inclusion Association (SENIA), Next Frontier Inclusion (NFI), and the International School Counseling Association (ISCA). 

Beyond the professional realm, Anissa is a passionate advocate for animal rights, finds solace in nature and gardening, and cherishes time spent with family, friends (and her lovely kitty, Cinnie). She is currently based in Massachusetts, U.S.A. 

Dylan Meikle is a highly accomplished and experienced educator, counselor, and award-winning author, and has worked in progressive international schools in China, Vietnam and Singapore. 

Dylan is a certified elementary school teacher, holds a Masters of Educational Leadership and Administration, a Certificate of International School Leadership. He is a member of the Australian Counseling Association.

In 2020, Dylan authored Learning in Lockdown, a handbook that gained recognition for its practical guidance on navigating the significant disruptions that arose during Covid-19 school closures. His insightful writing has also been featured on the International Baccalaureate Organisation's blog, and contributed to a globally available resource for parents and teachers. Moreover, Dylan has been acknowledged as an innovator in the field of learning space design, having co-founded makespace4learning.com and championed this work for over a decade. 

Currently based in Singapore with his wife and two children, Dylan serves as a Dean of Student Life. With personal experience of relocating to a new country twice with his own children, he has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges that come with such a move. His unique experiences and caring approach make him a valuable asset to the education community.