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Meet the Team

 

Our native language speaking teachers are carefully selected through a rigorous interview process and equipped with the tools they need to provide quality, engaging lessons. They possess a wide variety of personal and professional backgrounds, but one thing they all share in common is a passion for teaching! You can get to know our teachers a little better through their bios below. And when you are ready, you can click here to speak with a Language Expert! 

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Charles Montenegro

Managing Director

 

I have more than ten years of experience in the educational sector. In 2013, I co-founded Mexican House of Languages and in 2020 American House of Languages. 

 

With Antonio Catena as a partner and other team members, we were able to create strong pillars combining state-of-the art technology and outstanding education at a low cost. We are ready to change the game! 

 

I studied in an American school from nursery in South America and went to study at Florida Atlantic University and other institutions. I have two bachelor’s degrees; one in international business and the other one in marketing. I also have a postgraduate degree in business administration. 

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Antonio Catena

Co-Founder

I am an experienced Country Manager with a proven work history in the Human Resources industry. Professional entrepreneur, expert in Negotiating, Outplacement, Business Planning, Entrepreneurship and Business Development.  

I have more than fifteen years of experience in Executive Search, national but also on an international level, in the area of searching for directors and middle management positions.  

I have worked for different sectors, but I have currently positioned myself in Mexico as one of the headhunters to go to in the areas of IT, Telecom, Energy, Engineering and Construction. In 2013, I launched Mexican House of Languages as a co-founder with Charles Montenegro. In 2020, we launched American House of Languages.

 

I have a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the Universidad Computense de Madrid España and a Master’s degree in Executive Management from IPADE.

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Matthew Smith

English Professor

Hi everyone. I’m Matt. I’m from California but I’ve lived in Mexico for the last seven years.


I graduated from California State University, Bakersfield with a bachelor's degree in history and a minor in political science. I have taught English for six years and I have a 100 hour TEFL certificate. I’m a native English speaker and I speak nearly fluent Spanish (B2). I have taught a variety of classes including business, conversation, test preparation, and comprehensive classes in a variety of settings including one on one, group, online and in person. My teaching style is dynamic and interactive. I like to use a variety of conversation games, role plays, music, and videos to complement my class material.

In my spare time I like to play and watch basketball, lift weights, watch movies and science and history documentaries.

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Javier Garcia

English Professor

 

I was born in Maracaibo, Venezuela where I completed my high school studies in Escuela Bella Vista, the only American accredited school in Maracaibo City. After graduating high school I attended Florida International University in Miami, Florida. I majored and received my bachelor's degree in International Business & Management. 

My favorite hobbies include weight lifting and functional training exercises, whenever I get the chance I also love to go horseback riding.

I consider myself to be a caring and enthusiastic teacher always concerned about my student's progress and well-being.

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Joe Mapleton

English Professor

I was born in India but lived all my life in USA, mainly Chicago.  I have a BSc. in Healthcare Management but worked as an Assistant Manager for one of the biggest limo companies in Chicago and then owned my own limo business. I have been teaching in Mexico for the past three years at all levels starting from 1st grade to adults.  I take great pride in teaching and truly enjoy seeing that I have made a difference in a persons life. Presently I am also a partner in an export and import company for agricultural products.

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Amanda Eastwood 

English Professor

 

Hi, my name is Amanda, I am from Melbourne, Australia and I am currently
living in Merida, Mexico. My background is in Business Administration, which I
have been working in for 30 years. I also have been teaching for 6 and a half
years, teaching mainly in Asia.


I enjoy keeping fit, coffee, and reading a good book. I enjoy teaching as it’s a way for me to meet people from all over the world. Also to help the students feel more confident speaking English.

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Julia Schatz 

English Professor

Hello! I’m Julia Schatz and am originally from Florida. I’ve been living in Mexico City for over two years. 
I have a Bachelors Degree in Cultural Communication and a TESOL Certification. I have a variety of teaching experience of all ages and language levels. 
My passion is helping people accomplish their goals through language learning! 
I enjoy traveling, exercising, and having good coffee with friends!

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Ricky Hu 

English Professor

Hello all. My name is Ricky Hu, but everyone calls me Rick. I was born and raised in New York City by immigrant parents. Coming from a diverse city, I was brought up accustomed to many different culture, ethnicity, and backgrounds.  I bring a humanistic approach, as well as a unique perspective on language acquisition. 

I have graduated from City University of New York SPS and attended State University of New York Geneseo with a bachelor’s in psychology (Psychopathology track) and a minor in biology. My professional background revolved around healthcare administration and the clinical side. I am currently semi-retired and split my time between Mexico, The U.S, China, and Germany. Aside from traveling, I enjoy exercising, playing the piano and guitar, and helping family members in their accounting and manufacturing businesses. 

I look forward to see you in class!

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Dora Marin

English Professor

Hello! My name is Dora Marin, I have been teaching English since I was 15, I’m also a doctor and I taught medical English for several years. I enjoy listening to music and walking with my dog. I really enjoy teaching and interacting with students.

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Darrel Gray

English Professor

Hello everyone.  I am Darrell Gray and am originally from Chicago.  I have been living in Tehuacan, Puebla for about four years.  I received a bachelor´s degree in business and an MBA from Indiana University.  Most of my work history in the United States included work in the business field.  I have been teaching English now for six years.  It is a very fun and fulfilling job.

In my free time, I enjoy reading and playing piano.  I am a passionate listener of classical music.  I also love to cook different types of food from all over the world.  I really love spending time with my dogs.  I only hope they feel the same way about me!

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Katia Farfán

Portuguese Professor

Hi, I'm Katia. I studied sociology, Portuguese and English at UNAM, when
I finished college, I went to live in South America and I was living as a nomad for a 
time.


Apart from being a Portuguese teacher, I work in the logistics of a company
transnational and I have my project as a visual artist.
I currently reside in Mexico City, I really enjoy sharing knowledge,
I am passionate about art, botany and design.

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