INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Sukunya Anan

Sukunya Anan, known to many as Ms. Bell, is the lead pre-K teacher at KLA Schools of Horizon West. Her job duties include creating custom experiences and curriculum, observing children’s progression, promoting self-awareness among the children, and communicating with all parents about their child’s development. Some of her job-related accolades include becoming a part of the pre-K teachers lead team, teacher of the month and being one of four lead teachers chosen to attend a study group at Reggio Emilia’s Loris Malaguzzi International Centre in Reggio Emilia, Italy.  

What brought you to your school?

What brought me to the KLA Schools of Horizon West was the opportunity to broaden my educational teaching background. Having had experience in traditional teaching settings, I wanted to learn the Reggio Emilia Approach of developing early childhood children. 

What do you love most about your school? 

I love my school’s environment and overall layout. There are many different areas for children to discover.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is being able to make a difference. From the first day of school until the last day of school, the progress made by the children is enormous. 

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?  

I would be a flight attendant in an international airline. The reason for this is because I also have a passion for hospitality.  

Who influences you?  

The person that influences me the most would be Mrs. Milena Barros, who is the pedagogist at my school. She promotes positivity and observation of the children. 

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

My favorite teacher was Mr. Dominick, because he always pushed me out of my comfort zone, which allowed me to learn better.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

My favorite children’s book is “Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes,” because the story engages the children to keep trying and no matter what you step in, to keep singing your song, because it’s all good. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I like to attend group dancing sessions. Exercising and listening to music helps me prepare for any challenge.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

If I could dine with any famous person, it would be Lalisa Manobal from the Blackpink band. The reason is because she is an international superstar from my home country of Thailand. 

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

My superpower would be to have the ability to speak any language ever created. With this superpower, I would be able to communicate and emphasize with young children across the world. 

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

If I could only listen to three bands or artists, it would be Blackpink, Drake and Jaran Mnopet, who is a Thai artist. I like these three artists, because they cover a wide range of genres.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

I went to elementary school in Bangkok, Thailand, and my favorite go-to lunch was spicy noodle soup. My favorite snack in elementary school was Thai basil potato chips. 

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas is my favorite holiday of all time. I love Christmas music, family gatherings and all the holiday festivities. 

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

When I was in school, one of my best friends was Pinknuch. We had very similar upbringings and understand each other very well. We are still in touch.  

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

As a student, I participated in cheerleading, dancing and played an instrument called the ranat. The ranat is similar to a xylophone.