Sydney Butler
English teacher level 4, level 5, advanced conversation
Sydney has been teaching at the IDB Family Association since 2016, and currently focuses on advanced level and advanced conversation courses.
Sydney has extensive experience in the studies of English and history, having received the Outstanding History Student award from his high school, and the Outstanding Senior English Student award from his university. During his political and legal career, he spoke and presented arguments before national and international courts. During his career as Executive Director of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association he was both a keynote speaker and a recognized teacher of international conservation and education courses. He is a long time Washingtonian, having arrived in 1976 with the President Jimmy Carter administration, where he served in a high level political position from 1976 until 1980.
He is passionate about the English language, and how to help each particular student learn and use it in their personal, family and business lives.He is uniquely aware of Washington and American culture, and teaches with a full array of practical grammar, music, daily news, idioms, interview tactics and history.
Sydney is married and has four children and two grandchildren
Martha Pien
English Teacher
Level 3
Martha works with small groups and individuals to strengthen their English speaking, listening, writing, and reading skills. After 25 years as a communications specialist in the private and public sector, Martha returned to TESOL, a field she first embraced while teaching in Beijing, China.
Her MA in Journalism and TESOL Certificate support her ability to design lessons that meet the needs of English learners of all backgrounds—from mastering English skills for everyday life to skills needed at a professional level while working in the US. Martha loves supporting students from all levels and backgrounds and truly believes that “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Cesar Ponce de Leon
English Teacher Level 2, Adult Spanish Teacher
Originally from South America, Cesar Ponce de Leon arrived in the United States in 2002 without knowing a word of English. He understands firsthand what it feels like to navigate a new country, language, and culture—not just as a student of the language, but as someone who has lived the experience. Today, English is not only a language he speaks fluently, but one he teaches with passion and purpose.
With years of experience in teaching, coaching, and leading multicultural groups, Cesar brings a dynamic and engaging approach to language learning. He creates a classroom environment that feels more like a supportive family than a traditional classroom. His goal is to ensure every student feels seen, heard, and empowered as they gain the confidence to use English in everyday life.
Whether students are just beginning their journey with English or seeking greater fluency and comfort, Cesar is dedicated to helping them build not only language skills, but also confidence, community, and a sense of belonging.
Building on his bilingual background and multicultural experience, Cesar is also excited to offer Adult Spanish classes starting next semester. His Spanish classes will focus on practical communication, cultural insights, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages real-life application. Whether for travel, work, or personal enrichment, Cesar’s Spanish instruction provides an engaging and supportive way to learn one of the world’s most widely spoken languages
Alice Delserieys
French teacher
With 15 years of experience as a teacher educator, Alice has been training and mentoring educators across diverse international settings. Her passion for pedagogical innovation has led her to explore and refine teaching methods with approaches spanning from game-based learning, project-based instruction, and task-based approaches. She brings forward active, inclusive, and student‑centered classrooms.
Alice moved to the US in 2023 from France. She loves sharing France’s language, literature, and culture with learners of all ages. Whether through integrating French cuisine, music, or sharing cultural activities from the French community of Washington and region, she wants to spark a deeper appreciation for Francophone heritage and foster genuine international understanding.
Throughout her career she has been equipping educators with the tools they need to inspire students, and to create learning environments where everyone feels motivated, included, and curious about French language and culture.