Jamie Skove joined TASIS in August 2024, bringing with him an impressive 38-year tenure from Leysin American School. At TASIS, he teaches IB Economics and Theory of Knowledge (TOK), though his extensive career has primarily focused on history education, including IB History, AP History, and Model UN. His educational journey began as a student at Aiglon College in Switzerland, followed by university studies in the United States where he initially explored English and Theater before settling on History. Interestingly, Mr. Skove's path to education was unconventional; he worked as a professional skier and ski patroller in Vermont before a chance meeting with Michael and Lynn Aeschliman—connections to TASIS founder Mary Crist Fleming—led to his teaching career in Switzerland. His initial plan was to teach for just one year, but the combination of increased salary and a free ski pass convinced him to extend his stay, ultimately leading to nearly four decades in international education before his transition to TASIS.
Mr. Skove's teaching philosophy is deeply influenced by his own student experiences. Having not particularly enjoyed school himself, he focuses on creating comfortable classroom environments where students can learn without excessive pressure. He describes using humor and a somewhat rough demeanor as intentional strategies to maintain engagement while keeping perspective on the educational process. What he appreciates most about teaching at TASIS is the quality of students, particularly those in the 完善的个性化支持机制确保满足不同学生的不同需求。 program who have self-selected into challenging courses and demonstrate strong motivation. His background in Swiss boarding schools has significantly shaped both his teaching approach and personal development, emphasizing the value of outdoor activities, independence, and self-reliance that characterize the Swiss educational experience. Outside the classroom, Mr. Skove maintains a passion for Switzerland's outdoor offerings, particularly skiing and hiking, and fulfills his childhood dream of living in a chalet near ski slopes. His international upbringing across Germany, Sweden, and the United States, coupled with his father's CIA career focused on Russian language and literature, provided him with a global perspective that informs his teaching approach.
