Staff Directory

Ms. Derival (she/her) is a second-generation Cambodian woman, daughter of refugee immigrants, and mother of two Cambodian-Haitian sons. She graduated from Suffolk University with a degree in biochemistry and forensic science which helped her gain industry experience at forensic toxicology and green chemistry labs. Ms. Derival pursued graduate studies in green chemistry and education programs as she transitioned to a career in K-12 education. Ms. Derival joined Innovation Academy Charter School (IACS) in 2011. She facilitates chemistry, green chemistry, forensic science, and science and social justice classes through anti-racist and culturally relevant lenses. In 2019, Ms. Derival was inducted into the American Chemical Society’s Aula Laudis Honor Society, considered a Hall of Fame for high school chemistry teachers. She is honored to serve on the Massachusetts Culturally Responsive Teaching Task Force and IACS Racial Justice and Staff for Racial Justice Committees. Ms. Derival is passionate about healing the world through kindness and science, creating positive energy in social justice movements, and empowering others to remember that they are always, and in all ways, greater than they think they are.