Meet Derrick: The Teacher with a Medical Heart

Hi, I’m Derrick Turner. I’m currently an English Educator at ILA Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City, where I work with elementary students in our private centers and high schoolers in local public schools. Since 2025, I’ve been on the ground helping students navigate their academic journeys, but my perspective on education is different from most.

30 Years of Medical Care Meets 8+ Years of Global Teaching

Before I was “Teacher Turner” in South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam, I spent three decades in the medical field. My career has spanned every level of care—from CNA and Phlebotomist to Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) and Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON).

I’ve worked in private, in-house, and psychiatric care with both adults and children. I even earned my Medical Coding certification in 2020, giving me a deep understanding of medical data and digital systems.

Why Does This Matter for Your Child’s Education?

When I look at an online course or a STEM subscription box, I’m not just looking at “fun” graphics. I’m evaluating it using a unique double-lens:

• The Clinical Eye: I understand child development and safety protocols from 30 years of medical practice. I know what is developmentally appropriate and safe for young minds and bodies.

• The Educator’s Strategy: With over 8 years of international ESL experience, I know how to design lesson plans that actually engage students. I’ve seen what works in the classroom—and what doesn’t.

My Mission at Courses4Kids

I started this site because I wanted to provide parents with a “Teacher-Tested, Nurse-Approved” roadmap. I’ve lived and worked across Asia for nearly a decade, mastering cross-cultural communication and curriculum design. When I recommend a platform like IXL or a subscription like MEL Science, it’s because I’ve vetted it for educational value and safety. You aren’t just getting a link; you’re getting a recommendation backed by a lifetime of professional care and global instruction.