Report from EARCOS conference and week ahead

Dear Faculty and Staff,

I am delighted to report the EARCOS was not just good; it was excellent in every way. For 53 years, EARCOS has stood for leadership in learning in Asia, and this year, it again lived up to its reputation. It was also fantastic to have a really strong team representing SSIS. 

A number of us gave presentations; Katie Rigney-Zimmermann presented on 2023 International School Admissions Industry Report, I presented on Generative AI: Facilitating Conversations with parents, students, and teachers, and David Chadwell presented on the SSIS WASC process. All of our presentations were very well received. 

So, as we return from the conference, we carry back a wealth of knowledge, fresh perspectives, and innovative ideas, and we are excited to share what we have learned with all of you. This Thursday, all 12 EARCOS attendees will meet to reflect on insights from keynote speaker Dr. Derrick Gay and other workshop presenters on Belonging. Dr. Gay’s workshop ‘Reframe Diversity to Drive Belonging in International Schools’ was particularly inspiring, and we look forward to exploring these ideas in greater detail.

But, that’s not all that is happening this week:

• Madeleine Le of Flansburgh Architects is working with us. It’s very exciting to get her perspectives on the building project development and to determine tweaks to ensure quality. 
• We expect to finalize the 2024-2025 budget with the Board this week.
• Megan Holmstrom is doing meaningful work with math teachers all week.
• SSIS looks forward to hosting ARWAE conference for art teachers later in the week.  
• And, as I looked out my window this afternoon, young students from across HCMC and their families were enjoying the SISAC U11 Championships—such excitement. 

I hope you have a fantastic week! I look forward to catching up with everyone during our WASC working time on Wednesday, if not before. 

Thank you for all that you do for our students and our community. 

All good wishes,

Catriona