Author: Edward Joseph Goldstein,

Welcome Back! I hope your (slightly shorter) Spring Break gave you a chance to rest, recharge, and find some joyful moments along the way. As we step back into our classrooms, let’s carry with us that fresh energy and optimism that spring always seems to bring. This return isn’t just about picking up where we left off. It’s a new opportunity—to inspire, to connect, and to make a real impact. The break gave us time to pause and reflect, and now we get to put fresh ideas into action. Let’s dive into this next chapter with energy, heart, and a...

Tuesday was the culmination of the partnership that we seek and want between our students, parents and school. It was so great to see students lead their parents in their learning journeys. From EC to grade 5, all students participated in showing their parents their successes. This week we have a busy 2 days before our Spring break begins. When we return our final Super Units begin. What can we do to get them excited in the next two days? #DragonsIgnite 24 – 28 March #DragonsIgnite Over the past couple of weeks, I witnessed an example of vertical alignment and technology skill progression...

This week, we’re thrilled to spotlight learning journeys—a celebration of the energy, creativity, and enthusiasm our students bring to our classrooms every day. This is an opportunity for students to showcase their achievements, struggles and resilience. The energy and creativity you bring not only highlight student achievements but also remind us all of the power of thoughtful, student-centered education. Your hard work and commitment are the driving force behind these inspiring experiences, transforming everyday learning into something really special. #DragonsIgnite 17-21 March #DragonsIgnite Last week, I facilitated verbal peer feedback sessions in some of our 3rd and 5th-grade classes, where...

Congratulations to Alan and the entire team for their hard work on the ES drama production of “The Claw.” Our young actors shined on stage, making it the perfect way to wrap up the week. Don’t miss the final encore performance on Tuesday morning! Looking ahead, next week will be a bit quieter compared to the hustle and bustle of the past few weeks and what’s to come. This slower pace gives you a great chance to focus on your students and enjoy more personal interactions. Take advantage of this time to build connections, explore new ideas, and simply enjoy...

I hope you all had a great weekend! Our sessions with Erin Kent Consulting over the last two weeks gave us some fresh ideas to try in our classrooms. This week, pick just one strategy that stood out to you—whether it’s a new way to manage your classroom, boost student engagement, or simply reflect on your teaching. Taking one small step can make a big difference. Try it out, see how it goes, and share your thoughts with the team. Let’s make this week amazing and keep growing together while we tend to our gardens. Our ES drama students will...

This past weekend SSIS celebrated International Day. It was a lively celebration of diversity and unity, bringing together students, families, and staff to explore different cultures, cuisines, and traditions; The event not only boosted community bonding and cultural awareness but also instilled pride and a sense of belonging by showcasing global customs in a fun, engaging way. Thank you to the PTA and the many volunteers that made food or shared traditions from their home countries. This week PD continues with EKC for our 1st – 5th grades. Please support your colleagues as they engage in very important professional development...

Congratulations, Grade 5, on a fantastic Week Without Walls experience! This trip was a powerful reminder of just how much can be accomplished in such a short time. Being able to join G5 on this journey reinforced the importance of the learning experiences we create and why they are so essential to our work. The time and effort we invest in these opportunities are more than just a launchpad for learning—they have the potential to ignite a lifelong passion for exploration and discovery. These moments can shape a student’s confidence, curiosity, and sense of adventure in ways that extend far...

As we move through February, our school continues to flourish both inside and outside the classroom. This past week, our Grade 4 students returned from their Week Without Walls experience, full of stories, discoveries, and newfound confidence. Whether it was collaborating, or simply learning to live alongside their peers for a few days, they blossomed in ways that only happen when we step outside our comfort zones. Now, it’s Grade 5’s turn! As they prepare for their own adventure this week, the excitement is building. There’s something special about these experiences—the independence, the teamwork, and the memories that last long...

This week, we celebrate Kindness Week, a time to recognize the impact of small gestures and intentional acts that create a culture of care and respect. Kindness isn’t just a theme for the week—it’s something we cultivate daily. Whether it’s through a smile, a helping hand, or words of encouragement, these moments matter. They shape our relationships, strengthen our community, and help every student feel seen, valued, and supported. Throughout the week, students will engage in activities that encourage them to notice kindness, practice kindness, and celebrate kindness. As educators, we have the privilege of modeling this, creating learning spaces...

Welcome back! We hope your Tet holiday was filled with rest, joy, and special moments with family and friends. As we enter the Year of the Snake, let’s embrace its wisdom, adaptability, and quiet strength—qualities that will guide us through the next part of our journey together. Our classrooms are ready to bloom again with curiosity, laughter, and learning. This is a wonderful time to refocus, reconnect, and reestablish routines that help our students thrive. Just like the snake sheds its skin for renewal, let’s also embrace fresh beginnings and new opportunities for growth during semester 2. We can’t wait...