Author: Melanie Sylvester

May 31 – June 4

Congratulations on completing Week 3, Round 2 of Virtual School for this year. As we head into the final two weeks of school let’s all look after ourselves and each other as best we can. I came across this checklist for kids and I thought it pertains to us adults too. Have a look and see what speaks to you. We can do this. And we can do this well! CURRENT UPDATES: 1) What is the expectation for teachers completing pass-up folders? Pass-up folders should still be completed according to the original format, but the expectations for the due date are...

May 24 – 28

Congratulations on completing Week 2, Round 2 of Virtual School for this year! As uncertainly seems to be the name of the game right now, we need to continue to focus on supporting each other. I have noticed so many acts of kindness, words of encouragement, and teams leaning on each other. We can do this. And we can do this well. Travel Questionnaire: If you travel outside of HCMC (even on a weekend trip), you must fill this in before you travel. Thanks! Caterer’s Portal: The new Caterers Web Portal is accessible via the eNews main menu, under “The Caterers”...

May 17 – 21

Congratulations on completing Week 1, Round 2 of Virtual School for this year. It has been a joy jumping into Google Meets and seeing all the learning in place. From EC to Grade 5 our students are online and engaging in exceptional learning experiences! Travel Questionnaire: If you travel outside of HCMC (even on a weekend trip), you must fill this in before you travel. Thanks! Caterer’s Portal: The new Caterers Web Portal is accessible via the eNews main menu, under “The Caterers” or via this link: To begin using the portal for the first time, follow these simple steps: Enter your...

May 10 – 14

WE CAN DO THIS! AND WE CAN DO THIS WELL. Thanks for all of your efforts with the upcoming transition to virtual school. You are experienced and prepared. The students know what to do. We can do this….well! Travel Questionnaire: If you travel outside of HCMC (even on a weekend trip), you must fill this in before you travel. Thanks! Caterer’s Portal: The new Caterers Web Portal is accessible via the eNews main menu, under “The Caterers” or via this link: To begin using the portal for the first time, follow these simple steps: Enter your user name: Your school ID Enter...

May 4 – 7

As we shift into May, a very busy month, I came across a gem that I’d like to share. It is called the “Going Home” checklist. At the end of each busy day, before you leave for your comfy homes, consider this checklist: Travel Questionnaire: If you travel outside of HCMC (even on a weekend trip), you must fill this in before you travel. Thanks! Caterer’s Portal: The new Caterers Web Portal is accessible via the eNews main menu, under “The Caterers” or via this link: To begin using the portal for the first time, follow these simple steps: Enter your user...

April 26 – 30

Our students have been busy exploring systems thinking. Critical thinking, inquiry and collaboration skills are going strong. It is evident that your work of building these skills throughout the year is shining through! Your little ones are almost ready to move on to the next Grade level. Thanks for all of the thought and care you are putting into Class Creator and the assessing of students at this time of year. I’ll say it again, our students are so fortunate for your care! This week, Evelyn presented to parents on reading and writing and Kattina presented to new faculty on...

April 19 – 23

It seems that the rainy season is upon us, with a bang! This means we are now working on SuperUnit 4, gathering assessments, and solidifying skills to get our students ready to move up a Grade level. Next week has a mid-week holiday- enjoy this! CTP Testing: For Grades 3, 4, & 5 CTP testing continues this week. Here is the CTP Proctoring Presentation for your reference. Here is the CTP Make Up Document as well. Personal Wellness & PERMAH: How is your wellness today? Last week, David Carpenter, worked with our New Faculty on this topic and shared some...

April 12 – 16

Welcome back! It was nice to hear that everyone had a lovely Spring Break. There were a lot of beaches visited! As things ramp up towards the end of this school year, continue to visit those memories with a nice, deep breath! CTP Testing: For Grades 3, 4, & 5 CTP testing begins this week. Here is the CTP Proctoring Presentation for your reference. Personal Wellness & PERMAH: How is your wellness today? Last week, David Carpenter, worked with our New Faculty on this topic and shared some valuable resources and processes. If you’d like to take a look, reflect...

April 5 – 9

There was so much happening this week. Congrats and a huge thanks to all of the teachers, coaches, TAs and support staff that contributed to field trip successes! Our students are so fortunate. Surveys:  Please complete the surveys on people whom you have had significant interaction with or who influence your work at SSIS.  All of the surveys are anonymous.  All surveys are being sent now so that you can choose when to complete them before, during or after break.  They all close on Friday, April 9. Community Survey Faculty 2021 Head of School Survey 2021 – Catriona Moran ES...

March 22 – 26

There was so much happening this week. Congrats and a huge thanks to all of the teachers, coaches, TAs and support staff that contributed to field trip successes! Our students are so fortunate. Learning Journeys: Schedules have been shared with you. We will be providing lunch (burrito bowls). Please use this form to let us know what you would like – this is optional. Starbucks coffee and a variety of teas will be provided throughout the day as well! Enjoy! Thanks for all of your hard working preparing your students for the sharing of their learning. Learning Journeys Duty Schedule:...