Weekly Update: April 25-29

We are officially past spring break, one week away from saying goodbye to some daily encounters with our IB Diploma students, and less than two months away from summer break…the end is in sight.  This is that time of year where it seems like things could not get any busier.  Take some time over the next few weeks to enjoy the company of our seniors and departing staff, as they set out for new adventures.   While I know things will get hectic, these farewells are extremely important.

Have a great weekend,

Jacob

Friday, April 22
Day 5- CDAB
Mr. Tsien 1o Year Anniversary, 4:30-6pm followed by reception (Auditorium)

Monday, April 25
Day 6- GHEF
Special Schedule: Career Day (Schedule Here)
Jacob Gone, WASC Accreditation Visit

Tuesday, April 26
Day 7- DABC
University Visit: Bowdoin and Haverford Colleges, 1st Break (Library)
University Visit: Ithaca College, Arizona State and Newcastle University London, Lunch (Library)
Grade 11 SOC Meeting, Lunch (Counseling Conference Room)
Jacob Gone, WASC Accreditation Visit

Wednesday, April 27
Day 8- HEFG
HS Faculty Meeting, 3:15-4:30 (MPR)
Jacob Gone, WASC Accreditation Visit

Thursday, April 28
Day 1- ABCD
Jacob Gone, WASC Accreditation Visit

Friday, April 29
Day 2- EFGH
Alternative Schedule (Pep Assembly)
Last Day for Full Diploma Seniors, April 29

On the Horizon
Reunification Holiday, May 2-3
IB Tests Begin, May 2
AP Tests Begin, May 4
Last Day of Classes for non-IB Diploma Seniors, May 12
Senior Final Exams, May 16-18
HS Prom, May 21

Jacob Gone Monday to Thursday– I will be at the Pan Asia International School next week in Thailand to serve on a WASC accreditation team.  As we plan our on five year WASC self study and accreditation visit in March of 2017, I felt the invitation was perfect timing for my own learning to support SSIS.  If there are any issues in my absence please see Thao and our counselors.  Mark Sylte will be available to support the HS for any time sensitive or larger issues.

High School Principal Survey Reflection– I sent out my reflection with the Dragon’s Lair email this week.  You can also review my reflection here via Google Doc.  Thanks again for the time you dedicated to my feedback, it is greatly appreciated.

Faculty Meeting this Week– The HSLT and Tina Fossgreen will be leading this week’s faculty meeting in my absence.  The focus of the meeting will be to finalize some of the structures for our pastoral advisory program next year.

Career Day on Monday– Just a reminder that we have a special schedule on Monday, April 25 for Career Day.  A special thanks to our counseling department to planning this great event for our students.  Students have the opportunity to explore a variety of careers during the four breakout sessions in the morning.

Graduation: Save the Date– Graduation is only five weeks away on May 28th at 4pm at the GEM Center.  This is a great opportunity to celebrate with our students and families.  Attendance is required for all high school staff.  Dress is formal, but no gowns are necessary.  There will be a bus from SSIS to the GEM Center at 2:30 pm.  Arrival will be about 3:15.  At that point you will be able to interact with our graduates in a private area designated for students and staff before commencement.  There is a reception immediately following which we encourage you to attend as well.  Additionally, there is a beautiful restaurant called The Log on the top floor that might be an excellent after ceremony dinner option for you.  The bus back to school will depart at 6pm.  More information to follow, but wanted to get you an early preview.

Pep Assembly on Friday– Our last pep  assembly of the year takes place on Friday, April 29th.  Thanks to Marsha and the Spirit Club for their assemblies and their support of MRISA and SISAC events over the course of the year.

Important Dates Shared with the Class of 2016– Heather and I shared some important dates with seniors about the end of the year and graduation before spring break.  The HSLT and counseling department reviewed these and believe they are accurate.  This letter was shared with seniors and their parents this week.  I thought you might want to have access to this.