Author: Cebu International School

Admin News

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

Is attendance important?

A report titled Present, Engaged, and Accounted For* highlights the need for students to be “present and engaged” in order to learn. 

“Common sense and research suggest that attending school regularly is important to ensuring children develop a strong foundation for subsequent learning.” The report notes this is especially important in the early years (elementary school) and high-poverty areas. Middle and high school teachers will similarly verify that their students, particularly those in rigorous college preparation courses such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, will also be negatively impacted by missing significant amounts of instructional time.   

Chronic absenteeism (loosely meaning missing over 10% of classes) diminishes the educational experiences of not only the child who is absent but also children who attend school regularly. Tardiness (beginning late) can likewise contribute negatively, as classes are missed and disrespectful behavior patterns are developed.  

A summary of the negative effects of excessive tardiness and absenteeism is as follows:

• It is impractical for all instruction to be given again, so an absent student will simply not be able to get the same level of instruction upon their return.
• The impact of this is excessive absences will affect your child’s academic and social progress – at both MHS and at the ES level! (Refer to the graph on the right showing the  impact on performance in G1.) 
• Teachers have to do extra work to follow up on students, re-explain work missed, and adjust lessons when members do not turn up (especially if presentations, tests, etc. are planned). This extra work negatively impacts other students as teachers end up having to divert some of their attention to meet the learning and social needs of children who miss classes.
• When a group member is absent, Other students have to carry the burden of group work. The absent student also misses out on valuable social learning opportunities that can not be re-created by catching up when they return. Social interaction may also be part of the assessed learning task.
• Avoidable tardies not only disrupt a class when a student arrives late, but also contribute to reinforcing disrespectful and undisciplined behavior that if not corrected, can lead to future difficulties later in life. Tardy students also miss out on announcements causing more work for the teachers to catch up with them at a later time if it is urgent, and in some cases, the student will miss out on time-sensitive announcements.
• It is harder for some students to stick to school regulations when others consistently ignore them. High school students in particular are role models to younger students, as are Student Council members who represent their class.
• All students, but particularly elementary students, work best when they follow regular routines. Being absent disrupts not only the absent student but also the class upon their return. 

That being said, it is important to note that there will likely be times when absences or tardies are unavoidable (such as illness, or a death in the immediate family). If the tardiness is due to a lack of adequate planning, however, that should not be considered unavoidable (such as allowing spare time for variable traffic times when coming to school!). Another important note is that, while it would be preferable that poor habits were not allowed to develop, if they do, students will typically need support to help overcome them, not simply be told off.

Here are some practical tips for parents to help (adjust for age appropriateness!):

• Discuss the issue openly with your child and emphasize the seriousness of the habit. Note the negative consequences that occur if the situation is not rectified. Refer to the attendance policy in the parent and student handbook, and go through it together. If a student is denied credit, they may have to make up work (even over the summer!), and in severe cases, may not qualify to move to the next grade or graduate as planned.
• Parents of more mature students, do not take the blame for your child when they don’t make an effort to improve their habits. As a parent, you need to guide them into making the right choices, but letting a student learn to take responsibility for themselves is an important aspect of growing up. At the same time, be aware of your responsibility to help, especially if you are affecting their chance of success (such as if you are driving them to school and you are the one not leaving enough time to get them there in time!).
• Ensure your child gets adequate sleep, an appropriate diet, and exercise. In addition, if they are participating in excessive out-of-school activities (such as tutorials, part-time work, sports, etc.), please discuss if these are appropriate, considering the absences.
• Encourage your child to get help with approaches to learning skills such as organizational skills if they are taking excessive lengths of time to complete homework. Organized students will plan for “crunch” times, plus if there is going to be a deadline conflict, they must approach the teacher early (NOT just before it is due), so something can be worked out. Students are not expected to consistently study into the morning hours – that is not effective and they end up coming to school tired and inattentive, or not coming at all. Needless to say, parties and late-night socializing on nights before school should be avoided. 
• If a student feels they are getting too much homework, review how effectively they are studying, and again, help them consider how to develop effective study habits. Trying to do homework with the TV on or constantly checking devices for social media while doing homework has been proven to be very inefficient. Ask them to discuss their challenges with their teachers to get help – do not think their teacher is not interested in helping them, they are!
• Procrastinating (putting things off) will not get required learning engagements done. Time should be planned, including short breaks to stretch and get refreshed. Studying late at night is not efficient.
• Book holiday flights early, and respect calendared school days. Arranging overseas travel can be challenging, especially with prices rising during holidays, but it is important to keep in mind the impact of missing even one day of school. The beginning and end of school terms are particularly important to help students settle in socially, get a good introduction to a subject, and complete assessment tasks respectively. For older students, consider leaving/returning a few days later/earlier to give your child the opportunity to catch up on their home learning – especially around assessment periods. 

This article is intended to raise awareness of the importance of student attendance. 

Has it? When considering absences from now, will your first question be, is this planned absence avoidable? I hope so! A good start to acting on this knowledge is to discuss the points above with your children so they can also consider the impact of missing learning opportunities. Successful CIS students are responsible, respectful, and prepared!

References & notes:

1. *Hedy N. Chang and Mariajosé Romero (2008): Present, Engaged, and Accounted For – The Critical Importance of Addressing Chronic Absence in the Early Grades http://www.nccp.org/publications/pub_837.html
2. Images from a) nccp.org b) © Cebu International School  c) Pixabay.com (free non-attributable license)
3. This article was updated in March 2025 after originally being written by Dr. Gwyn Underwood in November 2010. 

Upcoming events of note

• Mar 17-31: IB Art Exhibit @ CIS
• Mar 19-23: ISAC 3 @ BISM (19th & 23rd travel days)
• Fri, Mar 28: Centennial Showcase (CIS Got Talent)
• Apr 1-4: STEM Week
• Wed, Apr 9: School Day (Day of Valor: Compensatory holiday-Apr 11)
• Thu, Apr 10: G12s last day of classes
• Thu, Apr 10: TOK Exhibition (DP1)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Siglo: A Centennial Production by CIS

For the first time in years, CIS is taking the stage beyond campus for a special Centennial Showcase! Join us on March 28 at Oakridge Studio, 12F Oakridge IT Center 3 for an unforgettable evening of storytelling, talent, nostalgia, and celebration as we commemorate 100 years of Cebu International School.

🎟 Tickets are now available at the CIS cashier! Bring your family, friends, and loved ones—this is a show you won’t want to miss! Stay tuned for more details on the cast, synopsis, and story.

Grade 3 Class

by Ms. Katrina del Mar, Grade 3 Homeroom Teacher

Where We Are in Place and Time

“The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time.” by Abraham Lincoln

Grade 10: Math Class

by Mr. Daniel Monfre, MYP Math Teacher

Exploring Trigonometry in the Real World!

In Grade 10 Math, students take their learning beyond the classroom and into the real world! As part of their trigonometry unit, students have been applying their knowledge of right triangle trigonometry to estimate the heights of various structures around the school, including mountains, statues, and towers.

Working in small groups, students measured two angles of elevation from different points and recorded the distance between these two points. Using tangent functions, they then calculated the height of their chosen structure. This hands-on activity not only deepened their understanding of trigonometry but also reinforced the importance of precision in mathematical measurements.

After completing their calculations, students compared their results with their group members, analyzing any discrepancies. They engaged in discussions to justify the accuracy of their measurements, considering factors such as measurement error, estimation techniques, and external variables. Finally, they reflected on whether their results made sense in a real-world context, connecting their mathematical reasoning to practical applications.

Through this activity, students gained valuable insight into how mathematics is used in various fields, such as engineering, architecture, and surveying. We are proud of their engagement, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving skills as they applied trigonometry to meaningful real-world scenarios!

Happy π Day!

Every year on March 14th (3/14), we get to celebrate π(P)i Day! Why? The value of pi is approximately 3.14 and the date written in Month/Day format is 3/14, same number!  It’s basically a math party, filled with fun games, math puzzles, songs, and puns. Pi pops up everywhere, from circles to how stuff moves, to angles, and more. 

If you’re looking for a fun excuse to do some mathy stuff, eat some pie, and just have a good time thinking about numbers, then you should celebrate too!

As part of the celebration at CIS students were involved in pi memorization challenges, classroom games, pi songs, and the pi day challenge from pidaychallenge.com! They’ve got a bunch of fun math puzzles and challenges that’ll get your brain working. It’s not just for math whizzes either; anyone can give them a shot. So, grab your family, jump online, and see how many puzzles you can solve. It’s a great way to celebrate Pi Day and learn something new! Have a happy pi day!

Theory of Knowledge Class

by Mr. Damon Freeman, TOK Teacher

In our Theory of Knowledge (TOK) class, we recently took an exciting detour from our already thought-provoking curriculum to host our first-ever Ethics Olympics. Ethics is a cornerstone of TOK, encompassing questions such as What is ethics? How do we apply ethical frameworks? How does ethics intersect with relativism? This event provided students with a hands-on opportunity to explore these fundamental concepts at a deeper level.

Structured as a competitive yet intellectually stimulating debate, the Ethics Olympics assigned specific roles to students: three acted as judges, two teams of three debated ethical dilemmas, a separate team devised the ethical scenarios, and a debate manager oversaw the proceedings. Each team presented arguments supporting their stance, engaged in rebuttals, and defended their perspectives under scrutiny. The panel of judges established criteria to evaluate the strength of arguments and awarded points, ultimately declaring a winner.

Looking ahead, we plan to expand the Ethics Olympics into an inter-class and inter-grade competition, creating an even broader engagement with ethical reasoning. However, the true value of this initiative lies beyond the competition itself. By grappling with complex moral dilemmas, students cultivate critical thinking skills, develop empathy, and recognize the nuanced implications of ethical decision-making in the real world. While many ethical questions lack clear-cut answers, the ability to thoughtfully engage with them is what shapes responsible leaders and conscientious global citizens.

This event marked an excellent beginning, and we are eager to see how it evolves in the future—challenging students to think, debate, and reflect on ethics in ways that will empower them long after they leave the classroom.

Professional Learning Community

by Ms. Angelica Campos, Optimal Learning Coordinator

As part of our continuous learning, the teachers at CIS work hard at becoming more aligned with UDL (Universal Design for Learning) practices to benefit all students in all subjects. This year I am lucky to belong to the PLC that works with “Supporting students in making thinking visible”. Teachers from Early Years up to Middle High School sit to design a plan to achieve our goal of supporting students in making thinking visible. 

We started by talking about what we wanted to achieve in our class and for our particular students, always considering the importance of the ATL (Approaches to Learning) across the curriculum. 

We mapped out what our year of learning would look like, and what we would have to have achieved by the end of the year.

We have been doing research on different sites in order to find the most suitable Thinking Routines that support our students according to their grade level, preferences and language needs.

At this point, our PLC is in the experimenting, gathering evidence part of our learning journey. Teachers have tested various Thinking routines with our class, we have also collected the data and information that will help us improve these routines next year in order to become better educators. Take a look at our students’ thinking made visible! 

College & Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor

DATE

March 19, 2025
6:30 PM Singapore time
LINK to register

EVENT

Information Session on the National University of Singapore (NUS) Summer Programs- Students will get an opportunity to engage with University Professors, Researchers, Industry Experts, experience NUS’ campus life and network with learners from different schools/countries building new friendships and beautiful memories.

SAT Update

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Principal’s Corner

by Ms. Maureen Juanson, Elementary School Principal, PYP Coordinator & Accreditation Officer

Parent Engagement in Student Learning in the PYP

Last week, our elementary school community came together to celebrate learning in a meaningful and engaging way. Across different grade levels, students proudly shared their learning journey during the Celebration of Learning, showcasing their understanding, skills, and attributes developed through inquiry. Parents played an active role—listening to their children’s reflections, observing their presentations, providing feedback, and asking thoughtful questions that encouraged deeper reflection. These moments of connection provided valuable insights into how learning in the PYP unfolds through play-based and concept-based inquiry.

A key highlight was the Grade 5 PYPx Parent-Student Workshop, where students and parents engaged in authentic dialogue about students’ passions and inquiries for the PYP Exhibition (PYPx). Parents offered their perspectives, shared their experiences, and helped students explore different pathways for their inquiries. This collaboration strengthened students’ sense of agency, demonstrating how learning is enriched when families and educators work together.

These events reflect the IB’s philosophy on The Learning Community, which emphasizes the importance of partnerships among all stakeholders in fostering student growth and well-being. When parents, students, and educators engage in open dialogue and mutual respect, they create a dynamic learning environment where curiosity, inquiry, and meaningful connections thrive. The IB Learner Profile attributes such as being caring, principled, and communicators, are at the heart of these interactions, supporting a culture of trust and collaboration.

It was also wonderful to see strong parent participation in our Elementary Assemblies, where students were filled with joy knowing their parents were curious about their learning and progress. These moments highlight the importance of home-school partnerships, reinforcing that learning is not confined to the classroom but is a shared responsibility within the wider community.

We look forward to continue strengthening our collaboration with parents throughout the rest of the year. Your involvement is invaluable, and we appreciate the role you play in enriching student learning and fostering a thriving learning community!

Upcoming events of note

• Fri, Mar 7: HAD 3 (AM only / PM – No Classes)
• Mon, Mar 10: School Holiday
• Tue, Mar 11: Quarter 4 Start
• Fri, Mar 14: Elem School Open Day
• Mar 17-31: IB Art Exhibit @ CIS
• Mar 19-23: ISAC 3 @ BISM (19th & 23rd travel days)
• Fri, Mar 28: Centennial Showcase (CIS Got Talent)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

📝 Register now: https://forms.gle/1JFvSkysNnB4RrtE7
🌐 Learn more: https://cis.edu.ph/join/open-day/

Kinder / Grade 1 Class

by Ms. Maffy Ocleasa, Kinder/Grade 1 Teacher

Makers Fair Showcases Young Innovators

The Kinder and Grade 1 students proudly showcased their creativity and learning during the much-anticipated Makers Fair, a culminating event for their unit on properties of materials under the transdisciplinary theme How the World Works. This fair provided a platform for students to present their innovative projects, highlighting their understanding of materials and their properties.

Innovative Creations and Thoughtful Explanations
Each student displayed unique projects, carefully crafted using various materials. They confidently explained their creations—why they made them, what materials they used and why, and how they constructed them. Through this experience, students applied their knowledge in a hands-on and meaningful way.

Integrating Science and Literacy
Beyond the hands-on creations, the Makers Fair also highlighted the students’ developing writing skills. They wrote sequence/procedural texts detailing the steps they followed to make their projects, demonstrating their ability to communicate their thinking through both writing and speaking.

Building Approaches to Learning (ATL) Skills 
This event was more than just a showcase; it was an opportunity for students to enhance their communication skills by presenting their projects to an audience. They also strengthened their social skills by collaborating with peers and engaging with visitors. Additionally, their self-management skills were put into practice as they set up their stations, rehearsed their presentations, and ensured they were fully prepared for the fair.

Support from Parents and Guests 
Parents, teachers, and students from other classes were invited to the event, creating a supportive and engaging atmosphere. Guests played an essential role in deepening student learning by asking thoughtful questions and encouraging students to think critically about their creations and processes.

Reflecting on the Learning Journey 
At the end of the fair, students took time to reflect on their experience—what they did well and what they could improve. This reflection allowed them to recognize their growth and set goals for future learning experiences. The Makers Fair was a testament to how young learners can apply their knowledge beyond the classroom, taking ownership of their learning with confidence and enthusiasm.

The Makers Fair was the culmination of all the weeks we spent learning about our unit. Check the photos below to see the long process our students went through to achieve success during the Makers Fair.

Grade 6 Week Without Walls

by Mr. Adom Thorne, Grade 6 Teacher

There is one word to best  describe the past weeks in the MHS: Teambuilding.  Between our community action initiatives with as our pre- week without walls focus, the different locations for our outdoor education, and house activity day, the students have been learning to be connected to one another, their greater community and nature.  Our week without walls was a test of our 5 respects as the students learned to navigate different conditions, learn about survival outdoors, and learn why shelter is an important part of humanity. These activities are helpful to provide real-world contextual application for our learning within both humanities and language and literature. The students now have a broader array of experiences with which to use in their writing and creative thinking.  As we rocket towards the end of the year, the students will continue to display the skills as the classes continue to prepare them for the next academic year.  Only a few more weeks to Easter break, so keep up the good work CIS Dragons.

College & Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor

DATE

March 11, 2025
College Fair
9:00 – 9:45 AM
Venue: Canteen Annex
This fair is brought to CIS by AMS Global

EVENT

Australia College Fair – talk to representatives from major universities in Australia and learn more about their programs.

List of Participating Institutions :

Note: This fair is open to all parents and Grades 9 through 12 students.

SAT Update

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Admin News

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

Congratulations students for successfully completing your Week Without Walls activities over the past two weeks! This Newsflash is the third to highlight the WWW program, and today, we are providing a pictorial focus on the MHS activities that finished today!

• What is the WWW program? Please refer to our January 24 Newsflash for details, but in brief, CIS runs a Week Without Walls (WWW) program that provides students with a unique, immersive learning experience outside the traditional classroom setting, with activities that are intentionally designed to foster service learning, teamwork, leadership, and environmental stewardship while nurturing a global mindset. 
• The ES WWW ran on February 11-14 and was showcased in last week’s  February 14 Newsflash 
• The MHS WWW ran from Feb 18-21 and is highlighted in today’s Newsflash below.

Grade 6 Week Without Walls: Coastal

Grade 7 Week Without Walls: Forest

Grade 8 Week Without Walls: River

Grade 9 Week Without Walls: Mountain

Grade 10 Week Without Walls: Island

Grade 11 Week Without Walls: The Journey

Upcoming events of note

• Feb 14 – 21: G12 IB Mock Exams
• Feb 18 – 21: MHS Week Without Walls
• Mon, Feb 24: Public Holiday (Cebu City Charter Day)
• Tue, Feb 25: Public Holiday (EDSA Anniversary)
• Fri, Feb 28: CIS Open Day for Middle & High School (Grades 6-12)
• Fri, Mar 7: HAD 3 (AM only / PM – No Classes)
• Mon, Mar 10: School Holiday
• Tue, Mar 11: Quarter 4 Start

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

CIS Open Day 2025

College & Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor

DATE

March 6, 2025
Thursday
9:00 – 9:40 AM
Venue: Canteen annex

March 9, 2025
Sunday
12:00 – 5:00 pm
Seda Central Bloc
IT Park

March 11, 2025
College Fair
9:00 – 9:45 AM
Venue: In school – actual room to be confirmed

Australia College Fair – talk to representatives from major universities in Australia and learn more about their programs.
List of Participating Institutions (to follow)

SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

CIS Open Day 2025

Principal’s Corner

by Ms. Maureen Juanson, Elementary School Principal, PYP Coordinator & Accreditation Officer

One of the most anticipated events of the school year, Week Without Walls (WWW) took learning beyond the classroom through outdoor adventure, action, and service. The Elementary teachers spent months planning and organizing meaningful experiences, and students eagerly engaged in activities that built self-management skills, fostered empathy, and strengthened their sense of global citizenship.

Lower Elementary students took part in recycling workshops, sandwich art, and water play, while Upper Elementary students tackled outdoor education challenges, a Model United Nations conference, and leadership training camps. Off-campus experiences provided unique learning opportunities, including marine exploration at Ocean Park, creative workshops at Cebu Making Space, conservation studies at Crocolandia and Adlawon Farm, and a three-day outdoor adventure camp with service learning in San Remigio.

Beyond the excitement, WWW was a powerful opportunity for students to apply their learning in real-world contexts, deepen their connections within the community, and demonstrate the CIS Five Respects – respect for self, others, authority, learning, and the environment. At CIS, we are responsible, respectful, and prepared – and this week was a shining example of that commitment in action.

Early Years 2 and 3

EY Team: Ms. Maya, Ms. Ann, Ms. Freya, Ms. Anne, Ms. Kres, Ms. Marie

Kinder and Grade 1

Kinder and Grade 1 Team: Ms. Maffy, Ms. Emilia, Ms. Janelle, Ms. Mich, Ms. Dina, Ms. Ivy

Grades 2 and 3

Grade 2/3 Team: Mr. Sean, Ms. Katrina, Ms. Jojie, Ms. Mayumi, Ms. Alison, Ms. Demy

Grades 4 and 5

Grade 4/5 Team: Mr. Sten, Ms. Aimee, Ms. MJ, Ms. Liezel, Ms. Vangie, Ms. Jessa

Week Without Walls has been a truly transformative journey—one filled with growth, courage, connection, and lasting memories. Through real-world challenges, meaningful service, and adventure, our students have proven themselves to be resilient, compassionate, and globally minded young leaders who are ready to make an impact in the world.

Upcoming events of note

• Feb 3 – 14: G11 & G12 Art Exhibition
• Feb 11 – 14: ES Week Without Walls
• Feb 14 – 21: G12 IB Mock Exams
• Feb 18 – 21: MHS Week Without Walls
• Mon, Feb 24: Public Holiday (Cebu City Charter Day)
• Tue, Feb 25: Public Holiday (EDSA Anniversary)
• Fri, Feb 28: CIS Open Day for Middle & High School (Grades 6-12)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Grade 9: MYP Science

by Ms. Christine Enrile, MYP Science Teacher

The Grade 9 students have been actively engaged in a wide variety of activities to deepen their understanding of science concepts.  In the unit entitled, ‘The interconnectedness of Earth’s systems’, the students created dioramas of the different biogeochemical cycles that support life on Earth.  They then shared their knowledge with younger students in Grades 4 and 5, who were then learning about adaptations, symbiosis, and biomimicry.  The students showcased their dioramas and enjoyed a session of discussion, games, and collaborative work.

In the unit entitled, ‘Beyond the visible’, the Grade 9 students continue to develop their critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills through diverse activities.  One such activity involved creating visual representations of their learning, where they interpreted the unit’s statement of inquiry through drawings. Students then shared their artwork and discussed the different perspectives and common themes that emerged.

Additionally, the students participated in a debate exploring the balance between the advantages and disadvantages of modern technology’s reliance on electromagnetic waves. They thoroughly researched their positions and supported their arguments with sound scientific reasoning.

Science classes benefit greatly from hands-on experiments, which help students grasp concepts more effectively.  Students recently explored reflection of light, specifically image location in plane mirrors and the Law of Reflection. This involved practicing drawing precise lines for incident and reflected rays, as well as accurately measuring angles. Through data collection and analysis, they formed conclusions consistent with established scientific principles.

IB Graduate Visitors @ CIS

by Mr. Steve Duba-Maack, DP/MYP Language & Literature Teacher

The CIS students had many questions about what the IB means to Giovanni and Andres, and how they benefited from their experience in university and beyond. Giovanni and Andres were happy to oblige with detailed answers. Both men were extraordinarily successful even though their families went through quite difficult times while they were in the Diploma Programme.

Giovanni and Andres are extraordinarily appreciative of what they learned through their studies in the Diploma Programme, and they still look back fondly on their experiences, even 9 years after graduating high school. They are also appreciative of the warm and welcoming CIS students and the opportunity to share with CIS.

College & Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor

Spotlight on universities in Hong Kong

Below is a detailed comparison table on the 7 main universities in Hong Kong:

✅ HKU, CUHK, and HKUST are top-tier, research-focused universities with strong global rankings.
✅ PolyU, CityU, and HKBU provide career-oriented and creative programs.
✅ Lingnan University is best for students interested in a liberal arts education.
✅ Generous scholarships are available for international students based on merit.
✅ Applications open from October to March, with priority deadlines in December-January for most universities.

DATE

February 16, 2025
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, Cebu
The Global Education Fair is free!

Register here if interested.

EVENT

Connect Directly with Universities and Colleges Abroad

SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Benjamin Martin, Middle and High School Principal

The Importance of the Arts in Our Lives

Every act of creation is first an act of destruction. ~ Pablo Picasso

To create one’s world in any of the arts takes courage.~ Georgia O’Keefe

As our DP students opened their exhibit this week, it is an important reminder of the role that art plays in our lives. It is not just the songs we sing along with, the movies and plays that we watch, the visual imagery that inspires us every day but also the role that artist concepts play in the very shaping of our beings and of our collective being through culture.

The arts help us to develop our personal expression and creativity. This can be seen in how we use the fundamentals of the arts to solve problems in math and science as well as develop our talents through exercise and sports. It gives us historical perspective as art reflects who we were, who we are, and who we might be. Finally, the arts unite us as a community. The arts bring us together to observe, analyse, and reflect about how we think and how we interact with each other.

Congratulations to all of our artists, from the early years to the diploma years for the efforts that they put into developing skills across the arts. We look forward to your growth and to your future success as we know the skills you learn will help you in many ways.

Upcoming events of note

• Feb 3 – 14: G11 & G12 Art Exhibition
• Feb 11 – 14: ES Week Without Walls
• Feb 14 – 21: G12 IB Mock Exams
•  Feb 18 – 21: MHS Week Without Walls
• Mon, Feb 42: Public Holiday (Cebu City Charter Day)
• Tue, Feb 25: Public Holiday (EDSA Anniversary)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

CIS Open Day 2025

If you know any friends or family who are interested to join CIS next school year, please invite them to the Cebu International School Open Day!

We have two dates for this year:

📅 Friday, February 28, 2025 for Middle & High School (incoming Grades 6 to 12)
📅 Friday, March 14, 2025 for Preschool & Elementary (incoming Early Years to Grade 5)
⏰ Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Cebu International School, Pit-os

The Open Day is an excellent opportunity to discover what sets CIS apart from other schools and how we can provide the best education for your child.

Prospective families and interested students will have the chance to explore our campus and facilities, and learn more about the world-class IB curriculum and what makes CIS the best choice for your family.

You will also have the opportunity to speak with current students and parents to gain insight into their experiences here at CIS.
📝 Register here: https://forms.gle/1JFvSkysNnB4RrtE7
🌐 Learn more: https://cis.edu.ph/join/open-day/

Elementary Students Dive into Net Games

by Ms. Demelyn Dargantes, PHE Teacher

Our elementary students are having an exciting time in PHE as they explore different net games! From Modified Beach Volleyball to Pongaloon to Table tennis and badminton to Volleyball, they learn new skills while connecting to their Units of Inquiry.

Check out these action shots of our young athletes in motion!

MYP Visual Arts

by Ms. Gerri Ancajas Jumao-as, Visual Arts Teacher

Grade 8 Art and Identity: Exploring Cultural Expression through Imagery and Representation

In the Gr. 8 Visual Arts unit, students investigated the concept of identity, with a particular focus on how cultural background shapes individual self-perception and expression. Through a series of engaging tasks, students explored how artists incorporate elements of their cultural heritage into their work, using art as a medium to explore personal and collective identity.

Students were encouraged to reflect on their own cultural backgrounds and how these influences have shaped their lives, values, and perspectives. They examined art forms from different cultures and analyzed how symbols, patterns, and materials communicate unique identities. This exploration helped them understand how cultural context can play a powerful role in the creation of meaningful artwork.

A key aspect of the unit was a series of formative tasks where students engaged in practical exercises such as color and symbolism, inverted drawing, drawing with a grid, and culture jar exercise.

Here are the students’ works.

Grade 9/10 Exploring Emotion Through Art: A Gr. 10 Visual Arts Unit

In a recent unit in Gr. 10 Visual Arts, students delved into the powerful connection between emotion and artistic expression. The focus of the unit was on understanding how artists use color, form, and symbols to convey deep emotional states and personal narratives.

Throughout the unit, students explored how different elements of art can evoke specific emotions. For example, they experimented with line and emotion, learning how jagged or flowing lines can create feelings of tension or calm. Students also examined the meanings of color, understanding how hues like red or blue can trigger emotional responses, from warmth and passion to tranquility or sadness.

A key aspect of the unit was a series of formative tasks where students engaged in practical exercises. In one task, students were asked to represent a chosen emotion through color, focusing on how shades and tones could communicate feelings like joy, anger, or fear. Another formative activity had students alter a simple narrative through their artwork, demonstrating how changes in visual elements could shift the emotional tone of a scene.

Here are the students’ works.

Grade 11 & 12 Visual Arts Exhibition: Impermanence

by Ms. Gerri Ancajas-Jumao-as, G11 & 12 Visual Arts Teacher

The Gr. 11-12 Visual Arts Exhibition showcased a stunning array of student work, highlighting the creativity and technical skills developed over the course of the year. The exhibition featured a wide range of styles and art forms, reflecting the diverse artistic voices of the students.

From traditional paintings and drawings to mixed media installations, digital art, and sculpture, the exhibition offered a vibrant snapshot of the students’ artistic journeys. Each piece demonstrated not only individual talent but also the ability to experiment with different techniques and mediums. 

A key focus of the exhibition was the personal themes explored by the students, with many artworks drawing on individual experiences, social issues, and cultural identities. Some students used their work to address themes of self-expression and emotional depth, while others explored contemporary issues and connections.

The exhibition runs from Feb. 3 to 14, 2025 at the Canteen Annex. Please support the students.

Here are the students works:

College & Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor

DATE

Parent Webinar
February 8, 2025
Saturday

EVENT

Student Webinar
February 13, 2025
Thursday

Student webinar

In our student session, Understanding Oxford: The University and Colleges explained, we will hear from the international team and current student ambassadors who will explore the University of Oxford and the unique college system.

February 16, 2025
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, Cebu
The Global Education Fair is free!

Register here if interested.

Connect Directly with Universities and Colleges Abroad

Students will have the chance to meet face-to-face with representatives from universities and colleges in Australia, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, the US, Spain, and more. With a growing network of partner institutions, the AECC fair offers a diverse range of programs to suit every interest and aspiration.

SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Benjamin Martin, Middle and High School Principal

The Power of Altruism

Over the past few weeks, our students have started their unit on Social Awareness. In grade 9, we have been looking at how supporting another person not only helps that person but also helps yourself. That doesn’t mean simply helping someone to expect something in return later but rather the concept of altruism, which means doing something simply out of a desire to help out another person because you are concerned about their well-being. By simply practicing altruism through compassion and kindness in our daily lives, we will actually see benefits down the road.

According to verywellmind.com, this is because “Altruism activates reward centers in the brain. Neurobiologists have found that when a person behaves altruistically, the pleasure centers of their brain become more active. Engaging in compassionate actions activates the areas of the brain associated with the reward system. The positive feelings created by compassionate actions then reinforce altruistic behaviors. While altruism can have some drawbacks when taken to extremes, it is a positive force that can benefit both you and others. Altruism has a wide range of benefits, like:

• Better health: Behaving altruistically can improve physical health in a variety of ways. People who volunteer have better overall health, and regularly engaging in helping behaviors is linked to a significantly lower mortality.
• Better mental well-being: Doing good things for other people can make you feel good about yourself and the world. Research shows that people experience increased happiness after doing good things for other people.
• Better romantic relationships: Being kind and compassionate can also lead to a better relationship with your partner, as kindness is one of the most important qualities that people across all cultures seek in a romantic partner.

While we often try to come up with big ways to show we care for others, often it is the small random acts of kindness that pay off, like giving a compliment. Did you know that research shows “getting a sincere compliment gives us the same positive boost as receiving cash. The health and happiness benefits of the compliment giver are also well-documented. Compliments really are one of the easiest two-way streets available to spread happiness around you and increase your own. The more you compliment, the better you feel. We know it can feel awkward sometimes to dish out a compliment—and to receive one—but the more practice you get, the more natural it will feel.”

Let’s all remember that we can all play our part in helping each other through altruistic behaviors. One of the most impressive live performances I have seen recently is from concert footage from Coldplay and the actor, Micheal J. Fox, who has done so much incredible work for Parkinson’s disease. This link is a powerful reminder that we are all in this together.

Upcoming events of note

• Feb 3 – 14: G11 & G12 Art Exhibition
• Feb 11 – 14: ES Week Without Walls
• Feb 14 – 21: G12 IB Mock Exams
•  Feb 18 – 21: MHS Week Without Walls
• Mon, Feb 24: Public Holiday (Cebu City Charter Day)
• Tue, Feb 25: Public Holiday (EDSA Anniversary)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Lunar New Year Celebrations

by Ms. Ivy Guo, Mandarin ES /  Mandarin ab initio Gr11 / Gr12 and Ms. Elaine Jin, MYP Mandarin/Mandarin B Gr11/12

The Chinese Lunar New Year is one of the most important traditional festivals in Chinese culture, symbolizing renewal, prosperity, and togetherness. This year, the celebration began on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, marking the start of the Year of the Wood Snake.

To honor this special occasion, students in Mandarin classes participated in a variety of engaging and meaningful cultural activities. These activities provided an opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of Chinese traditions, customs, and the significance of the Lunar New Year.

Elementary

At the Elementary School, students immersed themselves in Chinese legend stories related to Chinese New Year and participated in a range of interactive activities to celebrate the occasion.

Chinese New Year Performances 新年表演 (Xīnnián biǎoyǎn)

ES children have been preparing and practicing for our New Year performances. Here are some highlights of pictures and videos from the CIS Chinese New Year Assembly.

Middle & High School

The Middle and High School (MHS) Mandarin classes came alive with energy and excitement as students celebrated the Year of the Snake with a series of vibrant cultural activities. This special occasion provided an immersive learning experience, blending language development with traditional customs.

Students enthusiastically engaged in hands-on activities such as crafting traditional Chinese New Year decorations, writing festive greetings, and exchanging well-wishes in Mandarin. The classroom was filled with the spirit of the holiday as students practiced their language skills in a meaningful and culturally rich context.

Beyond language learning, this celebration fostered a deeper appreciation for Chinese traditions, allowing students to connect with the cultural significance of the Lunar New Year. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate diversity, creativity, and the joy of new beginnings!

Chinese New Year Assembly

Grade 6 – Our energetic Grade 6 students, alongside Grade 12, delivered a spectacular modern Chinese-style dance, blending traditional elements with contemporary choreography. Their performance showcased the evolution of Chinese cultural expression through dance.

Grade 7/8 – The Grade 7 and 8 students transported us back in time with their theatrical play, “Monster Nian,” retelling the legendary story of how the villagers conquered the fierce beast using firecrackers, red decorations, and unity. They also graced us with a beautiful fan dance, “Jasmine Flower,” a performance that reflected elegance and grace.

Grade 9/10 – The Grade 9 and 10 students dazzled us with a thrilling Dragon Dance, symbolizing strength and prosperity. They also performed “Balance and Choices (有舍必有得)”, a captivating dance that embodied the wisdom and harmony associated with the Year of the Snake.

Grade 11 – Our senior students engaged the audience with an interactive Chinese New Year trivia segment, testing everyone’s knowledge about traditions, customs, and the significance of this festival. It was exciting to see who could answer the most questions correctly!

Click the photos below to watch the video.

BEIMUN 2025 Trip

by BEIMUN Supervisor, Ms. Elaine Jin, Ms. Dwi Astuti, Ms. Joy Pierra

Our BEIMUN (Beijing Model United Nations) trip from January 9 to 15 was an incredible experience for the MHS students.

During this three-day conference, students had the opportunity to engage in international diplomacy, representing different countries and discussing global issues with peers from around the world. The trip provided a platform for learning, leadership, and cultural exchange, where students practiced public speaking, negotiation, and teamwork.

Beyond the conference, they also explored Beijing’s rich history and culture, making the journey both educational and memorable. The students returned with new insights and skills, and a deeper appreciation for international relations. Here are some voices from the delegates.

College & Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor

DATE

EVENT

Parent Webinar
February 8, 2025
Saturday

Oxford University (UK)

Parent webinar

In our first parent session of the year, A Parents’ Guide: Applying to Oxford, we are running a weekend session to introduce parents and supporters to what their child can expect during the application process at the University of Oxford including advice for support and myth-busting.

Student Webinar
February 13, 2025
Thursday

Student webinar

In our student session, Understanding Oxford: The University and Colleges explained, we will hear from the international team and current student ambassadors who will explore the University of Oxford and the unique college system.

February 16, 2025
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, Cebu
The Global Education Fair is free!

Register here if interested.

Connect Directly with Universities and Colleges Abroad

Students will have the chance to meet face-to-face with representatives from universities and colleges in Australia, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, the US, Spain, and more. With a growing network of partner institutions, the AECC fair offers a diverse range of programs to suit every interest and aspiration.

Event for Grade 11/12 Students

SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Principal’s Corner

Ms. Maureen Juanson (Elementary School Principal, PYP Coordinator & Accreditation Officer)

CIS proudly embraces the cultural richness of its host country, the Philippines, by integrating its heritage into school life. In alignment with the IB philosophy of fostering international-mindedness and intercultural understanding, CIS provides meaningful opportunities for students to explore and appreciate Filipino traditions, languages, and values.

Philippine Language and Culture Classes

CIS’ Philippine Language and Culture (PLC) program, a key feature of its elementary curriculum, helps students build intercultural awareness and international-mindedness. Through authentic learning experiences rooted in local and global contexts, students gain a deeper understanding of the Philippines’ diverse culture, history, and geography.

PLC encourages students to reflect on their cultural identities while fostering respect for others’ traditions. By highlighting the connections between global citizenship and local heritage, CIS empowers students to thrive in an interconnected world, a key principle of the IB philosophy.

Philippine Culture Week

This week, CIS celebrated Philippine Culture Week, immersing students in a variety of engaging activities that highlight Filipino heritage. Students learned traditional dances and created art inspired by local culture and reflected the country’s vibrant traditions. They explored Filipino childhood experiences through traditional games, rode a jeepney to experience the iconic public transportation, and tasted sorbetes, a beloved local ice cream treat. These hands-on experiences bring learning to life, fostering a sense of appreciation for the host country’s heritage while connecting to the IB’s emphasis on meaningful, real-world learning.

Sinulog Family Day

CIS’s commitment to honoring its host country continues with its participation in the grand Sinulog Festival, Cebu’s most celebrated cultural event. On Saturday, January 18, the school will host a Sinulog Family Day, featuring a colorful parade and dance to honor the Santo Niño, traditional Filipino games that foster community spirit, and a fiesta lunch that reflects the warmth and hospitality of Filipino culture. We encourage CIS family members and friends to join the festivities!

Living the IB Mission

Through these efforts, CIS exemplifies the IB mission of cultivating respect and understanding for cultural diversity. By immersing students in the Philippines’ rich heritage, the school fosters inclusive, empathetic, and globally minded learners, strengthening the bond between its community and the host country.

Upcoming events of note

• Jan. 13 -17: Philippine Culture Week
• Sat, Jan. 18: Sinulog Family Day / HAD 2
• Mon, Jan 20: School Holiday
• Tue, Jan 21: ASA’s Start ( After School Activities)
• Jan 22 – 26: ISAC2 @ BSM
• Tue, Jan 28: 100th day of school
• Wed, Jan 29: Holiday (Chinese New Year)
• Thu, Jan 30: Chines New Year Assembly

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Philippine Culture Week

by: Michelle Lacerna, Jojie Malinao, and Janelle Belono-ac, Philippine Language and Culture Teachers

During a vibrant week-long celebration, elementary students were deeply immersed in the rich and colorful culture of the Philippines for Philippine Culture Week. The festivities kicked off with a video presentation showcasing the unique highlights of the Philippines. Throughout the week, students engaged in a various  activities, including traditional dances, colorful art projects, and exciting games.

The excitement peaked with a special trip on a traditional jeepney. Students experienced the local custom of handing the fare, or “plete”, to the driver, adding a touch of real-life cultural immersion. The week concluded with a sweet treat as everyone indulged in sorbetes, a traditional Filipino ice cream, savoring its unique and delightful flavors.

Philippine Culture Week provided a fantastic opportunity for students to explore the vibrant traditions of the Philippines. Through hands-on activities and immersive experiences, they discovered the unique customs that define Filipino culture. The week was about cultural exploration and reflected the students’ growing appreciation for diversity and global-mindedness. It deepened their understanding of cultural diversity and emphasized the importance of preserving these traditions. The highlight of the week was the students’ enthusiasm and curiosity, creating a memorable journey of learning, connection, and celebration that left everyone with a lasting appreciation for Filipino culture.

College & Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor

Feature: An IB Journey of Success – Robert Ethan Lu (CIS ’24, NYU ’28)

CIS alumnus,  Robert Ethan Lu recently shared his inspiring IB journey and how it has shaped his transition to college life at New York University (NYU). As a student now pursuing engineering and design, Robert highlighted how his rigorous IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) classes equipped him with critical academic and time management skills that have proven invaluable in his current university courses.

In his talk, Robert candidly discussed the challenges of transitioning to university life, from budgeting and adapting to smaller class sizes to missing Filipino food. He also offered practical advice for students preparing for similar transitions, emphasizing the importance of staying in touch with loved ones, making new friends, being open-minded, and preparing for independence.

Robert’s story is a testament to how the IB prepares students not only for academic success but also for life beyond the classroom. He encouraged the G11 and G12 students to embrace the challenges ahead and enjoy the journey, closing with insights on his life in New York and tips for future university-bound students.

Sinulog Trade Fair

January 14-18, 2025
Venue: Canteen Annex

SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Admin News

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

Dear CIS Community, Happy New Year, and welcome to semester two! It has been great to see students and faculty/staff return energized by their break, and quickly getting back into the dynamic and supportive learning environment we strive to nurture here are CIS.

For those who may be wondering, the reason why students did not start back from the holidays until Tuesday was we always use the first day back after Christmas break as a faculty and staff in-service day. In addition to divisional meeting time to work on curriculum development and to plan upcoming events, our faculty took some time to explore the concept of mental models while delving deeply into our new school purpose statement. These discussions allowed us to align our teaching practices with our school purpose to inspire, empower, and guide our students toward excellence.

Meanwhile, our office staff participated in a “week without walls” style activity, working in teams to develop a menu and then cook it with limited resources at a campsite. This hands-on experience enabled them to apply timeless principles from Stephen Covey’s book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People to facilitate awareness of effective teamwork and collaboration.

We are looking forward to our annual CIS Sinulog Family Day Festival next Saturday, January 18. This cherished event celebrates our vibrant school spirit and culture, offering fun activities, delicious food, and opportunities to connect as a community. See below for details and see you there!

Students, as we start this new semester, I encourage you to embrace resilience as you pursue your goals. Challenges may arise, but with determination and support, we know you can achieve incredible growth and success. Let’s all pull together and put the effort in to ensure a truly rewarding term for all. Thank you for your continued partnership in creating a school environment where everyone can thrive.

Sinulog Family Day Information

College & Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor

SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Admin News

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

As we close our first semester, let’s take a moment to reflect on our progress:

• What was a highlight for you?
  • Take a moment to express gratitude—it’s great for your health and well-being!
• What was a challenge you faced?
  • What strategies did you learn from overcoming your challenges?

Let’s now reflect a little deeper on your answers:

• To what extent did you use the IB Learner Profile (LP) attributes to help you progress this semester?
  • These attributes are: Inquirer, Balanced, Caring, Courageous/Risk-Taker, Thinker, Communicator, Open-Minded, Principled, Reflective, and Knowledgeable.

Here’s a thought: Do you think one of these attributes is the most important?

We encourage developing all the attributes, as they all help us in various ways and different situations. However, I recently came across a powerful idea from Dr. Maya Angelou. She said, “I am convinced that courage is the most important of all the virtues. Because without courage, you cannot practice any other virtue consistently…”

As we head into the break, I challenge you to consider how you can nurture all the IB Learner Profile attributes in your life. In particular, give some extra thought to how can you develop courage—the courage to be kind, fair, generous, and principled even when it’s hard. These attributes will surely help you to develop into a respectful person, who is responsible and prepared for our challenging world.

Wishing you all a wonderful, restful break. Take care, be courageous, and enjoy your time with loved ones. See you next semester!

Student Residence Update

by Ms. Ysabel Romano, Student Residence Supervisor

A Home-y Christmas at the Student Residence

Last November 30th, the CIS Student Residence transformed into a merry home, hosting a heartwarming Christmas party for its residents and their guests. The day was filled with fun, laughter, and holiday cheer.

The festivities kicked off in the morning, as students and staff gathered in the HE lab to whip up delicious dishes, creating mouthwatering anticipation for dinner later in the day.

In the afternoon, the students embarked on a campus-wide Scavenger Hunt. Armed with envelopes filled with clues and a spirit of adventure, participants solved riddles and uncovered hidden Christmas treats, fostering camaraderie and testing their problem-solving skills.

A potluck dinner brought everyone together, filling the Student Residence with contagious laughter, joyful chatter, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. Later, we enjoyed games, movies, and engaged in lively conversations.

The Christmas party at the CIS Student Residence was a festive night, weaving together the threads of friendship and community, bringing out the joy of the season.

Comments from residents:

Grade 3 Class

by Ms. Katrina del Mar, Grade 3 Homeroom Teacher

How the World Works
In line with our CIS Promise of being responsible and prepared, Cebu International School (CIS) conducted a Remote Learning Day last October 21, to ensure our learning community is ready for potential online learning classes. Indeed, the groundwork laid was fruitful as Cebu was struck by Tropical Storm Kristine, which caused the local government unit to suspend classes. CIS responded by implementing Emergency Remote Learning for two days. In the safety of our homes, we were able to continue classes online despite the inclement weather.

What is a typhoon? What other natural phenomena change the Earth? How do they impact people’s lives? To answer these questions, the Grade 3 Inquirers used their research skills to delve into the causes of changes in our physical environment and our responsibility to address them. They focused on four natural phenomena that affect Cebu: typhoons, floods, earthquakes, and droughts. To support their research, they employed the comprehension reading strategy of recognizing cause-and-effect relationships and wrote their findings in traffic light paragraphs. They also learned to cite their sources.

To extend their learning, they conducted experiments and gathered data using the scientific method.

To further enhance their learning, our Grade 3 Inquirers had the opportunity to visit the Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation (ERUF). This field trip provided valuable insights into disaster preparedness and response. By witnessing firsthand the work of emergency volunteers, our students gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of being prepared for natural disasters.

The Grade 3 students then presented their knowledge to the rest of the learning community through a skit, demonstrating their commitment to applying their learning to real-world issues. As the Grade 3s continue to learn about the world around us, they recognize the importance of taking action. By understanding the causes and effects of natural phenomena, they call on everyone to join us in our CIS promise to be responsible and prepared.

MYP PHE

by Ms. Demelyn Dargantes, MYP PHE Teacher

Excitement Builds for End of Semester 1 Assembly!
Our students are buzzing with excitement as they prepare for the End of Semester 1 Assembly! They are eager to showcase their learning through amazing movement and arts displays.

From graceful dances and creative gymnastics to colorful artwork and musical performances, their hard work and passion shine through. This celebration is a wonderful way to reflect on the skills, creativity, and teamwork they have developed over the semester.

Thank you to parents, families, and friends who watched this special event today and for cheering on our students as they shared their talents with pride!

Grade 12: Collaborative Science Project

by Ms. Haydee Liza Montero, Lab. Teacher/Lab. Technician

Time and again, the Grade 12 students come together for their Collaborative Science Project (CSP), an interdisciplinary activity required for all Diploma Program and IB Certificate Science students. The CSP provides a platform for students to analyze a topic or problem that can be explored through Biology, Chemistry, and/or Physics, encouraging them to work collaboratively across disciplines. Using the scientific method, students engage in a scientific investigation over the course of 10 hours. This year’s theme is,  ‘ Beyond the Cape:  The Science of Superhero Powers”, challenging students to apply scientific principles to what might otherwise seem like fictional abilities.

This CSP demonstrates that the benefits of superpowers, which may initially seem fictional, are deeply intertwined with the core principles of Science—Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Many abilities that appear to belong to the realm of fantasy, such as extraordinary strength, acid generation, or manipulating energy, can all be explained through scientific concepts like genetics, chemical reactions, and the laws of energy and motion. Science itself holds the key to unlocking these superpowers, showing that what once seemed impossible may be achievable through scientific discovery!

SAT Update

SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply
To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Benjamin Martin, Middle & High School Principal

Building and Maintaining Community Partnerships

Over the years, schools have started looking for ways to move from community service to service learning and community partnerships. For IB schools, this includes not only indirect service, often in the form of fundraising, to more direct service through building and maintaining community partnerships that will last over time. This has always been something that I have been interested in and I have presented on this topic at various conferences. I have learned through my own experiences and mistakes in working with an orphanage over the past ten years that there are five areas of consideration that can really help to build and maintain a strong community partnership.

1. Trust Matters: Who are our longest community partnerships? How did these partnerships develop over time? Where has trust been lost or gained? How do we keep the trust of our community partners?
2. Culture Matters:  Where do we see cultural conflicts in your community partnerships? How can we better prepare for and respond to cultural misunderstandings? How can we find common ground when it comes to using innovation to solve problems while also respecting traditional values
3. Local Matters: Who will carry the torch with our community partnerships? Besides students, who among your local staff should have more input in maintaining community partnerships? How can we sustain these relationships over time?
4. Communication Matters: How often do we communicate with our community partnerships? How do we make them feel valued? How do we find out what they need from us? How does community partner feedback shape our programs?
5. Reflection Matters: When do we give time to reflect? What changes have we seen over the years? In what areas of authentic community partnerships could our school grow? What is going well? What needs to be improved? How will we adapt to changes in systems and personnel?

Using these considerations and  the IB framework as our guide, the students move through four steps of the service learning process: investigation, planning, taking action, and reflection.

This year, in addition to fundraising with Operation Smile, we have reconnected with five more communities for yearly ongoing projects to learn more from them and to come up with solutions together to meet the needs of their communities. For the next five days, our MYP students will go on field trips to these communities to use investigation as their first step before moving to the planning stages. We are lucky to have already had contact with these communities in the past and with the help of Mr. Ace Pierra, who has developed these relationships over time, and Ms. Julie Sykes, who has worked extensively on developing the learning aspect of these experiences over time, we will now be able to grow these community relationships more frequently throughout this year. Then for the future, our students will connect with different communities over a five year period during the MYP. By the time the get to performing their CAS experiences, they will not only be able to choose their way to collaborate with the communities but hopefully they will understand more about the communities themselves to meet our goal of moving past sympathy (we feel bad for you) and even empathy (we feel bad with you) to true compassion (we feel that we can act to solve problems together).

Upcoming events of note

• Sat, Dec. 7: Tree of Giving
• Sun, Dec. 8: Public Holiday (Immaculate Conception)
• Fri, Dec. 13: End of Semester Assembly / End of Sem. 1 / End of Q2 (half day)
• Dec. 16 – Jan. 4, 2025: Christmas / Semester Break
• Mon, Jan. 6: Teachers’ In-Service Day (No classes)
• Tue, Jan. 7: First Day of Sem. 2 / Q3 Start

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Language Acquisition Classes

by Ms. Evangeline Belono-ac, KG1 and G4/5 LA-English Teacher  and Ms. Jessa Luntayao, G2/3  LA- English Teacher 

This semester, students in the Language Acquisition-English classes have been engaged in various interactive learning activities designed to cultivate proficiency across the four language domains. Through engaging activities, students have delved into the exploration and acquisition of new vocabulary directly relevant to their units of inquiry. These linguistic connections not only deepen their understanding of subject-specific concepts and themes but also foster the expansion of their overall vocabulary repertoire and enhancement of comprehension abilities. They have been doing role-plays, playing games, reading, sharing, and writing stories related to their units of inquiry and utilizing grammatical rules. 

Kinder and Grade 1
The Kindergarten and Grade 1 students are currently exploring the concept of transportation as part of the unit “Where We Are in Place and Time.” As part of their grammatical instruction, they have engaged in activities focused on verb tenses, prepositions, and adverbs. Applying their new knowledge, the students have crafted descriptive sentences and personal narratives.

These skills have been reinforced through targeted practice sessions and engaging classroom discussions, helping them understand how accurate use of verb tenses, prepositions, and adverbs enhances sentence structure. Additionally, the students have delved into story writing, deepening their understanding of story elements and written expression.

This process has not only sparked their creativity but also refined their writing skills, as they learned to organize their thoughts clearly and ensure coherence in their compositions.

Grade 2/3
Under the transdisciplinary theme, How the World Works, Grade 2 and 3 English language learners are actively inquiring into cause-and-effect relationships to uncover connections between events and their causes. This exploration supports the development of skills essential for everyday life, such as explaining events and their reasons, while deepening students’ understanding of how natural phenomena and human actions shape the world.

In alignment with PYP practices, students have honed their critical thinking skills by analyzing how specific events result from interconnected causes. To enrich their learning, they read nonfiction books about natural disasters, creating meaningful transdisciplinary connections with their homeroom unit of inquiry on natural phenomena. They also practiced organization by managing their time effectively and ensuring task completion.

As budding writers, students are utilizing the Stoplight Paragraph graphic organizer to structure their ideas, crafting expository paragraphs that explain the causes and effects of their chosen landform or natural disaster. This activity has strengthened their communication skills and built confidence in expressing their understanding through writing.

Throughout the inquiry, students have demonstrated curiosity, critical thinking, and responsibility in their learning. Their engagement not only fostered a deeper appreciation for the natural world but also enhanced their ability to use language as a tool for understanding and explaining complex ideas.

Grade 4/5 
In their current unit, “How the World Works,” Grades 4 and 5 are exploring traditional literature. As they develop a deeper understanding of this genre, students are learning to summarize texts, identify themes, analyze media, and compare similar tales. They also hone their public speaking skills through presentations and role plays.

Recently, their inquiry has centered on fables. Students have been comparing fables from different countries and crafting their own. Using the grammar concepts they’ve learned, such as quotation marks, commas in dialogue, and varied sentence structures, they composed fables that incorporate key elements of the genre. To support their growth as assessment-capable learners, students used a checklist to guide their writing and reflect on their progress.

Sharing and comparing fables from their cultures led to thoughtful reflections on why these stories often have multiple versions. Here are some of their insights:

• Dominic: “Countries have different languages and histories. Fables show the culture and beliefs of a country.”
• Peter: “There are changes when fables are told to others. Also, there might be changes in translation.”
• Jack: “There’s one version (original) of the story, and it was passed down from generation to generation, changing over time until it has many versions.”
• Rain: “There are different versions of a fable from different countries so we can understand them better.”

This inquiry has encouraged students to connect with diverse perspectives while strengthening their writing and analytical skills.

Science Laboratory Class

by Ms. Haydee Montero, Science Lab. Teacher/Lab. Technician

Collaborative Science Project

Just in time for the Collaborative Science Project (CSP 2024), the Science department has acquired a new Ultrasonic Labware Cleaner, which is already invaluable in maintaining sterile laboratory environments. This device ensures a higher level of sterilization by eliminating microbial contamination and chemical residues from lab equipment, leading to more accurate and reliable experimental results, especially in experiments sensitive to trace impurities. The ultrasonic cleaning method is chemical-free, reducing the need for harmful cleaning agents and minimizing students’ exposure to potentially hazardous substances, making the lab a safer place to work.

In addition to improving safety, the Ultrasonic Labware Cleaner also boosts efficiency in the laboratory. By cutting down the time spent manually cleaning glassware, students can enjoy more hands-on lab sessions, allowing for greater productivity in a busy academic schedule. Thanks to the generous contribution of the PTA through this year’s Student Learning Enhancement Fund (SLEF), this equipment will enhance the quality of learning and help more students complete their experiments with ease and accuracy.

College & Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor

Alumni Spotlight

SAT Update

SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates

SAT Registration Is Now Open

*Additional Fees apply
To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.