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/
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
The Early Years kicked off the Week Without Walls with enthusiasm, partnering with Kinder and Grade 1 to make a meaningful impact on the environment.
Together, they cleaned the campus, collecting trash from various areas, followed by an engaging recycling activity—transforming used plastic bottles into functional water sprinklers.
These hands-on activities emphasized their collective responsibility to protect and nurture the environment in line with UN SDG 15: Life on Land.
On the second day, the Early Years embraced UN SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being with exciting slip-and-slide and water play activities, promoting physical activity and fun under the sun.
The day continued with a creative sandwich art session where students crafted healthy snacks, highlighting the UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Many students stepped out of their comfort zones, showing their adventurous spirit by trying new things and discovering new preferences along the way. It was a day full of learning, creativity, and healthy choices!
Day three was undoubtedly the highlight of the week, as the Early Years embarked on an exciting field trip to Cebu Ocean Park. Building on their unit about living things, the students explored UN SDG 14: Life Below Water and UN SDG 15: Life on Land, deepening their understanding of these crucial environmental topics.
Filled with awe and curiosity, they made real-world connections between their classroom learning and the vibrant marine and terrestrial life they encountered firsthand.
It was an unforgettable experience that sparked both wonder and inquiry!
Kinder and Grade 1
Kinder and Grade 1 Team: Ms. Maffy, Ms. Emilia, Ms. Janelle, Ms. Mich, Ms. Dina, Ms. Ivy
On the first day, our young learners embraced the spirit of service by taking action to care for their environment, connecting their efforts to UN SDG 15: Life on Land. Together, they cleaned the school campus, collected litter, and reflected on why protecting our surroundings matters.
To extend their learning, they engaged in a creative recycling activity, transforming simple plastic bottles into functional water sprinklers—ready to be used for future water play.
Through these experiences, students discovered that small actions can make a big difference in keeping our world clean and green.
On the second day, students embarked on an exciting field trip to Cebu Making Space, where they explored the art of pottery as part of UN SDG 11: Sustainable Communities.
During a hands-on workshop, they experimented with air-dried clay, learning new techniques to shape and mold their own cups. In the afternoon, they extended their creativity by designing unique clay projects to be completed the following day.
This experience allowed them to appreciate craftsmanship, explore sustainable materials, and develop fine motor skills through meaningful, hands-on learning.
On the third day, students inquired into the importance of making healthy food choices with the theme “Eat a Rainbow”, connecting their learning to UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. They made colorful, nutritious sandwiches for snack time and eagerly tried new flavors, expanding their taste palettes.
In the afternoon, they brought their clay designs to life, carefully shaping and refining their creations. To end the day on a joyful note, students engaged in slip & slide fun, rope bridge challenges, and pool play, developing physical coordination and teamwork.
Through these experiences, they connected their learning to UN SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, recognizing that staying active and making good choices contributes to a happy, balanced life.
Grades 2 and 3
Grade 2/3 Team: Mr. Sean, Ms. Katrina, Ms. Jojie, Ms. Mayumi, Ms. Alison, Ms. Demy
The G2/3 Week Without Walls program provided students with hands-on experiences in first aid, environmental awareness at Crocolandia and Adlawon Vacation Farm, and essential water safety skills with the Coast Guard.
Grades 4 and 5
Grade 4/5 Team: Mr. Sten, Ms. Aimee, Ms. MJ, Ms. Liezel, Ms. Vangie, Ms. Jessa
Week Without Walls for the Grade 4 and Grade 5 students kicked off with an exciting and thought-provoking Model United Nations (MUN) Conference, where students stepped into the roles of delegates representing different countries. Engaging in lively debates, critical discussions, and collaborative problem-solving, they tackled global issues related to migration, governance, and human rights.
As the culminating experience of their Where We Are in Place and Time unit, MUN challenged students to think critically, articulate their perspectives, and respectfully respond to differing viewpoints. Weeks of research, writing position papers, and practicing formal debate skills prepared them to confidently present their arguments, counterclaims, and rebuttals. A special Welcome Reception and lunch event helped set the stage, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the diplomatic atmosphere.
Throughout the day, students demonstrated the IB Learner Profile attributes of open-mindedness, communication, and principled action, proving themselves to be young changemakers ready to make a difference.
The energy and enthusiasm continued as students embarked on an unforgettable adventure in San Remigio, packed with challenges, teamwork, and personal triumphs. From the thrill of ziplining, rock climbing, and rappelling to navigating a giant maze, students embraced every opportunity to push past their limits, cheer each other on, and celebrate their successes. Evenings were filled with laughter, creativity, and camaraderie as students performed skits, sang songs, and bonded around the campfire.
A heartwarming highlight of the trip was the visit to Tambongon Integrated School, where our students connected with local children through games, learning activities, and shared experiences. The spirit of teamwork was on full display during the Dragon Boat races, where students paddled in unison, determined to propel their boats forward. Later, they enjoyed time in the pool, board games, and outdoor fun, before ending the day with a magical sky lantern release, filling the night sky with glowing symbols of friendship, gratitude, and reflection.
To wrap up this incredible experience, students took part in a beach cleanup, reinforcing the importance of responsible action and environmental stewardship.
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
Last Thursday, two of Mr. Steve Duba-Maack’s former students from the USA visited CIS to talk about their IB experience and freely share their advice to students about their IB and university experience. Giovanni Gamalong and Andres Leland are IB Diploma earners, who graduated from Wichita High School East in Wichita, Kansas in 2016. They are both currently traveling in the Philippines, so they came by CIS to meet with students.
Giovanni Gamalong is originally from Davao City and his family migrated to the US when he was 10. He graduated from Northwestern University in 2020 with a degree in Chemistry and Global Health Studies. He was named a Fulbright Scholar and then studied in Sophia, Bulgaria. He is now in his 3rd year of medical school at the UCLA School of Medicine. He is spending this year studying medicine and researching public health at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Manila. He will return to Los Angeles in August to complete his medical schooling in orthopedic surgery.
Andres Leland graduated from the University of Chicago with a degree in anthropology. He is both a Mellon Scholarship Fellow and also a Fulbright Scholar. He spent his Fulbright year in Morocco. He then worked as a paralegal and investigator for the public defender’s office in New York City where he used his English, Spanish, French, and Arabic language skills to work on international cases being prosecuted in New York. Andres is taking a year off to travel the world while he applies to law school.
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.
Comparison Table: Top 7 Hong Kong Universities
| University | Key Strengths | Language of Instruction | Founded |
| HKU (University of Hong Kong) | Medicine, Business, Law, Social Sciences, Engineering | English | 1911 |
| CUHK (Chinese University of Hong Kong) | Medicine, Business, Social Sciences, Humanities, Science | English & Chinese | 1963 |
| HKUST (Hong Kong University of Science and Technology) | Science, Engineering, Business, Data Science | English | 1991 |
| PolyU (Hong Kong Polytechnic University) | Design, Hospitality, Engineering, Business, Health Sciences | English | 1937 (gained university status in 1994) |
| CityU (City University of Hong Kong) | Business, Law, Engineering, Creative Media, Data Science | English | 1984 |
| HKBU (Hong Kong Baptist University) | Humanities, Communication, Film, Business, Science | English | 1956 |
| LU (Lingnan University) | Humanities, Social Sciences, Business, Philosophy | English & Chinese | 1967 |
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
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.
Participating Institutions
| Institution | Country | |
| 1 | Study Group | US / UK |
| 2 | Conestoga College | CA |
| 3 | Southern Alberta Institute of Technology | CA |
| 4 | Kaplan Business School | AU |
| 5 | Griffith University | AU |
| 6 | Le Cordon Bleu | AU |
| 7 | Humber Polytechnic | CA |
| 8 | Algonquin College | CA |
| 9 | Centennial College | CA |
| 10 | Victoria University | AU |
| 11 | Seneca Polytechnic | CA |
| 12 | Niagara College Canada | CA |
| 13 | University of Newcastle | AU |
| 14 | Edith Cowan University | AU |
| 15 | University of Lethbridge | CA |
| 16 | Sheridan College | CA |
| 17 | Western Sydney University | AU |
| 18 | Vancouver Community College | CA |
| 19 | University of Hertfordshire | UK |
| 20 | Education Centre of Australia | AU |
| 21 | La Trobe University | AU |
| 22 | TAFE SA | AU |
| 23 | Academia International | AU |
| 24 | The University of Adelaide | AU |
| 25 | University of South Australia | AU |
| 26 | Canadore College | CA |
| 27 | Torrens University Australia | AU |
| 28 | Alma Mater College Australia | AU |
| 29 | Macquarie University | AU |
| 30 | Monash University Australia | AU |
| 31 | Lewis University | US |
| 32 | Australian Institute of Higher Education | AU |
| 33 | Navitas Pty Ltd. | |
| 34 | Lincoln University | NZ |
| 35 | Australian Learning Group and Ikon Institute of Australia | AU |
| 36 | UCAM Universidad Católica de Murcia | Spain |
| 37 | Georgian College | CA |
| 38 | Flinders University | AU |
| 39 | EU Business School | EUR |
SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates
SAT Registration Is Now Open
| Test Dates | Registration Deadlines | Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation and Late Registration Deadlines* |
| March 8, 2025 | February 21, 2025 | February 25, 2025 |
| May 3, 2025 | April 18, 2025 | April 22, 2025 |
| June 7, 2025 | May 22, 2025 | May 27, 2025 |
*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.
[…] 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 […]