Newsflash: May 26, 2023

Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Andrew Powell, EY-12 Principal

Celebrating Learning

This week we were treated to two very engaging assemblies. Our Elementary assembly featured a lively presentation by our Early Years students, while the MHS assembly featured an array of talented individuals and groups of students performing work they had prepared in their Music and Drama classes. As the school year comes to a close there has been, and will continue to be, a focus on celebrating learning during various class events.

Celebrations of learning are more than a display of student work and more than a party at the end of the year. These events require students to reflect on and articulate what they have learned, how they learned, questions they answered, research they conducted, and areas of strength and struggle. They are also powerful opportunities to make learning public.

At CIS we have intentionally chosen to celebrate learning with work created for an audience beyond the classroom. Our recent PYP Exhibition was a fine example of this. Preparing work to be shared with an authentic audience motivates students and creates a purpose for them to care about the quality of their work. It also raises the stakes and sets the expectation that all students, not just a select group, will share their high-quality products. It motivates students to push themselves as learners.

At the center of celebrations of learning are high-quality products and performances that reflect the content and skills that students have learned. Students are supported in producing high-quality work in preparation for celebrations of learning and take their work through multiple drafts or practices. With feedback from teachers and peers, students are motivated to meet high standards and engage in revision. It is clear to students why the product matters, and that they are being held to high expectations.

As we focus on the final two weeks of school, it is a time to celebrate student learning and the incredible growth that our students have made.

Upcoming events of note

• May 26: End of 2nd Semester ASAs
• June 2: Class of 2023 Graduation (*Half day of classes – ES dismissal 11:30am, MHS 11:45am)
• June 8: Last day of school & Moving up ceremonies (half day)
• June 12-23: Summer School Activities

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

Elementary Pajama Day: A Cozy Celebration of School Spirit

by Ms. Claudette – Elementary Student Council Advisor/LA-English EA

Our classrooms were filled with excitement and a cozy atmosphere as students and teachers came together to celebrate Spirit Day. Spirit Days are a time-honored tradition in CIS, designed to create a positive and inclusive atmosphere that encourages students to express their individuality while also promoting a sense of belonging. This year’s theme, Pajama Day, saw everyone donning their favorite sleepwear for a day of fun and relaxation. This special occasion, organized by the Student Council, aimed to foster school spirit, promote a sense of unity, and provide a break from the everyday routine.

Throughout the day, students could be seen proudly showing off their favorite sleepwear, from superhero-themed onesies to classic flannel sets. The sight of teachers in their own cozy attire added an extra layer of hilarity, creating fun memories for all. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged a more comfortable learning environment and provided a break from the usual routine. Pajama Day also served as a valuable reminder of the importance of self-care and relaxation. By encouraging students to embrace the comfort of their pajamas, the Student Council hoped to inspire students to prioritize well-being and recognize the value of taking time to unwind and recharge.

Here are some feedback from our Elementary students regarding Pajama day:

Design Classes

by Ms. Gerri Ancajas Jumao-as, Design Teacher

The Grade 7 Design class has been investigating different materials and processes for their unit on Recycled Toy. Students have been exploring the concepts of change and resources to understand the process of development in order to cater to a specific function. Students created toys from recycled materials that will be donated to a local orphanage.

Here are the students’ works.

The Grade 9 Design class has been investigating different cooking methods and processes for their unit on Food Preparation. Students have been exploring personal expressions and diversity to adapt culinary choices to cater to a varied palette. Students created different dishes to express their gratitude to the school’s teachers, support and auxiliary staff.

Here are the students’ works.

The Grade 8 Design class has been investigating the concepts of sustainability and adaptation for their unit on Sustainable Vertical Garden. Students have been exploring different materials and techniques for their appropriateness to perform specific functions that promote environmentally friendly solutions. 

Here are some students’ works. 

DP Visual Arts: The Process Portfolio

by Mr. Jessie Saclo, DP Visual Arts Teacher

The Process Portfolio, one of the assessment components within the Visual Arts course of the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is part of a comprehensive curriculum that encourages students to explore various artistic disciplines, develop critical thinking skills, and gain global perspectives. It plays a crucial role in nurturing creativity, fostering self-reflection, and facilitating artistic growth and exploration. 

The Process Portfolio is a dynamic endeavor for students to investigate artists and genres, and experiment with different artistic techniques, materials, and concepts. It provides opportunities for students to take risks, push boundaries, and explore innovative approaches to artistic expression. By documenting their creative process, students are able to provide evidence of their experimentation and development over time and cultivate a sense of confidence in their unique creative abilities.

Essential to the Process Portfolio is the element of self-reflection. As students are challenged to analyze and articulate their artistic choices, intentions, and growth, written reflections enable students to develop a deeper understanding of their creative process, empowering them to make informed decisions to refine and revise their artistic intentions. It also promotes critical thinking and self-awareness, as students learn to evaluate their strengths and areas for improvement. 

In conclusion, the Process Portfolio is a visual narrative of the student’s artistic journey, demonstrating their growth, progress, and the development of their personal style. By documenting initial intentions, preliminary sketches, drafts, and revisions, students are able to demonstrate their art-making process and the development of their ideas. This visual evidence not only allows students to celebrate their achievements but also provides them with an authentic record of their artistic development. 

Have a look at our students’ documented process, reflection on their choices, artistic growth, critical thinking, and collaboration as they prepare for further artistic endeavors.

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

SAT Update

Digital SAT Dates for 2023-2024
The College Board has confirmed the SAT Testing Dates for next school year.  CIS will be open for SAT testing for the following test dates: