Volume 2 05/04/19
Newsletter of International School Suva
Principal’s Report International School Suva has had an exciting first term with growth and exciting new developments. The Ocean Science Program has become more established with ocean units of study at most year levels and a new 2000-liter aquarium to allow close viewing and study of sea life. Students have followed this project from the concept and discussion phase in January to the design and equipment stage in February, to the full tank with sea life stage it is in now. On Friday, the 5th of April, the Ocean Science Program was officially “launched” with a morning ceremony including an unveiling of the aquarium with some new fish and other marine samples, new interpretive species signs, viewing cards, and a new viewing platform. The Ocean Science Program is part of the school’s new Strategic Plan which gives the school direction for the next five years. The key components of the strategic plan are a) improved teaching and learning systems, including improved teacher training and recruiting, refined curriculum, student-centered instruction, an ocean science focus, and a commitment to the learner profile; b) improved and clarified school identity, marketing, and advancement; c) improved resources for ISS quality systems including facilities, finances, and technology; and d) improved school leadership and management including a focus on school governance, climate, and policy. The strategic plan provides a roadmap for ISS to gain a global reputation for quality, innovation, and successful student results. Another exciting development for ISS is the construction of a new building, currently called J Block. This project has been in the planning stages for several years and is now taking shape behind the wall at the end of the school breezeway. It will include a 350-seat auditorium, 10 new classrooms, and a lift. Some drawings and artist renderings are posted in the office areas. Architectural drawings and photographs are also posted on the school website. This project will give the school much needed space for both existing and new programs. It will also provide a better location for large group meetings and staff professional development. Significantly, the lift will provide wheelchair access to upper floors of many of our buildings. The exact use of the classrooms is still being determined, but there are some specialized spaces for music and languages in the design. This building will also connect the Primary, MPH, Admin, and Secondary buildings better making the campus more unified and giving it a community feel. We anticipate the breezeway area to be the main gathering place and campus center when this project is finished.
Inside this issue:
Principals Report
Year 1D
Year 5
Kids for Kids Club
Year 2
WASC
MYP Corner
Year 7
Primary Options Program
Year 12 Physics
Advertisement
Francophonie Week
Model Un
Model Un Reflections
Head of High School
Finally, Term Two is coming in two weeks and it is usually a time of very productive learning and student engagement. Most classrooms and students have “hit their stride” with procedures and expectations in place, the heat and humidity have improved, many camps are scheduled in term 2, and many team and hands-on types of activities will be done successfully. I encourage all families to take advantage of the next 10 weeks of school to focus on learning and to give some extra effort; the result will probably be higher achievement than ever and new learning discoveries of all kinds. Until then, please enjoy some wonderful family times and help your students re-charge their batteries for the coming term. ISS believes that balance in life and emotional well-being are vital and part of a healthy child’s life. Let’s all embrace that ideal and take time to enjoy those we love and the fabulous place we live! Best wishes, Steve Cathers, Head of International School Suva
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