Hi, it’s Charles Nolan here as we prepare for the New School Year at your American International School.
Yes everything is still “on the go” back here in Sydney. We have completed the first round of interviews for Principal, and are now down to a shortlist for next week, when we will involve the governors and teacher representatives. The replacement teachers have been hired, and we have aimed to attain high standards at the same time as we fill the gaps in our teaching team. All are fully qualified and trained for their roles, with American and/or IB experience on their resumes. The teacher/principal transition has also turned into a great opportunity to raise the overall levels, mature the culture and get some additional strength into the school. Very much hard work, but we are really happy with the opportunity provided, now that we can see the benefits.
No holiday for us, but Patrick and Tom travel to NZ next weekend for a ski holiday, staying at my parents place overlooking Lake Taupo, and the mountains behind. We will think of them as we continue the work here in the rain and winter drear that has become our past few weeks’ weather. I think my thoughts tend more towards our families holidaying in the northern hemisphere summer. The drought really does seem to have broken for Sydney, so I should not be too unkind about our current meteorological mix. (But I do so envy the warmer weather).
We've also been busy with the maintenance at school, putting up another sign, attending a Relocation conference, presentations at the Consulate, purchasing carpet for Elementary, road repairs, tree removal and more wallboards up in the Jefferson building. Enrolments are increasing with Mary signing six students on one day (3 expected and 3 new). We now have six on the IB program for next year, with 4 newcomers specifically joining for IB. Teachers also attend refresh training on IB subjects this week in Canberra.
So you can see, it's all "Easy Street" back here on vacation in a rather damp and wintry Sydney. The winter solstice has passed, but not so our damp and insipid weather. But it’s not sunshine that we miss, rather we do so look forward to the sound of students again in the school grounds. It’s just so much a property without the teachers and students that make it the special place that is your American International School.
All part of that annual cycle of renewal that we see as the start, the finish and the continuum that a school provides and an education brings to all our families, teachers, and friends that make up this small but vibrant community. A community where “International Education is for everyone” and, “International Education - if not a right is surely an inspiration”.
See you at school or around the community.
Regards,
Charles
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Signs of Graduation Week
Hi, it’s Charles Nolan here as we enter into Graduation week at your American International School.
It’s very much concentration not consternation as students sit exams, and everyone readies themselves for the big day on Thursday. The day begins at School with moving up celebrations on Thursday morning, and concludes with the formal Graduation ceremony and dinner at 7PM, at The American Club. It looks like a great day for all the American International School community, whereby we all get to celebrate the successes of the year together, both at school and the Graduation. I personally will be there all day and half the night – it’s a great sense of pride in the achievements of all our community. From the pre-schoolers entering into Elementary, Elementary to Middle School formative years, and High Schoolers moving towards and into Graduation, it’s all there to see on one day at your American International School.
Further sign of the New Year is our new sign outside on Pennant Hills Road. With a bit of late night activity, we erected the new sign at 7PM on Sunday evening, ready for both the last week and the New Year. Various local “artists” had “appended” our sign previously, but now it is up with our new Globe” logo. A further changing banner is to be added to the bottom, which will promote various opportunities and activities from time-to-time. The style and theme will be reflected throughout the school grounds, buildings and rooms in the New Year for a universal look-and-feel across the Carlingford campus. Just one visible sign to “ See the difference, that is your American International School”.
And an international graduation it is for the class of 2007 – coming from five countries, including Australia, and our first scholarship pupil graduates towards a College (and onwards) basketball career in the US. Jessica Payne, one of our “graduating parents” put together a Press Release for the school on graduation – just one of the many unheralded activities that our parents provide to their school, each and every day. Thanks to Jessica, I have attached it here; and thanks to all those other parents, students and community members that perform extra-curricula activities enriching all our lives here at school.
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International Students Graduate Thursday 31 May
Thursday 31 May marks the end of High School and the beginning of adult life for six international students at the American International School, Sydney. Graduates from Brazil, China, Egypt, Sudan and Australia celebrate this week which is the end of the Northern Hemisphere School Calendar.
- Gordon resident, Daniel Emsermann is the only graduate born in Australia. At 12, his family moved to Sweden then to Japan where he studied at International Schools teaching International and American Curricula. Upon returning to Sydney mid-2006, Daniel continued his international studies completing his American Diploma this week. Daniel expects to continue his studies at university next year with his sights on ANU in Canberra or UNSW here in Sydney.
- Castle Cove resident, Julia Oliveira moved to Sydney with her family from Brazil in 2006. Julia hopes to continue her studies at TAFE before moving on to Macquarie University.
- Carlingford resident, Alexi Wolff, formerly a citizen of Tonga has recently become an Australian Citizen. Alexi has attended the AIS since 2003, the longest of the graduates.
- Blacktown resident, Ater Majok is originally from the Sudan. He has been earning his American Diploma while training for a U.S. basketball scholarship. A promising athlete, Ater is part of the IPASS (International Postgraduate Academic Sport Scholarship System) which currently helps future basketball stars earn the educational requirements needed to attain scholarships to American and International Universities. Ater heads to America in July to play basketball at university in Fairfield, Connecticut.
- Kellyville resident, Omar Zaher came to Sydney from Egypt. Omar is earning his Diploma with plans to apply for local and International University acceptance.
- Ryde resident, Angran Cui originally from China completed his graduation requirements in December 2006 and is currently working in Real Estate. Angran returns Thursday to receive formal recognition for his academic accomplishments at AIS.
The formal Graduation Ceremony and Dinner Thursday at the American Club at Circular Quay is preceded by a moving up celebration on Thursday morning at the American International School in Carlingford.
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Still plenty of opportunity to reschedule that workday to make the school ceremonies, and space still available for the Graduation Ceremony and Dinner (around 90 booked already). Spoil yourself, take pride in your own and the community’s achievements and celebrate with your community this Thursday.
And in the words of the Irish farewell:
"May the road rise to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the sun shine warm upon your face
The rains fall soft upon your fields
And until we meet again
May God hold you in the palm of his hand."
See you on Thursday to celebrate “International education – though not a right, is surely an inspiration”.
Regards,
Charles
It’s very much concentration not consternation as students sit exams, and everyone readies themselves for the big day on Thursday. The day begins at School with moving up celebrations on Thursday morning, and concludes with the formal Graduation ceremony and dinner at 7PM, at The American Club. It looks like a great day for all the American International School community, whereby we all get to celebrate the successes of the year together, both at school and the Graduation. I personally will be there all day and half the night – it’s a great sense of pride in the achievements of all our community. From the pre-schoolers entering into Elementary, Elementary to Middle School formative years, and High Schoolers moving towards and into Graduation, it’s all there to see on one day at your American International School.
Further sign of the New Year is our new sign outside on Pennant Hills Road. With a bit of late night activity, we erected the new sign at 7PM on Sunday evening, ready for both the last week and the New Year. Various local “artists” had “appended” our sign previously, but now it is up with our new Globe” logo. A further changing banner is to be added to the bottom, which will promote various opportunities and activities from time-to-time. The style and theme will be reflected throughout the school grounds, buildings and rooms in the New Year for a universal look-and-feel across the Carlingford campus. Just one visible sign to “ See the difference, that is your American International School”.
And an international graduation it is for the class of 2007 – coming from five countries, including Australia, and our first scholarship pupil graduates towards a College (and onwards) basketball career in the US. Jessica Payne, one of our “graduating parents” put together a Press Release for the school on graduation – just one of the many unheralded activities that our parents provide to their school, each and every day. Thanks to Jessica, I have attached it here; and thanks to all those other parents, students and community members that perform extra-curricula activities enriching all our lives here at school.
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International Students Graduate Thursday 31 May
Thursday 31 May marks the end of High School and the beginning of adult life for six international students at the American International School, Sydney. Graduates from Brazil, China, Egypt, Sudan and Australia celebrate this week which is the end of the Northern Hemisphere School Calendar.
- Gordon resident, Daniel Emsermann is the only graduate born in Australia. At 12, his family moved to Sweden then to Japan where he studied at International Schools teaching International and American Curricula. Upon returning to Sydney mid-2006, Daniel continued his international studies completing his American Diploma this week. Daniel expects to continue his studies at university next year with his sights on ANU in Canberra or UNSW here in Sydney.
- Castle Cove resident, Julia Oliveira moved to Sydney with her family from Brazil in 2006. Julia hopes to continue her studies at TAFE before moving on to Macquarie University.
- Carlingford resident, Alexi Wolff, formerly a citizen of Tonga has recently become an Australian Citizen. Alexi has attended the AIS since 2003, the longest of the graduates.
- Blacktown resident, Ater Majok is originally from the Sudan. He has been earning his American Diploma while training for a U.S. basketball scholarship. A promising athlete, Ater is part of the IPASS (International Postgraduate Academic Sport Scholarship System) which currently helps future basketball stars earn the educational requirements needed to attain scholarships to American and International Universities. Ater heads to America in July to play basketball at university in Fairfield, Connecticut.
- Kellyville resident, Omar Zaher came to Sydney from Egypt. Omar is earning his Diploma with plans to apply for local and International University acceptance.
- Ryde resident, Angran Cui originally from China completed his graduation requirements in December 2006 and is currently working in Real Estate. Angran returns Thursday to receive formal recognition for his academic accomplishments at AIS.
The formal Graduation Ceremony and Dinner Thursday at the American Club at Circular Quay is preceded by a moving up celebration on Thursday morning at the American International School in Carlingford.
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Still plenty of opportunity to reschedule that workday to make the school ceremonies, and space still available for the Graduation Ceremony and Dinner (around 90 booked already). Spoil yourself, take pride in your own and the community’s achievements and celebrate with your community this Thursday.
And in the words of the Irish farewell:
"May the road rise to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the sun shine warm upon your face
The rains fall soft upon your fields
And until we meet again
May God hold you in the palm of his hand."
See you on Thursday to celebrate “International education – though not a right, is surely an inspiration”.
Regards,
Charles
Penultimate Procession
Hi, it’s Charles Nolan here as we enter into the penultimate week of this American International School year.
At your American International School, the autumn leaves have nearly all dropped and met their fate in the maws of the new outdoor vacuum cleaner. (Strange - it seems that only I get to enjoy the dusty pleasures of self-propelled outdoor domesticity, courtesy of International Mothers day…).
Students have returned from camp, and we have met with teachers on a number of occasions in the planning lead up to the new school year. Curriculum, policies and resourcing are all under review for update in the New Year. We also met with Board of Governors last week in a joint preparation for the advertisement and selection process for the new Principal. A good collaborative process, that involves objective selection and involvement by the Parent and Teacher community. More updates will follow as we progress together.
Many people ask me about our northern hemisphere calendar and how it works in Sydney - and with the Southern hemisphere climate. Surprisingly well, is the answer that I reply. The American International School calendar is synchronised with NSW school holidays, and students share part of each break with their neighbours and Australian school friends. Vacation periods are obviously good for northern hemisphere travel, but also for travel within Australia. The June-July period is ideal for heading North in Australia, as the tropics are warm yet dry during this time of year. Great for sitting on the beach, trekking the rainforest, climbing Uluru, swimming with dolphins at Monkey Mia, or exploring the Kakadu wetlands. We still get to enjoy the Christmas vacation time, and can experience the rest of the world, or that part of the world that is right here in our Australian backyard. In addition, snow sports are available in the mountains, or a short flight away in New Zealand.
Exam revision, graduation preparation and holiday expectations are all part of that madcap mayhem that precedes the final school week. Its all part pressure, crescendo and peak as we close out all that is good about the last school year. Make sure that you reward yourself and applaud others by attending the Graduation night on Thursday-31-May at the American Club, 131 Macquarie Street in the city. Over 75 people have confirmed and we are able to share with more of you in this year’s celebration of our graduates. It will be a great night, so make the effort and reward yourselves and your family with a night out overlooking the harbour and city lights. A night amongst friends, family and community of your American International School. A school where international education does not just make the difference, it’s an inspiration for everyone.
See you there.
Regards,
Charles
At your American International School, the autumn leaves have nearly all dropped and met their fate in the maws of the new outdoor vacuum cleaner. (Strange - it seems that only I get to enjoy the dusty pleasures of self-propelled outdoor domesticity, courtesy of International Mothers day…).
Students have returned from camp, and we have met with teachers on a number of occasions in the planning lead up to the new school year. Curriculum, policies and resourcing are all under review for update in the New Year. We also met with Board of Governors last week in a joint preparation for the advertisement and selection process for the new Principal. A good collaborative process, that involves objective selection and involvement by the Parent and Teacher community. More updates will follow as we progress together.
Many people ask me about our northern hemisphere calendar and how it works in Sydney - and with the Southern hemisphere climate. Surprisingly well, is the answer that I reply. The American International School calendar is synchronised with NSW school holidays, and students share part of each break with their neighbours and Australian school friends. Vacation periods are obviously good for northern hemisphere travel, but also for travel within Australia. The June-July period is ideal for heading North in Australia, as the tropics are warm yet dry during this time of year. Great for sitting on the beach, trekking the rainforest, climbing Uluru, swimming with dolphins at Monkey Mia, or exploring the Kakadu wetlands. We still get to enjoy the Christmas vacation time, and can experience the rest of the world, or that part of the world that is right here in our Australian backyard. In addition, snow sports are available in the mountains, or a short flight away in New Zealand.
Exam revision, graduation preparation and holiday expectations are all part of that madcap mayhem that precedes the final school week. Its all part pressure, crescendo and peak as we close out all that is good about the last school year. Make sure that you reward yourself and applaud others by attending the Graduation night on Thursday-31-May at the American Club, 131 Macquarie Street in the city. Over 75 people have confirmed and we are able to share with more of you in this year’s celebration of our graduates. It will be a great night, so make the effort and reward yourselves and your family with a night out overlooking the harbour and city lights. A night amongst friends, family and community of your American International School. A school where international education does not just make the difference, it’s an inspiration for everyone.
See you there.
Regards,
Charles
Friday, May 18, 2007
International Mothers Day
Hi, it’s Charles Nolan here, as leaves fall (and are swept up) at your American International School.
Sunday was Mothers Day, whereby we all celebrated the effect on our lives of mothers everywhere, and heralded the care that is part of that maternal bond in all our families. Some shared it with a phone call, some embarked on a visit, and others celebrated with a small gift. I spent Saturday on a quest, driving "the truck" to the Central Coast for Mary’s gift – something that combined her love of the seasons, gardening and the school.
So, you could imagine the sheer surprise on her face when, on Sunday, I presented her with a self-propelled, 5-horsepower, 4-stroke outdoor vacuum cleaner. Just the thing for picking up those troublesome leaves; cleaning that tennis court; grooming the grass and tidying all the driveways and paths around the school. She was so taken back, (with delight I think), that she was speechless – for the whole day! I of course had that feeling of great pleasure that comes with giving. I can’t wait to see her trundling around the school, in her breaks, sucking up that dirt and detritus. Go girl, and Happy Mothers Day every weekend from now on! Power machinery is the gift that just keeps on giving. And to think that some men used to give their partners household appliances as gifts. How chauvinistic!
Joking aside, as we end this year we are already planning on the "vacation" period as part of our school property upgrade and maintenance cycle. New rubber flooring for the pre-school, outdoor lighting, and more painting and wall boards around the school are all on the agenda. A new school sign has been ordered, after the artistic depredations of the local feral nightlife (graffiti), amongst marketing activities to coincide with the start of the new school year.
Middle and High School is off to Camp on the Gold Coast this week, and our graduating parents are putting the final touches on preparations for Graduation Night, Thursday-31-May, at the American Club. It will be a great night where we herald our latest leading lights, farewell those other families that are moving onwards, and celebrate our community through another great year. It’s always a great finale to the year, where we can share with the entire school community, and soak up the moonlit view of the harbour, bridge, Opera house and city lights. I have attached the invitation again for those that are still wavering – join in, and you’ll be sure to enjoy yourself. Every year we all graduate a little bit, and soak up some pride in our latest ambassadors for your American International School - where international education is for everyone, and the entire community is an inspiration.
Now if anyone knows when Mary should get over the shock of her Mothers Day extravaganza, just let me know. She’s still not talking to me ………….
Sunday was Mothers Day, whereby we all celebrated the effect on our lives of mothers everywhere, and heralded the care that is part of that maternal bond in all our families. Some shared it with a phone call, some embarked on a visit, and others celebrated with a small gift. I spent Saturday on a quest, driving "the truck" to the Central Coast for Mary’s gift – something that combined her love of the seasons, gardening and the school.
So, you could imagine the sheer surprise on her face when, on Sunday, I presented her with a self-propelled, 5-horsepower, 4-stroke outdoor vacuum cleaner. Just the thing for picking up those troublesome leaves; cleaning that tennis court; grooming the grass and tidying all the driveways and paths around the school. She was so taken back, (with delight I think), that she was speechless – for the whole day! I of course had that feeling of great pleasure that comes with giving. I can’t wait to see her trundling around the school, in her breaks, sucking up that dirt and detritus. Go girl, and Happy Mothers Day every weekend from now on! Power machinery is the gift that just keeps on giving. And to think that some men used to give their partners household appliances as gifts. How chauvinistic!
Joking aside, as we end this year we are already planning on the "vacation" period as part of our school property upgrade and maintenance cycle. New rubber flooring for the pre-school, outdoor lighting, and more painting and wall boards around the school are all on the agenda. A new school sign has been ordered, after the artistic depredations of the local feral nightlife (graffiti), amongst marketing activities to coincide with the start of the new school year.
Middle and High School is off to Camp on the Gold Coast this week, and our graduating parents are putting the final touches on preparations for Graduation Night, Thursday-31-May, at the American Club. It will be a great night where we herald our latest leading lights, farewell those other families that are moving onwards, and celebrate our community through another great year. It’s always a great finale to the year, where we can share with the entire school community, and soak up the moonlit view of the harbour, bridge, Opera house and city lights. I have attached the invitation again for those that are still wavering – join in, and you’ll be sure to enjoy yourself. Every year we all graduate a little bit, and soak up some pride in our latest ambassadors for your American International School - where international education is for everyone, and the entire community is an inspiration.
Now if anyone knows when Mary should get over the shock of her Mothers Day extravaganza, just let me know. She’s still not talking to me ………….
Farewells, best wishes and new beginnings
Whilst we draw to a close the final pages on this year’s chapter, we are already now in the process of planning for the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year. As our graduates move on to newer and better challenges, so do many of our families, and some of our teachers.
It is with some regret, and heartfelt wishes for their future, that I announce that Principal Lyn Cheetham, and our Librarian Harvey Cheetham, have been offered a new opportunity in education at the International School in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Every farewell leaves us feeling the loss, but also a great pride that our students, parents and staff are valued and continuing members of our international community. You all are great ambassadors for your American International School here in Sydney, and will all remain part of our community almer mater, and our thoughts go with you all into the future.
We are excited to be conducting an international search, with the support and direction of Council of International Schools, for a new Principal over the vacation period. We will keep the community informed as we progress.
International Education really should be for everyone, and we will continue to provide this unique opportunity for the community, right here at your American International School - where International Education, if not a right, is surely an inspiration.
It is with some regret, and heartfelt wishes for their future, that I announce that Principal Lyn Cheetham, and our Librarian Harvey Cheetham, have been offered a new opportunity in education at the International School in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Every farewell leaves us feeling the loss, but also a great pride that our students, parents and staff are valued and continuing members of our international community. You all are great ambassadors for your American International School here in Sydney, and will all remain part of our community almer mater, and our thoughts go with you all into the future.
We are excited to be conducting an international search, with the support and direction of Council of International Schools, for a new Principal over the vacation period. We will keep the community informed as we progress.
International Education really should be for everyone, and we will continue to provide this unique opportunity for the community, right here at your American International School - where International Education, if not a right, is surely an inspiration.
Hues and humility
Hi, it’s Charles Nolan here, in autumnal hues at your American International School.
It’s always a somewhat surreal time of the year, Fall/Autumn in Australia, as many families prepare for holidays in the northern summer. Our gardens are looking fresh thanks to the work Mary has been doing, amidst that last bloom of colour that presages the beginning of our (mild) winter season. We have two mowers now, so Patrick and Tom can be seen on weekends in tandem, striping the 5 acres of grounds, in their pursuit of hirstute ground fauna (long grass).
The autumnal allegory continues into the classrooms whereby teachers and students prepare for examinations, transcripts, yearbook, graduation and other activities. But rather than squirreling away before winter, this preparation culminates in that bitter sweet celebratory moment at the end of year. A moment whereby all the year’s endeavours come to fruition in celebration and then welcome vacation relief. You are all invited to join in the celebrations at the school, and then graduation night. Graduation night will be held at The American Club, (Level 15, 131 Macquarie Street, Sydney), overlooking Sydney harbour, the Opera House and Botanical Gardens.
The address to graduates will be delivered by the Consul-General of the United States of America, Stephen Smith, both a friend and supporter of the school community. Let Tom Nolan know at our reception if you wish to attend. Our "graduating" parents are organising the festivities in conjunction with the American Club, so look forward to a night of family friendly celebration and send off. The graduation dinner is set for the evening of Thursday-31-May, enabling departing and vacationing families a clear weekend to prepare their next steps.
I wrote to the Teachers this week, expressing my thanks and appreciation for their work over this past year. Starting an essentially new school in 2 July weeks to open in August, was an auspicious beginning for a renewed school community. Turning a near million dollar annual loss into a break-even result in 12 months was a brilliant effort. Taking a short term lease, extending it and turning that into a purchase option was no mean feat in itself. Delivering a professional and committed education program in a time of change was a thoroughly professional and admirable effort by all the school staff. And throughout all this time we received unwavering support from our committed school community.
I would like to thank you all, parents, students, staff, family and community, for your commitment, passion and support over this past year. Please give yourself and other school members the recognition and praise that you all so richly deserve. All have made this year an amazing result of toil, heart and human spirit. I am so proud to have partaken in this endeavour - it seems more like a work of spirit, that is in itself its own reward. At American International School, it really is about community and, you have all demonstrated to me that, an International Education if not a right, is surely an inspiration.
In our daily lives too, we continue to "See the difference at American International School, where international education is for everyone".
It’s always a somewhat surreal time of the year, Fall/Autumn in Australia, as many families prepare for holidays in the northern summer. Our gardens are looking fresh thanks to the work Mary has been doing, amidst that last bloom of colour that presages the beginning of our (mild) winter season. We have two mowers now, so Patrick and Tom can be seen on weekends in tandem, striping the 5 acres of grounds, in their pursuit of hirstute ground fauna (long grass).
The autumnal allegory continues into the classrooms whereby teachers and students prepare for examinations, transcripts, yearbook, graduation and other activities. But rather than squirreling away before winter, this preparation culminates in that bitter sweet celebratory moment at the end of year. A moment whereby all the year’s endeavours come to fruition in celebration and then welcome vacation relief. You are all invited to join in the celebrations at the school, and then graduation night. Graduation night will be held at The American Club, (Level 15, 131 Macquarie Street, Sydney), overlooking Sydney harbour, the Opera House and Botanical Gardens.
The address to graduates will be delivered by the Consul-General of the United States of America, Stephen Smith, both a friend and supporter of the school community. Let Tom Nolan know at our reception if you wish to attend. Our "graduating" parents are organising the festivities in conjunction with the American Club, so look forward to a night of family friendly celebration and send off. The graduation dinner is set for the evening of Thursday-31-May, enabling departing and vacationing families a clear weekend to prepare their next steps.
I wrote to the Teachers this week, expressing my thanks and appreciation for their work over this past year. Starting an essentially new school in 2 July weeks to open in August, was an auspicious beginning for a renewed school community. Turning a near million dollar annual loss into a break-even result in 12 months was a brilliant effort. Taking a short term lease, extending it and turning that into a purchase option was no mean feat in itself. Delivering a professional and committed education program in a time of change was a thoroughly professional and admirable effort by all the school staff. And throughout all this time we received unwavering support from our committed school community.
I would like to thank you all, parents, students, staff, family and community, for your commitment, passion and support over this past year. Please give yourself and other school members the recognition and praise that you all so richly deserve. All have made this year an amazing result of toil, heart and human spirit. I am so proud to have partaken in this endeavour - it seems more like a work of spirit, that is in itself its own reward. At American International School, it really is about community and, you have all demonstrated to me that, an International Education if not a right, is surely an inspiration.
In our daily lives too, we continue to "See the difference at American International School, where international education is for everyone".
Graduation, Maintenance & Next Year - a continuing process of renewal
Hi, it’s Charles Nolan here again, and this time fighting (and winning) against that inherent urge to put off the newsletter deadline. As momentum builds to the graduation, our maintenance and property efforts move in a continuous cycle of renewal.
All that painting, gardening and future property activity has challenged my literary side to keep pace with the business and labour side of our service here at American International School. And education is a service, rather than a business or just a career like any other. It has no clear destination, rather just checkpoints along the way. However, like other services, there is an inherent satisfaction and feeling of selfless commitment to a greater cause than just turning up to work. It is both the motivation and the reward in one, whether it’s teaching a class, administering the school or moving the property forward for the security and benefit of future generations.
For our graduates, Friday-1-June- 2007 had begun as a destination, but will continue as another step on the journey. American International School holds as a cornerstone that our education is based upon "Teaching Lifelong Learning". I spoke at last year’s graduation that many students see it as just a relief to have made it – to have completed the sentence. However it is not only a milestone, but perhaps also a renewal. A renewal whereby our graduates step up to further challenges, with the continuing support of not only their immediate family, but also the wider school family and community. I specifically mentioned the community and family that is your American International School at last year’s graduation, and to this end I would like to invite the whole American International School family to share and celebrate in that cycle of renewal that is the Graduation of the Year of 2007.
2008 looks like being a fine year too, with plenty of action, but none of the tumult that heralded the beginning of this year. Parents have asked me how the school is financially, and I am happy to report that we are breaking even, (neither making nor losing money). The Nolan family continues to provide additional financial services and support for IT, maintenance and administration at no cost to the school, and we stand as security for financial commitments in both the current and the New School Year. This commitment in time, security and funds is not insignificant, however we remain personally committed and able to fulfil our part of that service - that journey of Lifelong Learning that is begun for many at your American International School.
So financially the school is sound and committed to the next year and the ongoing future. Next year will only see a small fee rise to cover salary increases for teachers and rise in costs generally, as fees have been static for the past two years. The very modest rise will only be to cover the costs, and no return to the Nolan family, (sorry no wages for you Mary). In fact the Nolan family is going to be raising money to finance the purchase and redevelopment of the school property, which although more hard work, will give further security and stability for future generations at your American International School.
With this school year coming to a close, another parent has suggested that we hold another "Open House" for parents to question and get updates on the future for the school, before they leave on Holiday. I think that is a great idea, and we will schedule an evening at school in the next few weeks before it gets too hectic at the end. Tell me your preference for a day (weekday or weekend) and time, and I will arrange a "get together" where it is most suitable to you. Happy to hold the session in the evening, or even the middle of the day on the weekend. Let me know.
And, make sure you make a date for Graduation on Friday-1-June-2007 at The American Club overlooking Sydney harbour, and celebrating success with our Graduates of 2007. Graduates from your American International School, where You Can See the Difference, where International Education is for Everyone, and International Education - if not right, is surely an inspiration.
All that painting, gardening and future property activity has challenged my literary side to keep pace with the business and labour side of our service here at American International School. And education is a service, rather than a business or just a career like any other. It has no clear destination, rather just checkpoints along the way. However, like other services, there is an inherent satisfaction and feeling of selfless commitment to a greater cause than just turning up to work. It is both the motivation and the reward in one, whether it’s teaching a class, administering the school or moving the property forward for the security and benefit of future generations.
For our graduates, Friday-1-June- 2007 had begun as a destination, but will continue as another step on the journey. American International School holds as a cornerstone that our education is based upon "Teaching Lifelong Learning". I spoke at last year’s graduation that many students see it as just a relief to have made it – to have completed the sentence. However it is not only a milestone, but perhaps also a renewal. A renewal whereby our graduates step up to further challenges, with the continuing support of not only their immediate family, but also the wider school family and community. I specifically mentioned the community and family that is your American International School at last year’s graduation, and to this end I would like to invite the whole American International School family to share and celebrate in that cycle of renewal that is the Graduation of the Year of 2007.
2008 looks like being a fine year too, with plenty of action, but none of the tumult that heralded the beginning of this year. Parents have asked me how the school is financially, and I am happy to report that we are breaking even, (neither making nor losing money). The Nolan family continues to provide additional financial services and support for IT, maintenance and administration at no cost to the school, and we stand as security for financial commitments in both the current and the New School Year. This commitment in time, security and funds is not insignificant, however we remain personally committed and able to fulfil our part of that service - that journey of Lifelong Learning that is begun for many at your American International School.
So financially the school is sound and committed to the next year and the ongoing future. Next year will only see a small fee rise to cover salary increases for teachers and rise in costs generally, as fees have been static for the past two years. The very modest rise will only be to cover the costs, and no return to the Nolan family, (sorry no wages for you Mary). In fact the Nolan family is going to be raising money to finance the purchase and redevelopment of the school property, which although more hard work, will give further security and stability for future generations at your American International School.
With this school year coming to a close, another parent has suggested that we hold another "Open House" for parents to question and get updates on the future for the school, before they leave on Holiday. I think that is a great idea, and we will schedule an evening at school in the next few weeks before it gets too hectic at the end. Tell me your preference for a day (weekday or weekend) and time, and I will arrange a "get together" where it is most suitable to you. Happy to hold the session in the evening, or even the middle of the day on the weekend. Let me know.
And, make sure you make a date for Graduation on Friday-1-June-2007 at The American Club overlooking Sydney harbour, and celebrating success with our Graduates of 2007. Graduates from your American International School, where You Can See the Difference, where International Education is for Everyone, and International Education - if not right, is surely an inspiration.
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