RIS AD ASTRA - REACH FOR THE STARS by Ruamrudee International School Bangkok

Publication Information: AD Astra is published three times a year by Ruamrudee International School. The objective of the publication is to report on and communicate happenings at Ruamrudee International School. At least 1,500 copies are printed per issue to send directly to all students and their families. AD Astra is also distributed among our faculty and staff numbering over 500, and mailed to RIS alumni and friends. The RIS family is a large and growing community of international citizens.

Ad Astra Team Editor:

Sudha Maroli

Contributing Editor: Tam Fawcett Graphics Design/Layout:

Sornchai Pongheamwattana

Coordinator:

Rajeepan Techapahaphong

4 Message from the School Chaplain 23 Ruamrudee Thanks For Giving Father Leo Travis 5 Letter from the Editor Sudha Maroli 6 The Princesses Graciously Visit Ruamrudee International School 8 Junior Council 9 Three Visits to the Royal Palace Sanurak and Phantharath Natnithikarat 10 German Exchange Program 2014: A Reflection Pattatan (Faye) Pawataungsunit 12 WEB“Where Everyone Belongs” Voraya (Wow-Wow) Vorapanyasakul 14 Romans Visit Middle School! 15 National Honor Society 16 HS Senior Convocation 18 RIS Student Ranks in the Top 3% of the World Hye Won (Jan) Jang 20 RIS Hosts Colorodo Students Kate Pittel and Linnea Andersson 22 Diving is in our DNA Viranpat (Fair) Jiratipayabood and Sasinat (Patty) Chindapol

Fair 25 RIS Welcomes New Teachers 32 Professional Learning at RIS Madeleine Bystrom 34 RIS Ice Bucket Challenge 35 Scholastic Books Signs RIS Author Patrick Maher 36 Ruamrudee Graduates First COETAIL Cohort Tim Pettine 37 Fr.Griffith Day Assembly 38 RIS, Stanford and Google Oranicha (Natty) Jumreornvong 40 “Greetings”, Sports Fans ! Gerry Steiert 42 Giving to the Baan NokKhamin Foundation 43 RIS Students Design Innovative Wheelchair Nicky Jumroenvong (Class of 2012) and Land Wongsirikul 44 Blood Drive 45 PHOTO of the Day

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Ruamrudee International School

6 Ramkhamhaeng 184, Minburi, Bangkok 10510 Tel: +66 (0) 2791 8900 Fax: +66 (0) 2791 8901-2 Website: www.rism.ac.th E-mail: info@rism.ac.th

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

ALUMNI OF RIS, I HONOR YOU! Dear Readers of AD ASTRA, Do you know some of our RuamrudeeInternational School Alumni? They are a lovable and loving group of honorable world citizens! Such wonderful people began with us in 1957. By the time RIS moved from the “Old Campus” to the Campus of Minburi in 1992 there were already several hundred Alumni members. These Alumni gathered every number of years, sometimes in Los Angeles, sometimes in Bangkok. All so happy to see each other! These Alumni honored me on the occasion of my 60th Anniversary of Priesthood, asking that I receive an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis. They then presented to me Bronze and Stainless Steel Plaques to confirm their respect. I am very grateful to them for their thoughtfulness and support. We are proud to say that several members of our Alumni are now Teachers in RIS, inspiring our students. They are loved by all!! My thanks to each and every one of them. The RIS Alumni of our new Campus in Minburi are numbered in the thousands and are already entering professions of recognition around the world. We look forward to hearing more and more about their accomplishments. Recently it was proposed that our school have an RIS Museum, as a Treasure Chest of Memories of RIS and Alumni. Does that proposal sound good to you? Share and make it a Treasure!

a family of Alumni - Mom and Dad taught in RIS; their three children studied in high school at RIS. All five members of this family went to assist the poor in Europe with the famous “Mother Teresa’” for a couple of years as Community Charity Service. When the children went on for further education, Mom and Dad went to a poor school in Indonesia to assist a community of Sisters who live among poor families. Former students and former teachers have carried the spirit of RIS “Union of Hearts through Caring” to distant lands. I honor them all. I thank all of our Alumni for being such wonderful people who found their way to be Ambassadors of the Spirit of RIS!!!! They fulfill the words of our school song :

“

Follow on, all the world’s waiting for you. Follow on, all the saints seem to say. Follow on, Ruamrudee, you’re the future, Giving hope to those who falter on the way. Follow on ’To the Stars’ is your motto, Honest, kind, respectful serving all. Ever striving to give the best that’s in you, For God and country rising to the call.

Marching on, leading on, Ruamrudians, Courage high, meeting all that that yet may be. Teachers who taught memorable years with us can Shining forth your light and inspirations, be classified as “RIS Alumni Teachers”, can’t they? You’re the Union of Hearts, Ruamrudee ! Yesterday I met an elderly teacher who taught into extended years of employment with us beyond retirement God bless you. age. She was so great for our High School! Yesterday she told me that she was invited to give an hour’s conference to students and professors at Thammasat University. She continues to be great! And another is now teaching very poor children in Haiti, bringing love Father Leo Travis, C.Ss.R. and care to a devastated area! I also keep in contact with School Chaplain 4

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”

The first edition of Ad Astra 2014 - 2015 Renewal is a very familiar concept to someone like me who has been at RIS for the last 33 years. I have fostered my love for the school and excitement for my profession by the conviction that life begins anew after every summer. The beginning of each school year symbolizes hope that in return galvanizes vivid dreams. The end of the year, habitually, brings my inner promptings to the forefront. I take time to reflect upon every test, trial, and tribulation piece by piece. Encouraged by the thought that all of these are only fragments of the whole. I remind myself that life is like a flowing stream and every experience, no matter which kind, is a source of sustenance. Irrespective of how a new academic year transfigures itself somethings do not change; excitement, for instance. This Ad Astra captures story of the headline news, The Royal Visit, an article integrating technology with human experience, profile of a RIS student ranking in the top 3% of the world, and a report on the noble cause of a blood drive. My soul has congregated images like these through the decades of my professional life here. The vastness of the experiences and the quality of people I have met are a formidable combination which only got better with each passing year.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwardsâ&#x20AC;? (Soren Kierkegaard, Life, Lived, Understood)

Respectfully,

Sudha Maroli Deputy Head of School

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

The Princesses Graciously Visit Ruamrudee International School

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

n Sunday, August 31, 2014, Ruamrudee International School celebrated the arrival of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and HRH Princess Soamsawali for a three generational private birthday concert in honor of Ajarn Manrat Srikaranonda and Mrs. Laorwan Srikaranonda. To be selected to host both the family concert and to be graced by the attendance of HRH Princesses Sirindhorn and HRH Soamsawali was indeed an honor and a privilege that will be remembered by all present. The evening of family performances of music, song and dance included performances by Ajarn Manrat Srikaranda, former music teacher to HRH Princess Sirindhorn, as well as performances by his daughter, his son-in-law and by two of his granddaughters, one a Ruamrudee International School student. To the

delight of the audience, the concert highlight was surely the unexpected singing performance by HRH Princess Sirindhorn herself. Integral to this special celebration were the charitable donations in support of the Father Ray Foundation. http://www.fr-ray.org/donate The evening raised over 700,000 baht of a 1 million baht goal to help the lives of those less fortunate. We wish to express our gratitude to HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, HRH Princess Soamsawali, Ajarn Manrat Srikaranonda, and Mrs. Laorwan Srikaranonda for this milestone in our history and for a memory that will be long lived by all in attendance. Our RIS family wishes them many blessed years of health and happiness.

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Junior Council

hat an exciting day for parents and students of our newly elected Elementary Junior Council. On this special Thursday, teachers, students, parents and Senior Administration members gathered in our Mini-Theater to induct our elementary school student leaders. A beautiful ceremony was held along with warm fellowship afterward over coffee and muffins. As part of the process for candidacy, students were required to write a persuasive essay explaining to their peers why they would be the best representatives of their homeroom. The depth of thought that each of the student candidates gave to this process was touching, especially considering that these students are only in grades 3, 4, and 5. Please enjoy these samples â&#x20AC;Ś.

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1 2

I know helping people is important and sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun. I really want to be a leader and if I get to experience it then I know how to work well and earn money to live. I want to be a JC because I can provide fun activities and make events more enjoyable. I can learn to communicate to students about their wants and needs. I want to also make suggestions for how to make things better. It is important to make improvements and create ideas.

Great responsibility comes from wearing the vest. Being a teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s helper is one thing but as a JC you have to be a role model for your grade and younger kids. Being a JC is about being a leader and a role model.

Three Visits to the Royal Palace old category in order to challenge herself. Now at the age of 8, her play at the Yamaha Festival 2014 garnered her second place in the 12 year-old category. Given her accomplishments at this early age, all indications are that she is well on her way to be an exceptional pianist.

d Astra had the pleasure of meeting with two RIS gifted pianists, Sanurak and Phantharath Natnithikarat. This brother and sister duo recently competed in the Yamaha Thailand Music Festival coming in 1st and 2nd respectively. If you have ever wondered how musicians become accomplished at such a young age the answer is talent, for certain, but also a lot of hard work. Both students practice one to two hours every day. During competition time they practice minimally five or six hours and sometimes up to eight hours per day. Sanurak, who has been playing piano for seven years, thanks his mother for pushing him the first few years to be the best that he can be. Her encouragement helped him to find the discipline needed to prepare for competition, as well as understand that playing was a venue to express emotion. He also equated his competing to running a business and to the importance of knowing oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competitors. The discipline to play now comes with inherent interest and the desire to do his best and to make his mother proud.

Phantharathâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite thing about RIS is all the activities offered, but she has a solid preference for math and soccer. Unlike her brother, her current goal is a career in business just like The Yamaha Festival competition her dad. By that time, she will have includes students from other countries certainly mastered understanding the in Asia as well as North America. competitive edge. Students must forward a performance video to be selected for competition. Ad Astra is very proud to bring you Sanurak has visited the Royal Palace highlights of theseexceptionalchildren. on three occasions to accept his Find them on YouTube to experience Yamaha Thailand Music Festival first for yourself their impressive artistic place trophies from the Royal family. aptitude. His most recent first place acquisition was this past summer at the age of 10 when he competed in the 12-16 year old category. As the result of his wins, he will now be competing with 19 year olds. He has also competed in Mozart and Beethoven International competitions. When not playing piano, Sanurak likes to play soccer. He says his favorite thing about RIS is that his teachers are very nice and that he has the freedom to choose both his electives and his dream which, by the way, is to be a professional pianist. Inspired by her brother, Phantharath began to play the piano at the age of three. Since then she has discovered a passion for Mozart and commits to the same practice schedule. At 6 years old, she competed in the 8 and 9 yearAd Astra Volume 11 October 2014

German Exchange Program 2014: A Reflection D by Pattatan (Faye) Pawataungsunit

uring the school year 2013, I saw 6 or 7 unfamiliar students strolling around the school campus who I later found out were in the German Exchange program and had come to RIS from Collegium Josephinum Bonn. After only one hour of Thai class where I had the opportunity to meet these students and their teachers, I knew straight away that I wanted to become a part of this thrilling and rare experience in my 8th grade year. After offering to host, finally the day arrived when I was given contact information on my German exchange student. After months of

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preparation and with the help of Ms. Laura Axtell and Ms. Anneliese Zausner-Mannes everything was set. On the day the boys arrived at our school, everybody was nervous at first. We collaborated on a variety of activities such as going to classes, sightseeing during personal time, hosting a pool party, and including them in our Thai daily lifestyle. I hope that from spending two weeks with us and going on weekend trips with the school to temples, Chatuchak market, and different parts of Thailand that the boys enjoyed their time, felt welcomed, and took back a bit of Thai culture with them. Their stay in Thailand

was an amazing, unforgettable moment for all of us. In June it was our turn to visit them in Germany. All of us, including the parents and teachers, had been waiting for this time to reunite with our German “brothers” again. Personally, being in a foreign country with a new family, I experienced several situations where I learned how to be independent and to meet challenges in positive ways. For example, what to do at breakfast and how to eat with a big selection of delicious German meat and bread? I still remember telling myself “Just copy what they do at

the table!” Unlike Thailand, many German families did not have maids or nannies to assist with housework. Therefore, I didn’t know what to do with dish cloths and squeegees in the showers. This was another situation I had to figure out, whether I had to clean the shower once I used it or not. This sounds easier said than experienced. It was also little nerve wracking, but they were good ways to put our problem solving, communication and adapting skills to the test! Despite the challenges, I settled in well with my family instantly. During our cultural exchange in Germany, the German boys, the teachers of both groups and our group of girls visited many beautiful places and learned various things. We went to the Haribo Center where we bought delicious gummies; Phantasialand, a German

amusement park, where all of us enjoyed the exciting rides; The Open-Air Museum Kommern where we explored the fresh outdoors, a walk-through simulation of important events in Germany and the preserved lifestyle of olden German times; and House of History in Bonn where we had a chance to look deeper into fascinating details of wars and changes. Moreover, we had many opportunities to stroll through the streets of Bonn, Bad Münstrereifel, Aachen, Belgium, and Cologne, where we gained plenty of knowledge about the cities, stunning churches and cathedrals from our guide, Mr. Karl and Ms. Sabine. Personally, I felt like I was able to perceive the characteristics of the people who lived in Cologne thanks to the relics and statues of famous individuals from priests to actors to singers and even images of homeless people they have left on

town halls, fountains and cathedrals. We had fun shopping and enjoyed Currywurst (sausage and bread with curry sauce), the famous Belgian Fries, and lots of chocolates! I remember my first surprise taking a sip of water and discovering it was carbonated as that’s what they typically drink in Germany! As for the weather, it was fresh and cool. I also remember a great effort in separating garbage in homes and public places and the environment being cleaner in general. As for our most favorite part of the trip, I believe that all of us loved the School Festival and joining classes since those were the times where we met and made many new friends. We have grown close to several of them and are still in contact with our German friends.

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

WEB

“Where Everyone Belongs”.

By: Voraya (Wow-Wow) Vorapanyasakul

Some of you might be wondering, “Who are these kids walking around the Middle School wearing a shirt that says in big, bold letters: WEB?” What is a WEB leader? What do they do? Why would they do so?

WEB leader is one who volunteers to take care of the incoming sixth graders. Now by take care, we don’t mean babysitting. As a WEB leader, we feel the desire to help sixth graders feel as welcome as possible upon entering middle school, hence the acronym standing for “Where Everyone Belongs”. Middle school at first glance could be intimidating; scary teachers, piles of homework, and older looking upperclassmen. We’re here to change all of those

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thoughts. Sure, starting in a new section could be tough at times, but we work hard to guarantee that middle school will be a memorable part of your lives. Now, you might ask, what do we actually do? Coming up from fifth grade, your very first encounter of WEB would be during the six grade orientation. The sixth grade orientation, despite replacing a day of vacation, is an amazing activity and we encourage you to come. During the orientation, we are assigned groups of sixth graders to whom we introduce ourselves and each other to the best of our abilities. Following that, we do a number of activities before going on a school tour. These activities are here to help introduce you to friends, make you feel comfortable around us WEB leaders and to show you around school so you don’t become lost anytime soon. After this event concludes, our job doesn’t stop there. We, of course, still care for our groups and try to create even a stronger bond with them by always keeping an eye on them, looking around to see if they’re having any problems or difficulties or not. When we do find someone troubled, we don’t hesitate to walk over and be their friend. To us, this isn’t a chore. It’s what we’re willing to do, from the bottom of our hearts. We want to make sure that even though the orientation is over, sixth graders feel comfortable talking to us anytime they want.

As WEB leaders, we each had our reasons why we wanted to join at the start. As said by one WEB leader, “We’re happy, they’re happy, everyone’s happy”. Some of us felt the orientation we attended back in sixth grade helped. Some of us simply wanted to help out. Many wanted to see and help make the world a better place. Regardless the reasons, we’re here as a team, to aid in making Ruamrudee Middle School a safe and happy place to be! Interested? Anyone can apply! If you feel up for the job, and you’re a current seventh grader, just head over to Ms. Jessica’s room for more information as there are a few requirements. The application process is usually around the end of the school year, but Ms. Jessica would be glad to answer any questions you have now. A question to ask oneself before deciding to apply for WEB would be if one truthfully, wholeheartedly desires to help others. If the answer is yes, you’re good to go! Also, we have a few other activities scattered throughout the year. An upcoming event is the bake sale, which will be sometime around December. It will be a Christmasthemed sale, and as a gift to our awesome sixth graders, we will be giving them discount coupons. This year in WEB, we have many talented bakers, so you can look forward to our delicious cookies, brownies, cupcakes, cheesecakes, and much, much more!

QUOTES “There were many helpful activities. It’s a big change from Elementary but it’s a very good experience.” Hannah, 6th grader 2014 “I felt kinda uncomfortable but it helped me a lot.” Park, 6th grader 2014 “I’d say the orientation was pretty good. Why did I join? I joined because I’m just...being me. I wanted to help people and thought the sixth graders would need it.” Poom, WEB leader 2014 “WEB is good because there are many good role models. The role models are students, and students understand each other well.” NongPai, 6th Grader 2014 “The orientation was fun for me and I guess also for everyone. I felt happy because I’m doing something for someone else. We’re happy, they’re happy, everyone’s happy.” Bush, WEB Leader 2014

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Romans Visit Middle School!

n early September, as part of the 7th grade mathematics curriculum, students were engaged in learning about a numeration system based on something other than 10. Students were introduced through a history video depicting how several of the earliest cultures, such as the Babalyonians, Incas, Astecs, Sumerians, and the Chinese developed numbers to count, estimate, and calculate. After several days of learning about the Roman Numeral System, students practiced writing large and small numbers in both Roman numerals and the Arabic numbers we use today. They were also able to perform basic operations as well.

strategies and making a list of supplies they’d need.

MS 312 was a beehive of activity! The outcome was many awesome games and videos. The effort and energy that went into creating the games was so extensive that Mrs. Byrum had to re-write the rubric 5 times! The students went far beyond what was anticipated, then again, middle school students are an extremely talented bunch of young people. After the games were completed and the last card was laminated students had a chance play each other’s games. It gave everyone time to “play” but the creators also had the opportunity to work out any glitches or clarify rules that weren’t clear. Mr. Tim Fitzgerald, our new Associate Principal, was able to stop by and partake in the games as well.

In an effort to extend and demonstrate their knowledge of Roman Numerals, students were given the task of creating a game. Students were introduced to game venues such as Jeopardy, The Match Game, and Bingo. Other options included creating a video based on their own number system or designing a set of flashcards. For Overall, the students reported that they really enjoyed the next few class periods students were busy discussing the activity and hope there will be more like this. Best of with their partners their ideas and then planning their all, students did quite well on the summative assessment. 14

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National Honor Society

e honor our new members of the National Honor Society, a premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since its beginning in 1921. Four main purposes have guided chapters of NHS from the beginning: to create enthusiasm for scholarship; to stimulate a desire to render service; to promote leadership; and to develop character in the students of secondary schools. These purposes also translate into the criteria used for membership selection in each local chapter. Congratulations to all of our RIS NHS members. We are very proud of you!

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

HS Senior Convocation

ongratulations to the Class of 2015! During Senior Convocation on August 14, RIS Seniors received their Ad Astra pins and pledged to continue reaching for the stars and serving as leaders as they complete their final year of high school.

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

RIS Student Ranks in the Top 3% of

the World

“Idiosyncrasies and dissimilarities define the characters of human beings. Society may sometimes scorn certain individuals for their differences. In Ayn Rand’s novella Anthem, citizens are forced into a dystopia of monotony, where everyone must stand equal in all aspects. Despite his innate curiosity and intelligence, Equality must succumb to society and suppress his unique characteristics. Equality knows he is different; he acknowledges his natural instinct to question and seeks his own answers by experimenting in secret. He keeps a secret journal to note his observations and discoveries. However, despite his appreciation of science and inquisitive personality, Equality is powerless against the totalitarian government and collectivist structure of his society.” 18

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his was the introduction to the essay Hye Won (Jan) Jang submitted to the Ayn Rand essay contest. Ad Astra caught up with this award winning student to find out how all this began. Jan, what got you interested in the contest in the first place?

As an English student in Ms. Becky’s class last year, I was introduced to Ayn Rand’s Anthem during our graphic novels unit. Ms. Becky requires all of her students to enter, and to be very honest I had forgotten about such a contest. What was the process like writing for an international competition?

The actual writing of the essay did not take too long; I took a couple of days. The task was quite challenging, as Anthem is a heavily philosophical book with great depth and context. In English class last year we took a lot of time to read the book, analyze the text, and develop our own perspectives and understandings of the work. The essay itself was a challenge to me because I had to write with a clear voice and express my ideas, but also answer the prompt and deliver a unique, individual perception of the novel.

What did you learn from the process?

I learned writing is not a simple task of spilling words on a page. Writing takes effort, commitment, and time. The essay I wrote for this particular contest made me learn just how difficult it can be to find the perfect words to describe something you want others to understand. However, from participating in this contest I have come to realize writing is a universal form of language, and if you are eloquent and creative enough, your words will be acknowledged.

Has being recognized at this level motivated you to write more?

From the results of this contest, I have become motivated to continue strengthening my writing skills. I hope I have a chance to compete in other writing contests in the future. What are your future plans?

Writing and reading have always been activities I enjoy, and I will continue to develop both skills. As of now, I am enrolled in the IB diploma programme, and hope to continue strengthening as a student overall. I am still How did you feel when you got the news? unsure of what I want to study after high school, but The contest is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest writing literature is definitely one of my options. competitions, and I had not expected to receive any sort of prize whatsoever. However, when I received my mail RIS is very proud of Janâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accomplishment and knows from the US I was quite surprised and happy to learn that whatever she decides to do, she will approach it with my essay had actually been acknowledged. I would the same effort and commitment that brought her this encourage students to read Ayn Randâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s novels as she is success. a phenomenal writer and philosopher, and perhaps even enter the Ayn Rand Essay Contest as well. As they say, the pen is mightier than the sword.

RIS Hosts Colorodo Students

This year RIS welcomes two students from Vail, Colorado. Ad Astra caught up with Sophomores Kate Pittel and Linnea Andersson to ask them a few questions about their decision to come to RIS and about how they have adapted to life so far from home. parents into letting me spend my junior year abroad in Thailand. When I delivered the news to my friends back in Colorado, they were shocked but excited for me to have a life-changing year in Thailand. What is the biggest difference between RIS and your school back home?

Kate Pittel How did you end up coming to RIS?

I came to visit April Slagle over my spring break vacation last year. Ms. April was my teacher in Colorado and I developed such a great relationship with her in middle school that I wanted to come visit her in Thailand. When I visited April in Thailand we went to RIS so I could see where she was currently working. After she shared with me how amazing the staff and students were, how successful the athletic program was, and how rigorous the academics were, I was convinced that attending RIS would be one of the best decisions I could make.

In Colorado I knew every kid at my school and had grown up with them since we were newborns. Vail is a very tight-knit community that never allowed for any change or diversity in our elementary, middle, and high schools. At Ruamrudee I meet new kids every day and the diversity scale greatly trumps my high school in America. The ability for me to make new friends on a daily basis and find out about the different cultures and lives of kids at this school is very unique and I learn so much more about the world when I have simple conversations with kids in class. Are you involved in extracurricular activities?

I am on the varsity soccer team and am part of the Red Cross Club, Leo Club, NHS, and Ecomerits Club. What has been your biggest adjustment living in Thailand?

The constant stimulus in Thailand has been difficult adjusting to. At home I would always be outdoors with unlimited amounts of space and I would often find myself hiking, skiing, rafting, biking, and doing many What did your friends and family first outdoor activities in the great outdoors. The pace of life in Vail, Colorado is very mellow and easy-going so the think when you decided to do this? When I first stepped off the airplane and arrived in constant hustle-and-bustle in Bangkok has been hard to America after spring break, I called my parents and told adapt to. Despite the difference in lifestyles I am slowing them that I wanted to move to Thailand. Initially, my getting used to the city life and am learning to love it. parents laughed it off and didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think I was serious. After a few weeks, the prospective idea of moving to Although you have only been here a Thailand became a conversation I had with my family short while, what has been your best daily. Throughout the remaining few months of my experience so far? sophomore year, I was able to successfully persuade my Joining the soccer team and getting to know my 20

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teammates has been a great experience. The kids on the team are very similar to me and I have already developed really close friendships with all the kids on the boys and girls team. The school days are very challenging and

rigorous so it is comforting to know that at the end of the day I can be around positive, exciting kids who enjoy the same things I do. Joining soccer has been one of the best decisions I have made so far this year. as genuine and excited for my adventure which was comforting, knowing I wouldn’t see them for ten months. What were your first impressions of Thailand? Of RIS ? Have they changed?

Right off the bat, I fell in love with the “jai yen yen” vibes of Thai culture and its emphasis on staying cool and composed. With that being said, I’m tremendously impressed by the students’ work ethic and drive when it comes to academics and their extracurricular activities. What is the biggest difference between RIS and your school back home?

RIS has a wide variety of clubs which my school back home, Battle Mountain High School, does not have. The available sports are also different. I’ve been on the ski team back home since sixth grade. It doesn’t look like I’ll be seeing much snow here this year! In addition, How did you end up coming to RIS? RIS has a much more culturally diverse population Last April I came to Thailand for spring break to visit my than BMHS. So far, I’ve met kids from Korea, Japan, former teacher and principal, Ms. April and Ms. Toni. Thailand, India, Bahrain, and Bhutan! Along with my dear friends Kate and Kelsey, who I’ve known since Kindergarten, I packed my bags and was Are you involved in extra curricular fortunate enough to spend my spring break exploring activities? the paradise where many only dream of vacationing. Yes, I’m running cross country this season. I’m also We spent time in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Krabi; apart of Eco-Merits, LEO Club, and NHS. all of which were stunning and fiercely rich in Thai culture. All throughout, we had many conversations What has been your biggest adjustment about living to its fullest potential, being happy in life, living in Thailand? and seeking new opportunities and adventure. Studying The weather! Adjusting to the heat and humidity has abroad had always been a dream of mine and somehow been a challenge for sure. the universe’s forces lined up in my favor and I was presented with a chance of a lifetime. Kate and I are Although you have only been here a back in Thailand for a year at RIS! short while, what has been your best

Linnea Andersson

experience so far?

A few weekends ago Kate and I took a trip to Ayutthaya. I was blown away by the World Heritage Site. I’m At first, my family was a bit shocked. I came to them fascinated by the Buddhist culture so it was neat to see with the idea at the end of April, which meant that the ancient temples. The Buddha head that has grown if I was going, I’d have to move within in a matter of into a tree at WatPhraMahthat was by far my favorite. three months. There were some logistics that came into question, but after they were all ironed out, they could Ad Astra will catch up with both Kate and Linnea in not have been happier for me. My friends were equally June for a full review of their year with us. What did your friends and family first think when you decided to do this?

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Diving is in our DNA

by Viranpat (Fair) Jiratipayabood ‘14 and Sasinat (Patty) Chindapol ‘15

ur shoes were confiscated. Our belongings were carted off. We marched along in single file. With every step, our hearts raced. Our breaths quickened. This was it for us … This was the liveaboard. On April 5th, 2014 all 14 RIS divers boarded the MV DiveRace with excitement, joining four dive masters and crew on a voyage headed to the Similans from Tap Lamu Pier, PhangNga; it was the beginning of a journey whose greatness rivals even that of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and Treasure Island. The first night rocked, literally and metaphorically. By April 6th we woke up to the sound of the Similans. Though there was no internet and only occasional phone signal (some of us cringed), we all had the chance of really soaking up the experience (pun intended). From that point on, everyone followed a new routine of living: wake up, dive, eat, dive, sleep, repeat. In every single dive, we were given the honour to observe an unexpected amount of marine life. We scoured every crack, scrutinized every coral boulder, and examined every landscape. Fun-sized wonders ranged from harlequin shrimps and slipper lobsters to cuttlefish, octopi, and sharks! The highlight for many of us would probably be the manta rays and the whale shark. So incredibly majestic and beautiful, these animals glided around us like birds of the ocean; we were left astonished. After a full day of diving and sunshine we watched the sunset on the deck with cool gentle breezes and the boat softly cradling tired divers to sleep. When day 5 came, no one wanted to leave the boat. However, it was time to return to reality. The things we all gained from this trip were not only nice photos and an extreme tan, but rather more awareness for the aquatic world as well as friendships brought together through one common passion: scuba diving. A big thank you to Ms. Paige and Mr. Jeff; without them we would not have had this unforgettable opportunity! Even though we left the deep, blue ocean behind, none of us could forget that, even for one moment, we were able to encounter something much larger than ourselves: a network of lives that are different but the same, a link between nature and human, the experience in the Similans. We will return; diving is in our DNA.

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

        

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    

                                  

                                                                        24

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

RIS WELCOMES NEW TEACHERS Amanda Gates Psychology Teacher

I’m Amanda Gates and I’ve been an English, Psychology, and Sociology teacher in Washington State for the last ten years. My husband, daughter and I enjoy traveling, reading, visiting with friends and going on family adventures. We are excited to experience a new home in Thailand and to be part of the RIS community.

Ann Kreske

Special Needs Teacher

I’m very excited to be a member of the RIS special education department fulltime. We’ve already had a great first year at RIS last year: My husband taught Biology at the high school section with some fabulous colleagues, my son thrived in first grade, and I had an opportunity to ease back into teaching through substitute-teaching and tutoring. Back in Maryland, outside of Washington, D.C., where we call home, I received a Master in Special Education from Johns Hopkins University, and taught special education for a few years before returning to school to obtain a law degree. I’ve been practicing law for the past ten years, and had been working as an attorney for the U.S. government for the past five years prior to our move to Thailand. Outside of work and school, my family and I enjoy road trips, camping, being outdoors, and traveling.

Caroline Woodward Special Needs Teacher

At RIS I teach elementary school special education . Currently I’m from Al Khor, Qatar but really I am from Vermont, USA where I love to be outside working and hanging out. Snow sleeping over the hills, slushy sloppy mud season, sunshine, or freezing- your-face-gusts of wind - just being outside is lovely. My family and I have been dog-talking for years. So yes, I am just as over-themoon-excited as our daughters are about bringing a dog into our lives. Along with our new dog, I also look forward to new forming friendships, working with my new students, and jumping in to begin our new Thai lives.

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Crystal Ellis

Elementary Counselor

Greetings Thailand and RIS! I am Crystal Ellis, Elementary School Counselor excited to jointhe RIS family. I am coming from Portland, Oregon where I have lived for the past 8 years. I am originally from California and I am a proud West Coast gal! I love my sunshine, my outdoor runs, hikes, beaches and adventures. When I am not a school counselor, I am enjoying time outside or cooking good food. I have developed a passion for great food living in Portland and enjoy evenings with good food and friends. I love learning and traveling and feel rather grateful for the amazing opportunities to do so in my life. I am excited to return to Thailand after a quick visit in 2010. My heart is wide open to this adventure and I look forward to making new memories here. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of the RIS family!

Dr. Fiona Murphy English Teacher

I am so happy to be at Ruamrudee teaching 9th grade, 10th grade, and IB English. I love being an educator, and this is my first experience in an international school. My graduate work was at U.C. Berkeley, where there are a lot of both international students and domestic students for whom English is not the language spoken in the home, and I appreciate how a variety of cultural perspectives enhances a classâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s understanding of the texts that we study. In my free time, I like reading books (no surprise), taking walks, eating good food, and enjoying smart conversation. If some combination of those last 3 are taking place at one time, then all the better! Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking forward to meeting you all.

Jonathan Houghton PE Teacher

Hi! My name is Jonny Houghton from Liverpool, England and I am the new High School PE teacher. I have taught in England, U.S.A. and I just finished my 6th year in Dubai, U.A.E. My main passions revolve around sport as I like to keep active but I also enjoy listening to music and playing the guitar. I love travelling and have visited Thailand on many occasions because of its culture, beautiful scenery and I have found the people extremely friendly. I am looking forward to making a fresh start at RIS and becoming part of the team. 26

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Jennifer Peters Homeroom 1-3

I’m Jen Peters and I teach Grade One at Ruamrudee International School. I am from Missouri and Colorado.I studied at Missouri State University where I received my degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education with an emphasis in Middle School. I have a Masters and Specialist’s degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in Educational Administration. Prior to joining Ruamrudee, I was a grade one teacher in Cairo, Egypt. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, photography, reading, swimming, volleyball and spending time exploring new places. I’m extremely excited to be living in Thailand and learning about a new culture and country.

Kevin Waldman Values Teacher

I just finished my 17th year of teaching, which includes international teaching experiences in Abu Dhabi, UAE and most recently in Cajamarca, Peru. I am very excited to continue my career at RIS, where I teach Values, Ethics and World History. Among my favorite things I’ve done since teaching internationally is to travel and explore new places. Interestingly, though, what quickly I’ve learned in my travels is that any given country is not always - nor necessarily best appreciated through visiting historic places and monuments... instead, I’ve discovered that - for me, at least - a country is appreciated most and best when interacting with and getting to know its people. As such, this is exactly what I am most excited about as I make my home in Thailand and at RIS... particularly since I’ve been told that the title of “the land of smiles” fits Thailand perfectly.

Michelle Meskin School Psychologist

My name is Michelle Meskin and I am the school psychologist at RIS for the 2014-2015 school year. I am from New York and studied at the University of Rhode Island (B.A.) and St. John’s University (M.S. and Psy.D.). I have been a school psychologist for 12 years and absolutely love what I do! In my free time I enjoy traveling, photography, cooking/ baking, reading, exploring, and spending time with family and friends. I’m excited to come to Thailand and to work at RIS so that I can gain an understanding of the education system and culture. I have always thought it important to challenge myself and seek professional development in various ways to further my education and career. Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Angela Dawes ELD Teacher

As Angela Kendall Dawes, née Angela Kay Kendall, I grew up outside of Portland, Oregon, and began my teaching career as an elementary teacher in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. Shortly after my return to the United States, I met my charming and devastatingly handsome husband. After getting my Spanish teaching endorsement at the University of Portland, I began teaching Spanish, ELD and literacy at Riverdale Grade School in Portland. I have lived abroad in Costa Rica, Spain, Portugal, and Poland. In addition to spending time with my family, I enjoy traveling, yoga, gardening, and Zumba™. I also love cats, oversized sweaters, shrugs, shawls, and the first half of dozens of books. My favorite brand of shoe is Campers. I have always wanted a Westfalia pop-top camper van. I also enjoy the music of Camper Van Beethoven. I love the novels of Gabriel Garcia Marquez. I find Paolo Coelho’s The Alchemist contemptible. I have a love/mild dislike relationship with reality television shows. I once took up knitting but discovered that I already owned more knitted items than I required. I am an avid skier, part-time cyclist, and lover of swimming in: 1.) pools 2.) rivers 3.) the ocean, and 4.) lakes. I have traveled frequently to various parts of Mexico, and am especially fond of Zihuatanejo. My favorite books are My Search for Patty Hearst, by Steven Weed, and The Queen of Mean: the unauthorized biography of Leona Helmsley, by Randall Pierson. I planto someday watch Game of Thrones.

Kaitlyn Pettinga Values Teacher

Originally from Rockford, Illinois, I spent the last 6 years working as a Special Education teacher and administrator in New York City. It was in NYC that I earned my Master in Education with a specialization in students with disabilities from Hunter College. Prior to working in education I counseled children and families in the child welfare system as clinical case manager for the Children’s Home and Aid Society. I earned a Master Degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Northwestern University where I also worked as a therapist in clinic, community, and school settings throughout the city of Chicago. I strongly believe in the power of education and its ability to transcend incredible suffering and injustice. I am excited to bring together all I have learned as a teacher, counselor, and advocate as the primary values teacher in the middle school at Ruamrudee. Outside of teaching, I love to learn, read, and explore. An avid runner and hiker, I will do almost anything to get outside and enjoy all of the beautiful nature surrounding us. In Thailand, I hope to explore the varied landscape, markets and wats to find out what truly makes this great country the “land of smiles.” 28

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Candice O’Connor Homeroom 1-1

My name is Candice O’Connor. I am from Huntsville, Ontario, a beautiful piece of cottage country surrounded by fresh lakes and lush forests, located two hours north of Canada’s largest city, Toronto. I am enjoying my time in Thailand as I continue to be surrounded by natural beauty, delectable cuisine and hospitable people. In my time here, I wish to utilize my passion for the environment to create an eco-presence at RIS in which students are enlightened to become future leaders of living green and inspiring others to do the same. During my free time, I like to stay active in the outdoors, biking, swimming and hiking. You’ll most often find my camera thrown over my shoulder in order to capture the moment as I enjoy photography and the unique perspective which everyone holds. With almost ten years of experience in the education field, I am excited to be joining the RIS community and teaching a lovely Grade One class.

Justin Dawes ELD Teacher

I, Justin Cole Dawes, already had my ten minutes of fame. It was more like 23 minutes of mild notoriety, appearing on the television quiz program Jeopardy!, only to discover I was the only person in the western hemisphere who did not know that Peggy Fleming was the lone American woman to win gold at the 1968 winter Olympic games. I grew up in upstate New York collecting Star Wars action figures and shooting various items with a Daisy air rifle. I was a Rotary International exchange student, and spent a year in Hafnarfjórdur, Iceland, before attending Emerson College in Boston, MA. I later moved to Portland, Oregon and worked at Portland International Community School for 10 years, teaching ESL, Creative Writing, and Small Press Publication. After receiving my Master’s degree from Portland State University, I worked at Parkrose High School, teaching Language Arts. I have also taught continuing education art classes at Pacific Northwest College of Art. One of my dreams is to see the USA win a FIFA World Cup final. Another of my dreams is to raise a kitten and a baby rhesus monkey together from infancy. In my spare time I like to build lego™ structures with my children Lila and Johnny. I love Mexican food, and put hot sauce on nearly every food I eat. I love the works of Ernest Hemingway, and after reading several biographies have concluded that Hemingway is a brilliant writer and was an insecure jerk to most of the people who knew him. My favorite character from The Sopranos is”Paulie Walnuts” Gualtieri. I can do many accents, but none of them well. Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Ashley Mays

Pre-School Teacher

Hello! My name is Ashley Mays and I am originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan. I went to Michigan State University and got my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design. I moved to Chicago for a Graphic Design job doing print promotion for beverage and consumer packaged goods. After designing for 5 years, I went back to school and got my Masters in Elementary Education from Roosevelt University. I taught on the South Side of Chicago for 3 years working with a variety of students from Kindergarten to 8th grade. I lived in Chicago, Illinois for almost 10 years and enjoyed the city very much! In my free time I enjoy reading, designing, hands-on art, shopping, dancing, traveling and spending time with friends. As a new member of the RIS, Bangkok and Thailand community, I greatly look forward to having adventures, meeting new people, making new friends and traveling to exotic places.

Kristina Goodman ELD Teacher

I will be teaching in the middle school ELD department. In the past 8 years, I’ve lived in Beijing, New York City and Hong Kong but I’m originally from Wisconsin. In my free time, I enjoy doing yoga and going cycling. I also love cooking for my friends.

Tam Fawcett

PR and Marketing Liaison

Hello RIS and readers of Ad Astra. I come to you from Nova Scotia, one of Canada’s eastern most provinces along the Atlantic Ocean and I feel so very fortunate to be continuing my educational journey with you in Thailand. I have had a varied career pathway from being a classroom teacher to a high school principal and have previously loved living abroad in France and Germany. My educational background is a BA/BEd in French and a Master in Educational Foundations with a focus on Curriculum and Leadership. I love to keep physically fit and enjoy the sports of sailing, skiing and tennis. While living in Thailand I look forward to meeting new friends, to exploring new cultures, and to leaving Canadian winters behind! 30

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

John Woodward Homeroom 2-1

A native of New England, USA, I arrived here in Thailand after spending last year teaching in Qatar with my wife Caroline, an Elementary Special Education teacher and daughters Lucy (12) and Hannah Julia (11). An educator for over 20 years, I have taught in many states of the US, as well as Brazil, Qatar and now Thailand. I am passionate about elementary teaching and learning with young students and try to incorporate my own loves into interests in my classroom each day. I am a sports fan and can be found out on the tennis court when not in the classroom. My other interests include reading as much as I can, spending time outdoors, romping with my two daughters, trying to be a better mandolin player and more!! I am thrilled to be here at RIS!

Estibaliz Gonzalez Spanish Teacher

Hi! My name is Estibaliz and I am Spanish, from a region in the north of Spain called Basque Country. I have a degree in Philology, which is the study of the languages, and a Master in Translation. I have lived in the UK, The Bahamas and in Singapore where I taught for 8 years. Being at RIS is an excellent opportunity to carry out doing something that I really love, teaching. I find the students to be really kind and gently, and it is a real pleasure to be a member of this community. Apart from teaching, I also love traveling and, mostly, I love nature. So, I will make sure I visit the beautiful beaches and national parks in Thailand.

Timothy Fitzgerald MS Assistant Principal

I am Timothy Fitzgerald. I grew up in Fairfield CT. I have a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree from Sacred Heart University along with two Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degrees, one from Fairfield University and the other from Lehigh University. I was a Middle School Math and Science teacher for 15 years before moving into administration. I previously taught at International School Bangkok, American School of Milan and Stamford Public School system. I was previously the Middle/High School Associate Principal at Saigon South International School in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam before accepting the position here at Ruamrudee.

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Erin Fitzgerald Homeroom 6-1

My name is Erin DeYoung Fitzgerald and I am originally from Boston, Massachusetts. My teaching career started early after graduating with a Bachelor Degree in Education from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and later a Master Degree in Teaching and Learning from Lesley University. Throughout my teaching career I have been engrossed in learning all I can about language acquisition and teaching reading and writing. Previously to teaching at RIS, I have worked at Saigon South International School, International School of Bangkok, American School of Madrid, as well as teaching in the United States. My husband I are happy to be back in Bangkok as this is where we met nine years ago. When we’re not working we enjoy golf, jogging, biking and being outdoors. I am looking forward to working with the wonderful students and staff at RIS. Teaching is my first passion and I am so happy to work with your children to foster their love of learning.

Professional Learning at RIS by Madeleine Bystrom, Curriculum & PD Coordinator

t RIS we truly believe in “lifelong” learning; a trendy, but rather old phrase, simply defined as learning that is pursued throughout life. The school believes that a high quality professional development program is essential to create a school in which staff members stay current in their skills and knowledge, continually improve their performance, and achieve school-wide, section and personal goals. This requires an extensive range and variety

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of professional growth opportunities, including this is an excellent example of collaborative learning. site-based, national and international workshops, seminars and courses, and a professional culture of RIS teachers also reach out to the larger regional collaborative sharing and support. community to offer EARCOS sponsored weekend workshops. These are workshops attended by teachers Professional learning happens on many levels; as a in the South East Asian region and with our teacher whole school, in sections, departments, professional trainers we can provide high calibre workshops that learning communities and at the individual level. Whole compete with the biggest and best international schools. staff training can be seen on Early Release Days, when nine days per year students are dismissed at 1:00 and Recently we offered a writing workshop attended by teachers are provided the opportunity to learn, and representatives from over 7 countries and we are proud examine ways in which to improve student learning. On to be offering a math workshop for elementary teachers these days teachers are also part of professional learning in November, which has also drawn participants from communities; which are smaller groups of teachers countries around the region. Another way that RIS across the sections that have chosen areas of interest and reaches out to the regional community is by sending learn together. a number of our excellent teacher/presenters to the EARCOS Teacher Conferences. This is a great way for Elementary School has been piloting in-class us to represent the school and continue to share with our professional learning with teachers and students in their colleagues. â&#x20AC;&#x153;literacy labs.â&#x20AC;? This is an excellent PD opportunity in which a group of teachers work with a coaching teacher It looks like another busy year of teaching and learning, during class time with students. All research supports learning and teaching! the learning that happens collaboratively with peers, and Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

R IS Ice Bu ck e t Ch a lle n g e

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Scholastic Books Signs RIS Author

Imagine if there were a book series based on a student’s life at the Union of Hearts International School in Minburi, Thailand. It wouldn’t be a completely fictitious setting like Hogwarts School in the Harry Potter Series because the Union of Hearts motto proudly stands in many places across Ruamrudee’s campus. But what’s the point in letting our imaginations run wild? Wouldn’t it be better to tuck our dreams away in a safe place where they can’tbe found?

Patrick Maher ast month, middle school humanities teacher, took longer than he’d expected. Patrick Maher, signed a contract with Scholastic Books and brought to life a book series that is based “If you want to be a writer, you need to be very patient,” on his experiences teaching at Ruamrudee International he confessed. “It’s a very slow process and you’re never done writing. I am rewriting Pleng’s Song with a School. It’s something he never expected to happen. Scholastic editor and that’s after I felt it was all finished. “I only meant the stories to be a gift for my students,” I’m in the middle of that now and feel like a student who Mr. Patrick said. “I’m humbled over the attention my has been told to re-daft an essay but I’m learning a great work has received because I was a low achiever in deal about literary techniques.” school, so this serves as a good lesson in never giving The main character in Mr. Patrick’s books is Pleng, a up and believing in yourself.” neglected girl from a wealthy Thai family. She fights to In 2012, Mr. Patrick’s novel, Pleng’s Song, was released make it through each day and live a normal life at the as a self-published book but quickly caught the attention Union of Hearts International School. She suffers from of The Nation, Thailand’s leading newspaper. From bullying and struggles through the Great Thai Floods of there, the book was featured in many national news 2011. publications across Asia. It also appeared in The Times of India, The Libya Post, and several newspapers in the “Having the first book set in the floods certainly helped me,” Mr. Patrick claimed. “The story has an element United States. of historical fiction and that’s one thing Scholastic “I was shocked at the attention the story received so I sometimes looks for, so I got a lucky break. For now, I quickly starting writing a teenage romance as a follow have to follow the program, stay disciplined, and apply up, but everything changed once Scholastic showed an myself to the revision process.” interest in Pleng’s Song,” Mr. Patrick explained. “The problem was they weren’t interested in a single book “We should hope for the best and plan for the worst. but a series of books and I had to prove I could write That’s what my mom taught me so I never stop thinking them. So I quickly dropped the teenage romance idea about a better world. When I look out my window and see birds in the trees, I can fly and be free. It’s like and began writing the sequels.” going on a fast roller coaster that suddenly drops and By the spring of 2014, Mr. Patrick had completed the makes my stomach go through my throat. If I put these two subsequent books in the series and waited for a thoughts down on paper, people might believe my decision from the publisher. When it came, he thought stories, but that’s just a dream, so I’d better tuck them he’d have a contract in hand within days but the process away in a safe place.” –Pleng

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Ruamrudee Graduates First COETAIL Cohort By Tim Pettine

his past May, 15 teachers and administrators completed a certificate program focused on technology integration and 21st century skills. Ruamrudee International School hosted the academically acclaimed Certificate of Educational Technology and Information Literacy (COETAIL) professional development program to Bangkok area schools. The program, which is sponsored by Buffalo State University, is comprised of five courses that explore instructional practices leveraging emerging, connective technologies in order to foster 21st century skills. Throughout the fourteen month program, teachers acquired and applied knowledge of web-based Â tools and multimedia devices. Educators were asked to navigate systems such as Google Apps for Education and the Wordpress blogging platform, while designing instruction through the frame of Understanding By Design. An emphasis on the SAMR model, the integration model that identifies how technology is used for instruction, afforded multiple opportunities for teachers to reflect upon their practices and design tasks

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

to enhance understanding. Courses specifically focused on the value of personal learning networks, digital citizenship, and visual literacy. An important emphasis was placed on the culminating project which challenged each cohort member to re-define learning through the use of technology. A few examples of such projects included the use of social media to understand current events, the publishing of student generated digital stories, and reverse instructional strategies to take advantage of class contact time. The program is currently in its second cohort at RIS with eighteen teachers already enrolled. To view teacher blog posts and videos of the final project, go to www.coetail.com/ris Â Tim Pettine is the Director of Educational Technology, Instructor of the COETAIL Bangkok cohort, and AP Psychology Teacher.

Fr.Griffith Day Assembly

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

RIS, Stanford and Google

d Astra had the pleasure of catching up with Oranicha (Natty) Jumreornvong, an impressive RIS alumna and Stanford Freshman, during her brief but very busy time back in Thailand this summer. We asked her about her time at RIS, about what took her to Stanford and, most importantly, about the exciting work she is doing with her QRist team and her start up company. Amazing and humble like the students she admires most at Stanford, this young woman is surely going places.

US medical schools. However, thanks to the support of and (a lot of) convincing from my peers and teachers at No. Not in a million years. I was certain that I would RIS, my parents finally allowed me to attend Stanford. become a doctor at the age of 23 by applying to UK medical schools. What has been the best part of being a However, I’ve always known Freshman there? that the traditional medicine Meeting amazing and humble people. I’ve met young route isn’t for me. I’m entrepreneurs, star athletes and talented students who just too whimsical for want to make positive changes in the world. Yet, they that. I want to explore are down to earth about their accomplishments. I am other possibilities before grateful and incredibly lucky to be here. committing myself to a career. If I ever decide to What is your fondest memory of RIS? become a doctor, I want I have a lot of fond memories at RIS, ranging from to be a well-rounded playing basketball, volleyball and softball with my one who understands closest friends to eating baked cookies Mr. Eric made medicine in a broader for my team. After my dad was diagnosed with cancer, spectrum and I I was experiencing some rough times both at home and believe that the US at school. I missed a lot of classes and made mistakes liberal education along the way but my friends and teachers were always will help me with there to help me back up. I wouldn’t be where I am that. However, my today without them. parents would not allow me to go How did your education at RIS help to Stanford prepare you for what you are doing now? b e c a u s e RIS offers both AP and IB diploma programs. Having they want taken both AP and IB diploma classes, I can attest that me to have the education I received during my time at RIS has a secured prepared me for the rigor college has to offer. The IB medical career in diploma’s extended essay portion has prepared me well the UK and enrolling for academic writing. Due to my experience writing a in an undergraduate scientific research, I was able to apply for jobs related program in the States to medical research and write papers that were then does not guarantee published in the Stanford Journal and sited in the Google my admission to the Scholar. Did you ever think that you would be going to Stanford?

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

What advice can you share with current RIS juniors and seniors?

Work hard and play hard. What I mean by play hard is that you should do the things you are passionate about (not just partying of course). The summer before senior year is very important so I would advise the students to be productive. For example, I conducted a research on antibacterial properties of various herbs in South East Asia and represented the Princess of Thailand Foundation to travel to Cambodia and advise the Cambodian Royal Advisors on making antibacterial creams and bandages for land mine explosion amputees and paralympic athletes. Tell us about QRist. How did you become involved and what is your role with the QRist team?

QRist is a technology company utilizing emerging technologies such as Google Glass and reprogrammable QR codes to develop connected, responsive consumer labels. Having lost my childhood friend due to lost medical records, I co-founded QRist and led my team to South East Asia to develop tools for doctors to quickly access urgent patient information hands free with Google Glass and to set up secured, digitized medical history for 20 mobile clinics and 5000+ patients using mobile and web applications. Throughout my work with QRist, I have delivered keynote addresses at Stanford Hospital for Health Career Opportunities Programs, at Bangkok Bank Presentation for 650 audience members on Start Up culture, at Chiang Mai University on social entrepreneurship and at CDC, National Biotechnology Centre, and Bangkok Police General Hospital on QRist technology. My work with QRist earned me an induction into the Compass Fellowship for Social Entrepreneurs, the Kenneth Cole Awareness Fellowship, a Sophie Hallette Grant Recipient and a position as one of Googleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original Glass Explorers. What are our future dreams and goals?

To be kind to others and to be happy with the things I do.

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

“Greetings”, Sports Fans !

by Gerry Steiert, Athletics Director

he 2014-15 world of Ruamrudee school sports began on yet another positive note. We had nearly 100% coaching staff return, which is great to see as this helps students be familiar with program expectations and enables us to offer the best sporting experience to each and every student on all of our teams.

The annual Panther Invitational Varsity Volleyball Tournament sponsored by ISB rounded out our Season 1 friendly tournaments. RIS Girls garnered gold and RIS boys captured silver. SEASAC sees our U19 teams participating in Football, Volleyball and Golf this semester. Cross Country Running is officially a SEASAC Sport this year and we are still looking for runners to enter a team. Both our Football teams travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for the Division 2 Championships. Boys are at Garden while the girls are at Mont Kiara. Both our Volleyball teams remain in Bangkok for Division 1 Championships to be held at BPS.

RIS hosted 4 Varsity Tournaments early in the season. On the weekend of Sept. 6, Boys/Girls Volleyball & Football entries saw 28 teams on our campus. Ruamrudee had 2 entries in each category for a total of 8 teams. Our JV teams all entered this home offering to gain experience and get some tournament playing time. RIS won medals in 5 of the 8 teams entered. Medal Results: Volleyball – Varsity Boys Gold / Varsity Girls Silver, JV Girls Bronze. Football – Varsity Boys Silver The Golf tournament this year will be hosted by Tanglin / Varsity Girls Bronze. Trust in Singapore Nov. 13-17. From there, golfers will travel to the island resort of Bintan Lagoon, Indonesia. Varsity Football & Volleyball teams then visited NIST This should be a very interesting time for our golfers for the annual Falcon Invitational. Volleyball teams and one full of many memories. returned with Silver for the Boys who were runners-up to the Thai Sports School and Bronze for our girls. Boys & BISAC action begins Oct. 3 with Varsity Volleyball Girls Football were unable to finish in the top 3 this year. & Football in various locations around Bangkok. The This very same weekend our U17 Football teams traveled remaining age groups have their championship the last to Shrewsbury for an invitational. Boys came home weekend in October following our break. We are excited with Bronze medals. U15 Boys Basketball attended an to be hosting Touch Football & Basketball SEASAC invitational tournament at Shrewsbury as well, but fewer Division 2 Tournaments near the end of January. players and injuries kept them from the medal round. 40

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

October BISAC Events

Fri. Afternoon, Oct. 4 & Sun., Oct 6:

U19 Football @ BPS – Boys Coach Sean McMahon & Girls Coach Prapohj Unpudsa U19 Volleyball – Boys Coach Danupol Nuengchang @ ICS; Girls Komson Penpoo @ NIST

Sat., Oct 11

Open Cross Country @ ISB – Coaches Becky & Rod Oliver are in charge of this rather large crew. U13 Boys Singles Tennis – Coach Sorachet “Arm” Uayporn @ BPS November BISAC Events

Fri., Oct 31/Sat., Nov 1

U13 Team Tennis – Boys Coach Sorachet “Arm” Uayporn @ BPS; U17 Volleyball – Boys Coach JoeiJanjira Khaosa-ard @ NIST; Girls Coach April Slagle @ ICS U17 Football @ BPS – Boys Coach Jonathan Houghton & Girls Coach Supachai (Golf) Suriyapattaratham U15 Basketball – Boys Coach Orestes Jackson @ ISB; Girls Coach Charoen Saendej @ ASB U13 Basketball – Boys Coach Matthew Treinen @ RIS; Girls Coach OnsaSaleenuan @ SHB U11 Boys Basketball – Coach Dominick Bruso @ ISB

Sun., Nov 2

U11 Girls Basketball – Coach Jennifer Treinen @ SHB SEASAC Events October 30 – November 2

Football (Division 2 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia ) – Coaches Sean McMahon for the boys @ Garden International School & Girls Coach Prapohj Unpudsa @ Mont Kiara International School. Volleyball (Division 1 @ BPS ) – Coaches Danupol Nuengchang & Komson Penpoo for the boys & girls respectively.

Nov. 13-17

Golf hosted by TTS in Singapore to be held at BintanLagoon Resort, Bintan Indonesia – Coaches Joey Scott & Chaperon Cathy Kemp. That’s it for Season 1 but stay tuned for full results. Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Giving to the Baan NokKhamin Foundation

IS has a proud history of showing compassion for those less fortunate by being caring citizens and by contributing time and energy to the local community. These grade 10 students have been working closely with the nearby Baan NokKhamin Foundation at Seri Thai Soi 17.

that is certified by the government, however, the government does not support its funds or activities. Therefore, they seek help and support for their children.

RIS is collecting donations for the foundation in the form of used clothing and books or educational materials (in Thai or in English) for children ages 2-10 years old. The aims of the Baan NokKhamin Foundation, as stated Donations can be dropped off at the ES office and will on its website, are to â&#x20AC;&#x153;restore the joy and family bonding, be taken to the orphans at the end of each month. to provide orphans with education and cultivation in terms of ethical behavior and academic achievements, Great job Patrick, Prae, Mickey, Gene, Thew & Baoand to raise these orphans as high-quality citizensâ&#x20AC;?. The Bao! Baan NokKhamin Foundation is a private organization

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

RIS Students Design Innovative Wheelchair

icky Jumroenvong (Class of 2012) and current senior Land Wongsirikul (Class of 2015) have not only come up with a sustainable and eco-friendly wheel chair design, they have begun a Fundraising Campaign to build these comfort wheelchairs for Father Ray Foundation to be given to those in need. All money donated will be used to produce these wheel chairs that can be transformed into beds for handicapped children or adults.

and ES outside Mr. Daryl’s office. Each wheelchair costs 3,500 baht to produce (the factory is being very supportive in keeping costs down for us) and our goal is to target at least 10 chairs per section. To quote Nicky and Land, “We would like to thank our wonderful RIS teachers who taught us the necessary skills to design this modified wheelchair to be able to give back to those less fortunate than us.”

This wheelchair fundraiser is an RIS project across all Nicky and Land are hopeful of your support and, on 3 sections and donations will be collected for the next behalf of those in need, thank-you in advance for any 2 months. Donation boxes are located at each school donations you may give. section: HS in the breezeway, MS in the main office Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

Blood Drive

ach and every time the Red Cross Club and the Thai Red Cross Society blood drive is held, our aim is to reach 100 donors. At the first blood drive of the year, our school community went above and beyond with 103 donors in total! We would like to thank everyone that came to donate blood. It was a pleasure to see our regular Superheroes as well as so many new ones. It was also nice to see many people there providing moral support to the donors, including Father Travis and Father Apisit. We encourage you to continue donating blood in the future. The next blood drive will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2015. So mark your calendars and join us next semester. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too late to be a Superhero!

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

PHOTO of the Day

RIS: Photo of the Day: 18/08/2014 -- HS holds its 2014-15 Club Orientation event. If you missed the opportunity to get involved with any of these great extra-curricular activities, or are still thinking about it, be sure to follow the HS Daily Bulletin for upcoming meeting times and locations or check out the HS Activities Booklet.

RIS: Photo(s) of the Day: 03/10/2014 -- Catching up with our 24MS and HS Taipei trippers currently attending a 5 day workshop with the Asia Pacific Six Arts Academy. All is good. Students are having fun, enjoying the workshops and learning lots about linguistic and cultural integration. We hope you enjoy your last day! RIS: Photo of the Day: 29/09/2014 -Props to our Girls Varsity Volleyball team who garnered gold over the weekend at the annual Panther Invitational Varsity Volleyball Tournament which rounded out our Season 1 friendly tournaments. Congratulations also go out to our boys who captured silver. Go Phoenix!!

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014

PHOTO of the Day

RIS: Photo of the Day: 09/09/2014 -- If you are in MS, to be in the loop this week you need to get into the hoop. Hula-hoop that is. Come be part of the action and the fun and hoop it up RIS style! Competition is everyday this week at lunch. Don’t forget to practice your game and your cheers for this Friday is the House Championship.

RIS: Photo of the Day: 10/09/2014 -- These Grade one students in Ms. Jenn’s class know how to combine science and fun. Here they are enjoying our ES playground while investigating the physics of air resistance, grade one style, using parachutes made especially for today’s science activity.

RIS: Photo of the Day: 25/09/2014 -Our Kindergarten students are learning about the five senses. This week they have been focusing on the sense of sight and using it to learn more about the world around them with the aid of small binoculars, kaleidoscopes, and magnifying glasses. They even know the parts of their eyes! Here are two of our budding little scientists observing each other’s eyes with a magnifier.

Ad Astra Volume 11 October 2014