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4 message from the school Publication information: AD Astra is published four 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 1,100 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 editors: Tam Fawcett Will Hayman
Graphics design/layout: Sornchai Pongheamwattana
coordinator: Rajeepan Techapahaphong
Printed by T.K. PRINTING CO.,LTD.
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
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chaplain Father Leo Travis from the editor Sudha Maroli h.r.h. Princess maha chakri sirindhorn Visits ris remembering dr. Penny lorwattanapongsa Sudha Maroli es science showcase Angela Dawes the Garden Project Jenny Robertson Grade 3 Water Walk-a-thon challenge everyday chemistry.... Crystal Ellis es Games day for my Valentine ris tedx ris students Win Kidsai tai saad award ms Games day ms talent show ms German exchange Program continues Emily Bevington service conference ris celebrates Japanese new Year lion Painting Siyaporn Saosaovaphak (Shasha) World scholar’s cuP 2016 Tom Wash ris triumphs in international math competition Ben Roth lead, Washington d.c. 26-31 January 2016 Ping-Ping Lee-Isranukul ris students Photographer association (rsPa) Mimi, K and Por Por. T
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Namthai Hoang and Sandy Kanjanakuha boot camp @ Khao chon Gai Deejai Riangkrul high school scummer 2016 senior field triP Meg Saksiriwatekul and Alina Chalanuchpong hs spirit Week and Knowledge bowl Folk Narongrit Phoenix sports news Gerry Steiert Keep on rockin’ in the classroom Mathias Saunders Quadblogging Katie Seneesiririkul hs ris tech club and service learning Robert Golding cas service highlights hs thai department the first flap of a butterfly’s Wing Paponek Nitiratanakul (Patrick) fourth Grade ris students use their heads, hands, and hearts at suraolumnaiso school Lauren Jordan operation smile @ maehongson mission BaoBao Laosirihongthong serVice learninG @ris Shirley Gamble es retreat day Sr. Mary Rose humans of ris ms retreat day remand minburi Prison Matt Morse Photos of the day Ad Astra Volume 17 March 2016
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The Secrets of God and His Wonders
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id you witness the Eclipse of the sun on March 9, 2016 ? On that morning our Elementary students and faculty were under the open sky to witness God’s wonder. At times the clouds obstructed this magnificent scene. But at the end we still managed to witness it with joy. Times like these come together to create an atmosphere that gives us a certainty of a particular Truth. Our faith reminds us that God created the sun to give us light during the day, and created the moon to give light at night. We sing about this during one of the Psalms of the Old Testament. God speaks to us in varied ways showing His love. At RIS on Sunday, February 19, 2016, I happened to be the “Preacher” of the day for the Mass in English. I meditated for hours and days about what the Gospel of Saint Luke was trying to tell me. The Gospel read easily about Jesus inviting three of His Apostles to pray on the mountain top. While praying, personalities of the Old Testament appeared to them. They were in conversation with Jesus about the sufferings when He was about to enter Jerusalem. It was the scene of Calvary, but it was also, for the Apostles, the scene of Heaven with the glory of God surrounding them for a moment. Allow me to say that in my mediation of this scene, as read in scripture, I felt a tremendous joy. It held me, thinking about what Heaven is going to be like - full of life and joy. On February 21, 2016, we had a magnificent concert in Redeemer Hall in the presence of a Royal Princess. I had a very good seat with clear view of the stage and was close enough to hear each word that was part of the concert. Relaxed and enthralled, I began wishing that the music would not stop!! As I sat there, I was reminded of the scene in Heaven where Angels and Saints are so happy creating their own concert for the joy of those who are fortunate to be in the glory of God’s Heaven. This is what we celebrate on the Feast of Easter, the Resurrection of Jesus. Jesus lives. Jesus has come back to Life as he waits for us to join Him, as He opens Heaven and Heaven’s joys. I say “Let us rejoice and be thankful for the recent Eclipse, the Concerts, and all the Promises of Jesus”.
God bless you.
Father Leo Travis C.Ss.R. RIS Catholic Chaplain
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“Where cognition meets compassion” “A school with a heart” are slogans that speak for the culture of Ruamrudee International School. In the last few decades, schools around the world have become more explicit in how they emphasize the heart factor. This is often expressed in how the schools engage students in Service Learning activities. A large body of research supports that meaningful community engagement actually improves academic learning along with student attitude and social behavior. RIS has prided itself as one of the pioneers of this valuable program. Our passion gets translated into practice in how we design our Values and Religion programs. The curriculum integrates deep reflection, civic responsibility that strengthens personal efficacy and spiritual growth. This edition of AD ASTRA is dedicated to this greater purpose. The articles mirror the Service Learning pedagogy across disciplines and accentuate activities that speak to emotional generosity, critical and reflective thinking.
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H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Visits RIS
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.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graced Ruamrudee International School on Sunday February 21, 2016, to preside over the birthday concert organized to honor Ajarn Manart. It is interesting to note that Ajarn Manarat and his wife Khun Laorwan celebrate birthdays on the same day. RIS took this honorable opportunity to make the event a memorable one for all. The preparations were meticulous and reflective of our immense respect for H.R.H. Princess Sirindhorn. Ajarn Manart was part of the Royal Jazz band for sixty years. Ajarn Manart is a national artist, a wellknown composer and taught music to the Prince and Princesses. The program was spectacular with three generations of talented artists coming together. Ajarn Manart, his daughter Khun Indhuon, her husband Mr. Artas Balakauskas, son Khun Pathorn Srikaranonda and his granddaughter Asta left the audience in absolute wonderment and awe. Having Asta as a student has made Ruamrudee International School exceptionally proud. Princess Sirindhorn charmingly and generously played a few songs on the vibraphone and sang two songs composed by Ajarn Manart to the delight of the audience. The concert also holds great significance as it was designed and delivered as the crowning glory of a six month project. During this period several concerts and activities were formulated by the family of Ajarn
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Manarat, the Redemptorist Fathers and the St. Joseph’s convent in order to raise funds for the hilltribe children in Mae Chaem.
Remembering Dr. Penny Lorwattanapongsa
By Sudha Maroli
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he sad demise of Dr. Penny Lorwattanapongsa is a great loss to the international school community of Thailand. Dr. Penny started her career as an elementary teacher at Ruamrudee International School during the 1975–1976 academic year. An invaluable member of the RIS management team, she started the department of Pupil Services at RIS and became the first director of this program. She is often described as the force that drove the school forward and as someone who is dynamic and inventive. Her initiative and vision led to her conceptualizing two more international schools - Redeemer International School and Mahidol University International School. Dr. Penny set a fine example of life-long learning and acquired three Masters
degrees; she received her Doctorate in 2003, in Cross-Cultural Communication in International Schools, from Katholieke Universiteit (Belgium).
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In an article, My Journey to Mount Calvary (and Beyond), Penny describes her personal miracle as one where “both Christians and Buddhists come together to pray for me”. Her very last wish and dream was to become a part of the new Jesuit College in Thailand, the Arrupe Institute. My admiration for Penny goes beyond her achievements. I celebrate her for how she modeled values of hard work, perseverance, strength, faith and forgiveness.
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ES Science Showcase
By Angela Dawes
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hat a science success! The annual ES Science Showcase was held on Friday, February 26, in Godbout Hall. Children from grades 1-5 were able to share and highlight their learning and the investigations explored in science so far this year. Ms. Kim’s choir sang about science.Their song entitled “I Wonder” set the tone for the day and there was so much science to wonder about! Parents, students and staff were treated to speeches from students across the ES that highlighted what excites them about science, why science is awesome and how much they learn through science. Classes were able to share their investigative projects in an authentic and meaningful way. Grade 1 students, the youngest scientist participants, wowed us with their understanding of physics. They used wheels, ramps and roller coasters to demonstrate
force and motion. Our grade 2 biologists focused on grubs and insects. We were equally impressed with their scientific vocabulary and level of understanding of these creatures. Grade 3 students displayed dissected owl pellets with all of their bones, they showed us how surface tension works, and they inspired us with their models of joints and how our bodies move. The focus of investigations for our Grade 4 students was the biology of crayfish and snails. They had slime, mazes, races and many different thoughtful questions and projects related to these crustaceans and mollusks. Their elodea video was a hit! Grade 5 students explored chemistry; liquids, mixtures and solutions. We were treated to ice cream floats, pancake chemical reactions, extracts that smelled and tasted so good, as well as many other impressive projects! Super chemist, Mr. David, entertained us with many awe inspiring chemical reaction demonstrations and made solutions change color before our very eyes. Both kids and adults were left excited about science and wondering what else is out there in the world to be discovered. “I wonder” was truly the theme of the day.
Here are some spectacular quotes from our young scientists: “Science excites me because science is a world of amusement, mystery and great wonders.” Gino 3-3 8
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“I always used to wonder if we are real, if we are the last ones in the universe. Is it the Big Bang that started us all? Well we can explore the unlimited use of the cosmos, to the physics of your ball, to those hydrogen infused black holes roaming the universe in their destructive ways.” Vij 5-2
“Science. The biggest branch of knowledge. We have used science since we exist. In other words, without science it is like trying to explain the world without land or sky.” Ja-jar 5-2
The Garden Project By Jenny Robertson
he Garden Project is almost in full bloom! The Garden Team has been working hard on the final details to ensure a successful opening this April. Using blueprints that current eighth grade students drew up last year has resulted in a layout that is picturesque. Just outside of Redeemer Hall you will find the bricks have been laid, the soil has been tilled, and some grade sixers
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with green thumbs have already planted the first seeds! Along the perimeter wall, The Garden EDP has worked hard to liven the space by planting flowers in planters made in last year’s art classes. The Garden Team is looking forward to introducing The Garden Project to everyone around the timing of Earth Day 2016.
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Grade 3 Water Walk-a-Thon Challenge t felt TIRING! But it was kind of fun because I got to get some exercise. But my strongest feeling was pride because I was happy I got to raise money for the people who don’t have clean and healthy water to drink.” -Tonhom
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“Before I felt water was just a thing I could get at the tap. Now I feel like it’s a very valuable resource everybody doesn’t have.” -Axe “Before I felt like, Oh, it’s so easy. I won’t have a bit of sweat at all. After, I felt like So….tired….can’t….take…. one more...step. I was going to faint.” -Pin “I didn’t drop my water. It would be very frustrating because you spend so much time, but then all that time would be wasted if you drop the water. And then they would have to go home, get another container and then try to get the water home safely. The consequences could be no food, no cleaning and most importantly, no drinking!” -Dhruv
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“I felt scared before the Walk-a-thon because I thought the water might be heavy. But not as heavy as this!! Afterwards I kind of felt happy since I would be helping a lot of people.” -Sara “First I felt so sad about the people who don’t have water because they need to walk so far to get water. After I felt happy because when I’m done walking, I get to help donate money to them.” -Achi “I could NOT go to school because I would not have time. No time for family or fun things.” -Norah It’s not often you see school children changing the world, especially students as young as our Grade 3 class. However, that’s exactly what a group of RIS and Swiss School students proudly accomplished in mid February. The third graders from RIS collaborated with students from the Swiss School to kick off the first ever Water Walk-a-Thon Challenge. After weeks of investigating the properties of water in science and learning about global problems associated with inadequate clean drinking water, students were keen to put their knowledge into action. They collected pledges from family members and friends to sponsor them to carry a 5 liter bottle of water as far as they could in 30 minutes. This event was designed to simulate the daily routine that millions of children must do everyday; walk an average of 4 hours each day to collect water for cooking, cleaning and drinking. All of the funds raised during the event help support two organizations, Imagine Thailand and Ryan’s Well in Africa. Both of these NGOs provide
clean, safe drinking water by building and maintaining wells in impoverished communities in rural areas. On the day of the event, over 100 students were brimming with excitement and anticipation. They knew that every extra step they took meant that they were bettering a child’s life somewhere in this world. With support and encouragement from their parents and their peers, the kids walked 100 meter lengths again and again on Godbout Field. Although they were hot, sweaty and exhausted, they persevered for the cause. After the event, the students reflected on how they felt during the challenge. They built camaraderie and were very proud of their efforts. Students also described how the event changed their perspectives of water issues. At first, they
believed that it would be easy to carry 5 liters of water for 30 minutes. In the end, they all agreed that their lives would be drastically affected in negative ways if they didn’t have access to clean drinking water from a tap.
Everyday Chemistry.... By Crystal Ellis, Elementary School Counselor
“The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.” ― C.G. Jung
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ne sunny Saturday morning, I came upon Grade 11 student Jet Kangval. He had just finished up his SAT and was happily heading home in his golf cart. I happened to be standing next to his social studies teacher and she mentioned that he was a “pretty outstanding human with a real zeal for chemistry.” I pondered what life would be like if I knew how it felt to have a “zeal” for chemistry. Little did As the Facilitator of High School Mentoring in our I know, in that moment that I begin my very own chemistry Elementary School, I thought I would try my hand at chemistry with these three young scientist. What experiment. unfolded was a display of humanity that doesn’t just David Goodman and Akkarawat Chinpongpaiboon, happen in the movies or in petri dishes. An unexpected (Thames) are two dynamic fifth grade boys. I happen to know relationship formed and the magic of chemistry that they both have interest beyond the standard curriculum unfolded in the lives of these three young men. No and study chemistry for fun in their free time. The hunger for matter the conditions, these three young men spend learning that exists as a part of the culture of RIS makes it a 30 minutes each day together covering topics such as really beautiful place for kids. Sometimes students struggle the color of neon and the properties of boron. to find their way, their place, or their purpose in school. Sometimes adults can help by plugging them into the right What I appreciate most is that the chemistry is real, outlet. David and Thames are two wonderful people looking out side of the classroom everyday chemistry. Lives for just that right outlet, that special something at school transformed. Thank you David, Thames and Jet. I have a zeal for your chemistry. that they can sink their teeth into. Ad Astra Volume 17 March 2016
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ES Games Day
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For My Valentine You are the best Mommy ever. I really proud of you Mom I thank you so much for all your love that you have given me. Thank you for being yourself and teaching me. You change my whole life I don’t know what I would do without you. I am really proud of myself that I was born to be your daughter. You’ve taught me the right way to solve the problem. Even if I make a big problem, you are always there for me. Thank you for everything My lovely Mommy Anonymous
You are always there for me No matter what happens you give me care You support me so I can be strong You want me to get the best but when I fail you never give up You went to find a tutor for me Until I got better Thank you, Mother for all these things.
You have loved me since I came to this world You have cared for me all my life. When I can’t do something, you comfort me and tell me to do my best. When everything is wrong, you make it right. Everytime I get hurt, you were at my side. No matter what happens I will love you. Lalida
I met you at the start of the term and now I am thinking about you I thought you were a bookworm But that was completely untrue I first started talking to you It wasn’t very great But as time passed by We became best mates. We walked and talked We shared our thoughts. Urvi
Cheese
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RIS TEDx “I
have never met anyone at Stanford University who has not done a TEDx talk in high school,” a former RIS student told me when she visited last year. The TEDxYouth@ RIS event is one way to distinguish oneself from other students. It provides a venue to share an idea that is worth spreading to others and a really great opportunity to begin to hone one’s public speaking skills. There is a lot of behind-the-scenes work that happens for the students. First, they must choose their own original idea. Then, the students write a script and relentlessly edit and revise it. Finally they audition to land them a moment on the TEDx stage and their recorded video “forever” taking its place among the annals of Youtube videos from around the world on the TEDx channel.
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This year, 15 elementary, middle, and high school students from RIS were chosen for this opportunity among a pool of over 80 RIS students. They were selected based on having a genuine and unique idea worth spreading, their ability to convey that idea, and the courage to take the stage all alone to share that idea with our audience of parents, teachers, community members, and other students and student volunteers. There were a wide range of topics on display. Naman Kedia, Grade 11, who used Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) to learn how to computer program, eventually created a SAT vocabulary review app to be put up on the iTunes store. Nattanant Sarayuthpitak (Tang Tang), Grade 4, gave reasons to ditch your car and ride your bicycle more often. Suchita Thepkanjana (Sushi), Grade 5, and Piyaonn Musikabhumma (Pingpong), a Sophomore, spoke about coping with stress in their lives, offering strategies to help us all. “I felt a little bit hot inside and I thought I was only going to mess up, but I really learned that when I do the best I can that I feel happy.” Bene Puengchanchaikul, Grade 2 (The Case Against Deforestation)
“For me, the TEDx experience was a digression from the academic lifestyle into something that you’re passionate about. I’m not much of a public speaker or presenter, but you tend to speak fluently when it concerns your passions. Despite all the different age, ethnicities and diverse backgrounds, we all had to bring out one thing: a valuable message.” Anna Rai, Grade 10 “Being a presenter on TEDx was a very new experience for me. I actually have stage fright, and it was quite hard for me to speak and perform to an audience of 100 people. The preparation process was also challenging, but thanks to my teachers’ help I was better able to convey my idea. Looking back at it now, I’m glad I passed the audition and got to go up on stage to share my worth-spreading idea. I enjoyed every moment of it.” Ping Nawachartkosit, Grade 10 (How to Learn an Instrument More Quickly) “It was something new entirely and definitely a very scary challenge but, nonetheless, very exhilarating. I got to say what I wanted to say to a wider audience no matter the feedback and it felt good, almost like a relief.” Nacha Rapeerattanakul, Grade 10 (Feminism Redefined) “The TEDx was a very interesting and new experience for me. Although I have a fear of public speaking, the TEDx event made me feel oddly comfortable with the idea of speaking in front of an audience. I thought that the event was a great way of sharing ideas from the community of RIS to the world around us. I found it really fun to listen to other speakers too since most of
the speakers weren’t people I was personally close to, so it was interesting to hear their ideas.” Wifada Powattanasuk, Grade 10 (Misconception of Cockroaches) In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. The event would not have been possible without the months of preparation beforehand by generous and dedicated staff and student volunteers and staff members who act as event organizers. This year’s event would also have not been possible without the financial generosity of our ES, MS, and HS principals, to whom we are most grateful. With their assistance, we were able to provide great food, a beautiful space in the PAC to present, and a unique solar battery pack for all electronic devices. Special thanks to Crystal Ellis (Elementary Organizer), Shorna Shand and Pavla Poch (Stage Help and Set Design), and Dominick Bruso (High School Co-organizer).
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RIS Students Win Kidsai Tai Saad Award
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d Astra had the pleasure of meeting RIS students Nett Khemayodhin (Nett) and Netrsai Khemayodhin, (Neuy) the first winners of the Kidsai Jai Saad Award “Star Kids Kidsai Idol” to attend an international school. This award is given annually by the The Privy Councillor (consultant to the King) to children, adults and celebrities for their outstanding contribution to Thai society. Both Nett and Neuy have participated in many educational, religious, sporting, cultural and environmental events since they were very young children. Their activities have ranged from promoting TK Park at Central World, encouraging kids to develop a passion for reading, encouraging mothers to breastfeed, participating in religious camps, performing at Thai classical music concerts to nurture Thai culture (including at RIS), and many other events.
Nett has attended RIS since grade two and his favorite thing about his school is the teachers. He loves to play classical guitar and recently showed off his talents at the MS Talent Show where 16
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he performed the King’s song. Swimming is his favorite class. His career goal is to be a pilot so that he can visit many countries. When asked about his win, he said that it made him feel proud to be recognized as a good kid.
Neuy has been with us since Kindergarten. For her, it’s her friends that make RIS special. She enjoys many sports including volleyball, basketball, badminton and swimming. Physical Education and Art are her favorite classes and Khim is her favorite instrument. She has truly enjoyed performing Thai classical dance at the Thai Cultural Centre. Her career goal is to be a doctor so she can help people. Like her brother Nett, Neuy is proud to have been recognized as being a good kid. Ris is proud of your accomplishments, too, Nett and Neuy. You are great representatives of youth today, of your family and of our school. Way to go!
MS Games Day
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MS Talent Show
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MS German Exchange Program Continues By Emily Bevington
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uring two weeks in February, the Middle School welcomed 9 eighth grade boys and two teachers from Collegium Josephinum Bonn (CoJoBo), an allboys Redemptorist school located in Bonn, Germany. This is the fourth year in the exchange program in which students are matched with families and host students for two weeks for a cultural and educational exchange. In June, six students and I will travel to CoJoBo to also experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of Western Germany. In Bangkok, students stayed with RIS families that went above and beyond in their endeavors to show these students a unique side of Thailand. Chinese New Years celebrations, Muay Thai boxing matches, local farm visits, Bounce trampoline gym, and trips to the beach and Ayutthaya are a few of the activities and places the exchange students were able to experience with their host families. I could not be more thankful for the thoughtfulness and involvement of these host families in making this exchange a success!
As if the students weren’t busy enough attending classes and spending time with their host families on the weekends, they also spent time as a group exploring the historical sites and an elephant sanctuary in Kanchanaburi as well as taking a ferry to Koh Larn and spending the night at Father Ray Foundation in Pattaya. The group spent their final weekend exploring more of Bangkok’s downtown. The students attended a Siam Niramit show and shopped and ate to their hearts’ content at Chatachuk weekend market. RIS and CoJoBo students spent their last evening together in Bangkok saying goodbye over dinner at Happy Eater here in Minburi. I want to especially thank again the Middle School staff who welcomed students into their classes and the wider RIS community for being such gracious hosts during this exchange. This program would not be possible without the support of so many, so thank you!
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ServICE Conference I
n late January, several middle and high school students participated in the annual ServICE Conference hosted by Wells International School. This was the fifth annual student-led conference of the Bangkok ServICE Network, a consortium of Bangkok-area schools committed to addressing and taking action on social and environmental issues. The ServICE Network aims to bring young people together that they might inspire one another with their passion, connect to create sustained partnerships, and empower one another to take action. The focus of this year’s conference was waste reduction, but students investigated several other topics. Students performed service activities at Rainbow House and Paper Rangers and planted trees for a royal project. The remainder of the weekend students learned from each other about topics as diverse as how to start a club or social enterprise, student-governed micro-financing for school service projects, and how to motivate peers to take action.
Student Reflections on ServICE: In January, Wells International School held this year’s ServICE Conference. I, along with a couple other students from RIS, attended the conference and it was an interesting experience for me. Many international schools, not only from Bangkok but Phuket and Pattaya, came and presented their thoughts on various national and world-wide issues. On the first day of ServICE, we were sent in groups to do service work all over Bangkok. My group went to Paked Urban Forest where we planted over 200 plants in just one afternoon. To be honest, all the planting was tiring; however, it left me feeling fairly satisfied. Being separated from all the polluted city air gave me a fresh feeling . During the next two days, we attended different conferences and some inspired me greatly. A couple
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of students from NIST gave a conference about a “Coffee Revolution”. They created a social enterprise called “FairNIST” where they gave the farmers a higher average profit. Twice a year, they go up to a village in the northern part of Thailand to help out the farmers as well. According to the students, the social enterprise benefitted both the school and the farmers since it was financially successful. In my opinion, this was a very interesting project and inspired me to do many other things including joining their project this spring. One of the major themes of the conference was Waste Reduction and several of the schools shared their ways of reducing plastics usage. Some schools sold refillable water bottles, some created eco-friendly cups, and much more. This got me thinking about doing some kind of plastic reduction here at our school too. Through the Middle School Council, I thought about creating a promotion that would encourage students to use refillable bottles. From observation, it is quite obvious that we use many plastic cups for one-time use each day. Therefore, if the students bring refillable bottles, it would reduce a big amount of wasted plastic. -Grace (Gr. 7) In January, two other seventh graders and I went to a conference called the ServICE conference in hopes of connecting with other schools to bring some project ideas back to RIS. While I was there, I got to make friends and learn many new things about other international schools. Ms. Kaitlyn, Ton Nam, Grace, and I brought one idea for a project back to our school together, which is a Fair Coffee collaboration. This project was created by NIST to help villagers that live in poverty and the coffee farmers that are being paid very poorly. It is a great social enterprise that can benefit both the villagers and the coffee drinkers of Bangkok. Another project I learned about that I’m passionate about is bringing LGBTQI education to our school. I believe that students, starting in middle school, should learn that the people of the LGBTQI community should be treated fairly and that this is not a topic that people should avoid. Through my personal experience with a friend in the LGBTQI community, I have learned that people in the LGBTQI community have been treated unfairly. This should stop and we should work to make our society a comfortable place for everyone.
It was a great experience going to the conference, from learning from the founders of social enterprises, to environmentalists who have lived on the ocean for years just to study the impact of plastic on our environment. I was very lucky to have this opportunity and I hope that in the future I will have a chance like this again. -Pisa (Gr. 8) ServICE was one of the best experiences of my life. It taught me about small things that even an individual can do to change the world. Through MSC, (Middle School Council) I want to help educate people and make a change. The biggest change I want to make is in recycling and using less plastic. You might think, “It isn’t actually a big deal; it won’t make a difference if we use plastic less. Why bother, if we’re recycling but there’s still 7 billion people out there still just throwing stuff in the trash without even thinking about it.” ServICE taught me that even one individual changing something small and doing it every day can change something in the world. Have you ever heard the story “Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, Nobody?” If not, you should read it. The story made me think about how everybody is thinking somebody will do it, but, in the end, nobody actually does it because they think somebody will do it. If this continues nothing will change! This is the biggest change I want to see happen in our school, RIS. I want everybody to be the somebody who makes a change. - Ton Nam (Gr. 7)
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RIS Celebrates Japanese New Year Kakizome I like Kakizome the most. I like it because it seems like an easy task to do but when you actually practice it, it is very challenging to do correctly. If you do it too slowly, the lines won’t be sharp. If you do it too fast, the writing will be messy. Same goes with the pressure you apply and every other aspect. The strokes are hard to create perfectly and most of my pieces look very messy. It is something simple yet hard to achieve without mistakes, even when we already practiced it many times over. Puri (Japanese 1) It’s very challenging yet very fun. I would like to learn how to write more like a native. They can do it beautifully, and I want to do it too. Earth (Japanese 3) From this activity, I now have a newfound respect for the intricate details of the kanji characters as well as for calligraphy as an art form. Sydney (Japanese 3) I liked kakizome the most because you have to have a calm mind and a steady hand to do it, which is a good exercise to settle down and to be at peace. Jackie (Japanese 3)
Nengajo My favourite activity is making the Nengajo because I think making the card requires planning and creativity. In addition, looking through old pictures is like looking back at yourself, giving yourself some time to reflect on what you have done or good memories that you will keep forever. Palm (Japanese 1)
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Hyakunin-isshu My favorite activity was playing Hyakunin-isshu with my classmates. It was difficult to read the Hiragana from right to left and to read the opponent’s cards because the cards were upside down. The game was very challenging however, it was extremely fun. This game helps to improve our reading Hiragana skills, listening skills and it gives us an enjoyable time as well. Prim (Japanese 1) One of the most amusing things we did was the Hyakunin-isshu. Not only is it fun to find cards and be able to win, but it also helps improve our Japanese reading skills. Although it is difficult choice to find cards, to let the opponent take a card from our side, or to make them give you more cards, it does give us a happy smile when we’re able to find the card while listening to sensei reading the sentences. Aika (Japanese 3)
Lion Painting By Siyaporn Saosaovaphak (Shasha)
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his painting symbolizes what I aspire to be; brave, strong, and loyal. These three traits are what I hopefully am or will become further in my life. Having your own voice and using it in a positive way is how everyone should live. I wanted my idea to come across in the painting as much as I wished. I used vibrant colours on every part of this painting aside from a portion of my face because I believe it’s the personality that shows how beautiful someone is, not their outer appearance. I read that if a person’s physical appearance reflected their personality, all of us would look so different. Often I wish people would take as much care to keep their inner beauty as desirable as their outer appearance. Inner beauty to me means kindness, integrity, and service.
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WORLD SCHOLAR’S CUP 2016 By Tom Wash T
he World Scholar’s Cup group is busy researching and discussing the curriculum for this year’s competition. Every year WSC scholars are presented with a major theme, six sub-themes from six different subjects, and lists of readings and other research material. Scholars are researching historical case studies, reading poems and stories, contemplating works of art, and listening to music.
Our overall theme this year is “AN IMPERFECT WORLD”. Our subjects and their subthemes are: History: A History of Cheating Science: Disease and Public Health Literature: Words to Light the Darkness Social Studies: When States Falter Art and Music: Flawed Visions, Broken Sounds Special Area: Crime and Justice Scholars are a part of a team of 3 and will compete in Debate, Collaborative Writing, the Scholar’s Challenge Exam, and the Scholar’s Bowl of difficult themed questions. Our regional competition this year is the Bangkok Round at Bromsgrove International School on March 19 and 20. Teams who qualify will attend the Global Round, also in Bangkok, in June. 24
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This year, we have 10 teams attending the Bangkok Round: 4 Junior teams (age 14 and under) and 6 Senior teams (age 15 +). Here is what Grade 6 student Miu Miu has to say about World Scholar’s Cup. “I joined WSC because I want to learn more and know more, so that in my future life, I can put my knowledge into use and be successful in everything I do. Sometimes strength has to bow to wisdom. So far I don’t even know 0.5 percent of anything in the required curriculum. Even though I always thought I knew a lot, the second I came to WSC showed me that knowledge is unlimited. By the end of this year I better know at least all subjects with complete accuracy.”
Chaperone/Adjudicator: Mr. Robert Golding
Advisors/Adjudicators: Mr. Tom Wash / Ms Judith Byrum
STUDENTS Grade 6: Tanyanij (MiuMiu) Lerthirunvibul Passara (Ink) Chanchotisatien Alanah Adney Grade 8: Pimlapus (Pim) Tanpisuth Sanurak (Titan) Natnithikarat Fabiha Siddiquey Kanapol (Pung-Pond) Glinpu Kritin (Bomb) Vongthongsri Pathid (Pat) Liamtrakoolpanich Kritanut (Toey) Nilpakdee
Punyamon (Pan) Sanghirun Jinjutha (Eve) Liangwatthanakol Grade 9 Prima Suntornwipart Jirawatchara (Alex) Tantheeptham Nattapat (Palm) Harnkumnedpong Zehuan (Jackie) Wu Korranit (Air) Khomin Sirapat (Poom) Phunjamaneechot Grade 10 Nacha Rapeerattanakul
Sirasorn (Pun) Tichachol Tejas Pal Ayush Sehgal Rohan Nakra Karis (Kay) Kungsamutr Pusint (Poom) Liamtrakoolpanich Panuvat (Todd) Chutichetpong Dan Chunhavajira Grade 11 Ravipa (Amp) Burapachaisri Krittanat (Ford) Nalamlieng Pornruthai (Bao Bao) Laosirihongthong
RIS Triumphs in International Math Competition By Ben Roth
Gold Certificate Winners (in no particular order): Toto Tokaeo, Dean Tsai, Taiki Hisatsune, Tarm Niamtan, Shashank Saravat, Hoang Nam Thai, Malcolm Mitchell, Shubham Singh, Tul Kasetrsuwan
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uniors and Seniors at Ruamrudee International School achieved 10 gold certificates in this year’s UKMT Senior Maths Challenge. Over 18,000 pupils from across the UK and worldwide returned scripts for the Senior Maths Challenge with the top 10% receiving a gold certificate. The top RIS score this year was earned by Taiki Hisatsune, Grade 11. His score qualified him to sit the British Math Olympiad (BMO1).
RIS Math Competition Coordinator Mr. Ben Roth said, “In this group of 10 Juniors and Seniors, we have the very best of the best in terms of math ability. The High School Math Department and greater RIS community are proud of what they have accomplished.”
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LEAD, Washington D.C. 26-31 January 2016 By Ping-Ping Lee-Isranukul (NHS, Student Council, Grade 10)
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n the evening of January the 26th, or probably weeks before we actually left for Washington D.C., I still remember the enthusiasm I got from looking at the itinerary and counting down the remaining days. Since my close Student Council and NHS companions were also joining me on this awaited trip, I was especially looking forward to the experience we all anticipated from our first leadership conference, “LEAD DC.” Before we got on the flight to Korea, our transit location, all of us were definitely pumped with verve, since we all had never undergone such a far-flung trip with our friends before. By the time we got to Korea however, we were all tensed up from the airplane seats, causing Tejas, Ping, Ping Pong and me to go use the electrical massage chairs that were, as luck would have it, available for free. During our connecting flight to Washington Dulles International Airport, we all were exhausted and slept majorily throughout the 13-hour flight. Trying to cope with jetlag and the vast change in climate were inevitably big challenges during our first few days. Nevertheless, we managed to visit several breath-taking memorials, including The Washington Monument, The Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial, The Korean War Memorial, and The Lincoln Memorial. As well as these attractions, we also had a chance to go on a very special and private tour of the Capitol Building! During the tour, we bumped into many of the high-ranked senators, attended one of their meetings as members of the audience, and walked upon the very stairs where the British Army came up to burn down the Capitol in 1814. As we walked past the White House, we also had the rarest and most fascinating opportunity to witness the landing of President Obama’s helicopter. In addition to all the places we visited, the most powerful was the The U.S. Holocaust Museum. It was heart-breaking to see the innocent Jews’ tremendous pile of shoes that they wore before being suffocated in the gas chamber. After two activity-packed days of sightseeing, it was time for the actual leadership conference which was the main purpose of this trip. Thankfully, our differences enabled us to easily build new bonds with the other students at
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the conference. They were all in awe that we came all the way from Thailand and it was surprising to hear their complaints about their 4 hour flight when ours was 5 times longer. This opportunity opened us up to great, in fact, excellent speakers that demonstrated humor and intelligence, enabling us to develop our own skills with their public-speaking techniques. The various workshops were the most beneficial and applicable to school communities, such as learning how to foster a great conversation using 5 simple tricks, how to build school spirit, how to use photography efficiently in campaigning school events, how you must fail in order to reach success, college counseling (from Universities like Johns Hopkins and U of Maryland), and how to organize efficient fundraisers. During these workshops, we were all able to exchange ideas with people from different parts of the U.S., learn how to host better icebreakers to bond committee/club members together instead of the overused “Name Game,” and apply more creative ways to celebrate Teachers’ Appreciation Day. The other participating schools also shared about having Junior National Honor Society for middleschoolers to develop leadership earlier on and who they regularly raise money for, for instance the “MakeA-Wish Foundation” which was a new concept to us. On behalf of the 11 of us who went on this trip, all the new techniques for various activities could definitely be applied in RIS to elevate the quality of both National
Honor Society and Student Council. Reflecting upon the trip, I can conclude that it wasn’t just any typical experience, but it was, hands-down, another valuable experience. Thank you so much to our awesome advisors, Ms. Nicole Sabet and Mr. Dominick Bruso. This trip would have never happened without both of you and your great organization! :)
Adviser Perspective: Ms. Nicole Sabet (NHS Adviser) LEAD 2016 challenged 9 high school student leaders – 3 Juniors and 6 Sophomores - from National Honor Society and Student Council to step outside their RIS familiarity and to explore themes in leadership designed to boost student potential through intrinsic motivation, increased school pride and dedication to service. “What is your why?” asked Aaron Davis, keynote speaker, to a lively crowd of 1100 students and advisers from over 30 U.S. states and several countries. Davis, a father, entrepreneur and motivational speaker reminded the students and educators in the room, through a series of humorous and anecdotal accounts, of the impact they have on their own lives and others’ through the choices they make, the friendships they form and the habits they develop. Often the challenge of doing the right thing, following a dream or making a change stems from knowing and remaining true to your why. We return to RIS with this thought in mind and to begin developing a culture of student leadership at RIS that can stem in our Elementary School, grow in Middle School and mature in High School. We want our graduates to leave with the resilience to remain true to their aspirations and the inherent desire to engage in social action and community service. Prior to the conference students had the opportunity to tour the Washington D.C. area. Students were exposed to a wealth of significant historical and current educational pieces that included a tour of the presidential and war memorials, a tour of the Capitol Building, visits to the Smithsonian museums and a sobering visit to the U.S. National Holocaust Museum. Our students’ reflections demonstrate the positive impact of this cultural exchange that is only the beginning of positive outcomes at RIS.
Alangkan Plangsastra (Grade 11, NHS, SC): I really enjoyed learning about the concept of failure in the formula to success. The one thing that stood out to me is that you’re supposed to be prepared to fail greatly in order to have big success. It’s just like a pendulum. If one side swings to a great height, it will also swing to a great height on the other side. Therefore, big failure can equal to big success. The discussions with the students from other schools on the first night were also very enjoyable because I learned about the school lives of others. Throughout the activities, I was surprised in myself for actually trying to be active while participating in the activities. I know myself as an introvert, but in the conference I felt completely confident in putting my voice out there. Some of the most important ideas that were presented were the fact that leaders can do simple things and still inspire others and the fact that we shouldn’t let fear hold our voice back. Ayush Sehgal (Grade 10, NHS, SC): I think the part of our DC tour that impacted many others and me the most was the Holocaust Museum. The images and objects included in the memorial building were shocking and so accurately descriptive of the pain the Jews felt at the time. The entire atmosphere of the museum and the people there contributed to the entire dramatic effect of the experience. Some people next to me, whether they had family victims or not, both adults and children, were in tears and this was a difficult sight to see. I felt like I needed to help but couldn’t do anything to make the feeling of walking through the museum any easier. The museum as a whole reminded me of the power of human opinion and action, and how
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that can influence anyone even if they weren’t directly affected. My favorite part of the tour was the room with the actual shoes worn by Holocaust victims before they were gassed. The smell of the leather, and the images that followed felt as if I was there in the concentration camp. The scene was indescribable. Yingrak Phuathavornskul, Baipor (Grade 11, NHS, SC): I know that before the conference everybody was a little bit uncomfortable because since there were only 9 students, so all of us had to separate into different groups; however, everyone was really friendly and had a lot of new ideas. Everybody shared their ideas and insights on the questions that were asked. The sessions were really great and some of them really changed the way I think about leadership and how I can do better for our school and the society...My three biggest takeaways are: how to increase the school spirit using social network, ice breaker activities to involve people together, ideas for HOMECOMING! Napat Kongsawad, Maek (Grade 10, SC): D.C. was a huge culture shock. Besides the fact that people actually follow street laws, everything was bigger. The most impactful experience was the Holocaust Museum. It was a very sobering experience to walk through it. We’ve always been taught about it in school and it made little impact. Some read about it on their own but the impact made was still not comparable to actually being in that museum. Seeing all those shoes from the victims all stacked up was really haunting. Supisaranee Komthongchusakul, Mimi (Grade 11, NHS): I had the opportunity to view one of Leonardo Da Vinci’s painting and many other artists’ paintings and sculptures. Being able to see the real artwork up close and learn about the artist at the gallery is a unique experience. I was able to see the brush strokes and other techniques that the artist used, and will be able to apply that to my artwork in IB HL Art course. Sometimes we have to be a ‘sponge’- just absorb everything you can learn (filter the bad things). Be open minded- open yourselves to new ideas, make new friends, and make effort to learn their culture and history.
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Parin Nawachartkosit, Ping (Grade 10, SC): I went to 5 different workshops in which I gained a lot of knowledge and new ideas which I could apply both to the school and my personal life. There, I also learned to get out of my comfort zone...I would recommend for people who are interested in these kind of trips to just do it. Piyaonn Musikabhumma, PingPong (Grade 10, NHS, SC): ...This was the best school trip that I have ever been in my life. The Officer Training Workshop was extremely helpful for me because I was able to gather many new tips about leading people in the right and efficient way...I have also learned many new fundraising ideas that were shared by students from other schools; the most interesting one was definitely donating money and subtracting it to the teaching time in class! Personally, it was also amazing for me to talk to people from my dream university, which is Johns Hopkins University. Tejas Pal (Grade 10, SC): In the Capitol’s Whispering Gallery, I got to witness the whispering from one side and hearing from the opposite end. I did a math problem regarding the Whispering Gallery but I never actually got to witness it until I went to D.C. Always smile when you talk and make the person you are talking to as the most important person in your life... We can increase our school spirit by helping the introverted people out and make them get comfortable with the people around them. And for the extroverted people, offer them a lot of options. This will slowly but surely increase school spirit.
RIS Students’ Photographer Association (RSPA) By Mimi, K and Por Por. T President and Vice President of RSPA
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ver the past couple of months, RSPA has been photographing RIS activities across Bangkok. We have been very busy taking pictures at the RIS TEDx Talk, BISAC U15 Soccer, H.R.H Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Royal Visit, our HS Talent Show, Legally Blonde, and many more events. Members of RSPA hone their photography skills by learning in the “field”taking photos of school events and activities. During sporting events, we captured moments of glory while learning how to photograph moving subjects and how to adjust our camera settings to increase the shutter speed. During school hours, we’ve captured moments of bonding and friendship between our classmates. Our mission is to support RIS and the Yearbook Club by taking high quality photos of school events and activities, enhancing and improving our photography skills, and most importantly, exploring our passion for photography while having fun. Recently, we’ve welcomed more new members into RSPA. We are always looking for new members who want to improve as photographers and enjoy taking pictures! Please feel free to email us at RIS-RSPA@rism.ac.th.
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RUISF Trip @ Osaka By Namthai Hoang and Sandy Kanjanakuha
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hen I received the invitation email to the International Student Forum in Ritsumeikan University, Japan (RUISF for short), I was ecstatic. Japan! An overnight trip! I get to skip school! Nah, that last part wasn’t a positive point. This conference would last six days and take up three school days. I wasn’t sure if I could afford to miss three school days as an IB student, but hey, isn’t this what IB is all about? Becoming a global citizen; making connections. And what better opportunity is there than at an international student conference represented by at least six different countries across four different continents? It would definitely be intellectually stimulating too. Just reading the conference topics I could see that the discussions would tackle real life issues, most of which are currently plaguing the world. The immigration problem because of the civil war in Syria, the onset of climate change, the new generation of third culture kids, these are only some of the areas the conference touches upon, not to mention they’ll be looked at through three different perspectives--humanities, science, and the arts. Besides, if the conference wasn’t successful, it’d at least be a trip to Japan, whence knowledge and perspective of a different culture can be garnered. What’s that? They’ll cover food fees? You mean I get to eat delicious Japanese food for free? Ok, I was sold!
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RUISF turned out to be a conference unlike others. It was full of late night laughter and midnight snacks, but when it was time to discuss everyone gave their full contribution. It was really interesting to meet people who were going through the same rigorous IB program. Before I went to Japan, I had a lot of doubt about how this trip was going to end up being. Will it be worth skipping 3 Higher Level Physics classes in a row? Will it be worth the money spent for this trip? But after I came back, I got the answers to all of those questions. Even though I had to suffer late nights of catching up to the work that I missed back at RIS, it was all worth it!
From this conference, I had two major realizations that might change my view on the world. First, when I looked around the room, I saw Koreans who are 14-15 years old who have a better work ethic than I do. I saw Americans who can persuade the whole room into supporting their ideas, and I saw so many other things. In only 6 days, it made me realize that I still had so much to improve on. Sometimes people don’t realize their own flaws because they are always in the same society and same social groups. But in order to notice your flaws and improve upon it, you need to step out of your comfort zone and expose yourself to criticism. However, the second realization came during one of my late nights playing cards. Although I was paying so much attention to what cards were in my hand, but when I looked up, I realized that we had so many things similar to each other despite all of our differences. We might have had different eye colors, different clothing, different personalities, or even different wishes…but we still had something similar. No, it is not just the strive to change the world into a better place. But it is passion for all of our interests. Sure, we all have different passions too, but just the idea that everyone in that room had a passion of some sort gave me hope. People may overlook the idea of passion because it is just an idea rather than an action of any kind. But if one day we all share the same passion, then we might have found the driving force that could change our chaotic little world into a peaceful one.
I know those last few sentences may have sounded a bit too cheesy and sure they’re a bit cliche, but I’ll be honest--that’s what I learned from the conference. At that moment, in the midst of my committee, surrounded by other passionate young minds just trying to make the world a better place, I truly felt like we could make a difference, like our actions could have a positive impact on this gargantuan entity we call earth. I also found solace in the fact that I wasn’t alone and if I looked around I could find numerous other bright faces just as eager to change the world as I did. They had shared in my eureka moments and when nighttime fell we’d all sit around, talking and laughing. In my opinion the best part about this conference wasn’t the topic discussions we had, although they made me think harder than I ever did, or the introduction to Japanese culture, although it made me fall in love with the country, or even the free food, which made me fatter than I wanted to be; no, the best part about this conference was the social aspect. Meeting new people, making new friends, sharing experiences….that late night when we’d all gathered in one room and quietly celebrated Chinese New Year was one of the most beautiful moments I’ve had the honor to witness. The atmosphere of the conference was truly a magical one and I can’t believe I nearly missed it to study physics! Ad Astra Volume 17 March 2016
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Boot Camp @ Khao Chon Gai
By Deejai Riangkrul
very year, in order for the year 3 ROTC boys to finish their military training, students must participate in a 5-day camp to Khao Chon Gai, Kanchanaburi. These 5 days were one of the most difficult experiences many of us have ever had. The tormented days went by slowly and the minutes lasted hours.
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Breakfast, lunch and dinner were served on cold, dusty metal plates we were required to keep alongside us at all times. The food was unappealing, but due to our hunger,
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the meals became sumptuous and delicious in spite of the staleness. We needed the energy from the food to engage in our daily training in the blazing heat involving exercises, punishments, early morning hikes, persistence training and tear gas exposure. Although the 5 days at Kao Chon Gai were an arduous experience, it was definitely a memorable one. Ironically, this was one of the best bonding experiences we have ever had because it was the longest amount of time we have ever spent with one another. During the rough times, we helped each other pull through, and in other times we happily counted down the days we could leave and return home. Indeed, this will be one of our most memorable experiences because it allowed us to develop perseverance and tenacity, but most importantly, teamwork and friendship. I am thankful for this 5 day venture, and I would like to wish the best of luck to my fellow underclassmen that will be attending the trip in the coming years.
RUAMRUDEE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
High School Summer 2016 Learn Something New!
Morning Session, 7:30-11:00 am • Visual Arts • Korean • Photography • English Language Development • English Reinforcement • Math Enrichment • Math Reinforcement • SAT Math • Experimental Design for Science • Create and Connect!
• Values 11 • Summer Technology Camp • Pre-IB/AP Mandarin • Physical Education • Guitar
Afternoon Session, 11:45 am-3:15 pm • Visual Arts • SAT Prep (Writing and Reading) • Values 10 • Physical Education: Volleyball • Thai to English Translation • Summer Technology Camp • Physical Education • Music • TOEFL Prep • French
Earn HS Credits
• Values 12 • Guitar • Experimental Design for Science • Create and Connect!
Please check the school website for the full course catalogue and details on each of the offerings. If you have any questions please see Mr. Jeff Gepner in R505 or email him at jeffreyg@rism.ac.th.
SENIOR FIELD TRIP
By Meg Saksiriwatekul and Alina Chalanuchpong
hree days and two nights. The first time the Class of 2016 spent three days and two nights together was in 2012, when we were all small and new to high school. Many of us were thrilled to be going on our freshman field trip since it indicated that we were now part of the almighty High School. Four years have gone by since then. On February 12th in the crowded Godbout Hall, there was plenty of joyous laughter and lots of smiles as we prepared to embark on our final trip together.
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The main highlight for the first evening was definitely the ice-breaker games. Not only did we have memorable chicken dances and British accent impersonations from
the students, our teachers also had breathtaking ballet performances and a stunning fashion show catwalk. Shoutout to Mr. Tyson and Ms. Farrah for a superb job of acting out the best dying scene! The Walk Rally was also a key part of our trip. It consisted of 10 teams separated into team colors and completing tasks at different stations that were aimed to build teamwork and spirit. A favorite station of ours was the raft station where teams had to strategically plan and collaborate on crossing 4 rafts without leaving any members behind or losing any members along the way. It was a lot harder than it sounds and many ended up falling into the water. Mr. Eddie Kemp with Captain Giorgio led their Silver Beast Team to victory and claimed the championship followed closely by Mr. Dominick’s Red-emption Team and Mr. Wash’s Camoulition Army Team. Apart from the ice-breaker games and walk rally, each group of friends signed up for activities they wanted to do. This included the Flying Fox, ATV, Bubble Football, Paintball, Zorbing, Archery, Water Roller Ball, and Canoeing; and some of us simply chose to swim at the swimming pool. Since we had two days to try all of these activities, many of us quickly filled our schedule, regardless of the limitations of our energy!
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Our talent show took place during our last night. We thought the show was a great representation of our class’s diverse and creative talents, which included dancing, singing, playing instruments, songwriting, and even some awesome lip-syncing! After the talent show ended, we were so tired we did not follow through with having a dance, giving up 30 minutes of our curfew in order to spend some more meaningful quiet time with our friends. All in all, it was definitely a trip to remember! A big thank you to all of our teachers who shared this wonderful weekend with us.
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By Folk Narongrit
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n February, the HS Student Council hosted their annual HS Spirit Week. This is a week-long activity that encourages students to bring out their school spirit through creativity. Students wear outfits relating to different spirit themes including Dynamic Duo’s, Pajamas Day, Mismatch Clothing, and Grade Spirit where each grade wore their two grade colors. During the week we also had our annual Baht Wars where each grade level collected as many coins as possible for charity. Every year, several HS students will make a trip to visit the children at Sarnelli House up in Nongkhai and help them with a five day English Camp. While visiting, we will use 20,000 baht from the Baht Wars to take them shopping at Tesco Lotus for much needed supplies.
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The week ended with a much anticipated Knowledge Bowl. Each grade featured a dance and a formal parade relating to themes such as Star Wars, Prison Break, High School Musical, and the Olympics. Homeroom teachers were pitted against each other first to fight for bonus points for their students followed by top intellects from each grade who competed against each other in two rounds – an academic round and an entertainment round. The Seniors came out on top as the champions sending the Class of 2016 into ecstatic screams of delight. It was a fun-filled week where everyone was able to show off his or her creativity and school spirit and a big success for our Student Council Spirit Committee.
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Phoenix Sports News By Gerry Steiert, Athletics Director
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he Season 2 Sports Recognition Assembly in Godbout Hall signified the end of another successful season and the beginning of the third and final season of the year. Big congratulations to our Badminton program which won 3 of the 4 tournaments. Another program deserving recognition is the U11 Football. For the first time in many years we had enough players for 3 boys teams and 2 girls teams. The Boys A team earned bronze, which is their best finish in a long time. The final Sports Recognition Assembly is scheduled for Wednesday April 27.
Season 3 On March 5, RIS is hosting the annual Phoenix Badminton & Softball Invitational Tournament. 5 Varsity Softball and 4 Varsity Badminton schools will be traveling to RIS for the event at Phoenix and Godbout. RIS has 4 Varsity teams entered as well as 2 JV Badminton teams.
BISAC 1. Elementary/Middle School ● U11 Softball: Boys – Ben Roth;
Football: ● U11 Boys Team A – Praphoj Unpudsa Bronze U15 Boys – Komson Penpoo Bronze Badminton: ● U13 Boys– Praphoj Unpudsa Gold ● U15 Girls – Janjira “Joei” Khaosa-ard Gold U15 Boys – Joseph Scott Gold JV Girls Basketball – Onsa Saleenuan Bronze Varsity Touch Rugby Girls – Sean McMahon BISAC Bronze; SEASAC Division 2 Bronze
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Linda Lund and Genie Paladiganon U13 Volleyball: Girls – Onsa Saleenuan; Boys – Charoen Saendej High School ● U15 Volleyball: Girls – Komson Penpoo Boys – Emma Anuchate ● U15 Boys Softball: Will Hayman & Joshua Kern ● U15 Tennis: Girls – Sorrachet “Arm” Uayporn Boys – Phaninthon “Coke” Pakpoomkamol ● U17 Softball: Girls – Erik Brigham Boys – Orestes Jackson ● U17 Badminton: Girls – Janjira “Joei” Khaosaard; Boys – Praphoj Unpudsa ● Swimming – Sathit Hongthong, Matt Smith, Daniel Hindler, Bridget Perry-Gore, Jennifer Peters
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Season 2 BISAC & SEASAC Results:
Girls
BISAC events begin March 16-17 with Varsity & JV competitions, including Golf. U11 – U15 competitions occur April 30 and conclude the year in sports.
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SEASAC ● Super SEASAC Division 1 Badminton & Softball is hosted by UWC Dover in Singapore March 17-20. Ruamrudee is sending 48 student athletes and 7 adult coaches to this competition. Softball: Girls – April Slagle & Erik Brigham; Boys – Dominick Bruso & Orestes Jackson Badminton: Girls – Janjira “Joei” Khaosa-ard; Boys – Joseph Scott
Enjoy Season 3 amidst the wide world of Ruamrudee sports!
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By Mathias Saunders
For students learning a second language, singing offers a fun and stress-free way to explore and practice language. We usually sing in a group so students with limited English proficiency don’t feel singled out or nervous about pronunciation or accent. Also, I always publish the lyrics to our songs on large poster paper as a scaffold for those who need one.
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or years I have used music as both a teaching tool and a way to just have fun in school. Three years ago, I started a “School of Rock” with my students in Seattle, Washington. The kids were tired of singing dusty, old standards. They wanted to rock! So, among others, we learned Brandi Carlile, Imagine Dragons, and Taylor Swift songs. The “School of Rock” was born. Both in Seattle and here at RIS, I have led students in the creation of their own songs (a great way for students to show synthesis of content), facilitated karaoke-style performances, and taught them rhythm, tempo, and vocal dynamics like projection. We have rocked, rapped, and recited different types of music for many different purposes. Most of all, though, for fun. Many teachers use familiar jingles to build and reinforce classroom routines. The songs help with memorization, they add fun to the class, and they help simplify instructions for children. In my classes, students and I co-construct songs to help with retention of content information and, more importantly to me, academic habits. I’ve found that if kids help create the songs we sing, they are more likely to remember the messages they contain. So, I use pop and blues riffs on the guitar to create background music for simple melodies. Of course, singing is not for everyone. Kids who choose not to sing can participate in other ways like creating rhythms with snaps, claps, or slaps. Some students find fun simply watching and listening.
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In 4th grade here at RIS, we use classroom songs as musical anchor charts. We write songs about our crucial reading or writing strategies, academic habits, and content vocabulary. Once the songs are complete, they serve as artifacts to which we can return again and again. They can be used as fun reminders at the beginning of a week or when we return from holiday breaks. Classroom tunes don’t always have to be connected to content and habits. They can be used to have fun and build community. I like to learn songs that the kids know from YouTube like Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” and Adele’s “Hello”. By encouraging students to pay attention to the lyrics of these popular songs, I teach close reading strategies like re-reading, summarizing, and annotating. Kids love it! More importantly to me, however, is the fact that they are often surprised, confused, reassured, or intrigued when they think deeply about the lyrics of familiar songs. Using music in the classroom adds fun and levity to the day. As a bonus, it also aids with retention of information. Students often get stressed out in school. After all, much is asked of them and, at times, the stakes can be high. Students are challenged every day to do many different things, usually in a specific order, all while making few mistakes. For Belle, a 4th grader, music is a welcome change from the intensity of school. “I think it’s fun,” she said. “And it’s not stressful. Music helps you remember stuff.”
4-1 Theme Song we are 4-1, we know how to get it done but most of all we like to have fun banana! papaya! coconut! ba-ba-ba...ba-ba-na-na (repeat) in math we’re doing good, studyin’ likelihood shout out loud if you would….yeee haw! we’re a rockin band, we make story plans to make them rich and meaningful scientific minds...we’re running out of rhymes... crayfish have pincers, snails have hair on their foot called cilia, plants eat food called cotyledon...back to the top!!!
4-1 Theme Song
Elodea Music Video It’s green, it’s long You’ll find it in a khlong
it floats, on top of the water in the pots
it’s elodea
it’s elodea
It’s squeeze, and squish You feed it to crayfish
down by, gate six so we help ourselves to it
it’s elodea
it’s elodea...it’s elodea
elodea...it’s
They’ll fight, like dogs to eat that stuff like hogs it’s elodea this song’s too long the elodea’s all gone it’s elodea...it’s elodea...it’s elodea It’s leaves, aren’t long you can find it in a pond it’s elodea we pull, it loose because it ain’t got roots
RIS ES Science Showcase4th Grade Elodea Music Video Editor’s note: The following songs were written in creative free style without attention to conventional grammar.
it’s elodea Ad Astra Volume 17 March 2016
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By Ms. Katie’s Grade 4 Class
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ne day, Ms. Dainty, our ES IT Coach, introduced me to the idea of Quadblogging. She explained how it worked. Quadblogging is a term/concept that has four schools/classes blogging in a cycle that helps people view and comment on students blogs. The way this works is once a class signs up they get entered into a “quad” and then a moderator makes sure things run smoothly. As a group of four, each week, a different class will be the focus class allowing the other three classes to visit and comment on the focus class blog. Over a cycle of 4 weeks, each class has their week as the focus class. Each quad gets to decide how many cycles are completed and when you have completed the cycles, you simply come back and register for a new quad. It is such a great opportunity for teachers to gain a genuine audience from across the globe for their learners. After signing up with Quadblogging.com, our class started connecting with students from the U.S.A, Ecuador, China and England. Each week the students from a different location would post writing on their blog. Then students from the other 3 classrooms would read and comment. Quadblogging will quad you and your learners up with three other classes matching your preferences selected in the sign-up process. My students have loved reading new posts and learning about their blog buddies from other parts of the world, and how they share similar experiences and hobbies as well as cultural differences. Students have learned about geography, where these amazing places are, as well as using technology. Finally students are participating as global citizens, making connections, and learning about the world around them.
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Some comments from the students: I liked Quadblogging because we got to talk with other students from other schools in another country. From this experience, I learned that student lifestyles from other countries are similar and different to our lifestyles. Some like to go play outside and have fun, and some like to stay inside and chill out. I would really want to participate in this again because we get to meet new people, learn from each other and most of all, have fun! Rawit (Beam) Thamparanon I feel very lucky to experience Quadblogging because I get to view other students’ blogs, talk to them and know what children in other countries are up to. The part I like best was to talk and send comments to them. I like reading what other people wrote in their blogs. It helps me know how about different blogging platforms like Kidblog and Blogger, different personalities, hobbies, lifestyles and skills of other kids from other parts of the world. Napat (Preme) Warasittichai
I think Quadblogging is fun because we get to meet people from all around the world and to kind of know them. I really like when we get to read their articles and reply to them and they reply to us so we are kind of getting a connection with them. I would really like to participate in this again because I feel like this is really fun getting to connect with other people from all around the world and reading what they have a strong feeling about or what they want to share with us. Thitilapa (Ivy) Sae-Heng
Some screenshots of the comments we exchanged:
I think that Quadblogging was helpful for me and the others who joined because it helps me make new friends. I would like to participate in it again because it is fun and it helps me know a lot of new things! Varatsorn (Rainbow) Keeratiwattanapisarn I think that our Quadblogging is very fun and very smart. This is smart because it helps us learn how to comment nicely and help us be more specific about things. I would like to participate in this again because it is very cool. Jaruwat (J.J.) Pearman Quadblogging has been an eye opening and rewarding experience for the class, blending together Writer’s Workshop and technology bringing real life to the front door of our classroom.
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HS RIS Tech Club and Service Learning By Robert Golding
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n exciting new club has been formed at RIS. The Student Tech Club has been set up to provide students with an interest in technology a forum to share skills and ideas amongst each other. They are also an important voice for all RIS students in the development of technology in the school as we all join together in meeting the challenges of providing a 21st century education. Perhaps one of the most important roles of this club will be to impart the skills and knowledge of its members to the whole community including fellow students at RIS, teachers and even parents. We are also committed to helping younger children in our community who don’t have the advantage of a first class education as provided by RIS. We shall be inviting children from schools in the local area to spend some fun time being coached and trained by our talented students who wish to give something back to those less fortunate than ourselves. The school is also now a location for the Code Club World organisation and is committed to helping children from all backgrounds to learn how to code. Coding is a
vital skill the children of today will need to be successful in the future. As well as coding, we have other modern technologies at our disposal such as 3D printing. The chance to provide our club members this opportunity of service learning is also extremely rewarding for them as they learn the skills of being able to coach, train and manage others effectively. RIS HS Tech Club Chair: Naman Kedia Vice Chairs: Mimi Komthongchusakul, Ayush Segal Secretary: Prima Suntornwipart Advisor: Mr. Robert Golding P.S. If there are any almuni or readers who currently work in the technology industry and who would be interested in giving a talk or presentation to our tech team, please contact me. Mr. Robert Golding robertg@rism.ac.th
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CAS SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS T
he RIS school-wide focus on service provides a strong foundation for the service component of CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) within the IB Diploma Program. Olie R. notes that “almost everyone is doing CAS, even if they aren’t doing it on purpose. There are tons of activities that the school and student-run clubs provide every year, that make it easy to get CAS done in the first year of the IB diploma. Some people want to get involved in those activities, but just need the extra push or excuse to join. That excuse is CAS.” Through service, students gain experiences and realize insights that might not otherwise have come to light. Ploy P. learned about being content while assisting with sustainable farming practices. She says, “The trip also made me reflect on something: the farmers are poor. They do not have the means to expand their business; they barely get enough to go by especially with the struggling world economy. Yet by being sustainable, they can live by themselves happily. In a world filled with wasted products, that is something noteworthy.”
Collaboration with community members is an important start to any service activity. Students meet with elders at His Majesty the King’s self-sufficiency farming site.
How many students in Bangkok can claim to have milked a goat? At least one...Ploy P. shows us how to be self-sufficient.
A quick look at students’ CAS portfolios shows a highlyinvolved and dedicated group of students who are making a difference in the lives of others. Service activities often include education. Here, students teach young people at an orphanage about the food pyramid.
Meg S. helps with one of several annual beach clean-up activities led by RIS students.
Olie R. helps make mud bricks for a house in a rural area. Ad Astra Volume 17 March 2016
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HS Thai Department Reflection from Massage Activity
Thank you Prae (Nichakarn Ou-Udomying, grade 11) for taking Polaroid-photo of all 30 senior citizens as a souvenir.
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n Thai class, we read a book called “Waela” (time) and learned about abandonment of the elderly. To deepen students’ understanding of this topic, on February 27, we went to Thanyaburi Home for Female Destitute to visit and to give massages to 33 elderly females. Although we were there for only a few hours, needless to say they were more than delighted to spend time with us. These ladies we called “KhunYai” (grandma) come from different backgrounds. While I massaged “KhunYaiToi” with a Thai hand-made herbal ball, I had the opportunity to listen to her story. She told me: “I ended up here because I skipped classes when I was in school. I ran away from home and went to live with my boyfriend in Nakhon Prathom. We didn’t get married. I have a few kids but they all left me and went to live with their husbands in Malaysia. Right now my boyfriend is in jail because he was caught selling drugs. I was lucky to be able to live here— or else I would be a beggar along the side of the road… Work hard, study hard— don’t repeat the same mistakes that I did.”
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Sadly, other female elderly have similar stories of abandonment by their own children. When I got back home, I massaged my grandma with the hand-made herbal ball and my grandma really appreciated it. This activity made me love my parents and grandparents even more. I’ve made a promise— a vow — to take good care of my parents when I grow up, and to spend more time with my grandparents. Supisaranee Komthongchusakul (Mimi) G11
Reflection from Thai Music Class
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ur Thai Music class performed in front of the female elders in order to make them feel relaxed. Altogether, there were 4 performances from the Thai music class taught by Mr. Chaowalit. I think getting to perform to these elderly is a very unique and memorable experience. While performing, I could see their smiling faces which revealed how delighted they were to meet us. By making them happy, I think the people who received the most happiness on that day were we. We made them feel happy, but we felt happier getting to see them smile. It was a delightful day and I hope that next year I will get a chance to go again! By Mill- ChutimonDhiranusornkit Grade 10
The First Flap of a Butterfly’s Wing By Paponek Nitiratanakul (Patrick)
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n any garden, it is easy to overlook small details among the colors, just as it is easy for many people to miss some of the most vibrant members of our community such as the autistic and disabled who live among us. Community Service is a major part of my life goal. Giving back to the community has taught me a lot throughout the previous years. In fact, I can’t deny that I’ve been learning new things with each act of kindness. I’ve met new friends, learned to be open-minded and had the chance to laugh and share with the disabled community. Seeing the first project launched and getting to run the “Pat Butterfly Effect”, I’m very proud of the project’s steady growth and the opportunity to enhance the lives of autistic children and disabled people in Thailand. The act of tying the butterflies for the Butterfly Effect products not only helps the disabled citizens improve their fine motor skills and concentration but also adds happiness to their lives. Through working with them and watching them create beautiful art, I have learned the sense of joy they feel as they realize they are important in the community and how much more value they can see in themselves as they contribute to society. With the first launch of the scented product lines, including diffusers, candles, and sachets; the packages had been designed carefully to represent the meaning that many small acts of kindness can create far-reaching
impacts or changes to others. I designed the boxes with many colorful butterflies and applied butterflies made of artificial flower petals tied up by autistic children to every product made. Surely, the more we sell the products, the more children have the chance to create beautiful butterflies, the more benefit they get on their physical improvement and the more earned for themselves and their families. With the trust of the Father Ray Foundation, I had the memorable chance to organize an activity in the “Chalerm Prakiet Building” at the Father Ray Foundation to demonstrate how the aroma and colors can improve the quality of life for autistic children. Having continuously done community service supporting autistic and disabled people, I received the highest honors of receiving the Distinguished Donor Award for the ongoing support in the construction and equipping of Redemptorist Center for Children with special needs from Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. This event has not only delighted me personally, but was also the
“It is fun to tie up Butterflies. It is good to have money, to have job.”, said Weerayut Kanlaya, a kid with special needs from the Father Ray Foundation who joined the project.
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“I really love the idea, the packages are so beautiful. I’m very proud to see how much Thai teenagers care about the society and want to share their opportunities with disadvantaged people.” Khun Kwanjai K. Age 53, Customer
Zone of Siam Paragon. Through our previous sales, we’ve gathered about 200,000 baht which has been donated to the Father Ray Foundation for the first round of our donations. An important concept I have also learned is that no matter how significant or insignificant the social activities are, the power of empathy and sharing always results in happiness and brings about smiles on the faces of the kids and the people around them. main driving force for me to contribute continuously towards the community and become an adept citizen and a positive role model. The Butterfly Effect has made continuous progress. As the founder of the RIS Butterfly, I created this project to enhance the lives of autistic children and disabled people. So far, I’ve promoted the Butterfly Effect products by arranging sales, not only at school but also the Emquartier, the Mall, and currently at the Exotic Thai
It is my hope that the Butterfly Effect will be passed on from generation to generation of RIS students. Today, starting from the Pat Butterfly Effect, I’ve founded the RIS Butterfly Effect committee with an amazing team who help each other spread love, caring, and sharing throughout society to provide a better opportunity to the disabled people who are often overlooked. www.facebook.com/risbutterflyeffect
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Fourth Grade RIS Students Use Their Heads, Hands, and Hearts at Suraolumnaiso School By Lauren Jordan
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ervice based learning in the fourth grade enhances our students’ education. It allows us to apply our curriculum to real world experiences. Less than three kilometers from our campus is Suraolumnaiso, a Thai public school that RIS has partnered with. The interactions between our participating fourth graders and the students at this local school have highlighted how classroom content can be put into action to support our immediate community. Our students were initially introduced to Suraolumnaiso School by looking at photographs and discussing its statistics. Shortly after this exercise, fortysix RIS fourth graders visited Suraolumnaiso, with the goals of making community connections and gathering information about our neighboring kids and school. We played
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get-to-know-you games, took a tour of the school, interviewed students, and sang songs together. When we returned to RIS, our students reflected on their experiences and analyzed the information they collected during their interviews with Suraolumnaiso students. They charted their data, using skills learned in their fourth grade math curriculum. When comparing and contrasting statistics, it was evident that opportunities such as access to books, possession of electronic devices like iPads, and participation in extracurricular activities, varied significantly between the students at the two institutions. Our fourth graders realized there are discrepancies, of which they had been previously unaware, in their educational experiences and those of students in their neighboring, local school. With a focus on community and sustainability, our students identified options to build relationships in their immediate locale by supporting their friends at Suralumnaiso School. In both small and large group settings, students discussed their research findings. Then they used the Compass Education Model--a
method which allows learners to analyze the four components that comprise a sustainable organization: nature, society, economy, and well being--to generate ten project proposals. Our students created many inspiring plans, and the top three were presented to Suraolumnaiso’s administration. These included an urban chicken coop, hanging hydroponic gardens made with recycled plastic bottles, and a Kid’s Club community center that would be available to both RIS and Suraolumnaiso students. The Suraolumnaiso administration was impressed by all of the student proposals. Our fourth graders are eager and excited to support and advocate for our neighboring school. In the coming months, and in the next Ad Astra, we look forward to sharing their plan with the RIS community. As they move forward with their project, our students will continue
to demonstrate the incredible ways they connect the knowledge in their heads, to the compassion in their hearts and use their hands to fulfill their roles and responsibilities as members of our global community.
Operation Smile @MaeHongSon Mission By BaoBao Laosirihongthong
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n Sunday, February 7, 2016, the RIS Operation Smile Committee had an opportunity to bring five students on an official mission trip with Operation Smile Thailand and other international schools to Mae Hong Son. The purpose of the mission was to provide free surgeries to people in need. There was a total of about 65 surgeries that took place, from burnt scars, webbed fingers, excess fingers, to abnormalities of the cleft palate. Over the span of four days, the five volunteers screened patients, decorated the wards, played with the patients at the wards, and saw actual operations. As one of the volunteers, I view the mission as an eye-opening and once-ina-lifetime experience that has created smiles among both the patients and the volunteers.
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SERVICE LEARNING @RIS By Ms. Shirley Gamble, Service Learning Coordinator
RIS teachers attend Service Learning Workshop at NIST
en RIS teachers joined a group educators to learn about different stages and types of actions that students can undertake in order to successfully identify issues they are passionate about and take action on them.
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During the 2 day workshop, not only were we motivated to generate and share our ideas but also we were given tools to help us engage in transformational service learning experiences, to integrate project management tools into the various stages of service learning, and to make curricular connections. By aligning service action with the United Nations new 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s), we can also empower our students to act globally on important issues at a local level. “Attending the Service Learning Workshop truly opened my eyes to the difference which one student, one class, or even better, an entire school, can create when they act together to make positive changes. Service learning is NOT a situation in which we help others because they need something from us; instead, learning through service is a mutually beneficial arrangement in which 52
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all parties involved are further inspired and educated by the project which they are embarking upon. It requires academic and business skills such as research, organization, planning, critical thinking, problem solving, as well as fluent oral and written communication in order to succeed. It also builds on social and emotional skills such as collaboration, leadership, empathy and dedication, which, in turn, educate the “whole” child to be a well-rounded student. Service learning is undeniably one of the most meaningful and memorable ways for students to learn through the impact of their own actions.” Ms. Candice O’Connor (ES) Empower Action was one of the most inspiring and engaging workshops I have been to as a teacher. I hope that next year, RIS will also use the UN’s Global Goals to encourage students to help solve some of the world’s biggest problems. Ms. Kaitlyn Pettinga (MS) Reviewing case studies of student service projects was a highlight of the workshop. It was inspiring to see what young people can accomplish, given adequate tools (like those taught in the workshop) and working in collaboration with communities to identify and address needs. Ms. Nicole Burcar (HS) The workshop was definitely a great success to “Inspire, Connect, and Empower” all of us!
Father Ray’s Children’s Village
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or the past couple of months, many of our students across all 3 sections have been interacting with the children under the care of Fr. Ray’s Foundation in Pattaya. ES students promoted their annual Christmas/New Year’s Card Fundraiser and were able to raise over 50,000 baht. Half of the money was used to buy art supplies for all 11 houses at the Children’s Village. The 4th graders were busy writing their pen pals letters, back and forth in both Thai and English, getting to know each other until they could join us here at RIS during our ES Games Day. After a morning of fun and games on Godbout Field, they continued indoors with Thai, Theatre Arts & Visual Art classes. The MS students invited 22 children along with their houseparents to visit and attend classes and electives with them. For a full 3 days, our students took turns being paired up as their “buddy” each day. Then after school, HS students volunteered to do fun activities each evening with them until getting ready to go to bed. A big “Thank You” to all the parents who lent us 26 sleeping bags! Our students look forward to visiting their new friends in Pattaya on April 23 to spend the day with them.
“I loved hanging out with my “buddy” Za, because she was such a happy person and fun to talk to in classes when I was explaining things to her.” Pleng (8-6) “Although many of the classes were hard to understand due to the language problems, my “buddy” Fay said I was a good translator.” Ink 7-6 “I wish they could stay longer….I think the next time we should have more learning activities for them that we can do together to become more engaged.” Amy 7-2
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Vertical Marathon
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or the past seven years RIS has participated in the annual Vertical Marathon up 61 flights of steps at the Banyan Tree Hotel. Besides being a charity fundraiser for the Thai Red Cross where all money goes to the Milk Formula Fund for Children with HIV, this event helps promote strength & endurance, RIS community fun, and awareness of the charity. This year we were able to encourage some of the younger students in MS to participate and set a new record with a total of 141 RIS community members participating! We were unstoppable, taking home a total of 5 trophies. Congratulations to the winners and we hope to see all of you again next year! ● Art Worrawattanapreecha: 1st Place (00:08:47) Males age 5-17 years old category ● Ms. Bridget Perry-Gore (MS): 3rd Place (00:10:47) Females age 40 and over category
Mangrove Tree Planting
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ast semester 25 HS students helped a village in Bang Poo plant a total of 1,000 mangrove trees for His Majesty the King’s Birthday. Several expert guest speakers explained the process and benefits of planting mangroves, which was very educational and a lot of fun at the same time. The Thai 10th grade classes have arranged to go back on March 12 to plant as many mangrove trees as possible and also visit the Bang Poo Nature Educational Centre. For those who also went on the first trip, they will be able to go back and see how tall their mangroves have grown!
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● Kinley Tshering & Shana Purnama: 2nd Place (00:08:14) Couples Category ● Tiger Sangaphunchai & Eye Sirison: 3rd Place (00:09:07) Couples Category ● Nicky Wangsatorntanakun, Koushik Neogi, Namthai Hoang & Naman Kedia: 2nd Place (00:06:31) 4 member Relay Team Category
Baan Nok Khamin
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ur students continue to do activities with the orphans from Baan Nok Khamin and support them in various ways. While the 4th graders promoted a clothing drive for them, the 3rd graders hosted 9 of the children for half a day on campus and welcomed them into their classrooms. In Ms. Jessica’s room, the students worked with partners to create some fabulous art projects using paints, clay and colour pencils. In Mr. Matt’s room, students got into small groups and worked with iPads. They were able to learn how to say different feelings in English, and how to demonstrate those feelings using facial expressions. Finally, students visited Ms. Kirsten’s room where our students led small group games for each of the Baan Nok Khamin students to enjoy. It
is safe to say that all students had a memorable morning! MS & HS joined together recently for one week in making home-made goodies to raise funds to purchase shelves and resource books for the children. Classmates who didn’t own an oven and had never even baked before had a wonderful time learning how to measure ingredients, mix batters, and make delicious cakes and cookies in the dormitory kitchen to sell each day. After buying all the resource books, students in both sections were invited to write messages of encouragement on the inside covers of each book which will be delivered next weekend. Students are busy making plans for fun games and activities to share with the children when they go and visit on March 5th.
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Christmas Spirit of Giving
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he Values and Religion Department continued to raise awareness about those less fortunate and encouraged students to bring in canned food, dry noodle items, hygienic products, and school supplies to put together into making gifts baskets for the needy families along the Klong near RIS. A special thank you to the 2nd graders who worked very hard on the project and were able to collect the most. ES & MS students were also asked to personally think about and select a Christmas gift to buy, wrap, and donate with a note for someone of the same age and gender. For the first time this year RIS was able to put up a huge Christmas tree in the ES playground for all the children to enjoy and to drop off their gifts. HS students then sorted out a total of 411 gifts. Besides being able to provide presents for 65 children of our own security, PCS, & janitorial staff, HS students were able to visit and distribute the rest of the presents during the holidays to all the children at Camillian Home, Baan Nok Khamin, both Day Care Centers in Minburi District, and Fr. Ray’s Children’s Village. It was a joy to see all the smiles on the children’s faces and the time spent with them playing games and singing Christmas carols was indeed the best way to celebrate Christmas!
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ES Retreat Day Sr. Mary Rose, FMSR
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n Saturday, January 30, 2016 from 8:45 am - 3:00 pm, the RIS Religion Department organized a Retreat Day for the Elementary students. There were 25 elementary students, some high school Senior helpers, a group of Redemptorists Seminarians, the Holy Rosary Sisters, Father Travis, and some parents engaged in this ES annual event. The children had opportunities for bonding and building a faith community through prayers, activities, and reflection. They enjoyed fellowship time and especially enjoyed the delicious buffet lunch. The children look forward to our get together during this ES Annual Event next year! Yet to come, the Middle and High School retreat will be happening in February.
Humans of RIS veryone has their own significant story to share, and that’s exactly what we’ve dedicated the Facebook page “Humans of RIS” to. Inspired from the original project, “Humans of New York,” the student-created page hopes
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to share valuable snippets of people’s lives. Therefore, we would like you to become part of the lives of people that make RIS what it is. Join us as we celebrate these moments by liking our Facebook page.
“In my life, I don’t think I have ever been really sad. I’ve only been really sad when relatives or family members pass away, but only for a short while. It’s never gotten to the point where I won’t be able to eat for days or anything like that. I’ve always thought that happiness is the answer. Why stay sad and get yourself depressed for a long time?” For more similar stories visit: http://www.facebook.com/ HumansOfRIS/ or scan the QR Code:
For inquiries, email any of the following students: phillipec16@rism.ac.th olier16@rism.ac.th khushilk16@rism.ac.th saptarshib16@rism.ac.th nuttakitp16@rism.ac.th
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MS Retreat Day Reflections By Phraewa Saengaroon, 6-3
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t was a clear night sky, the moon was shining with its beauty, and the big flames were soaring through the sky. “Hooray, hooray!!” T.J. shouted while running around like he was being chased by an animal or something. “Hah, that seems fun,” Daniel snickered, “I will join him too!” “Hooray, hooray!” they both yelled as they ran wildly around and around the great pile of the fire. As soon as I turned my attention away from them, T.J.’s jacket nearly caught up on fire! “T.J., YOU’RE GOING TO GET YOUR JACKET ON FIRE!” I screamed. “Oh, what... Arhhh my jacket,” he
screamed even louder. “Now kids, let’s get our sticks and marshmallows,” Sister Dao announced. To be honest, this was the first time I had gotten to do a bonfire. I was so excited to roast my marshmallow until T.J. cried, “Oh no... Why God have you betrayed me?”
T.J. had dropped his marshmallow into the fire! “We have plenty more dear,” Sister Rose said. Now... where was I? Oh yes, when I started to roast my marshmallow, the heat waves blew up into my face. For a minute it was like I had traveled to the Sahara! When I turned back I saw T.J. picking up four or five marshmallows! He was so greedy. When I ate my marshmallow, it was super yummy. The outside was crispy and the inside was gooey. I wish we had some crackers and chocolate! I cannot wait until my next bonfire and I hope we have this camp again!
By Jane Pinto - Grade 6th his was my first religion retreat. I had a really good time. With all of my friends by my side, it was even better. We always did everything together as a group. We shared how we felt, we ate, played, and even sang. While we were on the road to The Green Corner, I sat near my friend Kayla and we couldn’t stop talking about how exciting it was.
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When we reached our destination, we saw that there were plenty of dogs. My friend Phraewa was terrified. She would stand behind me and follow me everywhere I went. Everybody gathered in a room and we started to pray. We separated into 4 different groups and made a group name and made a poster that represented us. My group’s name was Live Your Life. We competed against the different teams by playing many games like Bible Relay and Decode the Sentence. We had a really good lunch and my friends and I started chatting again. We cracked up at a lot of jokes. After eating we had to write down our sins on a piece of paper. We all had confessions and after that we burned up the paper (our sin). 58
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After dinner we started to prepare for our skit, The Rich Man. We lit up big bonfire and ate marshmallows. I had about 4-5 of them. They were really good. We performed our skits and had so much fun. We had to bring our own flashlights because it was so dark. Phrawa gulped and said “Keep an eye out for the dogs.” I replied saying, “ There is nothing to be worried about.” After that we decided to watch Shrek. My friends and I laid on the grass and admired the stars instead. The sky was full of stars. It was silent and it felt wonderful. In an hour, we went to sleep. The next day, we all gathered and started to pray. Then we had a delicious breakfast and played Scavenger Hunt. That was my favorite game. We even had to find
a snail. We packed up and left. I really liked that place because it was quiet and had a lot of greenery. I am
going to miss the Green Corner. I want to go back there again.
By Anonymous n February 19th, 2016, I attended my first retreat at The Green Corner, Khao Yai with students that were in the religion class. The retreat was very fun, and I learned a new thing such as Christian ceremonies. Also I met a lot of new friends in 6th grade and 7th grade. My favorite part was the confession ceremony (burning your sin). I learned how to sing some Christian songs. The Sisters and Father Travis were very kind and they helped me everytime when I did not understand something. Also,
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we roasted marshmallows which were very delicious. A lot of students participated in the retreat. Everyone was great and it was enjoyable. I also learned from a lot of new experiences. I liked the part when we danced. It was fun and was exercise. This retreat has helped me a lot. One of my favorite parts was when the Sisters told everyone to meditate; it made me calm down and to be dispassionate. I am glad that I went to this retreat. Thank-you to Jesus. This retreat taught me to be a better person.
By Nathan Pinto early next morning for a jog around the hill. The valley and the opposite hills were magnificent to look at. After the morning prayer, we had mass which was said by Fr. Travis. We then played Olympic Games hosted by the Sisters. My group won and we were awarded candy. After that, we had a Scavenger Hunt in which we came in third place. We then rode home back to school.
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n February 19th, all MS religion students went on a retreat to Khao Yai National Park. We went there because of its quiet, natural surroundings. We took a bus there to The Green Corner where we spent some time praying and talking to God. On the first day we
learned about the Bible and how to use it. After that we had confession which was followed by skits beside a huge bonfire. We also roasted marshmallows in the small flames that were still aflame. We then said our night prayer and went to our dorms. After some sleep, we woke up
By Scott Kemp
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was able to attend a religion retreat at The Green Corner in Nakanorsame (near Khao Yai). When we got to the retreat the first thing we did was play Bible Relay. Bible Relay is a relay where instead of passing off a rod, we had to find the page number of a gospel and write it on a piece of paper. Then we would tag the next person so they could do the same thing, but with a different gospel verse. After that, we had dinner. It was good! Then we rehearsed little skits for our performance in front of the bonfire. After the performance, we had night prayer, ate noodles and watched a movie before
I loved the trip. It was a lovely experience and I got to spend some quality time with God. I also learned a lot about my faith in God and my connection with God. I also would like to thank the Sisters and Fr. Travis for such an awesome retreat. I look forward to the next year’s trip.
going to bed. The next day we had morning prayers and breakfast afterward. We could not wait until The Bible Olympics Games lead by the nuns! We had to decode the messages to find a clue to the next station. After all this, we all had lunch. After lunch, I went up a hill to the boys’ dormitory but had a little accident. My classmate was chasing me from behind and I fell down a hill. My knees were cut badly but I was alright. Unfortunately. this meant I was not able to be a part of the last activity, the Scavenger Hunt. Since I was not part of this activity, I sat inside and had to wait for it to be over with. Above all, everything was great and I enjoyed it! Ad Astra Volume 17 March 2016
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Remand Minburi Prison
By Matt Morse
he Remand Minburi Prison Project is an ongoing program that provides prisoners in the Remand Minburi Prison an opportunity to study English under the tutelage of RIS teachers, all volunteering to deliver basic instruction in both written and spoken English. Students are vetted beforehand and most are set for release within four to seven months. While students have the opportunity to learn basic written constructions, most of the class sessions focus on teaching students spoken English for everyday use in the outside world. For many students, the classroom setting offers them the opportunity to achieve success that can be a model for life outside once they are released. This year, around 10 teachers participated in the project and all who were involved expressed a strong desire to repeat the experience next year as a result of the positive interaction
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that took place between students and RIS educators. When asked to describe their experiences with the project, many teachers responded with enthusiasm as they reflected on what they gained from their work with the prisoners. The following are a few comments from some of those teachers who participated this year: “The project is life changing. You go there with the intention of helping the men, but in return it is really the men in the class that are helping you. The men are motivated, caring, and full of gratitude. They help you realize we all deserve a second chance and we all have something to offer. By participating in the project you are not only teaching English, but also are contributing in a positive way to society as a whole. In the end, we are all coexisting in life together. “You take away so much more than you put in.” These words spoken by 5th grade teacher Josh Kern perfectly describe the experience of teaching English to the men at the Remand Center as part of the RIS The Remand Minburi Prison Project. I’ll admit, the first time I went I was a little nervous. Like most people, I had an image in my mind of what these men might be like. I pictured them being intimidating, rough, and challenging to teach. My perception couldn’t have been further from the truth, and that’s why a project like this is so powerful. It replaces stereotypes with true awareness, and it changes lives. It certainly
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has changed mine. There are 30 men involved in the sessions, most between the ages of 25-35. The lessons are engaging and fun, while the men are respectful, kind, and eager to learn. Some teachers who joined have experience teaching English, for others this is their first time. The only thing you need in order to teach the men is an open heart and an open mind. During our sessions we laugh, we learn, and we grow together, as teachers and students, and as people trying to better ourselves and the world around us. “This project has had a profound impact on everyone involved. My hope is that after hearing our stories more people will courageously step out and volunteer as we work together to pave the path towards a better, brighter future for us all.” Natalie Schaffer “I found that the prisoners were a positive and lively group who truly wanted to better themselves. Nearly all of them returned each session with their notebooks full of English words and phrases that they had practiced throughout the week. I had no idea why each of them was in there, but that didn’t really matter. They were about to get out and they wanted to improve their lives. This was the first time I had participated in a community service like this and it was truly rewarding. I would leave the prison each time and think of how lucky I am to have what I have: to have been born into a stable and consistent family, a family that helped me grow up with
a moral compass, a broad education, and a sense of purpose in the world. Visiting the prison caused me to reflect on not only my station in life but my responsibility as a global citizen. Regardless of cultural or linguistic differences, we can all help each other in some way.” Mathias Sanders
“Volunteering at the Minburi Remand Prison was a very rewarding experience. The inmates could not have been kinder or more welcoming. Their eager attitudes and smiling faces always made my time at the prison one of the highlights of my week. Afterall, who wouldn’t enjoy teaching Thai prisoners Christmas carols? I am already looking forward to next year!” Will Hayman “My favorite memory working with the men happened while reviewing vocabulary. We were on “H” words, and one of them mentioned hip-hop. While repeating the word, I pointed to my hip, and then hopped, and the class collectively burst into an “Aha!!” moment. That experience of linguistic discovery is fun to share with any student, but the laugh we all got out of it brightened my day! Their eagerness to learn, the kindness, and sense of humor that these men brought to class with them made teaching this group a pleasure.” Emily Bevington
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ris: Photo of the day: 9/3/2016 This morning we were welcomed to RIS by a beautiful solar eclipse. The event peaked as a partial eclipse with the moon covering approximately 50% of the sun. Even with moderate cloud cover, the natural phenomenon was a treat for RIS students, faculty, staff, and administrators. What a great way to start the school day!
ris: Photo of the day: 8/3/2016 Students, faculty, staff, parents, and members of the RIS community gathered on our campus to donate blood. Sponsored by our Red Cross Club, we held our biannual blood drive today. Thanks to incredible participation, there was rarely a free chair all day! We would like to thank the efforts of Ms. Sabrena, the Red Cross Club, and the Thai Red Cross for organizing this wonderful event.
ris: Photo of the day: 2/3/2016 Happy Dr. Seuss day! In honor of worldrenowned children’s book author Dr. Seuss’ birthday, our ES faculty, staff, and students dressed up as their favorite Dr. Seuss characters. From green eggs and ham to red fish and blue fish, our ES knows how to celebrate their favorite author. With everyone taking part, there certainly is no grinch among us!
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ris: Photo of the day: 25/2/2016 Our next Family Fun Day is February 27th from 9:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. in Godbout Hall. By popular demand, the theme is basketball. Mr. Sean and the PE Department hope to see all RIS students and their families in attendance! Go Phoenix!
ris: Photo of the day: 11/2/2016 Yesterday the RIS community celebrated Ash Wednesday on our campus. Students, faculty, and staff held Mass to commence the Lenten season. Remembering the trials and temptations Jesus faced while fasting in the desert, Lent is the time of year Christians prepare their hearts and minds for Easter. Thank-you to the Fathers, Sisters, and Religion students who organized this beautiful service.
ris: Photo of the day: 2/2/2016 Today we were thrilled to welcome over 30 families to our Open House. All morning, potential RIS students and parents met administrators, observed classrooms, and toured our campus. Thank-you to everyone, especially our RIS Student Ambassadors, who made today such a success!
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