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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 1,500 copies are printed per issue to send directly to all students and their families. AD Astra is also distributed among our faculty and staff numbering over 500, and mailed to RIS alumni and friends. The RIS family is a large and growing community of international citizens.

ad astra team editor:

Sudha Maroli

contributing editor: Katharine Mitchell

coordinator:

Tharatharn Kositanont

Graphics design/layout:

Sornchai Pongheamwattana

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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

Message from the School Chaplain Father Travis 6 Letter from the Editor Sudha Maroli 7 Father Griffith: Unforgettable Hero of RIS Sister Theresa Nguyen 8

RIS Alumni On Target with 2012 Olympic Games 10 Grade 11 Student Sweeps Thailand Open, Sets Eyes on 2016 Katharine Mitchell 12 School Bus Drives RIS Alumni Back to Campus 14 ES Teacher and Young Adult Author Inspires Teens Around the World Patrick Maher 16 Technology Integration at RIS: Preparing Our Students For the Future Tim Pettine 18 RIS Hosts ISTA Festival Darren Scully 20 RIS Welcomes New Administrators 22 RIS Welcomes New Teachers 31 Meet Arvis Kennedy, Professional Development & Curriculum Coordinator 32 Meet the Coordinator Behind The Residence @ Seelos Hall 33 The Residence @ Seelos Hall 34 Campus Updates 36 RIS Parent Auxiliary 38 40

Senior Convocation HS Honor Roll Shirley Gamble 41 RIS Chosen to Pilot New IB Course Brian Benson

Future Leaders Attend RISMUN 7 Tae Min Kim, Grade 11 43 Link Crew has Lofty Goals and Lots of Energy Torie Leinbach 44 Applying to College: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Process! Greg Bishop 46 For the Love of Science Paige Prescott 48

Digital Citizenship Takes Off in the Middle School Dr. J. Andrew Westerman 50 RIS Middle School: Where Everyone Belongs Prue, Mimi, Ploy, Grade 8 52

The Role of Attachment in Early Childhood Education Sharon Ronen 54 Early Years at RIS Toni Boush 55 ES Art Students Dream in Color Andrea Heinz 56 ES Junior Council Installs New Leaders Amy Diefendorf 57 Back to School! Daryl Imanishi 58

RIS Students Excel in Music Competition 59 Setting the Bar High: The Girls of Water Polo Torie Leinbech 60 Greetings Sports Fans Gerry Steirit, Athletics Coordinator 62 Follow Us On Facebook! 63 Calling All Alumni 63 RIS Star Alumni Content

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

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eading the Ad Astra is certainly a joy! Each publication is a gem, a treasure to be kept R for future enjoyment. Viewing the pictures and studying the articles tells us who we are at RIS. We are grateful people. This October issue brings the same happiness to all who

care about us. I like to think that we will read these pages during October and reread them again in November, for October and November both have National Thanksgiving Feast Days in some countries of the world. Canada has this special day in October; the United States waits for November. In some places a famous celebration is the Octoberfest. Lots of music. good food, dancing, parties. I heard that in Wisconsin they like the Octoberfest so much they had one in September! By October or November the crops are harvested, grain is in the barns, apples are ripe. Before the cooler weather begins to sweep down from the distant north, October and November are times to celebrate God’s blessings. People reverently find ways of saying Thanks to God for His protection and Encouragement. I feel that the early settlers of America sat down with the American Indians for festivities of ‘Smoking the Peace Pipe’ together in gestures of friendship in October or November. These moments of peace began a Thanksgiving tradition in America. Perhaps these groups were surrounded with candle-lit pumpkins like our Halloween parties. The Catholic Church is encouraging its members to get on their knees a bit more often during the months ahead. We begin a full year called “The Year of Faith” on October 11, and will complete the program of prayer and discernment on November 27, 2013. It is worthy of the RIS family to pray daily in thanksgiving for the blessings of life as expressed in the Ad Astra publication. We at RIS have a lot to celebrate and plenty of reasons to be thankful. We end the First Quarter of this school year on October 12th and have an International Cultural Week beginning on the 15th. We celebrate as good students, for we have learned a lot since August 8th with the help of our wonderful teachers. During these weeks we noticed the cultures of others around us, and we have become friends. We have a school holiday for a week, too, before the month ends. Life is good at RIS! We are grateful. Perhaps these weeks of study and getting to know people who speak another language helped us grow as a person. To a certain degree we began a silent transformation in our heart. That’s one of our goals at school, isn’t it? We pledge to become ‘Global Citizens’. People, no matter where they come from, are good people and we can learn from them. We broaden our outlook on life and deepen a reverent culture of respect for one another. I appreciate what I see among our students of RIS. Our school song announces every day after the Assembly that we of RIS are the hope of the future. This is surely true!!! God bless you. Father Leo Travis C.Ss.R. School Chaplain AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

October 8, 2012 his issue of Ad Astra celebrates the winners and the superstars. Alumni T featured here testify that potentials, hard work, and commitment get individuals the recognition they deserve. Alumni are important to us since

they link our past to the present. The vitality of RIS very much depends on relationships that are formed and nurtured here. The alumni featured in these pages bring us great honor through their achievements in the outside world.

Thus far, we have been providing a great array of academic offerings, extracurricular activities and a mandate that empowers people to make a difference through the spirit of service. Now, we have added one more dimension to this impressive list – a Residential Program. It is heartwarming to see how informal interactions at The Residence lead to significant conversations. We are pleased to watch how thoughtful deliberations lead to deeper understanding of the human condition. If you visited us in the last two months, you must have also noticed the aesthetic improvements on campus. The man largely responsible for these improvements and additions wants neither credits nor recognition; he prefers to remain anonymous. If you force me to disclose his identity these are the hints I can give you: he is a priest who moves with lightening speed on any and every new project. He works tirelessly no matter what time of the day or night it is and he has been with us only over a year. Prior to RIS he was the Rector of the Hmong Center. If you have still not figured out who this is please stop by and ask Father Wayakorn more on “this” priest’s identity. Truly yours,

Sudha Maroli Deputy Head of School for School Affairs

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

he RIS family honored the legacy of RIS founder Father T Griffith during morning assembly on Friday August 24, which the school annually recognizes as Father Griffith Day. Father Griffith will live long in the memory of those who had the great fortune to know him and those who have benefited from his dedication and commitment to Ruamrudee.

Students and staff reflected on the occasion: “While I was participating in the memorial of Father Griffith, I heard many similar stories of what kind of person he was. Everybody loved him very much because he was very nice and caring. Children ran to him and hugged him. He must have been very nice and I would have loved to have met him in person.” - Tanya, Grade 10 “Father Griffith was loved by everyone, especially young children. If he was to walk down the hall, children would run up to him screaming with huge smiles plastered on their faces. Years later, we are still honoring his memory because he was a man that had a dream and made it a reality, not for himself but for us. Without his determination and persistence, Ruamrudee would not be what it is today. Fr. Griffith has indirectly impacted the lives of all the faculty, students, and staff of Ruamrudee by giving us this campus. Fr. Griffith was a beacon of light to all who knew him and to honor him on this day, we lit a candle and poured water over his statue to symbolize relighting and giving new life to Ruamrudee’s hero.” - Katherine, Grade 10

“The hard work and legacy of Fr. Griffith will forever be etched in the minds and hearts of Ruamrudee students, staffs, parents, teachers, and administrators. Most evident of his work was the video created by Religion students who retold the repeated life testimonies of the greatness of this person who was not only a Redemptorist priest, but the founding father of RIS. Many life lessons on dedication, service, leadership, and honesty were given by the simple lifestyle but very strong personality and great character of this man. Thank you Fr. Griffith, for being an everlasting hero of RIS! Thank you students, staff, teachers, and administrators for your contribution in making Fr. Griffith Day an unforgettable remembrance for all.” - Sr. Theresa

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Tanyaporn Prucksakorn places 8th in Women’s 25m Sport Pistol

In 2005, the RIS newsletter described Tanyaporn Prucksakorn, then a sophomore, as a “deadeye shooting teenager.” Seven years later, Tanya, now age 22, is a deadeye shooting Olympic athlete, having competed, and excelled, in the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympic Games.

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

What was the most exciting or satisfying part of participating in the 2012 London Olympics?

hose years of practicing and competing paid off in the London Games, where Tanya placed 8th in the 25m Sport Pistol with a score of 778.4, and 11th in the 10m Air Pistol with a score of 383. She’s happy to have placed so well, but she has even higher hopes for 2016.

Tanya began shooting at age 13, while a student at RIS, and participated in her first SEA Games when she was in Grade 8, which is considerably impressive considering that the average age for competitors is 20. While a sophomore at RIS, she expressed that she loves the sport of shooting because it is so challenging and one must practice not only precision, but also have the will-power to remain patient, calm and focused. This Olympic champion has carried those same skills and principles into her academic pursuits at Chulalongkorn University, where she is studying Information Management. Tanya took a moment out of her studies and practice time at the pistol range to speak with Ad Astra about the Olympics and the value of international school education. Tanya in her sophomore year at RIS, 2005

I have a hard time choosing the most exciting part of participating in the 2012 Olympics. Really, just being able to participate in the Olympics itself is most satisfying and exciting.

Do you hope to participate again in the next Olympics? Yes, I hope to participate again in 2016. My goal for 2016 is to win a medal. But to get there I have to gain more experience in being a finalist.

What is one of your best memories of RIS? My best memory is probably Homeroom. My friends and I would just chat away waiting for the bell to ring and our awesome homeroom teacher Mr. Tom Wash would be reading the bulletin and telling us jokes. Spending every morning in this homeroom for four years made me really feel like it was the “HOME” room.

How did your education at RIS help prepare you for university? There’s a joke I hear from my friends. They say high school prepared them for college by having to pull allnighters working on projects and papers. As for myself, I asked for an early graduation and ended up missing some classes in the second term. Those classes that I missed are the classes that helped many of my friends during college. RIS definitely gave me the experience of working in groups and dealing with people in projects. RIS has also prepared me for the essay writing and reports that my other classmates in college find difficult to do. I feel RIS really has prepared me for the college experience.

What advice would you give to RIS juniors and seniors? My advice to the RIS juniors and seniors is that don’t slack off and the things you learn during your last years in RIS will be used in college! AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

By Katharine Mitchell ven as a 7-year-old, Alice (Narissapat Lam) didn’t like golf. She played for two years yet found the sport to be dull. Her aunt, who owns a badminton court, encouraged Alice to trade in her golf clubs for a racket. She took a swing at playing badminton and discovered it was her game.

“Winning the gold with Saralee at the Thailand Open is my highest achievement so far,” Alice said. “But I really want to compete in the Southeast Asian Games next year.”

Qualifying for major events requires competing in lots of tournaments, which means Alice must frequently travel. Already this school year, she’s participated in two Seven years later, Alice, now a Grade 11 student at RIS, different tournaments, in Singapore and Vietnam. is chasing the opportunity to qualify for the 2016 Olympic games, and, given her track record so far, the possibility is As a student and an athlete, Alice finds it difficult to quite high. But while Rio de Janeiro manage her school work and training is on her horizon, she’s determined, schedule, but with the help of online “You cannot be at the present, to qualify for the educational sites, such as Edmodo lazy. You must Southeast Asian Games in Myanmar and Google Docs, and the support in 2013. These games, held every focus during every of her teachers and friends, Alice is other year, bring together top able to excel in her schoolwork while practice.” athletes from eleven countries for a still chasing her Olympic dreams. She wide variety of sporting events. especially enjoys studying Maths at RIS, but she also looks forward to the Fitness for Life Alice has already made a name for herself in Thailand. course, which also helps her badminton game and overall In June, she won the gold medal in the Thailand Open, flexibility and strength as an athlete. beating out other top players who were both older and more experienced. When asked what advice she’d give to younger athletes, Alice doesn’t pause for a second. “Train, train, train,” she Alice’s doubles partner, Saralee Toongtongkam, is also says. “You cannot be lazy. You must focus during every older and more experienced, which Alice sees as a real practice.” advantage to her own game. “She teaches me a lot about improving my game,” she said. Saralee, who also plays Ad Astra wishes Alice the best, both on and off the court, mixed doubles, participated in the 2012 London Games. as she stays focused on reaching for the stars! 10

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

IS welcomed the homecoming of RIS alumni (Class of 2002) and TV personality Peerapol “Champ” Euariyakul on August 24 to star in the filming of an episode of the popular Channel 5 television show “School Bus.”

“School Bus” invited Champ, who is now a TV producer and sports caster for Channel 3, back to his alma mater to talk about what impressed him the most about his studies at Ruamrudee International School and to recall the years they spent studying there.

Champ, who played soccer with Coach Komson while a student at RIS, was especially impressed by the new FIFA-certified artificial turf, which School Bus also recognized as being the first of its kind to be installed at an international school in Thailand. The hour-long program featured footage of the RIS campus interspersed with clips of Champ playing soccer, participating in a quiz game with high school students, catching up with old teachers and fellow alumni (including an old crush!) and discussing how his education at RIS shaped his career as a television personality and sports caster. During the filming of the show, Champ also made a donation of 20,000 baht, which goes towards the purchase of sporting goods, for which RIS is grateful. 12

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Ad Astra took the opportunity to speak returning to RIS. Ad Astra: How did it feel to return to RIS? What surprised you the most about the campus? Champ: It felt great. I was very excited when

“School Bus” contacted me for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a fantastic show with an appealing concept, allowing guests to return and talk about their high school lives. Secondly, it’s because I’ve always wanted to come back and visit RIS. I missed the old times, but due to my hectic schedule, I was never really allowed to relive my childhood days. To be back at the school brought countless, invaluable memories. It made me feel young and rejuvenated! Everywhere I walked--the lockers, the canteens, the fields--I simply closed my eyes and felt like I’d momentarily traveled back in time, where I could see myself as a 16 year old Champ! What actually surprised me most about campus was our new artificial-grass soccer field! I’ve been told that at least 12 million Baht had been spent on this and I am delighted for the kids here! Back in 2002, the pitch was covered mostly by sand and when we played, we’d always end up with a bloody knee or two! After seeing the new pitch, I really want the class of 2002 to get together once more and play on this beautiful pitch... hopefully in the near future!

with Champ about his experience of Ad Astra: What is the one thing you loved

best about being a student at RIS?

Champ: I love how our educational system

encourages students to make presentations in front of all classes. It teaches them to express their individuality and provoke their freedom of thought. In times like these, to be good at what you do may not suffice anymore. One has to be able to communicate their ideas effectively in public. One has to be able to present themselves with both charisma and conviction. All the work that I did in school (public speaking, in particular) really helped me with my future profession. The last six years of my life, I’ve been blessed with unbelievable opportunities - not only producing and hosting TV shows, but also singing, modeling, and acting. All of these require a great deal of confidence. With the great foundation provided by RIS, it’s safe to say that, “the larger the crowd, the more confident I become!” RIS invites all alumni to return to campus to visit! RIS alumni can also reconnect by joining the Ruamrudee International School Alumni Network (Official) page on Facebook!

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

ast year, ES teacher Patrick Maher promised a “two thumbs up” read for children. The 140 page novel, L his students he’d write them a book by the end written in simple English, chronicles the life of a wealthy of the school year. His only goal was to motivate young girl who attends the Union of Hearts International

them to try harder at their own writing. He had no idea his novel, Pleng’s Song, would end up being sold at Asia Books and reviewed by newspapers around the world. The book changed from a classroom project to a recognized work of children’s literature the day a copy of it landed in the hands of the granddaughter of The Nation’s chief book reviewer. Three weeks later, The Nation published a full book review, claiming Pleng’s Song was

School in Minburi, Thailand. Pleng, the main character, finds herself swept away in the Thai floods of 2011 and is carried on an action-packed adventure. Ad Astra spoke with Patrick about his experience writing Pleng’s Song. 1. What inspired you to write Pleng’s Song?

I was inspired on many different levels to write the book. Most importantly, I wanted to motivate my students to work harder on their own writing. When the students saw me revising and editing my manuscript, they applied these same skills to their own work. On another level, I wanted to contribute to the history of RIS, and by having the book set at the Union of Hearts International School in Minburi, I knew people would read between the lines and know the story was actually about Ruamrudee. Lastly, I wanted to leave a literary gift behind for my own children, Fiona and Seamus, as something they can remember me by. 2. As a teacher, how do you help inspire your students to write?

I let my students know they have a voice and a great story to tell that is just as important as anyone else’s. We have many students who are learning English as a second language, so instilling confidence in them is essential because you want second language learners taking language risks every day. To achieve this, I hold many classroom writing celebrations where students share their work. This is important because the more students share their work and receive praise, the more they want to experiment with writing and take risks. 14

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

3. What are some of your favorite books from your childhood?

The first books that really captured my attention were Island of the Blue Dolphin by Scott O’Dell and the junior edition of Robinson Crusoe by William Defoe. Not surprisingly, these are both adventure stories and hold a lot of similarities with Pleng’s Song. They both depict main characters who struggle to survive and find rebirth from their brushes with death. As I wrote Pleng’s Song, I kept these stories in my mind but I also tried to draw on the basic theme of a troubled adolescent who comes from a broken home. It was challenging to effectively intertwine these themes. 4. Pleng’s Song has been reviewed in many newspapers around the world. How did that happen?

It actually started with my experiences at school where many students reacted positively to the novel. I ended up giving away over 200 copies of the book on campus, and once that happened, I thought Pleng’s Song might actually hold some literary merit so I mailed two copies to The Nation. They rejected the book and had no intention of ever reviewing it, but somehow the chief book reviewer’s granddaughter got a copy of one of the books I’d sent and she loved it. A few weeks later, a full book review appeared in The Nation. Then two days later, the Asia News Network, which covers all of Asia, ran the same book review as a feature article and word simply spread from there. I’m continuing to get interest in the novel so I think more book reviews are on the way. 5. What advice can you share with young writers who want to be published some day?

With digital books quickly growing in popularity, it’s becoming increasingly easy to publish a book but I’d strongly encourage young writers to focus on perfecting their manuscripts before uploading their books anywhere. A writer’s goal should be creating a coherent and meaningful story that is directed at a specific audience rather than the mere publication of a piece of work. Persistence is also important. Before I published my first novel, I wrote three manuscripts that fell flat. Then I wrote another two before I penned Pleng’s Song. So I’ve written hundreds of pages of stories that are filed away and will never see the light of day. My point is aspiring writers have to be willing to work very hard and be able to ditch old stories that don’t work, even if they’ve spent a year or more working on them. 6. What are you working on now?

I’m continuing to pursue writing for English speaking children in Asia and this work will obviously target students studying at international schools. Many of the students who read Pleng’s Song keep asking me to write a sequel but that will never happen. For now, I’m outlining a teen love story that is directed towards middle school students. Pleng’s Song is available at Asia Books.

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

By Tim Pettine, Technology Coordinator (K-12) The mission of our instructional technology program is to enhance the learning environment at Ruamrudee International School by focusing upon core areas of integration of information and communications technologies.

s the new Coordinator of Technology Integration at RIS, I have so much to share with the RIS community regarding our school-wide initiatives to transform our school into a top 21st century learning environment. Improvements to infrastructure and connectivity, and the adoption of sound, researched-based integration models are currently underway at Ruamrudee. I am excited to be a part of the changes taking place as I am confident these changes will allow our school to continue to produce prepared, enquiring learners.

I wish to share some of the major developments that are currently underway at RIS: • Infrastructure changes

managing, planning, and assessing instruction, the RIS staff (administrators as well) have learned to utilize several new systems that require varying levels of technical expertise. The K-12 adoption of Powerschool as our student management system (SMS) is an outstanding tool for managing attendance, grades, and communication. Since it is a new system however, we are all learning about what the software can and can’t do for our needs. Our experiences from last year’s extended, flood-related closure has led to a shared understanding for the need to have an online presence. Websites and innovative tools, such as Edmodo, support core elements of communication and the functionality to move assignments from student to teacher to student, along with valuable feedback to elicit understanding. Our students cannot afford to miss any valuable instructional time and technology can now extend the classroom to any space on the planet. All of these systems have required time and energy to learn and it is a credit to the wonderful teachers at RIS who have emphatically demonstrated the key ESLR of being lifelong learners.

In order to support our Grades 6-12 1:1 laptop program, the school has invested deeply in updating our school network by purchasing new hardware and software that will allow more effective management of bandwidth. We have increased our number of access points in the High School and Middle School to 84, with plans to wire the entire campus before the second semester begins. Additionally, incremental increases to our school bandwidth have already • iPads in the Elementary commenced which is vital for our vision of having reliable, In addition to bringing connectivity to the Elementary School building, an fast connectivity for 100% of our school community. initial classroom set of sixteen iPads • Google Apps in Education has been purchased for trial use in the The school wide adoption of Google ES. Building from existing models of Applications in the classroom has immediately impacted integration and support from Apple Education, we hope to productivity, while streamlining communication here at RIS. begin training teachers in early October and get additional Mr. Daniel Bench has led the rollout of these applications to all iPads into the hands of our students as soon as they arrive. faculty and students Grades 5-12. In addition to transforming We are researching productivity apps and identifying the way classroom environments operate, the Google Apps logical points in the curriculum where the tools may support for Education program fosters collaboration and creativity, learning. This is especially exciting for our school as we are and is now an important part of nearly every teacher’s online forming a very advantageous relationship with Apple, as we presence. Not to mention it saves tremendous amounts of time believe their tools and their support are especially effective and paper. for nurturing 21st century skills. If you have questions or wish to learn more about our So far, the most enjoyable part of my job has been working commitment to 21st century learning, please contact me with RIS teachers and grade levels to learn the new systems through email: timothyp@rism.ac.th or check out my we have implemented for this school year. In addition to blog: http://www.coetail.asia/tpettine • Professional Development

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Darren Scully, RIS Artistic Coordinator, ISTA Festival Coordinator IS is excited and privileged to be hosting a Middle R School International Schools Theatre Association (ISTA) festival from November 16 – 18, 2012. The festival

gives our students a tremendous opportunity to engage in drama and theatre activities with a first class international set of actors, directors, designers and teachers for a whole intensive weekend. Unlike other kinds of festivals, such as SEASAC, we will be hosting visiting students with host families. We are really looking for lots of help with the festival, especially from our parent community. First, who/what is ISTA?

• An international arts organization • A community of young people, teachers and artists • A registered charity based in the South West of England • Committed to providing high quality experiences that develop creative learning and internationalism through theatre • ISTA values diversity and collaboration, celebration and play, friendship and collegiality

Our visiting creative team includes the following individuals: Artistic Director: Kristen Van Ginhoven (US) ISTA Rep: Rachel Jackson (HK) Student Ensemble Leader: Clark Crystal (Aus) Student Ensemble Leader: Desta Haile* (Belgium) Student Ensemble Leader: Matthew Godfrey* (US) Student Ensemble Leader: Sherri Sutton (US) Student Ensemble Leader: Stephen Finegold (US) Student Ensemble Leader: Ulrich Gottlieb (Thailand) Tech: Rui Cunha (Europe) * See bios on opposite page. As a veteran of ISTA, former vice-president and with over 30 festival experiences I can safely say that this team is among the very best I have ever seen, Why do students need to stay in host accommodation?

We believe that staying with a family from a host school is an integral part of the ISTA Festival experience. It Which schools are taking part in the festival? helps foster closer and lasting links between students in The festival is proving very popular with overseas schools international schools. It offers a rewarding insight into the and we are officially ‘sold out’. Our guests will be Middle host culture. It brings students out of their shell and builds School students from: confidence. American International School Dhaka American International School of Guangzhou What can you, as the local community, do to Chinese International School, Hong Kong help and what are we asking? Dulwich College Shanghai • Host 1 or more student(s) for 3 to 4 nights from Hong Kong International School November 15 – 18 (depending on arrival time of the International School Dhaka schools) International School Manila • Provide transportation to and from school each day International School of Brussels • Provide breakfast for 3 mornings Jakarta International School • Spend a part of one evening with your guests and KIS, Bangkok provide dinner Ruamrudee International School We need to host approximately 120 students for the This means RIS will be welcoming 150 students, a festival to be a success. We are calling on all parents, creative staff of 10 plus up to 20 visiting chaperones. but especially Middle School parents. We are looking Our teachers are forming a team to work on logistics for a parent or group of parents to coordinate the hosting and that’s another 10. Overall, over 200 people, with our festival coordinator, Darren Scully (HS). Please including parents, will be taking part in this festival, write to darrens@rism.ac.th or via Gretchen DePoint at which will place RIS on the map and consolidate its gretchend@rism.ac.th or telephone 0859560336 if you position as a leading educator in Southeast Asia. are interested in helping. 1

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

In addition, as an international community, we will be this aspect of the festival please contact Manuela Quintela planning an evening’s entertainment that showcases how at manuelaq@rism.ac.th. Thailand is truly a cosmopolitan, multicultural society that is reflected in RIS. If you can help with this cultural evening Keep up-to-date by checking out the school website www. rism.ac.th and ISTA’s site: www.ista.co.uk. please contact me and let me know your thoughts. We also need help with hospitality, including in the areas ISTA’s slogan: Creating worlds through theatre. Let’s of snacks and concessions. If you would like to help with make it happen!

I am half English and half Eritrean. I work as a singer, songwriter, teacher and marketing assistant. Born in Bangkok, I have lived in Barbados, Jordan, The Ivory Coast, France, England, Belgium, Brazil and the Philippines. While studying education and social sciences I fell into professional music. Writing original songs and doing backing vocals for artists like Grammy-nominee Zap Mama, Canadian Grammy winner Michael Buble, and Turkish popstar Hadise has kept me travelling a lot to New Zealand, Australia, Tunisia, Russia, the US, the UK, Norway, and many other countries. My backing vocal discography includes French icon Mylene Farmer, Belgo-Italian singer Lara Fabian, and Congolese rapper Baloji. Composing songs and writing lyrics are two of my favorite things, and I have released four albums in the past couple of years, solo and with my funk-soul group The Elements. I have been with ISTA since 2004 and each festival has been an incredible experience, multicultural and creative, whether in Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Munich, London, Istanbul, Geneva or Manila. I try to pass on my lessons learned as a professional vocalist, teacher and as international intern at Augusto Boal Theatre of the Oppressed over the short, intense periods of each festival. I love to travel and learn languages, share music and ideas. I aim to inspire students, encouraging them to find what they enjoy doing and pursue it. I fell that ISTA brings out the best in every participant, with each challenging, energy-packed event!

I have been working as a professional actor since I was ten years old, starting on the TV show “You Can’t Do That on Television.” As I grew up and studied the craft at the National Theatre School of Canada and the Moscow Art Theatre in Russia, my acting career expanded into dance, improvisation, dinner theatre, street performing, main stage, television and film. I am a firm believer that the art of performing can elevate one’s life experience, enhance one’s inner and outer core, increase selfesteem and expand compassion and empathy of the human condition. This adventure is my greatest joy and can only be surpassed by seeing students’ joyful faces as they explore, discover and create in ways they had never thought of before. Now located in Los Angeles, I have expanded my career into producing, directing and post-production. These entertainment industry experiences have provided me with an entirely new way of looking at the craft I teach, and helps me approach the students with a fresh and contemporary outlook while integrating multiple academic and theatrical disciplines, dramatically, technically, musically, culturally, historically and thematically. My job as a teacher is to instill and foster a creative ability empowering the students to make the connections that no one has seen before. I am sneaky. I take students through the back door of performance techniques and styles while removing preconceived ideas that thwart and stalemate full participation and creativity. We play, discover and will never forget. And, they will all learn the Russian curtain call step dance. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

he array of expertise, the cumulative experience and the professional credentials of RISâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new administrators are truly impressive. RIS is fortunate to have them on board.

Daryl Imanishi

With over 10 years of administrative experience and eight years of working internationally, Daryl Imanishi joins RIS from the American School in Japan, where he served as a Team Leader, concentrating in designing online learning resources and revising Japanese curriculum. Prior to working in Tokyo, he was Assistant Principal and summer school principal of a middle school in Seattle. A recipient of educational grants in the US and Japan, Daryl holds a BA in Studio Art, a Masters in School Administration and is currently studying for his Certificate of Educational Technology and Information Literacy. He is joined in the ES by his two children.

Sara Ghorayeb

Sara Ghorayeb, HS Assistant Principal, comes to Ruamrudee with 17 years of experience as an educator. She has worked as an administrator for the last seven years and has been an international educator for the last nine years. Sara developed her passion for international teaching during her student teacher training in India while completing her Bachelors in Education. Since then, her experience as an educator and administrator has spanned four continents and global online teaching as well. Sara is a National Board certified teacher, holds a Certificate in International Leadership from the Principalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Training Center, and she is currently working on a second Masters degree in Educational Leadership. Her experiences include serving as Middle School Coordinator in Oman; Assistant Principal, math teacher and Athletic Director in Uruguay; and an Instructional Leader at a US charter school. 20

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Colin Webster

Colin Webster, H.S Assistant principal, was born in Australia and raised in Canada and the US. He has taught internationally in Prague and Dubai and comes to RIS from ICARDA (International Centre for Agriculture Research in Dryland Areas) International School of Aleppo, Syria, where he was the Secondary Principal (Grades 6 - 12) for four years. He holds an undergraduate degree in History and Politics from Queen’s University, a Bachelors’ of Education degree from Lakehead University. He attended graduate school for History and English at Utah State University and also holds a Master’s in Educational Administration from The College of New Jersey. Currently, Collin is working on his dissertation for a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Lehigh University. Over his extensive career, he has been an elementary classroom teacher, a Middle School English teacher, a High School Science teacher and a High School/Secondary School Principal. He is also certified as an IB MYP and DP Coordinator and his work has been published in several leading international educational journals.

Arvis Kennedy

With a Masters in Educational Administration and in Curriculum and Teaching, Arvis Kennedy arrives at RIS with 25 years of teaching experience, including twelve years of working internationally. Most recently she served as the Lower School Principal and Director of Academic Affairs at Brent International School, Philippines, and previously as Middle School Coordinator at the International Community School of Addis Ababa. She has presented professionally at EARCOS and AISA conferences in Malaysia, Uganda, Kenya and Ethiopia and has specialized in leading professional development for MAP testing and Understanding by Design. Arvis is also a published poet, an advocate of multicultural awareness and grandmother to ES student Aaron, who already shows signs of becoming a cultural ambassador for Thailand. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Amy Diefendorf ES Counselor

I have an undergraduate degree in Secondary Education with a minor in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Alabama. My Masters and Ed.S. degrees are in School Counseling from Troy University. For five years, I taught 11th grade Anatomy and Physiology and then made the switch to Elementary Counseling where I have worked for ten years. Working with the little ones is wonderful; I thoroughly enjoy it! The best part of RIS is the amazing students. They are mannerly, attentive and kind. Having the opportunity to work with students who are so amazing has been the best part of coming to a new school. Making a positive contribution to my community is something that is important to me. Volunteering at my daughters’ school through the parent-teacher organization, helping with Sunday school at my church, and organizing a 5K race are all things that I have done in the past. I look forward to becoming involved in the RIS family as well as the Minburi community. My husband, the funniest person I have ever met, is an 8th grade Humanities teacher at RIS and my two daughters are in grade 4 and Pre-K. For us, RIS is a family affair and we love it!

Maria Richardson MS ELD

As a graduate of Jakarta International School, I have a special interest in international education and world travel. I have a Masters in Exceptional Student Education and English Speakers of Other Languages. I was hotel manager in Japan for 6 years, I taught in Florida for 8 years and I taught in Qatar for 2 years. Here, in Thailand, I’ve found the people to be very friendly and make me feel at home. When I’m not teaching, I’m studying and traveling the world.

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Said Ghorayeb

MS LA & Social Studies

I am originally from Beirut, Lebanon. I have a BA in English Literature and Language and 13 years of teaching experience in international schools. Many aspects of RIS have struck me as exceptional, from the staff’s collegiality and professionalism to the students’ respectful and driven nature. My wife, Sara, and I feel very lucky to be part of this great place.

Sean McMahon ES PE

I studied in Manchester, England, where I obtained a BA Honours degree in Coaching and Sport Development. This is where my passion for teaching children was reinforced and led me to spend four seasons coaching Football (not soccer!) and Rugby in California and Florida. When I returned to the UK I was appointed U15 Academy Football Coach at a well-known club in northeast England. Following this I undertook my teaching credential and Post-Graduate study in London to become a fully certified teacher. Being a teacher in London you refine your skills as a successful practitioner for whatever comes your way. At my previous school my U16 Football team were champions three years in a row at district tournaments, and my U17 Touch Rugby team champions at three separate international tournaments! At RIS, I have been welcomed every morning by Elementary students waving, smiling and shouting at the top of their lungs ‘Mr. Sean!’ It‘s a very nice feeling to walk around where students are always motivated and excited about being at school. This is a credit to the wonderful faculty that I have joined.I like to be involved in all aspects of school life. This season I will be coaching the JV Boys football team and I look forward to helping them make progress throughout the year. I am very much looking forward to exploring Thailand and participating in all things sporty. In my free time I like to play football and when I’m near the ocean I like to surf, so with the many islands in Thailand hopefully I will get a chance to do so! AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Darcy Coonan ES, Pre-K

Before coming to RIS, I taught Pre-Kindergarten for six years in New York City, and recently completed my Masters in TESOL from Teachers College at Columbia University. I have been very impressed by how welcoming and helpful everyone at RIS has been so far, and I am looking forward to getting to know more of the students, parents, and staff. My husband and I are excited to explore Thailand, and eat as much Thai food as possible!

Derek Diefendorf

MS LA & Social Studies

I received a BS in Elementary Education from the University of Alabama and taught 6th Grade social studies my first 6 years out of college. I attended graduate school at Troy University and received my MS and Ed.S. in School Counseling. I have been a middle school and high school counselor for the past nine years in the US. In the past, I have coached, many times in a volunteering role. This year, my wife and I look forward to volunteering to teach English with the MRI Prison Inmate Project. I am here with my beautiful wife Amy who is the counselor at the elementary school. We have two daughters Molly (4 years) and Anna (9 years).

Jeneane Paxson

MS Language Arts & Social Studies

I am entering my 11th year of teaching. Previous to coming to Bangkok, I have taught 3rd, 5th, and 6th grade in Bridgewater, New Jersey and Singapore American School. I have earned a Bachelor of Science through Drexel University, in Philadelphia, along with a Masters of Science in Education at SUNY. I hold an Educational Leadership Certificate, and trained in Reading and Writing Workshop from the Teacher’s College of Columbia in New York. When I’m not teaching, I’m training for triathlon races. I am an eternal student, who loves to take classes from various universities and institutes of accreditation. Learning is life-long journey. 24

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Greg Bishop HS Counselor

I have been in counseling services for the past 29 years. One of my favorite things about being a college counselor is learning constantly about colleges around the world. It has been a great education for me as well. Having worked in Mexico, Singapore, Manila, Beijing, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong and now Bangkok, I have found it exciting to live in different cultures of Asia. I left Canada 21 years ago and have enjoyed my travels since then. People are people no matter where you go but it’s the culture that makes it exciting to learn about our individual differences. Thailand is one of the most distinct cultures of the world and maybe that’s why it is so special. I have owned a home in Thailand for the past eight years and coming here to RIS is like coming home for me at the end of a long journey. There is a certain comfort to being here both in the culture and at the school. One saying that I live by all these years in travelling is “there are no strangers here; only friends you haven’t met yet”! I am happy to be in such a warm and welcoming culture to meet future friends.

Sharmellia Shand

HS, IB Theatre and Drama

I studied my undergraduate degree at Manchester Metropolitan University, England, where I achieved my BA Honours in Contemporary Theatre and Performance and then focused on completing my teaching credentials at The University of East London, England. I have been lucky enough to teach in many different comprehensive schools across the UK and I have loved directing productions and being a part of international theatre festivals. My time at RIS and in Thailand has been wonderful, from the people, the places and also the amazing food! I have been welcomed from staff and students with warmth and pleasantness, which has been emitted onto me each and every day! There is a clear sense of community and this has made me extremely excited about teaching and learning at RIS in the future. I am eager to explore the opportunities available at RIS and enthusiastic to present throughout the academic year performance events to showcase some of the brilliant work from the talented students that I have been teaching! AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Caroline Scott

MS LA & Social Studies

Before arriving at RIS, I was teaching in Kuwait, where I met my wonderful husband Joey. We travelled here with our sixmonth-old son over the summer and, needless to say, we are very excited to have started our new teaching endeavors at RIS. Before Kuwait, I taught at a small, private Catholic school in Canada for a number of years, but I left to seek adventures abroad. My own academic background is that I completed a Masters of Teaching from Griffith University in Australia and prior to that, I completed a double major at McGill University in Canada in International Development and Anthropology. I am passionate about travelling and learning about different cultures so I am incredibly thrilled to be living in Thailand as there is so much history and so much to see. I look forward to exploring!

Nancy Sousa HS Counselor

I have a Bachelors degree in Biological Sciences from Rutgers University. While receiving my degree, I was substitute teaching and then went on to teach children and adults with autism for four years before deciding to pursue a Masters degree in school counseling and substance abuse counseling. Prior to working at RIS, I was working as a counselor at the American School of Bombay in India. In India, I enjoyed volunteering at a crisis center for orphans once a week. We would teach the children basic manners, read books, sing songs and teach them English. I also enjoy volunteering with animal shelters and Habitat for Humanity. I wish to be involved in organizations, whether through RIS or outside, where I can improve the welfare of people, animals or my environment and contribute in a positive way. I am living in Thailand with my husband and in our spare time, we love to travel. One of our best memories is when we went hiking in the Himalayas (as pictured). The hike was VERY challenging; we were faced with freezing temperatures, hail, snow, thunderstorms, blisters and fatigue, but what an exhilarating experience when we reached our final goal! It’s a wonderful analogy to life and reminds me of some wise words from Paula Coelho, one of my favorite authors, “In pursuit of our dreams, we are being constantly subjected to tests of persistence and courage. So we could not be hasty, nor impatient. If we push forward impulsively, we would fail to see the signs left along our path. When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.” 2

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Alis Gorcea MS ELD

I was born and raised in Romania. I attended a Transylvanian private university and graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor in Teaching Romanian and English Grammar and Literature. After I graduated, I worked in Reghin, Romania, for four years as a Romanian and English teacher. Then I had the opportunity to move and become an International Exchange Teacher in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA. I believe that during my five years in the States I grew both as a person and as a teacher. I had many opportunities to participate in resourceful Professional Developments and I became passionate about Global Education. I worked with English as a Second Language students from 17 different countries and I also taught a new pilot course- Global Connections. I have just entered my 10th year of teaching. After 6 weeks at RIS, I am still amazed how nice and respectful and smart my students and all the students are. I just love my job and I hope I make a big difference in the lives of my students every day. I am about to start my Masters Degree, which I am very excited about. Thailand is an amazing place and my family and I try to discover little by little every weekend. We feel very lucky and happy to be here!

Wit Pilunthanakul MS Special Needs

I graduated from Ruamrudee International School in 2002. I then went on to pursue higher education in Mahidol University of International College (MUIC) for two and a half years, but I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel that international business was the best choice for me. I went on to continue my Bachelors Degree in the University of Westminster, majoring in Neuropsychology. I then furthered my degree with a Master of Teaching (Secondary) from the University of Melbourne, Australia, specializing in Gifted Education and Learning Disabilities. By living and studying in three different countries I have truly become a global citizen. While studying for my graduate degree, I was a substitute teacher in the RIS High school, Middle school, and RIST. RIS is more of a family than a school to me. I was brought up in RIS more as a member of a family than a student. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve come back to my alma mater. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Deneen Kozielski

MS Language Arts & Social Studies

I have a B.A. in Communication-Arts (Journalism), a B.S. in History/Secondary Education and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m currently enrolled in a Masters program. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve taught 7th and 8th grade Social Studies at Kendall Junior-Senior High School in (New York) and 9th - 11th grade English and History at Mariner High School (Florida). The positive attitudes and smiles of the Thai people I meet have made the transition here easier than I ever expected! And I have become an instant fan of the delicious varieties of food. My RIS family told me what a treasure this school community is, and I have been delighted that everything they said was true! I spend my summers in New York where I am a pageant and talent judge, and volunteer at our local agricultural fair each July. Last year at my previous school, I was a class sponsor and freshmen class orientation leader. When I am not teaching I am a voice-over artist, a vocalist, and a recruiting specialist for a staffing service. I am planning to spend the next few years touring Asia and completing a book I have started writing. I am also an avid baker in my free time.

Karli Koning

ES, Special Needs

This is my 10th year teaching either in special education or elementary education. I have taught at the elementary and middle levels. I have a M.Ed with endorsements in K-8 El Ed, K-12 Reading/Literacy and K-12 Special Education. I am currently in school working on a Masters level certification in Behavioral Analysis. Thai people are highly hospitable and wanting to help any way they can. I am also working under a doctor at Bangkok Hospital doing behavioral analysis for people who are on the Autism Spectrum or have other behavioral disabilities. I am accompanied by my husband and our children, Amelia (3) and Liam (17-months). We have all enjoyed getting to know our local community and exploring our new world.

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Joey Scott MS PE

I am from Nova Scotia, Canada. I have a Bachelors of Kinesiology and Bachelors of Education degree from the University of New Brunswick. I spent 4 years in Kuwait teaching MS PE and also taught PE in Egypt. I have been to Thailand twice prior to moving here and instantly fell in love with the smiling people and the amazing culture. Last January I had the pleasure of visiting the RIS campus and was blown away by the facilities, staff and students who make the campus feel like a true community. I am an avid sportsman, ranked #2 in Canada in badminton, and I also competed on a provincial level in golf. I will be heavily involved in the after school sports program here at RIS coaching the U17 boys volleyball, U17 girls badminton and golf teams for the 2012-2013. I am here in Thailand with my wife Caroline, who teaches in the middle school, and our 6 month old son, Ryley. In our spare time we love to travel, snorkel, hike, watch movies and be active.

John Pearman MS ELD

Aloha! My teaching career began in 1980 in California. I taught middle and high school for the Pasadena Unified School District for three years. I relocated to Hawaii in 1984 and taught in the Special Needs setting for the State of Hawaii Department of Education. My involvement with the Special Needs population has been at the elementary level through adult education. I have been a summer school director, coordinator for after school programs for latchkey children, vocational education program director for high school students, and an instructor for adult education ESL students seeking a high school diploma. Although this is my first year at Ruamrudee, I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the students. The students are kind, respectful, friendly and truly want to learn. Coming to Thailand has been especially rewarding for me as I have been permanently reunited with my wife and son. My son is a first grader at RIS and he is really enjoying school and his after school activities on campus. When I am able to I like to spend my time cycling, swimming, and practicing Tai Chi. My family and I enjoy the beach and spend a good deal of time at our beach house in Cha-Am. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Dominick James Bruso HS, Values & Social Studies

I grew up in northern New York, near the Quebec border. I began my undergraduate studies at the College of St. Rose in Albany, NY. After my junior year, I interned in the United States Senate and then worked on the Senate Judiciary Committee until I left to finish my Secondary Education-History degree at Utah Valley University. A few years later I received a Masters Degree in Instructional Design and Educational Technology at the University of Utah. I have also been an Adjunct Professor at the University of Utah for the past 4 years. Before coming to RIS, I taught various social studies courses, including AP US History, and now I am excited to teach IB to the great students here. Since arriving in Thailand, we have been impressed by the kindness and welcome from the people we have met, and have been excited each day to try out the delicious Thai food around us! I am here with my wife, Becky, and our two daughters, Giada (4) and Lizzy (2). Becky and I are already involved teaching Sunday School and English classes at the nearby LDS church, and hope to be involved with Father Ray’s Children’s village in Pattaya, and other worthwhile endeavors we find along the way.

Father Raymond Kunu

Community Service Coordinator

Fr. Raymond Kunu has been an ordained member of The Redemptorist Fathers of Thailand for 16-years, having worked mostly among Hill Tribes in Northern Thailand in Chiang Mai and Nan Provinces, assisting the poor and suffering through pastoral ministry. From 1997 – 2003, he worked with the Karen Tribe, serving 64 villages located in the MaeJaem District. Each village was very far from one another and it took almost 2-3 hours per trip to reach one of them. The roads were still limited and not so smooth. Most of the villages didn’t have electricity. It was very difficult to reach them in the rainy season. He worked closely again with the Karen Tribe from 20072010, caring for 45 villages, none of which had electricity. In 2011, he worked with Hmong Tribe and Lao refugees in 7 different villages. 0

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

n August of 1998 I dared to do what most African- staff to grow professionally in ways that will benefit both Iadventure abroad. I took what I thought would be a leave of American educators had never done before and that was to the learner and students. As an instructional leader, I view my role as a facilitator who fosters and assists teachers in

absence from my teaching position at Chicago Public Schools and signed a two year contract to teach at the International Community School of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Never could I have imagined that I would later resign my tenure position and end up teaching in Ethiopia for nine memorable and exciting years. My next position was elementary principal at Brent International School in the Philippines, where I worked collaboratively with my colleagues for three years implementing various programs such as Understanding by Design, MAP testing and Professional Development. As the new Director of Curriculum and Professional Development at the prestigious Ruamrudee International School, Thailand, I am elated to be one of the many stakeholders who will be instrumental in moving the school forward into 21st century learning.

In an effort to reinforce my philosophy, I have presented several workshops at international conferences such as: “Teaming” and “Classroom Walk-throughs” at EARCOS Conferences for Administrators; “This We Believe…but How Do We Change?” at Michigan State University in Plymouth, England; “The Ensemble Technique,” “Advance Placement Strategies for All Students” and “Hands Across Africa” for the African International Schools Association (AISA) Conferences. Currently, I am providing a series of “Understanding by Design” workshops for the RIS faculty.

Educationally, I hold two masters degrees (Masters in Curriculum and Teaching and Masters in K-12 Administration), from Michigan State University. North Carolina Central University awarded me a Bachelor in Elementary Education with minors in Special Education, Middle Grades Education and Ethnic Studies. Among my many honors and awards, I am most proud to have been the 1987 and 1987 recipient of the Octavia Bower-Knight Scholastic Award for Excellence in Special Education.

Personally, educational leadership includes many facets, but the most important to me is learning about oneself as an educator. The book, The Courage to Teach, by Parker J. Palmer, is one of my favorite books, which guides educators through an inner journey of teaching and learning. I believe that the best leaders are reflective learners; therefore, I strive to learn and grow in every life situation that is afforded me.

their analysis of teaching and learning.

A great leader leads by example, thus I strive to model moral behavior as well as demonstrate effective leadership practices such as shared governance.

Culturally, interacting with so many diverse populations I currently hold valid certifications in the areas of K-12 in America as well as the wonderful indigenous people of Administration for the state of Michigan, and lifetime teaching the many host countries of Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East that I have had the privilege to visit/work, has certifications from two states, Illinois and New Jersey. forever humbled my spirit and allowed me to evolve into Professionally, working overseas has allowed me to use what I term as “an ambassador across cultural good will.” my talents, life experiences and advanced education to foster learning in diverse settings. As an advocate of “life In closing, living and working nationally and overseas in long learning” I must say that school is one of the most various school settings for the past 25 years has afforded important environments for learning. As an “Instructional me the opportunity to view education and learning with Leader,” I believe in continuing professional development, new lenses. I see learning as dynamic, interactive, and modeling and shared governance as a means to create situated in a socio-cultural context. I am excited to be perpetual learners. living in Thailand and I am looking forward to learning more about its rich history and culture, especially in the Professional development exposes all stakeholders to a areas of ethnic clothing and the performing arts, which are variety of useful, relevant instructional ideas, thus allowing my passion. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Laura Axtell Recruitment & Resident Coordinator I received my Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Social Work and spent 12 years working with at-risk youth, primarily as the director of alternative school programs. That led to my desire to get a Masters Degree in Education and I spent 8 years at an alternative school and taught for an additional four years at a high school before becoming the principal. Because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve worked so extensively with adolescents, I realize the importance of making every minute count and obtained a Masters Degree in Counseling in 2011. Everyone at RIS has been so helpful and the people of Thailand are so friendly and welcoming. It is a wonderful place and I can see why everyone speaks so positively of Ruamrudee and Bangkok. For many years I have provided reading instruction and tutoring for students with learning problems. I 2

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have also raised two foster children and continue to be very involved in their lives. I also provided support for a single mom by helping with childcare. Whenever possible, I contribute to organizations that promote environmental protection and sustainability. I am excited to have the opportunity to focus on two new additions to Ruamrudee International School. I am the first coordinator for the new The Residence @ Seelos Hall which provides high school students with a home on campus. I am also the coordinator of student recruitment and one of the people working in School Development to let the community know more about RIS. By communicating our excellent facilities and academic programs to the world we will enhance our efforts to continue attracting the best international students. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and travel and hope to do both in Thailand.

“My room is twice as large as the dorm I had in England and I only have one roommate instead of two. Everything here is new and the food is very good, laundry is provided, and every student has their own desk in the study hall.” ~ 10th grade student “I live in Bangkok but traffic can be very bad at times and it is much easier to live at school during the week so I can participate in sports and do my homework and then go home on the weekends.” ~ 11th grade student

here would one hear such comments about a new boarding program? The Residence @ Seelos Hall, of course! Ruamrudee International School (RIS) is pleased to announce its brand new residential program, Seelos Hall, for students in grades 9 - 12. Unlike other oncampus housing units, Seelos Hall provides apartmentlike living spaces with private amenities, where students can develop a sense of belonging.

Ruamrudee International School was founded in 1957 by Redemptorist Fathers and serves over 1,300 Pre-K – Grade 12 students from around the world on a beautiful 26-acre campus. The American-based curriculum, which incorporates the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) Program, is taught by over 200 highly qualified and experienced international teachers. RIS offers 70 sports programs, an Olympicsize swimming pool, and is the only school with an FIFA The Residence @ Seelos Hall is available for RIS certified artificial turf soccer field in Bangkok. students who would like to board during the school week (5 days) or those who wish to stay through the weekends The Residence @ Seelos Hall is designed to assist students (7 days). Students receive a generous allowance each day in developing their whole person by encouraging both to purchase the breakfast and lunch of their choice at the independence and interdependence. Students establish school food court, and dinner is served in The Residence’s individual academic and personal goals while living and own dining room. A well equipped and comfortable study studying with others as a member of a multi-cultural, hall allows students to complete their school work in a quiet caring community. environment with assistance from a teacher. Recreation and activities, on and off campus, are included as well. For more information or a tour of RIS and The Residence @ The program is designed to accommodate RIS students Seelos Hall, please contact Ms. Laura Axtell, Recruitment whose parents travel or are assigned to locations outside & Resident Coordinator, by email at lauraa@rism.ac.th or by phone at “+” 66 (0) 2791-8900, extension 345. of Bangkok so that they can continue their studies. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

ver the summer vacation, many improvements were made to the RIS campus, ranging from the opening of The Residence @ RIS in Seelos Hall to a new stage in Godbout Hall to the expansion of the HS into Redeemer Hall for Arts & Humanities. Father Wayakorn, Khun Gus, and Khun Trin have worked diligently supervising an assortment of projects around campus, including the following:

• Entire campus repainted and landscaped • Student dormitory with 22 rooms (Seelos Hall) • New stage in Godbout Hall • Expansion of the HS into Redeemer Hall for Arts & Humanities • New high capacity, wireless routers in the HS (MS & ES in September) • 300 new desks in the HS (Redeemer Hall) • Refurbished HS Canteen • 8 ES Classrooms refurbished • New air-conditioned ES Early Learning Center canteen • Upgraded ES play areas • New science labs in the MS • New location for the Fitness Center (Godbout Hall) 4

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elcome back to another year of fun-filled activities! The W new Parent Auxiliary (PA) Executive committee has been formed, and we are ready to once again bring teachers,

The PA Representatives meet Tuesdays in the PA Lounge, and our General Meeting is held at AD 209 on the first Tuesday of the month at 7:30 am. Please join us at the parents, students, RIS faculty and staff to join us in supporting General Meeting for coffee and sandwiches and updates, our school through various events, workshops and activities ideas and suggestions. that will benefit RIS students. September kicked off with two enrichment workshops the We have made a few changes in the executive team PA organized with the help of the Junior Achievement formation this year with PA team members selected to Thailand to inspire young people to thrive in the global oversee each school level, hence ensuring that all sections economy. The ‘Bank in Action” was a 4-day workshop are given equal attention and interest. Members are: attracting 40 high school students, who participated with much enthusiasm. Sponsored by the Bangkok Bank, the High School workshop teaches the principles of banking and introduces K. Nopawan Arromdee (Tui) students to the challenges of successfully operating a bank narromdee@gmail.com in a competitive environment. K. Van Riangkrul (Van) vanriangkrul@hotmail.com Another workshop carried out simultaneously was “More than Money,” a 3-day workshop on money management for Middle School our RIS kids aged 7-11 years. Supported by the HSBC, the K. Sunsiri Inchun (Sioux) workshop is a hands-on program teaching children the key siouxinchun@hotmail.com concept of entrepreneurship and financial choices through K. Sasipats Sangaphunchai (Apple) interactive discussion and games. sasipatss@yahoo.com Both workshops met with much success thanks to the Elementary School help of high school principal Eric Monson, as well as HS K. Nongchanok Stananonth teachers Tom Wash and Matthew Fahey, who helped nongchanok_st@minornet.com monitor the workshop from beginning to end. Many thanks K. Sasipats Sangaphunchai (Apple) to the Middle School for allowing us to use their computer sasipatss@yahoo.com lab room during the sessions. We appreciate it!

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Besides learning to manage our finances, we also learned to defend ourselves! Due to popular demand, the PA organized a second session of a self-defense workshop on September 19, attracting 40 RIS students who came to Godbout Hall to learn basic self defense techniques. Our kids certainly had lots of fun learning safety strategies and techniques that require awareness and maneuvering skills, and not just physical training.

We’ll be organizing more activities and events throughout the school year to support our kids in various areas, so stay tuned! Coming up next is the International Food Fair on October 17. Parents and students, teachers and all staff members are welcome to join the festivities by supporting our food booths and contributing to all the spirit and fun as a proud member of the RIS community. See you there!

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AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

SENIOR CONVOC

ongratulations to the Class of 2013! During Senior Convocation on August 23, RIS Seniors received their Ad Astra pins and pledged to continue reaching for the stars and serving as leaders as they complete their final year of high school.

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

CATION

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

ongratulations to all Honor Roll students recognized for their outstanding academic performance during the 2011-12 school year. The top ten students with the highest GPA from each grade level were presented with a Certificate of Achievement at a special Honor Roll Assembly.

Class of 2015

1. Tatiana Andonegui 2. Apisara Chanchotisatien 3. Annie Ramida Chayanupatkul 4. Patty Sasinat Chindapol 5. Kashish Garg 6. Jenny Thitaporn Kornubrabhan 7. Pao Maneepairoj 8. Divya Natarajan 9. Vivien Rithirueng 10. Khyati Sipani

Class of 2014

1. Bhon Bunnag 2. Pacharapol Charoensuk 3. Shin Chiewattanakul 4. Phathaphol Karnchanapimonkul 5. Chris Tae Min Kim 6. Pichayapa Limpachat 7. Khine Zin Lin 8. Weerawaroon Mavichak 9. Pichanon Nantavaropas 10. Vorada Sakulsaengprapha

Class of 2013

1. Nitchakan Chaiprukmalakan 2. Wasin Chalanuchpong 3. Noramon Jaturavith 4. Oranicha Jumreornvong 5. Pramon Karnchanapimonkul 6. Sasicha Manupipatpong 7. Sangtawun Marie Miller 8. Adisa Narula 9. Rasika Sethi 10. Pakjira Sirison

Class of 2012

1. Woo Hyun Kim 2. Peerapat Luxsuwong 3. Yingluck Narumitrekagarn 4. Narisa Phinichkusolchit 5. Julipat Pratumsuwan 6. Sugan Ravichandran 7. Kanit Tantisiriwat 8. Nicha Viraporn 9. Thammatat Vorawandthanachai 10. Tsu-Shuan Wu 40

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

By Brian Benson

A LEADER IN INTERNATIONAL EDuCATION

ith the introduction of a new IB course beginning next year, Ruamrudee International School continues its role as a leader in international education in Thailand. RIS has recently had the honor of being selected by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) as one of only sixteen schools worldwide to “pilot” or pioneer the teaching of a new IB course during the 2013-14 school year. It is the only school in Thailand and one of only three in all of Asia to be selected. The new course is called IB Global Politics. The course is designed to integrate the studies of International Relations, Human Rights, Development, as well as Peace and Conflict. It is a two year course (like all IB courses) and it will be offered at both Standard and Higher Level. This course is a natural fit for Ruamrudee given our long and successful record of IB teaching, our links to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, our international student body, and our long history (over 20 years) of students participating in Model United Nations. For the past four years, we have offered International Relations as a course of study to grades ten, eleven and twelve. This year, in preparation for the new IB course, International Relations has been renamed Global Politics. We have already introduced changes into the current curriculum to bring it more in alignment with the new course. IB Global Politics begins in the academic year 2013-14.

The first group of schools who will begin teaching the new course in 2012 are: • Yew Chung International School, Beijing, China • Lincoln Community School, Ghana • Amman Baccalaureate School, Jordan • United World College Red Cross Nordic, Norway • International School of Panama • Midgårdsskolan, Sweden • International School of Basel, Switzerland • Wellington College, UK • British School of Washington, USA • Carroll Wood Day School, USA • North Broward Preparatory School, USA • UNIS New York, USA Additional schools beginning to teach the new course in 2013 are: • Ruamrudee International School, Thailand • Bermuda High School, Bermuda • Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico • Overseas Family School, Singapore

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

By: Tae Min (Chris) Kim 11-5 Conference Manager n September 8 2012, RIS hosted the 7th RISMUN conference. The first RISMUN started back in 2006 with about 70 students attending. However, this year with its prestigious reputation, RISMUN VII attracted more than 150 students from 6 schools including International School of Eastern Seaboard, Ekamai International School, Kesinee International School, American School Bangkok (Bangna and Green Valley campuses) and Ruamrudee International School. At 9am, when the opening ceremony started, there was a mob of students rushing towards the PAC looking to find seats where they could surreptitiously view their competition, listen to the orators and plan their evening activities.

for three hours, delegates cooperated with each other to create the best resolution that they could in order to combat some of the problems currently occurring around the world. A few examples of the topics debated include: “Protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism,” “The long term support of Haiti,” and “Protecting coastal settlements against the effects of climate change.” All of this on a Saturday in school!

After around seven hours of arduous debating and composing resolutions, everyone once again gathered in the PAC for the closing ceremony. The Secretary General offered formal appreciation of the work of the chairs and Honorable chairs were introduced and appreciated every delegate, banged the gavel and RISMUN VII was by the Secretary Generals, Lathika Mouli and Natty declared closed. Jumreornvong. Every delegate and advisor passionately applauded the executives. After the opening ceremony, The MUN club at RIS is now preparing for BKKMUN @ delegates and chairs separated into different committees BPS, October 13, and THIMUN Singapore in November. and were led to their rooms by the pages. Even though the Students who would like to get involved should come Redeemer Building might have been complex to navigate along to Monday lunchtime meetings, contact Lathika or for delegates from other schools, posters throughout the check out our facebook page, RIS Model United Nations. building guided them to their committee rooms and other locations around the RIS campus. The chairs were able to I would like to give sincere appreciation to our advisors Mr. Benson and Ms Vanessa for their dedication to our flawlessly lead the conference. RISMUN club. The RIS classified staff were also really One of the most important factors of all MUN conferences helpful. Once again, thank you every delegate, chair, is that all of the proceedings are student-oriented and executive, advisor and all the others who made RISMUN directed. Although our meticulous approval panel checked VII one of the most successful MUN conferences ever! the resolutions which were going to be debated intensely 42

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he RIS Link Crew is back this year to help Freshmen and other new students feel welcome and supported in their new high school environment. Supervised by Ms. Torie Leinbach, Link Crew is comprised of highly motivated, committed, and enthusiastic 11th and 12th graders selected for being exemplary role models in the high school. These student leaders relinquish parts of their summer vacation, as well as hours throughout the school year to prepare and implement activities designed to get freshmen thinking about strategies for success, friendships, school involvement, helping others, and making good choices during their initial year of high school and beyond.

Link Crew hosted this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very successful ninth grade orientation the day before school started. During the orientation, almost 90% of freshmen showed up and got to know their fellow classmates and the Link Leaders by interacting in a variety of activities and conversations. During the first week of school, many freshmen and other high school students relied on the Link Leaders to help answer questions or guide them to their classes. Since then, Link Crew has executed the first of several follow-up activities for the class of 2016. During one extended homeroom, students made paper airplanes using only one hand to generate thinking about limitations that are sometimes experienced in high school, and ways of decreasing those limitations to maximize their school performance. In addition to these activities, members of Link Crew 2012-2013 designed and distributed personal goodie bags to every 9th grader going on the annual Freshman field trip to Kanchanaburi. These ongoing activities will provide occasions to build spirit and community across the campus, and for freshmen to ask Link Leaders questions that arise as the opportunities and demands in high school become more real. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

By Greg Bishop

Counselors: (From far left) Tawan Waengsothorn, Nancy Sousa, Greg Bishop and Brett Arnold ow that it’s “college application season,” Grade By this time, seniors should have asked two teachers N 12 students and HS Counselors are busy with to write a recommendation letter for them if they are personal interviews, applications, essays and filling out planning to go to US universities. UK universities require

forms. From now until Christmas break, we will all be busy watching deadlines and submitting documents so our students can go on to further education after RIS. We appreciate parents’ help in following up at home and reminding their children that deadlines are to be met. We are trying to get all US and UK applications submitted before the Christmas break so that families will have a restful three weeks vacation rather than having to run around at the last minute trying to submit applications! At this point, those applying to UK schools should have registered on UCAS, the university application website. As well, those applying to US universities should register on the Common Application website and complete the FERPA form which will allow us to send in their documents electronically. If this is not completed, we cannot send students’ supporting documents to international universities. 44

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one recommendation letter, usually written by a subject teacher from the area in which the student is applying (A student who plans to major in Science, for example, would ask a Biology or Physics teacher for a recommendation).

Lastly, essays have to be completed for US university applications. The Common Application requires one essay and supplementary short essays are required by some universities. UCAS requires only one personal statement from students. Below you will find a helpful timeline for Grade 11 and 12 students to begin and finish the college application process. Please let us know if you have any questions. Together, we can all do this….students, parents and counselors.

COLLEGE PLAnnInG CHECkLIST Tasks to be Completed in Grade 11 Meet with counselor

Deadline Semester 1

notes Intro and question period

Oct.

RIS will register all students for this. No need to do anything

Go to College admissions Rep Visits

Sept/Oct

A great resource; come armed with any questions about colleges

Take the PSAT

Mid-Oct

Scheduled for a regular school day; Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here anyway!

Begin to think about your reasons for attending college

Ongoing

Who, what, where, when and why?

Review PSAT results Review your course choices for this year Get to know the college admission process Put together your first list of possible colleges

Jan By August ongoing Semester 2

A good indicator of upcoming SAT scores Make sure you have pre-reqâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in place as well as grad requirements Keep talking to counselor and admissions reps Brainstorm with your parents

Have draft list of top 10 colleges

May

Will probably change somewhat before your final choices

Plan to visit college campuses in the summer

June

Can be very beneficial in your decision making

Plan extra-curricular activities for this year + next year

Aug/Sept

Attend College Night for Juniors Keep Searching Colleges Register for May or June SAT-March

TBA On-going March/April

Get involved in your community Bring mom & dad! Visit with the admissions reps Optional

Plan Summer Enrichment Activity

May

Perhaps a summer university course to gain some insight

Junior Questionnaire on Naviance should be completed

June

Especially if you are applying ED or EA.

Tasks to be completed in SEnIOR Year

Deadline

Meet with your counselor

Aug/Sept.

Aug

Optional

Sept.

NOTE: For Language with listening, Nov. is only time

Sept.

We need to know as soon as possible

Notify counselor of ED or EA plan

notes Make an appointment

Finalize College list

By Nov.

You should have your top 10 finalized by 1st of Nov.

Review & revise your list of colleges with your counselor

ongoing

See your counselor regularly

Register to take Dec SAT Ask teachers for recommendations Take Oct SAT Complete Applications Start working on draughts of essays

Oct By Mid-Oct Oct Dec. 15 Sept.

Optional Complete teacher rec forms on Naviance for this Optional Should finish all your apps by Christmas break Ongoing

Submit applications

Dec 15

Target date is mid-December

Submit Official Transcript to colleges

Jan 15

They will be sent automatically when grades are available

May 1

Please notify others you will not be attending once you have chosen 1

Decide which college to attend UCAS decisions needed by end of Oct. Ontario schools end of November Complete Senior Update on Naviance

October November August

Cambridge & Oxford deadline is mid-October Complete OUAC form Needed for counselor recommendation letter AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

IB Science Teachers On a field trip to Pranburi, IB Biology year 2 students were required to work all day in the field collecting and recording their data, making observations and developing their scientific skills. In the evenings the students spent their time sorting their findings and preparing for the challenges of the next day. The field trip culminated with an individual piece of ecological research chosen and planned by the students.

easuring biodiversity of the mangrove forest, M observing competition between sand crabs, analyzing human impacts along the beach, counting

barnacles and limpets on the rocky shore- the IB Biology field trip to Pranburi was all about action and research (and yes, we had a lot of fun too!). The IB Biology year 2 students once again went on an academic excursion to Pranburi in order to study three different ecosystems in the area and to engage in ecology field studies. As part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, students learned practical skills and fieldwork techniques that they were able to apply to their independent ecology study. 4

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Deep in the heart of what seemed like Tolkien’s Mirkwood Forest, students were heard to confide with one another, “I love this forest”. Wading in the incoming tide, moving from tree root to tree root, counting crabs and crab holes, measuring lichens, and collecting leaves and soil, students were engaged in individual investigations of a specially protected mangrove forest. In the course of our day in the forest, we saw mudskippers, bristle worms, and a snake swallowing its morning meal of fish. Students discovered an environment rich in variety, solitude, and awe-inspiring surprises. It’s no wonder we “love this forest!” In contrast to the peace and quiet of the mangrove forest, the rocky shore was a turbulent site not only to its inhabitants - the snails, barnacles and limpets - but also to our science campers, as they were battered by waves and exposed to the sun’s heat. To the animals, maintaining one’s footing was crucial, and the students observed various adaptations that allowed the local denizens to attach to rocks. To the

students and chaperones, appropriate footwear was crucial - one slip meant being sidelined to the first-aid treatment station. Despite the challenges, we painstakingly counted periwinkle snails (eavesdropped on a mating pair), whelks, limpets, crabs and barnacles, and used our improvised transit to survey the shore profile. At the end of the day, the injured joked “we should never come back here!” But we know we will... Having Fun

Pink Dolphins, Green Turtles, Yellow Starfish and Red Crabs- it was a Battle of the Biota at the IB Bio Bootcamp! The 44 students were divided into teams and were given point for their team cheer, wearing their team colors, keeping track of their equipment and making extraordinary sand castles. Students also honored each other and the teachers on the last night with words of praise, good humor and a found or hand-made object or even a personalized rap song. Bio Boot camp lived up to it name! AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Digital Citizenship Takes Off in the Middle School

By Dr. J.Andrew Westerman ur Middle School Students worked for the first three days of school in their homeroom groups learning about Digital Citizenship. With technology being ever present and such a persistent part of our lives (even on vacation!), we need to stop and ask ourselves if we are using technology appropriately. At RIS MS, we are teaching students to understand human, cultural, and societal issues related to technology and practice legal and ethical behavior. There are nine elements of Digital Citizenship that students are becoming more and more familiar with as the year progresses.

· Full electronic participation in society. Can all users participate in a digital society at acceptable levels if they choose? · Electronic buying and selling of good. Do users have the knowledge and protection to buy and sell in a digital world? · Electronic exchange of information. Is there an understanding of the digital communication methods and when they are appropriate? · The capability to use digital technology and to know when and how to use it. Have users taken the time to learn about digital technologies? Do they share that knowledge with others? · The standards of conduct expected by other digital technology users. Do users consider others when using digital technologies? · The legal rights and restrictions governing technology use. Are users aware of laws (rules, policies) that govern the use of digital technologies? · The privileges and freedoms extended to all digital 4

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technology users and the behavioral expectations that come with them. Are users ready to protect the rights of others to defend their own digital rights? · The elements of physical and psychological wellbeing related to digital technology use. Do users consider the risks (both physical and psychological) when using digital technologies? · The precautions that all technology users must take to guarantee their personal safety and the security of their networks. Do users take the time to protect their information while creating precautions to protect others’ data as well?

We are using a four-stage technology learning framework for teaching digital citizenship that will continue throughout the year. We’ve kicked off the year with Stage 1: Awareness - meaning engaging students to become technologically literate. Stage 2: Guided Practice takes place during these first few months of school. Students focus on appropriate use of technology while teachers provide support. In Stage 3: Modeling and Demonstration, the Teachers plan appropriate activities and assignments which allow students to demonstrate digital citizenship. Finally, Stage 4: Feedback and Analysis, allows for the process to come full circle and asks teachers and students to discuss their use of technology to improve our program. As this is our initial venture into this process, we’d like to ask parent and community support to ensure that students’ use of technology is appropriate at home and in the community. If you have questions about digital citizenship, please do not hesitate to contact us in the Middle School office.

Digital Citizenship Poems by Homeroom 7-5

Teacher: Caroline Scott Untitled

Cyber Bullying Song

DIGITAL RAP

I wonder how? I wonder why? They want to bully me

Oh Yeah Oh Yeah I’m being bullied but I will just never bend. I received two hundred letters from all of my friends. Their insults are so harsh, they cut me really deep. You’d rather cover up, I’d rather let them be. So Let me be, and I’ll set you free. I am in misery There ain’t nobody who can comfort me, oh yeah Why do you bully me Your insults are slowly, killing me. Oh yeah. (Man, you really hurt me bad, You really hurt me ba - a - a -ad. I want to get you back, But I’m better than that. ) x3

There are two parts in our world First is the real world and second is the digital world I was doing my homework, suddenly a pop-up came up What an interesting ad. I clicked it!

They type bad things They think it’s fun They want to see me cry It’s on the net Can’t be erased Forever on my wall I’m mad mad mad Can’t wait to see What happens when I tell? They never feel How bad it is To know the pain and hurt O, the bullies They have no friends To know what`s wrong and right They hurt so many They fell so good But can`t they see it`s wrong? They get in trouble, Then they know, That they are a big bad bully They feel sorry, But no one forgives, for pain, they`ve caused too many I hope they change I hope they see No more bullies for you and me By Pao Pao, Kendo, Ploy, Yu

By Nash, Pin, Prut, & Zaza Cyber Bulling

Cyber bullying is bad, It makes people sad. Bullying happens everywhere, But people don’t care. Tell the adult that you trust, So your heart doesn’t rust. Don’t feel scared to tell, Scream as loud as a ringing bell. Get help as fast as you can, The police will come with a van. It’s against the law, don’t you know? Your life will be over like a TV show. So help us stop bullying, IT ISN’T HARD IF YOU TRY! By Mill, Tong, & Poom

It was a virus! My works are all gone ! I tried so hard and got so far, but in the end, the virus got my computer. When I got my computer fix, my credit gone bad. I checked my FB, oh no, it was the ID thief. Rule 1! Respect-Respect the net Rule 2! Be kind-To homies on the line Rule 3! Be safe- From those peeps you don’t know Rule 4! Be private- Keep your personal info safe I was checking my emails, suddenly an email pops up. What an interesting attachment name. I clicked it! It was a virus! My computer broke down! I tried so hard to fix it all, but in the end, the virus ate my computer. Rule 1! Respect-Respect the net Rule 2! Be kind-To homies on the line Rule 3! Be safe- From those peeps you don’t know Rule 4! Be private- Keep your personal info safe Now I have learned not to click on pop up ads and not to add people that I don’t know. Be kind to people and be private. Use the internet Safely!!!!!!! By Teague, Pun, Jaosua

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

By Prue, Grade 8

What is WEB? WEB stands for “Where Everyone Belongs” and is a significant and fabulous event when the 8th graders support and have fun with the incoming 6th graders.

he main purpose of WEB is for 6th graders to get own lesson I learned. For example, the balloon game T used to middle school and for 8th graders to share could be a challenging activity for some groups that didn’t experiences with the 6th graders. By doing so 6th graders cooperate and got it mixed up. So I told the 6th graders

will gain confidence and be prepared because the move to middle school can be challenging and frightening for them. We organized a 6th grade orientation on August 7th. Our task was to have fun with the 6th graders and make them be comfortable among themselves and be more outgoing. Everything went as well as we wanted it to be. Smiles and laughter were on every single 6th grader. Everyone had a wonderful time especially during the activities. During the activities, every two WEB leaders were assigned about ten 6th graders to enjoy the activities with. My group liked playing games the most. They loved the game “Balloon Ball Bounce.” We had to keep the balloon in the air for more than ten seconds by linking our pinkies together and using them to hit the balloon in the air. I liked every single activity because each activity had its 50

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

in my group to cooperate and help each other so the game would be fun.

“WEB was awesome. I really wish it could be used in later grades, too,” said Fong, a wonderful sixth grader who had a great time collaborating with me. Another sixth grader named Joint-Joy exclaimed “I really LOVE WEB because it made me felt less nervous on the first day of school and it was fantastic!!!!”

WEB will have many other terrific events and activities throughout the year. We will try our best to meet again each month and plan some activities together! I’m sure that we will have a great year together and enjoy middle school! “I’m glad to meet the 6th graders and I hope to have an enjoyable time with them during this year.”

WEB Connections

Where Everyone Belongs

“Remember, you’re like the big brothers and sisters,” Ms. Jessica emphasized to us. “Do your best, everyone!”

When I signed up to be a WEB leader, I had no doubts. I knew I wanted to do it. I admit that I’m not that good with kids younger than me, nor am I the Ms. Popular of the school. But now, thinking back, I realize I have these memories to smile at. WEB was a great experience for me.

By Mimi, Grade 8

We looked around and gave each other a confident look and nodded. We gathered into a tight circle and sang our cheers. It was our last meeting. Tomorrow will be the WEB Orientation day. The “Where Everyone Belongs” day! Eeek!! My heart screamed; I was so excited! I remembered listening to the announcement about the WEB Leaders. The happy feelings flooded me when I knew that I was one of the students who were recommended to be a WEB Leader by many of the teachers. Everyone who was recommended had to write an essay about why they wanted to be a WEB Leader. After Miss Jessica went through our essays, only a few were chosen. I was glad I was one of the few. “Here come the sixth graders!” One of the WEB Leaders squealed as the others gathered them to the stairs. Many teachers came to help us welcome the sixth graders. We clapped, cheered, and gave them high-fives. I realized how important this warm welcome was to them. It made them feel safe and feel that this is where they belong. We all did some warm ups with Miss Jessica before we separated into groups and started our activities. My partner was Namthai, a Vietnamese student. It was my first time working with him. The laughter continued as the activities begin.

Ploy 8-5

Our teacher, Ms. Jessica, was really jolly and I was glad she was the WEB coordinator. Since I had her for science last year and liked it, I don’t think my brain had truly accepted the fact that I won’t be having her, and being in WEB with her made it better. The WEB training day was really fun and full of laughter, and since summer was ending I was glad to meet my friends again. We had fun working, and this is one of the few times “fun” and “working” can be used in the same sentence. We did activities that we would later do with the sixth graders. The next day, fully prepared, we welcomed the sixth graders and tried to be as friendly as we can. Things did not go as smoothly as planned but it was the improvisation that made it even better.

WEb If you have younger siblings, you’ll know how difficult it is to convince them to do something. That happened to me and Namthai. We were trying to convince them to do some of the activities. We did not finish explaining the directions of the game because one of the kids asked us a question, and the other kids laughed. Now I know how teachers felt if students don’t listen to them when they’re talking. I like kids, and I know how to deal with them. The situations turned out very well and we totally enjoyed it.

“Are we going to do activities with the sixth graders again?” I asked Miss Jessica.

A few weeks after the WEB Orientation day we had a meeting during lunch. It was a meeting where we discussed an event that will happen each month. WEB Leaders and the sixth graders will do some activities. We might throw a pizza party or something else that’ll be really fun!

I’ve gained experiences and leadership. I’ve matured. WEB has given us an opportunity to be leaders. I’m sure that all the WEB Leaders love helping and hanging out with the sixth graders! It’s been a meaningful experience…

True to its name, I really felt as if I belonged there. I made some new friends with fellow WEB leaders as well as the new sixth graders. It brought back memories of when I was a sixth grader here myself; I was feeling small and cautious. I realized how much I had learnt since then, and I wanted to let the new sixth graders have my happy memories. One day we can sit back together and talk about how far we had come together.

I know that sometimes this can be hard, but it was fun, and I do not regret joining at all. I look forward to spending the future with my new friends, whether it would be bright or grim. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

Why Secure, Nurturing Relationships and Social Emotional Support are Integral to Early Childhood Development

he first five years of life lay the foundation for a and their caregiver as they interact over time (Bowlby, T child’s lifelong development. From the time of birth 1969, 1982). Attachment researchers describe the young to the first day of kindergarten, development proceeds at child as biologically inclined to use the caregiver as a a rapid pace, exceeding that of any subsequent stage of life (National Research Council and Institute of Medicine, 2000). It is during this time that the brain undergoes its most dramatic growth, and children acquire and solidify the ability to think, speak, learn, and reason. Early experiences, especially early relationships, can and do influence the physical structure of the brain, literally shaping the neural connections in the child’s developing brain (National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, 2011). Research shows that secure and nurturing relationships have a tangible, long-term influence on children’s healthy development, significantly contributing to optimal cognitive and social emotional development later in life (Zeanah, et al. 2005).

provider of safety, creating a “secure base” for the child. When young children are consistently given responsive and sensitive caregiving, they learn to trust their caregivers and can predict that they will always be safeguarded by that person; they feel “secure.” When children feel secure, they are able to turn their attention to learning tasks, especially more abstract tasks that require higher-order and more complex brain functioning. With this support, children also learn how to empathize and to act with compassion toward others. I first experienced the power of this process during my master’s practicum at the Harvard University Graduate School of Education, where I worked as a social emotional development consultant in a Boston preschool. During our pair play therapy sessions, I built a trusting relationship with a little boy named Darren*, and watched him grow into a The developmental concept of curious, confident 5 year-old whose self-regulation, social “attachment” is the foundation of the interaction, and academic skills improved tremendously majority of research in early brain over a short amount of time. science and development. Attachment refers to the While early attachment research focused on the mother emotional bond that as the primary caregiver, studies have since expanded develops between to demonstrate that attachments form between young a very young child children and all their early childhood caregivers, including their teachers. Development of secure attachments with these teacher-caregivers is crucial for children’s development of trust, empathy, compassion, generosity, and conscience. These relationships supplement the parent-child relationship, which provide the context for the development of curiosity, self-direction, persistence, cooperation, caring and conflict resolution skills (Greenough, et. al., 2001). These skills are extremely important in the development of school readiness. As a child matures, nurturing relationships with parents and early childhood teachers who are sensitive to the individual needs of that particular child shape the child’s self-image. A strong, positive internal image provides the young child

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

with the resilience needed to face life’s challenges. As a result, the young child will be on a positive pathway to school success. When children enter a K-12 education setting, they must be competent in the emotional and behavioral self-regulation that will allow them to approach the world with confidence, curiosity, and intentionality. Success in school also requires the capacity to communicate and cooperate with others (National Research Council and Institute of Medicine, 2000). Ultimately, when parents, caregivers, and teachers ensure that young children are consistently engaged in supportive, secure, and nurturing relationships they are helping to maximize the capacity for a child’s growth in all developmental domains. My greatest joy as a pre-kindergarten teacher is building relationships with my young students, and through trust helping them become confident risk-takers, problem-solvers, and caring human beings.

The following best practices will promote a thriving social emotional environment in any classroom as well as help teachers nurture and support their relationship with each child: • Engage in one-to-one interactions with each child • Get on the child’s level for face-to-face interactions • Use a pleasant, calm voice and simple language • Provide warm, responsive physical contact • Follow the child’s lead and interest during play • Help children understand classroom expectations • Redirect children when they engage in challenging behavior • Listen to children and encourage them to listen to others • Acknowledge children for their accomplishments and effort

(above list taken from the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning “What Works WHAT ARE SOME STRATEGIES THAT CAN BE Brief”–Building Positive Teacher-Child Relationships by UTILIZED BY EDUCATORS WHEN CULTIVATING M.M. Ostrosky and E.Y. Jung) SECURE RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE CHILDREN Article published courtesy of Education Living. IN THEIR CLASSROOM? *Name changed for privacy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sharon L. Ronen holds a Masters degree in Early Childhood Education from Harvard University and is currently teaching Pre-Kindergarten at Ruamrudee International School in Bangkok, Thailand.

REFERENCES Bowlby, J. (1982). Attachment and loss: Vol.1. Attachment. New York: Basic Books. (Originally published in 1969). Greenough, W., Emde, R. N., Gunnar, M., Massinga, R., & Shonkoff, J. P. (2001). The impact of the caregiving environment on children’s development. Zero to Three, 211(15), 16-23. National Research Council and Institute of Medicine (2000). From neurons to neighborhoods: The science of early childhood development. Shonkoff, J.P. & Phillips, D.A., (Eds.), Board on Children, Youth, and Families, Commission on Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education, Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press. National Scientific Council on the Developing Child (2011). Children’s emotional development is built into the architecture of their brain. Working paper No.2, Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. Zeanah, P., Stafford, B., Nagle, G., & Rice, T., (2005). Addressing social-emotional development and infant mental health in early childhood systems. Los Angeles, CA: National Center for Infant and Early Childhood Health Policy. Building State Early Childhood Comprehensive Systems Series, No. 12. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

By Toni Boush ALLOWING PLAY AS A PART OF THE DAY FOR THE YOuNG STuDENTS IS INTEGRAL FOR PREPARING THE CHILDREN FOR A VERY BRIGHT FuTuRE.

he last few years I have been very fortunate to have using a handshake, a wai or three kisses to alternating T the opportunity to work with a small group of well cheeks. It is amazing to watch just how much their brains educated Early Years Teachers. They have been sharing are working and engaged during this pretend playtime. I

insights and experiences with me as they work with these small human beings. What I knew in my heart and from schema about young kids and the importance of play has been solidified by observing these fine educators implement a curriculum that allows for young children to follow their interests and be active participants in their learning. Allowing play as a part of the day for the young students is integral for preparing the children for a very bright future. Research states that pretend play makes a positive contribution to the cognitive development in the early years. It reinforces self regulation and self control. It allows for narrative recall and the ability to make inferences as they come up with an idea. Divergent problem solving is reinforced through pretend play as the children use their creativity and spontaneity to brainstorm various scenarios and work together to figure out the end result. Rule understanding is reinforced as they imitate their understanding for social practices. An example might be when they imitate a greeting to another child in their play; they may greet 54

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am sure as parents and as members of society there are countless times you have witnessed this with your children or children where you live. Most recently at RIS, we have adopted the “Creative Curriculum,” and restructured our rooms and the environment to build upon our young students’ curiosity and creativity. I am proud to have been a part of establishing a place at this school that allows for building a strong foundation for our future global citizens. If you would like to come and visit RIS and make an appointment to speak with any of the Early Years Experts or the current administration at the Elementary Section, please feel free to contact us.

hird grade students get excited T about art history in the RIS Elementary School. After reading the

book Dali and the Path of Dreams students donned an “imagination drawer” on their foreheads with face paint. The book tells a story about the famous artist, Salvador Dali, and is dedicated to “Little people with big dreams.” The ending shows a picture of Salvador Dali with a drawer in his forehead symbolizing his surrealist imagination.

Art teacher Andrea Heinz, said, “I really enjoy teaching the students about famous artists and art history. Being able to get elementary students excited and thrilled about art history opens so many possibilities. I love hearing elementary students talking about artists as though they were/are super heroes.” The third grade students are eagerly becoming surrealist artists during this unit in art, and are creating art from their dreams. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

By Amy Diefendorf, Elementary School Counselor

n Monday, September 17, the RIS Elementary School hosted the induction of its Junior Council members. The Junior Council is a student-led, service learning organization. Two students from each homeroom were elected by his or her peers to represent their homeroom on the council. These students will have many responsibilities during the school year such as researching the needs of poorer families in the community and collaborating on ways to help these families, bringing forward the concerns of classmates to the administration, and serving as role models and mentors to younger children in our school. The Junior Council (JC) members also take turns ringing a large brass bell, which signals the end of the lunch period and the beginning of recess.

As part of the induction ceremony, one newly elected member, Divi, volunteered to write a reflection that was shared at the ceremony. A small part of her thoughts about serving as a JC at Ruamrudee are as follows, â&#x20AC;&#x153;a JC can show friendship by being kind and supporting each other in all activities. We can show respect by listening carefully, and playing with everyone. Even if our friend or best friend is doing something wrong, we should not support them.â&#x20AC;? 5

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It is with pride and admiration that we welcomed this new group of council members. Congratulations to the following students on being elected by their peers as Junior Council homeroom representatives, Victor (5-1), Candy (5-1), Tony (5-2), Divi (5-2), Hui Jin (5-3), Famous (5-3), Opal (5-4), Winnie (5-4), Thipop (4-1), Diya (4-1), Lookchun (4-2), Junny (4-2), Pun (4-3), Ping Ping (4-3), Ink (3-1), Jump (3-1), Soham (3-2), Sari (3-2).

ISâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new ES Assistant Principal Daryl Imanishi captured the joy and excitement of the first day of school in the Elementary.

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hree RIS students excelled in The 2012 Settrade Young Musicians Competition, held August 19 at Mahidol University. The annual competition, a collaboration between the university and The Stock Exchange of Thailand, is open to students under 25 years old. Congratulations to the following students on their accomplished piano performances.

nattawat Luxsuwong, Grade 7-5 Age: 11 years Song: Chopin Grande Valse Op. 42 in A flat major No. 5 Composer: Frederic Chopin Instructor: Dr. Pornphan Banterghansa (RIS Alumni 1999) Bio:

• Second prize winner of YTMF Competition Year 2007 and 2009 • Received Royal Trophy from YTMF Competition year 2008 • Winner of ANZCA Modern Piano and Violin Competition Year 2009 • Third-runner up of The 4th ASEAN Chopin Piano Competition in Malaysia year 2010 • Fourth-runner up of The International Chopin Piano Competition in 2012 • Winner of Silpakorn Piano Concerto Competition year 2012

Dharmachart kallayanonchai, Grade 5-3 10 years Waltz in D flat Major, Op. 64, No. 1 Frederic Chopin

Age: Song: Composer: Bio:

• Royal Trophy winner of Yamaha Thailand 2010 Competition for Young Classical Piano sector • Participate in Piano Concert for “Gift of Heart” Event, held at Thailand Cultural Center in year 2010 • Participate in Piano Concert for “RIS Star Kid” Event, held at RIS in year 2009 • Participate in Piano Concert for “Rising Star” Event, held at Goethe Institute in year 2008

High School Level Sirithorn Wangpattanakul, Grade 12-2 Age: 16 years Song: Impromptu in E-flat, Op. 90 No. 2 Composer: Franz Schubert Instructor: Ajarn Janejira Viriyasophon Bio:

• Started piano at the age of 4. Just got Trinity Award in 2011, grade 8 piano

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By Torie Leinbech

Water polo practice goes on, even during thunderstorms with dryland exercises followed by skills review and related videos. uamrudee’s mixed boys and girls water polo team has a not-so-secret weapon this year: seven girls ranging from 7th to 11th grade who all have tremendous tenacity, enthusiasm, and willingness to try new endeavors. These young women of water polo are determined to learn the rules of the game, play with a purpose, and have a fabulous time doing it. They set a high standard for the rest of the team to emulate.

the most wonderful friends, and the best second family anyone could ever ask for.” Seventh grader Link Chinpeerasatian also enjoys the team camaraderie. “The best part about being on the water polo team is that I get to know new friends from different grades and get to play on the team with them. There are some old friends and new friends that are all very friendly and kind.”

The girls bring a focus in the pool that motivates other players on the team. When teammates watch Ai-Ai Homewong swim into position and pass the ball with precision, they know she is taking her role seriously, and so should they. “The more you concentrate in the water, the better you play,” she says.

Despite committing several hours a week to practice and competition, water polo players work hard to balance their academic responsibilities as well. Fasai Phuatavornskul is a good role model. “There is no shortcut, so I try to use my time wisely. Right after an exhausting water polo practice, I walk home and start homework right away. I usually want to just lay on my bed and take a power Water polo takes a lot of physical strength. According to nap, but I can save that for later. Homework is my main Amy Mya, the biggest challenges for a new player are responsibility.” learning how to “eggbeater” and not giving up despite being fatigued. Coaches say it does take some time to Recent RIS alumni Ling Panyasevanamit (Chulalongkorn develop those skills, but once they are mastered, it is so University) and Thai National Team member, Numfah Vanitchanant (UC Berkeley), have paved the way for the much more fun after that. growing number of girls interested in water polo. Their Patty Chindapol, a returning player from last year, says contributions to the team also helped RIS win the BISAC the team includes 30 of the most friendly, tough, and Championship last year. The sport continues to grow in reliable students on campus. “The Phoenix water polo popularity with both boys and girls at Ruamrudee. With team has become my family, and one that is composed of motivated athletes like these girls, water polo will continue a variety of traits that makes them the perfect teammates, to be successful for years to come.

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By Gerry Steiert

IS began 2012-13 with a full coaching staff of 26 can register for a sport online and then later complete a R individuals willing to spend several hours each week more in-depth registration once a position on the team has with our youth whether it be on the artificial turf, courts or been confirmed. in the water. Our main goal is to ensure that participants at all levels have the best learning environment possible with our facilities, coaching and planning. Parents play a huge role in our equation so we always want to keep our lines of communication open.

In 2012-13, BISAC is taking an exciting step forward in piloting a friendly games schedule in which a pair of schools competes against each other in all Season 1 sports in a specific week according to a rotation schedule. Hopefully in future years these “weekly” games will become fixtures We are striving to have our coaches communicating with throughout the year, scheduled a year in advance and parents and players on a regular basis with regards to games, perhaps even listed in school planners or agendas. practices and tournament schedules. Current Invitational, BISAC & SEASAC events plus the weekly sports calendar Season 1 Sports are all listed on our RIS Athletics website. We also have an We have a completely new coaching lineup for Football Athletics Page on the RIS Teacher portal. this year. U19 Boys have Charoen Saendej while U17 This term we have a total of 26 teams available for students Boys have Sean McMahon. Praphoj Unpudsa & “Joei” from Elementary, Middle & High school students to enjoy. Janjira Khaosa-ard are coaching the U19 & U17 girls. We also have a group of basketball enthusiasts from “For The U19 teams have their SEASAC Competitions in the Love of Basketball” providing professional coaching Singapore Nov 1-4. for all ages offered through EDP. All our courts have been painted and updated to reflect the new court dimensions, Volleyball has only 1 coaching change. Noi Penpoo & specifically for Basketball. During season 2 we hope to April Slagle are back with the U19 & U17 Girls. Komson perfect an online system of registration for Athletics, Penpoo remains with the U19 Boys while Joey Scott is quite similar to the system that the EDP program has been now the new U17 Boys coach. Girls head to Surabaya and using for several years now. With this system, students Boys head to Hong Kong for SEASAC Nov 1-4. 0

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addition to teams from the BISAC community we were privileged to have a team from the International School of the Eastern Seaboard near Pattaya and two local schools: Satit Prasanmitr (boys) and Kasem Pithaya (girls). Komson and his boys managed to earn the Silver medals at the end of a long day, going the full 3 sets with Champions ISB Jay Sakol continues to manage our Tennis program with who also won the girls Gold medals. U17 Boys & Girls help from coaches Sorrachet “Arm” Uayporn, Pornpoj Football & Volleyball visited BPS. Sean McMahon & (Pot) Thanlawanich and Rungrit (Jack) Takong who are his U17 Boys football returned with the Bronze medals. NIST was the location for U19 Boys & Girls football and currently working with our U13 Boys & Girls. U15 Boys Basketball. Veteran & avid golfer Walter Koertge is once again managing our highly successful golf team along with newly hired Joey Scott. As reigning Champions, RIS is proud to host the prestigious SEASAC Golf Championships this year at the Bangpakong Riverside Country Club. http:// www.brc-golfcourse.com/ . We have 6 basketball teams practising this season. Raha Mortel & Ben Roth are once again coaching the U15 Boys & Girls. Onsa Saleenuan is in charge of both the U13 & U11 girls. Orestes Jackson & Joe Guiao are sharing the U13 & U11 boys responsibilities.

Aquatics Coordinator Kevin Leinbach is coaching the U19 Water Polo while spouse Torie is coaching the U16. Sathit Hongthong, Kritsana Thanpisitsakon, Monika Koeglberger, Matt Smith, Sayan (Mau) Chaiphikun & Juliane Rothan-Centers are handling the yearlong swimming coaching duties. The weekend of Sept 7-8 saw several tournaments taking place within the Bangkok community. Here at home our Varsity teams hosted a 16 team volleyball tournament. In “Congratulations to the Girls Varsity Volleyball team on winning the EIS Invitational Volleyball Tournament.”

IS observed Coronation Day R by having a long weekend Sept 21-23. While most of our community

was on holiday, the Varsity Girls Volleyball Team coached by Noi Penpoo traveled to Ekami School for an U20 5 team Tournament. The huge group of enthusiastic RIS volleyball supporters were rewarded when the young group of girls captured the Championship trophy following some very successful tournament play. AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

keep up on the latest news at RIS and reconnect with former classmates by joining: â&#x20AC;˘ Ruamrudee International School (Official) and â&#x20AC;˘ Ruamrudee International School Alumni network (Official)

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012

s we continue to encourage our students to “reach for the stars,” A we wish to hear news and updates from the brightly shining stars of our alumni! Reconnect with RIS and your classmates by following

us on Facebook, Ruamrudee International School Alumni Network (Official), and signing up through the alumni section of the RIS website at http://www.rism.ac.th/ris/inner711.php?p=711

Do you wish to serve as representative for your graduating class? Do you want to schedule a tour of the campus? Do you want to share news about your career, family and community activities? We want to hear from you!

an you name all of the RIS C alumni featured on the cover of this edition of Ad Astra? RIS is

sponsoring a contest to see who can be the first RIS fan to correctly identify each of the distinguished alumni on the cover. Be the first to name each alumni featured and win a very special prize of RIS memorabilia! To make it easy for this first contest, we’ve selected media personalities. To make it even easier, we’ve even written an article about one of the pictured stars! Enter the contest by visiting Facebook and enter your answers directly on the Ruamrudee International School (Official) page or the Ruamrudee International School Alumni Network (Official). Can’t name them all? Try to name the Star Alumni again next issue when we feature another set of distinguished alumni, all of whom represent the world of academia.

AD Astra Volume 5 October 2012