Imprint: June 2023 Issue

IMPRINT

FOR THOSE WHO EXPECT MORE THAN A TRADITIONAL EDUCATION

to the Stratford Hall Annual Fund

Empowering our students to explore their passions. Every gift makes a difference.

MANAGING EDITOR

SENIOR

PHOTOGRAPHS

Aldrich Tan

Ron Cheung

COVER DESIGN

Message from the Head of School

phrase, the school is already unique, but our understanding of these qualities goes much deeper than this. The particular intersection of Independent School, the International Baccalaureate Continuum Programme, and our location on Commercial Drive in East Vancouver makes possible the “aha” moments that define a student’s intellectual and personal journey during their formative years.

On a Saturday late in May, the Class of 2023 officially graduated from Stratford Hall in the beautiful confines of the Chan Centre at UBC. As I sat on the stage, I felt the full experience of a Stratford Hall education crystallize before my eyes. Half the graduating class had attended our school since Kindergarten or Grade 1! The Convocation and Dinner & Dance inspired emotional moments of reflection, as our graduates, families, faculty, and friends recalled the dozens of small stories that outlined their remarkable journey.

We know that Stratford Hall is an independent, IB World School located in East Vancouver. With this short

Stratford Hall graduates learn how to deeply consider complex topics, think flexibly across disciplines, and create meaning from real-world evidence.

During the journey from PYP to MYP and DP, students learn to ask good questions, consider many points of view, and understand diverse human experiences in age-appropriate ways. They grow comfortable making substantive presentations and performances to audiences large and small, young and old.

The rich complexity of modern society is readily apparent to our students. Students explore many dimensions of personal and collective identity through our subjects and teaching methods. Our faculty model and lead our students to recognize each person’s inherent worth and full personality. Our multifaceted location, characterized by its busy streets, public parks, eateries, personal joys and significant hardships, inspires students to think both about self and others and develop empathy and kindness.

Stratford Hall students recognize the essential values of community. An alumna recently shared with me that she valued the friendships she had made at university, but that could hardly compare to the deep bonds formed after 13 years at Stratford. Maintaining a strong community requires attention, particularly postCOVID. Upon graduation, our students recognize and appreciate the small, daily actions that build community and will act as leaders as they move onward with their lives.

Design thinking, global experiences, outdoor education, and personal respect and wellness feature prominently in our educational program. Our graduates move forward with the knowledge, skills and attitudes that we know are required to thrive in today’s world.

As I reach the end of my first year as Head of Stratford Hall, I feel an enormous sense of gratitude for the Stratford Hall community—students, colleagues, families, Founders, and board members—who have welcomed me into this amazing community and entrusted me with its leadership. It’s been a remarkable year, and I look forward to seeing you all again in September to kick off the new one.

Richard Kassissieh Head of School

Dana Yamashiro receiving the Head of School Award

A Year of Change

Each year when I prepare this article for the last Imprint of the academic year, I cannot help but reflect back and relive all the highlights. From the very recent past when we celebrated with our graduates at commencement to the beginning of the year when we watched our apprehensive Kindies walk across the front of the Croatian Cultural Centre in preparation to start their Stratford Hall journey.

Board of Governors

Ron Cheung, Chair

Shaneeda Jaffer, Vice-Chair

Elisabeth Finney, Secretary

David Nicolay, Treasurer

Liz Fei

Alexandra Flynn

Derek A. May

Sean Pearson

Amit Venugopal

Jim Williams

Upon further reflection, I am amazed by how many exciting changes we have undergone. We have welcomed a new Head of School and launched a Bridge Strategic Plan. We have built a hockey box on top of the PYP, installed a new climbing wall, and begun renovation planning for our black box theatre in the DP building.

For programming, we have started a Stratford Hall Orchestra and will be bringing back Spanish language program in the PYP. We are looking to add more to boost our offerings. Further, we have brought back overnight OEE camps, announced the return of international trips next academic year, and even produced our very first Senior School musical! These are just some of the major changes that we have undergone.

Even more exciting are the many changes that we have coming next year! By the time you read this, we will have submitted renovation plans to the City of Vancouver for the ground floor of the Middle Building with the goal of having new learning and amenity space for our community by spring next year. Thanks to everyone for their input on designing this space.

Our board has also formed a Middle Building Task Force to look at opportunities available for an entirely new Middle Building. Look for more news about this in the fall. Our board has also established a Development Committee to assist in the growth and advancement of our school. We will be looking closely at and revising our campus masterplan and as we start work on our full range strategic planning.

Stay connected with our community over the summer and look forward to seeing you all back here in September!

Ron Cheung Board Chair

Bridge Strategic Plan

What is a Bridge Strategic Plan?

A Bridge Strategic Plan serves to ‘bridge the gap’ between strategic planning cycles. It will guide us from our previous strategic plan to the development of a new strategic plan.

While a strategic plan typically covers a three to five-year horizon, this Bridge Plan will cover an 18-month horizon. It will focus on what we can accomplish within this timeframe, while ensuring the strategic initiatives within the Plan are aligned with our longer-term aspirations and the unique ethos of our school and community.

Scan the QR code to learn more about Stratford Hall’s Bridge Strategic Plan.

Valedictorian Address

BY: GRACE YOUNG, ‘23 Valedictorian / Founders Award Recipient

Good afternoon everybody! My name is Grace Young, and I am pleased to deliver the Valedictorian Address on the behalf of my incredible fellow graduates.

Today is the day. We are now at the point in our lives where we can watch high school rom-coms and say “been there done that”, although our story had less romance and comedy because we are IB students after all.

I would like to begin by thanking the incredible faculty at Stratford Hall who took care of us. The teachers consistently went above and beyond to support us academically, and also supported us emotionally as the stress piled on. The teachers have formed a key part of our memories, such as gaming with them, sharing snacks at class potlucks, and giving heartfelt advice about our academic futures. For this, I would like to particularly thank Ms. Collins and Ms. Chee, who have helped us every step of the way towards graduation, including supplying us with candy, so we can look brightly towards September 2023. Furthermore, I say a sincere thank you to the faculty in charge of facilities at Stratford Hall, without whom the school could not function. Finally, I would like to thank our parents for sticking with us through our journey at Stratford Hall. Even though it was because of you we ended up here, we appreciate your commitment to our growth as IB students, fostering our curiosity, and cooking us good food when we were under mental pressure.

Perhaps when our parents signed us up for Stratford Hall they anticipated a high quality education, open-minded learning, innovative curiosity, and a tight-knit community. Although this was no doubt a key part of our experience, the moments we will remember are more unexpected, and hence remarkable. Moments like playing shoe toss on the Upper Field, gold rush in a thunderstorm at Camp Elphinstone, intense rounds of gaga ball, the fluffy dog at Camp Tamagawa, being rained out in Porpoise Bay, watching the sunset on Galiano Island, hiding under the porch at Bamfield, causing Mr. Grealy extreme stress over

our shadow puppets, to the point where we had to write him apology letters, and taking classes in bed during online school.

It is these moments that prove Winnie the Pooh’s words to be true: “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” For many of us, this school and these classmates are what we have known for a large portion of our lives. It is where we have built our resilience and perseverance. It is where we have tested our time management skills, or lack thereof. On this day, emotions may range from immense sadness to immense joy. To say goodbye to this environment is strange, to say the least.

Regardless, there are many things we are happy to say goodbye to. Goodbye to the stress of IB exams, the classroom’s weird temperature control, and that strange smell of Studio C and Production Central.

Although we say goodbye to all of these things, they are and will continue to be ingrained in our memory. The time we spent at Stratford Hall has led us to where we are now, sitting on this stage and looking out at our loved ones with gratitude. The good and the bad times have taught us lessons of the mind and the heart. These lessons are now our foundation, our launch pad, as we seek to achieve our dreams and work to become better people. I wish you all the best, because after all of your hard work, the best is what you deserve.

I began by saying thank you to the faculty and our parents. I would like to end by saying thank you to my classmates. One thing that is special about our grade is how we supported each other through all of these times—the good, the bad, and the weird. I am thankful for the random hallway conversations, learning more about which student you would sacrifice to aliens thanks to Mr. Brogan’s attendance questions, and our heartfelt sharing in advisory sessions. This graduating class is a special group of people. Our desire to be responsible for one another and foster inclusion is the legacy we leave at Stratford Hall. That, and being Mr. Pulfer’s first Chemistry class at Stratford Hall to activate the fire alarm.

To conclude, while writing this speech, I realized that all the confusion of saying goodbye to high school can be encompassed by the word “freedom”. It is certainly daunting to be free from a place we have felt known and comforted in. However, it is also exciting to be free to make new memories. We are now free from the bad so that we might choose the good, and strive to hold onto the kindness and laughter that our memories have brought us. And so, I will now end my speech by saying this once again: class of 2023, we are now free!

Grace Young receiving the Founders Award from Mrs. Cindy Leung and Mrs. Elaine Lee.

Class of 2023 Lifers

Faculty Address

BY: PHIL BROWNHILL & HAZEL CHEE Faculty Representatives

Mr. Brownhill: Faking being in a meeting in Ms. Isabel’s office to get out of class while she’s not even in the room?

Ms. Chee: Writing a 3000 word extended essay, stream of consciousness-style, the night before it’s due? (Hughie) as well as the Chemistry IA, TOK essay, Math IA, History IA, Physics IA (Hughie)

Phil Brownhill and Hazel Chee were elected to address the Class of 2023 on behalf of the Stratford Hall faculty at the Graduation Ceremony.

Ms. Chee: When you think of someone wise, how do you imagine that person looks? Does it look like Hungus giving you the serious deadline talk? Is wisdom Mr. Jones hydrating you with tins of Bubly? Does it look like Ms. Kartsonas’ kind eyes in a check-in?

Mr. Brownhill: When you think of wisdom, what does it not look like? Does wisdom not look like laughcrying in Ms. Collins’ office?

Ms. Chee: A life-size batman cut-out with Mr. Brownhill’s face?

But we would argue that wisdom looks like the 41 young people seated before you today (and Phil and myself of course…). We know this because we have seen them transform from awkward, gangly Grade 8s into adults venturing out into the world. We know this, because we have seen them overcome the struggles of the rigorous IB curriculum and the challenges of just being a young person in the world.

Mr. Brownhill: And we also know this because of this -- one of my most prized possessions (holds up a book). Many of you know the Doctor Zeus book “Oh the Places You’ll Go,” and even though it looks like a children’s book, it’s really a book for young adults. And on the last day of English class in April, Shoker and I combined the two English classes, we read the book together, and we asked the Grade 12s to write a piece of advice that connected to a moment in the book that they really related to. The reason this book means so much to

me is because I told the Grade 12s they were writing advice to my four month old, and that I would give it to him when he graduates high school in 2041. Each note begins with “Dear Felix...” But graduates, your advice was so good that we needed to share. You have collectively written your own graduation speech.

Ms. Chee: Graduates, some of your advice was kind of niche.

Mr. Brownhill: From Misha, “A pole axe is the best one-on-one melee weapon.”

Ms. Chee: Some of it was practical.

Mr. Brownhill: Always bring a map and a flashlight. Always have a plan, and a backup plan.

Ms. Chee: Make sure you know how to cook a few meals. It’s a life skill, and everyone loves a bro who can cook.

Mr. Brownhill: Graduates, many of you wrote about the importance of staying true to yourself.

Ms. Chee: Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams and be different. Ultimately, you only report to yourself, so follow your own path. Trust yourself. Stay confident. Your greatest enemy is sometimes yourself, but have hope and continue your journey. Be brave, because being brave doesn’t mean you lack fear, it means you are

just willing to try something and give it your best. Keep moving forward. Hold your head high, and act with utmost conviction. Remember that change is the bridge to growth, so cross it with courage and grace.

Mr. Brownhill: And yet, you didn’t forget the importance of family.

Stay humble, you said, don’t let hubris take control. Honour your parents and always remember how important family is. Remember to follow your parents’ values. Often, they will be your best guide. Don’t be afraid to leave the nest. Follow your dreams, wherever they may take you! But always come back to your family! They love you, always!

Ms. Chee: Graduates, many of you wrote about overcoming challenges. And what we loved is that so many of you coupled this with the importance of your supporters.

There will be ups and downs, times when you fall into a slump and need a helping hand. You will encounter failure, and unslumping yourself is not easily done. It’s okay to be unsure of where you’ll be next. That’s just life! Take your time and take care of yourself. Do not be afraid, there will always be people behind you.

Mr. Brownhill: If you do doubt yourself, there are people around you that believe in you and care for you a lot. In fact, there will be people around you to support you at every step of your life. You have a family that loves you and in the end everything will work out. Keep your head up, smile, and remember that you are loved. You’ll learn from each challenge and get past it as a stronger person. Don’t try to do it all alone. You have people who love you and will help you succeed. You got this! And don’t forget, you are not alone. We’ve got you!

Ms. Chee: Graduates, it speaks volumes about your class how many of you wrote about kindness. Always be kind to yourself and others. Remember that it’s okay to make mistakes and not be number 1. Being kind and trying your best is the most important thing. Just make sure to always stay kind and open-minded towards others! Remember to thank all the people who help you, and accept their support.

Mr. Brownhill: And finally, graduates, you wrote about joy.

Ms. Chee: Graduates, be yourself and don’t take yourself too seriously.

Mr. Brownhill: Do what you love, and love what you do!

Ms. Chee: And Graduates of 2023, don’t forget to have some fun!

Let’s Celebrate

BY: ANGELA COLLINS & HAZEL CHEE Post-Secondary Advisors

As is the same every academic year, the end has come all too fast and another year of Stratford Hall Sabres is being launched into the world. The Class of 2023 is a wonderfully unique group of students with a wide range of post-secondary interests that include medical or health sciences, international relations, radiology, political sciences, business, fine arts, film and animation, design, and the social sciences.

The Post-Secondary department at Stratford Hall is also very pleased to report that of the 40 students who submitted their post secondary applications,100% of them received an offer to attend. Twenty-four of these students received offers from their first choice program and school. Additionally, approximately $200,000 in scholarships were awarded to the graduating class of 2023, with many students receiving multiple scholarships. It is clear to see that this class continues the tradition of excellence that is the hallmark of a Stratford Hall graduate and we could not be more proud!

Class of 2023 Celebrations

Radhika Assanie receiving the Dave Sangha Award for Leadership and Community Service from Kadin Sangha, ‘20 and Kabir Sangha, ‘23.

Simon Gunasekera receiving the Award for Leadership in Athletics from Mr. Jones.

Hannah Chin receiving the Award for Leadership in Arts from Ms. Dueck.

Lamar Almoaiqel receiving the Spirit Award from Ms. Collins.

Alykhan Rajan receiving the Award for Academic Excellence from Dr. Hung.

Michael (Misha) Morozov receiving the Perseverance Award from Ms. Fateh.

Alykhan Rajan receiving the Award for Academic Independence from Mr. Pulfer.

Graduation Dinner & Dance

Graduation Cruise

Grade 12 Final Assembly

Is Everything We Do Student-Centered?

BY: GARETH JONES Senior School Vice Principal

This both timeless and timely quote by the renowned educational philosopher Nel Noddings continues to resonate years beyond my first encounter with her material. It resonates because it provokes: stimulating my (and our) thinking about the role of school and education. It also scrutinizes: interrogating our beliefs about the primacy of subject matter and the way we celebrate learning collectively. It leads me to ask the question again and again, is everything we do student-centered?

My summation of Noddings’ conclusions is that she is not dismissive of content, but in fact the opposite. She is placing an emphasis on the student because it is only

through a pedagogy of care that learning can happen. The best learning happens in a caring environment. Furthermore, and I believe Noddings would agree, that when we prioritize the student, the student begins to believe in their own capacity to pursue learning. Our care as educators is an integral starting point to set in motion a student’s self-belief of what they can accomplish when at Stratford Hall.

So I return to my question, and I ask it of all of us: is everything we do at Stratford Hall student-centered? Does everything we do place the student as infinitely more important than the subject matter?

In the Senior School at Stratford Hall we do a lot of intentional work, daily, to respond to this question. We respond to this question in our long-term planning of programs and also in our immediate response to student needs. We respond to this question with Advisors when we meet regularly to discuss individual student needs as well as the needs of the entire class. We respond to this

“The student is infinitely more important than the subject matter.”

Culture and Heritage Fair

2nd Place at the UBC Sauder School of Business Case Competition

question when we design co-curriculars and leadership opportunities for our students. We respond to this question when we meet with students to discuss what they want to see evolve or change in their school.

And this ongoing work of intentionally putting the students first begets a culture of student ownership, student agency, and student voice becoming the heartbeat of everything we do. And that begets a feeling, a belief among all students, that they can achieve infinitely more than they sought possible. That is our hope.

I’m not speaking wishfully. I have seen this happen throughout my time here (and this June marks the conclusion of my eighth year at Stratford Hall). It is who we are. I’ll use some examples from this year in particular to emphasize my point. This year we brought back our tradition of hosting a Culture and Heritage Fair to celebrate International Mother Tongue Day. Hannah C (‘23) had a desire to bring this back and she made it happen to great success. This year our SabreTank Business Club competed in their first ever case competition at UBC—all because they had an intention to pursue their learning beyond the classroom. Jie Z, Max B, and Ansh M (all class of ‘26), placed second in Stratford Hall’s first ever case competition! Lastly, Hallie Y (‘25) of the Act Now Club, Grace Y (‘23) and Radhika A (‘23) of the Action & Wellness Council went above and beyond in their desire to support New Fountain Shelter by initiating a Sock Drive and raising funds to contribute to the needs of people on the Downtown Eastside. And there are many, many more examples.

There is a lot of student voice at Stratford Hall. There is a lot of student voice because we concur with Noddings’ conclusions. We take it seriously. Students are infinitely more important and that compels and propels them towards great achievements in a broad range of subject matter.

But the work is not finished. I believe we can do more. There is a next gear and next level we must continue to strive for in order to increasingly support our students. We will continue to iterate and respond to the question: is everything we do student-centered?

But for right now, at this time and in this place, this is what I want us all to celebrate this year. This is what I am most proud of. We are a school where the student voice is loudest. Go Sabres!

Culture and Heritage Fair

Earth Club

BY: KRISTINE SOO & ERIN SULLIVAN Junior School Earth Club Teachers

At the beginning of September, three enterprising and enthusiastic students approached us and asked if they could lead the PYP Earth Club this year. Niki E, Areez J, and Isaiah P (all class of ‘31) are tireless in their excitement to build a community of similar-minded students who want to celebrate the discovery of new growth in our rooftop garden and share how we as individuals, classes, and a school, can take action and be better stewards of our planet. These dedicated “Earth-clubbers”, who have now grown to include students in both Grade 3 and 4, make time every week to meet together and discuss issues relevant to the Junior School. These issues and topics include how to teach the PYP (through song!), how to properly sort our waste products, how to engage the whole community in their Earth Week activities, learning about the new Stratford Hall composter, and planning, preparing, and maintaining our building’s rooftop garden. From building bee hotels to planning lights-out challenges and zero waste lunches, these leaders are looking ahead to how they can enact big and small changes around them. We are tremendously proud and inspired by the efforts these environmentalists have taken this year, and look forward to next year’s Earth Club where our planet will continue to be championed and cared for by a remarkable group of students.

I Celebrate You

BY: SKIPPER (DIEGO & BLUEY) Senior School Teacher

After nine years of riding my bike everyday to 14th and Commercial, I am choosing to change gears and pursue some new challenges. But before I go, I wanted to take a moment and celebrate all of you for making my time here truly memorable.

Students, I celebrate you. Your love for learning allowed us to be creative and to have fun in the classroom. Through your engagement and enthusiasm we were able to create puppet shows, write up grants for the Canadian Space Agency, make a morning TV program, design newspaper outfits, sing musicals, and so much more. You inspired me everyday to raise the bar high and to be honest and sincere with you all. Thank you.

Staff, I celebrate you. Stratford Hall would not be where it is today had it not been for all those members who had helped to form its early foundations. When I arrived, many of these staff brought me in, set me up for success, and showed me how to be part of the heart and soul of this school. To them, I am grateful. Over the years, I have loved our moments of collaboration, designing awesome learning experiences, and creating a work environment that encourages us to be better educators and more thoughtful global citizens. I have worked in several schools, and by far, you are all the most loving and caring human beings. Thank you.

Families, I celebrate you. You trusted me and gave me the support to teach your children during a critical stage of their education as they adjusted from PYP to MYP. It hasn’t always been easy, but you have stood by and continue to create one of the best and most inclusive school communities that I have been part of. Thank you.

I think that it is only fitting that I should end by returning to the start and telling a story:

In September, we have the opening day ceremony. It has changed a lot over the years but it has always held the purpose of gathering the community together. I am sure that this day held a variety of emotions for our students and families; however, I’ll let you in on a little secret, for staff, this was an absolutely nerve wracking day. Not only did we have to rummage through our wardrobe looking for our best I-could-have-worn-this-to-a-wedding outfit, but we also had to mentally prepare ourselves for the grand unveiling of the homerooms. This ceremonial duty was when a teacher would be presented with their new homeroom class as each of their students would be called up by the principal. In my first year, I did not know how to react and remember putting on an air of stoic confidence and seriousness that truly was not me. When it came time for my homeroom to be announced, I sauntered to the middle of the room and got prepared to shake each student’s hand as they approached. My first student’s name was read out, and he beelined it towards me. As he approached the stage, I reached out my hand to introduce myself but before I could even speak, he blurted out in a low groggy voice, “I’m Batman!” Befuddled, I laughed. Within a few seconds of being introduced to Stratford Hall’s community, I realized that I did not need to put on a persona. This student had taught me to just be myself - no matter how goofy it may be. And from that day forward, that is how I lived my life at Stratford Hall.

Although I am departing, I know that the door will always be open for me. I leave you with these parting words, “Reach for your personal level of success, move with purpose, and be you!”

Thank You Ms. Chamberlin

BY: MARK PULFER Middle Years Programme Coordinator

Working with Meg over the last five years has provided me with an example of how to be a strong but humble leader who leads with their values. Kindness and trust inform everything that Meg has done in her role as Principal and before that as Vice Principal. Her unwavering kindness and genuine care for others permeate every aspect of her role, both visible and behind the scenes. I have too many stories of how Meg has shown me the definition of leadership to fill this small space, but there are a few that I would like to share.

Meg is highly supportive of everyone across Stratford Hall. From my office next door to her’s, I have heard both staff and students come through over the years seeking counselling, advice, direction or just a supportive word. She is interested in the welfare of each and every student under her care and she will go out of her way to ensure that every young person gets the support they need. So often she has also been a space for faculty to be listened to and to get support.

Beyond her deep care for our school community, she also extends her care to our neighbourhood. She has initiated many of our programs with the local community. For instance, our robust connection with Queen Alexandra Elementary is a result of her efforts. She has also been the

number one cheerleader for many other community initiatives led by other faculty and has championed them with as much gusto as her own. She recognizes that schools are ultimately human institutions and that therefore the foundation is built on good relationships. In order to have those relationships you need to have trust in the people who make up the school. She has demonstrated this quality from when she first started at Stratford Hall and it is what makes folks willing to go the extra mile.

Meg’s ability to foster trust has meant that she has been open to innovative new projects. She initiated the mini-terms that happen at the end of each of Term 1 and 2. These are a few days where standard programming is suspended to allow for unique programming that may not be possible in the confines of our regular schedule. This space has allowed faculty to create exciting opportunities for students such as the Design 6/7 workshops, the Hiwus feasthouse excursion to Grouse Mountain or the various service opportunities that the mini-term has enabled to happen. She has demonstrated great flexibility in providing support and creative flexibility for the many interdisciplinary programmes that have been taking place in the MYP this year. She also initiated the late start in the Senior School in order to

allow colleagues time and space to collaborate to create this innovative programming.

Meg prefers to work behind the scenes, creating space for others to shine. She does so much outside of the spotlight that allows our school to run smoothly, but rarely asks for recognition. This was no more true than when she was working with the Action and Wellness Council on our annual food drive for Queen Alexandra Elementary. At such times she will be found counting and sorting food with the students on the floor of the lobby of the MYP or mucking in to carry the boxes of food over to Queen Alexandra. Her only prerogative is that there is a need in our community and we need to work together in whatever capacity we have to help fill that need.

It is with sadness that I say goodbye to Meg, but I remember her years with Stratford Hall fondly having learned so much from her. I know that her new colleagues will recognize Meg for the true leader that she is.

SHPA Update

BY: TIM AU Co-Chair, Stratford Hall Parent Association on behalf of SHPA Executive Leads

S tratford H all P arent A ssociation

Can you believe it’s the end of the 2022/23 school year already? It’s funny how fast the school year goes by, and how one year bleeds into the next. It feels like we just had the Back to School BBQ but here we are, with already booked BBQs for September.

Looking back on this year, there is a lot to celebrate. This is the first year in nearly three years that we’ve been able to have full-strength, in-person community events. The enthusiasm of our parents to organize the BBQ at the beginning of the year was nearly impossible to cap. We had so many parents out helping to feed our community, it was hard to get everyone in the photo!

Parents were happy to get back out to the Terry Fox Run, Winter Fair, Grandparents + Grandfriends Day and End of the Year Carnival. SHPA also hosted three appreciation events to celebrate our great teachers and staff. It’s been great to get back into the groove and just be with people.

I’d like to thank a whole bunch of people who stepped up and out of their comfort zones to volunteer. First, thanks to my co-leads Janis Sun and Gloria Chui. They have been longtime members of the SHPA that have done so much for this community. I’m sorry to report that they will be stepping down for next year. Thanks also to the rest of the executives, Amanda Lee, Volunteer Coordinator and Grade 3 Representative; Andrew Norden, Treasurer; Lara Aknin, Secretary; and the many others that come to our meetings and make these events happen, such as Amy Zhang, Cecilia Tang, and Lauren LeBoldus. And finally, thanks to all of you. Thank you to all the parents who supported us by volunteering as grade representatives, crossing guards, and showing up to run the stations at the BBQ, Winter Fair and End of the Year Carnival. Without your support, these events would not happen. At the end of it, our goal is to enrich our children’s experiences at Stratford Hall and keep the parent community close to each other.

Class Notes

Message from the Alumni Association

To the Graduates of 2023,

You did it. Enjoy this moment celebrating all you have achieved and remember you are not defined by a grade out of 45.

As you head off to university, travel the world, or explore your passions, don’t forget the connections and friendships you made here at Stratford Hall. Moreover, you are now a part of an accomplished community of alumni! I invite you to share in the endeavours, accomplishments and immensely valuable resources of our international community by following our alumni Instagram (@stratford_hall_alumni). Also, as alumni, you now have the opportunity to be a mentor to Stratford students with your wealth of knowledge and experience to share as survivors of the Diploma Programme.

We look forward to connecting with all of our new graduates and witnessing all the amazing things you will accomplish!

Allison Lee,

Chair, Stratford Hall Alumni Association

Harrison Lee, ‘17

Harrison graduated with Honours from the UBC Sauder School of Business and the Faculty of Computer Science, in the combined Major in Business and Computer Science (BUCS) program, achieving the highest graduating average and earning him an Academic Award of Excellence.

Rose Leishman, ‘19

Rose graduated with Honours degree in Health Sciences from McMaster University and will be heading to Imperial College London (UK) in September to pursue her Master’s degree in Immunology.

‘10

Alumni Spotlight: Alyssah-Jasmine (AJ) Merani, ‘14

Having a learning disability has enabled me to feel proud of my neurodivergence and I have learned to advocate for myself. It was this experience that pushed me to pursue a Master’s degree in Special Education.

It was a sunny day in June of 2010, and I remember the car ride home with my mom like it was yesterday. We were listening to “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus, and with tears in her eyes she told me that my journey was going to be like this song; a climb. My mom was referring to conquering and facing the challenges that lay ahead of me, and embracing my neurodiversity.

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with a learning disability. I remember feeling crushed because I knew that I was different from the other students in my class. As there were only 32 of us in my graduating class, I didn’t feel that I could successfully mask my difficulties, even though I tried so hard to do so. High school can be a difficult place. We are so caught up in feeling accepted by everyone else, that we forget to love and accept ourselves too. I couldn’t say it then, but I can confidently say today that I am proud that I am different, and that I was faced with these learning challenges. From this experience, I learned to be more patient, accepting and proud of my accomplishments. I have also learned that everyone is different, and there really is no such thing as perfection. As Dr. Seuss once said, “Why fit in, when you were born to stand out?”. We are all diverse in our own ways, and we need to celebrate and embrace this.

On Thursday, May 25, 2023, I graduated from the University of British Columbia with my Master’s of Education in Special Education (with a concentration in Learning Disabilities) degree. It was an unforgettable experience to walk across the stage for a degree that meant so much to me. The past two years have been full of learning, growth, exploration, curiosity, challenge and rigor, as well as an abundance of happiness. I received a once in a lifetime opportunity to conquer my dreams in becoming a special educator, and was able to learn valuable professional skills which I am already applying into my work within the classroom. I truly feel that I have embarked on the next phase of my career within education, and I hope to return back to school to further my studies down the road. Throughout my Master’s, it was my goal to learn how I could create and sustain classroom environments that fostered self-acceptance, happiness, thoughtfulness, security, and exploration. As well, I hoped to gain knowledge on diversity, equity and inclusion so that I could create classroom environments where my students thrived, just like my teachers were able to create for me. Embarking on this educational experience, most definitely allowed me to achieve these goals, and as a result I feel that I am a more well-rounded, knowledgeable and confident educator.

My inspiration for diving into the field of Special Education came from my parents, Hafeez and Saufia, my sister Inaara and my learning resource teacher, Mrs. Louie.

These individuals have always pushed me to do my best and to chase my dreams, to feel motivated, empowered and self-sufficient in order to conquer the hardships and challenges that I was faced with. From the time I was 16, the five of us have worked together as a team to determine how I could be successful in both my academic and professional life, and how I could enhance my levels of selfefficacy and self-advocacy. From my parents, I learned that following your dreams no matter where they may take you, is so valuable in attaining success. They instilled drive and motivation within me, taught me the value of hard work, and that you can persevere even when faced with setbacks. From Inaara, I learned how to be brave and confident to combat my own challenges. She taught me that you are your own cheerleader, and how loving yourself is the most powerful thing you can do. From Mrs. Louie, I learned that your imperfections are what make you beautiful, and that diversity is a wonderful thing. She also taught me that being faced with adversity only makes you stronger in trying to conquer your dreams. I feel grateful to my parents, Inaara and Mrs. Louie for inspiring me to turn my own personal hardships into something that I can be proud of.

Last week was a full circle moment for me when I was able to bring my Master’s degree to Stratford Hall and share this accomplishment with my former teachers, colleagues and school community. I know that this is a unique experience and I feel utmost gratitude that I can still return to Stratford Hall to share these special moments. This just goes to show how dedicated, passionate and thoughtful our teachers are and how much they truly support students in their educational and professional journey, even after graduating.

I think my 11 year old, 18 year old and 22 year old self would be so incredibly proud of me today. Pictured here, you will see me at my PYP pinning ceremony in 2007, my Grade 12 graduation in 2014, my undergraduate graduation in 2018, and my Master’s graduation in 2023.

If you asked me in 2014 where I thought I would be, I don’t think I could’ve foreseen this future. That said, I feel so proud of myself for all that I have achieved. It most definitely wasn’t an easy journey, but in life, I believe that the best experiences are the ones that make you work the hardest.

They say it takes a village to raise a child, and I truly believe this. I would not be the person I am today without the love, dedication and support that I received from my parents, Inaara, my grandparents, my partner, Sameer, my godmother, Irfa and all of my wonderful educators. This is my village, and while three of my grandparents and my godmother have passed away –these are the people that have raised me and continue to raise me. This degree isn’t just mine, it’s all of theirs. I feel so much gratitude that I was able to share this special moment with my family, and I feel confident, motivated and determined that there will be a couple of more moments like these, in the future (#DrMerani).

It takes a village... and this is my village.

2007 2014 2018 2023

In the Junior School

BY: DR. MICHAEL PALMER Junior School Principal

Time flies when you are having fun. The past five months have been full of fun and engaging activities across the Junior School. Our Sabres are so fortunate to have teachers who bring joy to their work everyday, and love and care about each one of their students.

Approaches to learning (ATL) Block Party

Our Grade 4 and 5 students took collaboration and personal interests to even higher levels as they worked together to practice all ATL skills while creating a party for PYP students. The Winter Wonderland party included a Disco Dance Party, French obstacle course (Oui, c’est vrai!), Science activities, and card games. The Student Council contributed a Magician Juggler who balanced a bicycle and a ladder on his face!

Music

Our Junior School Music program has been a fertile source of celebration as students’ displayed newly acquired skills on the clarinet, trumpet, violin, viola, cello, flute, oboe, clarinet, trombone, percussion, xylophone, metallophone, DooD, TooT, and recorder at Grandparents Day in March and at the Spring Concert in June. Mr. Grealy and Dr. Niermeier know how to put on a show. The School is fortunate to have them both leading our Music program.

Arts Week

During Arts Week in April, we saw the return of the much loved K-12 Buskerama. Students from different grades picked up their instruments and shared their talents in every corner of the School. In the same week, the Junior School held the first ever air band contest with stellar performances from both students and teachers. And, the amazing Capoeira team from ACHE Brasil astounded us with their singing, dancing, and capoeira performance.

OEE

We are so proud of our OEE program in Grade 3 to 5. Ms. Saundercook introduced the wonderful world of OEE to our Grade 3 students by taking them to Trout Lake and Jericho Beach for play space learning and to test their risktaking skills at the UBC tree walk. Grade 4 and 5 students had heaps of fun at their end of year camps, all day biking, hiking, and kayaking trips. OEE has been instrumental in developing the knowledge and skills students will continue to fine tune as they move toward the Grade 6 to 10 OEE program.

Athletics

Junior School Athletics had a busy season and our Grade 5 Ultimate Frisbee team won all their games at the ISEA Play Day. Coach Soderholm reported that the Grade 5s were so high performing they were invited to play against Grade 6 and 7 students! Track and Field day at Minoru Stadium was another fun filled day of field athletics and a selection day for the ISEA Track and Field competitions in April and May. Grade 3 to 5 students performed very well at the finals. Thanks to Mr. Nishi for coordinating Track and Field day and to the parents for volunteering their support at the event.

PYP Exhibition

Lastly, the PYP Exhibition showed how passionate our Grade 5 students are about learning how they can make an impact on their community and the world. The students undertook research into the benefits of gaming, the equity gap in international sports, sustainable energy sources and more.

Stratford Hall is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We value each other’s identity and well-being. Together, we learn and grow by embracing and respecting multiple perspectives, experiences, and cultures.

Our differences are our strengths.

The Pride flag was originally designed in 1978 by Gilbert Baker. It consists of six horizontal lines representing life (red), healing (orange), sunlight (yellow), nature (green), harmony/peace (blue), and spirit (violet). In 2018, Daniel Quasar added on the half size stripes representing trans folks (light blue, light pink and white), and marginalized People of Color (brown, black). The arrow points to the right to show forward movement, while being along the left edge shows that progress still needs to be made.

In the Senior School

BY: MEG CHAMBERLIN, GARETH JONES, MARK PULFER & BENEDICT HUNG Senior School Principal | Senior School Vice Principal Middle Years Programme Coordinator | Diploma Programme Coordinator

The Senior School has had a phenomenal second half of the year! We embarked on our first theatrical production since the pandemic - a fun and flamboyant production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee musical; dove wholeheartedly back into Athletics with our basketball, badminton, swimming and ultimate seasons; and explored through mini-terms with a particular focus on Indigenous perspectives, sustainability, community engagement, and Art and Design workshops. All of these things have one thing in common - they help to support student wellness through a holistic, experiential approach to learning. Please enjoy our overview of highlights across the Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme, and Student Life from January to June 2023!

Middle Years Programme

This has been an incredible year for Outdoor Experiential Education. We have been able to get into top gear after the pandemic, incorporating all of the following activities into our programme: biking, climbing, cooking, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, camp skills, place-based environmental learning, first aid, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and orienteering. We are also looking to return to cross-country skiing and swimming next year. We had a full set of overnight camps at the start and the end of the year as well as a full set of Grade 10 OEE expeditions. Students returned to the winter expedition at Manning Park, enjoyed a choice of climbing or biking experience in the Spring and will continue the white-water rafting in June.

In our second year of mini-terms there was a wide variety of activities on offer as the full creativity of our wonderful teaching staff was able to see the possibilities of this programming. Experiences included interdisciplinary learning about psychology, outdoor experiential learning, film-making, hip-hop lessons, service learning, sustainability initiatives, and learning about the circular economy, financial literacy, and Indigenous connections. Students participated in field trips and workshops led by industry experts and immersed themselves in a variety of topics. They explored self-expression as they participated in a digital graffiti workshop, the importance of collaboration

and communication in escape room design, the impact of and use of film techniques in telling stories, how to craft a picture book, the impact of our stories and how we can bring them to life through podcasting and digital storytelling, the power of improv, and more. Miniterms provided opportunities for students to ignite their passion and curiosity as well as expand their horizons. It was also a week that fostered a sense of community and collaboration.

A further point of celebration in the MYP this year has been the fact that interdisciplinary units have been taken to the next level. Enhancement of interdisciplinary learning was our MYP programme development plan (PDP) goal. The PDP is an initiative that we take in collaboration with the International Baccalaureate organization. Students across Grade 6 to 10 have been engaged in exciting projects bringing together different subject areas. These interdisciplinary units exemplify the following First People’s Principle of Learning: Learning is holistic, reflexive, reflective, experiential, and relational (focused on connectedness, on reciprocal relationships, and a sense of place). A highlighted project this year was the Grade 8 interdisciplinary unit at the Cheakamus Centre in Squamish. Students had an immersive experience learning about the local environment through experiences in the forests on the mountains as well as through Indigenous story-telling.

Diploma Programme

Over a period of three weeks and a total number of 70 different papers, our Class of 2023 has completed their DP exams in the month of May. These exams are culminating assessments designed to provide our students with the opportunities to synthesize their learning over their last two years in the Diploma Programme. Our students all worked together, formed their own study groups, and supported each other throughout the exam period. We look forward to seeing great results which will be released by early July!

Our Grade 11 students are now fully immersed in their DP experience and learning. One of the highlights is their Theory of Knowledge (TOK) presentations which took place on May 19. Our students are to select three artifacts and identify how TOK concepts manifest in the real world.

One of the core components that makes the DP unique is Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), in which it encourages our students to bridge their classroom experiences with real-world applications through the exploration of the arts, physical exertion in promoting a healthier lifestyle, and the authentic and genuine contribution to the community in making a positive impact. As such, our Grade 12 students completed and presented their CAS-Capstone projects on April 13 to the Senior School. These projects range from organizing a blood drive for Stratford Hall students to being the editor the Roar Zine, and from leading the Alpine Ski Club to organizing workshops for our students about 3D Modeling. While some of our students served and completed the CAS-Capstone project within our community, some also reached out to the Greater Vancouver community. These CAS-Capstone projects help to broaden our students’ perspective and encourages students to explore their identity and values as active global citizens.

Student Life

Our student leadership positions continued to provide an avenue for us to raise student engagement and student voice in our school. In January we welcomed back facilitators from the Vancouver Association of Restorative Justice (VARJ) to train our student Advisory Leaders on how to lead and support circles with their peers. Our Advisory Leaders continued to lead with care and diligence as they advocated for their classes. One particularly impressive initiative was the Grade 7 Advisory Leaders who participated in the CAIS Middle School Leadership Conference. They created a collaborative video with their Grade 2 buddies as a way to build connections across the school. Our Prefects and Junior Prefects had a strong second half of the year. One way they showed leadership was through a sock drive for New Fountain Shelter in partnership with students from the Act Now Club and Action and Wellness Council. Our Arts Council shone with an incredible Arts Week bringing back Buskerama for the whole school to enjoy. Our Innovation & Academics Council led with several design challenges to engage the student body. Our Athletics Council led many more staff vs student games to bring the students and staff together. And our Spirit Council led the way to change our model for House Spirit. Starting in September we will have the Sustainability Council and 16 new House Captains (8 in Grade 11 and 8 in Grade 7). This is an excellent new initiative that will continue to help us raise House Spirit.

There have been highlights from our Community programming this year. Our Community program exists to support student well-being and their character and social emotional development. Highlights from the second half of the school year include a special presentation from a Holocaust survivor, a women’s rights activist for International Women’s Day, a presentation from a local MLA and the BC Minister of Environment during Earth Week, a Heritage and Language Fair on International Mother Tongue Day, and a film premiere and Q&A as part of Asian Heritage Month with Jenny Lee-Gilmore. As part of our Advisory Circles, students explored and discussed topics of digital life and online well-being, mental health, and antiracism.

Lastly, we had our first ever group sent to the CAIS Senior School Leadership Conference at Rothesay Netherwood School in New Brunswick. This is an annual conference hosted by a different CAIS school each year. We were fortunate to send four students to the Conference. The students engaged in a variety of leadership development activities and learned from inspiring guest speakers. We are grateful to join the other 30 CAIS schools from across the country and look forward to many more in the future.

The Student Life Leads, Mariah Chan (Grade 6 - 8) and Rick Campanella (Grade 9 - 12) have been incredible leaders in supporting student initiatives, listening to student voice and feedback, and championing inclusive spaces for all students.

Sabres Athletics Term 2 & 3 Update

BY: BOBBY NISHI Athletics Director

The Sabres had a great year in 2023. In February, our Grade 7 boys won the ISEA Basketball Championships against St. George’s in front of a loud and supportive home crowd. Not to be outdone, our Grade 7 girls basketball team also won the ISEA Championship with a victory over St. John’s. This is the first time in Stratford Hall history that we have won both Championships at the same time.

With the completion of basketball season we moved into the spring season where we competed in badminton, climbing, track and field, and ultimate. Our badminton team competed for the first time in both the GVISAA and LMISSAA leagues. The team showed amazing spirit and improved with every practice and every game. This was also the first year of competitive climbing. Mitch Taylor in collaboration with the Richmond Oval hosted the first ever ISABC climbing competition. The event attracted 175 climbers from nine different schools. Next year, the event looks to expand and include Grade 5 students and more ISABC schools.

The Grade 3-7 Sabres Track team was also very successful this year as the boys finished third overall out of 13 schools and our girls finished fourth overall out of 14 schools at the ISEA Championship on May 15. Our team was led by gold medal performances by Xavier Nagra (Grade 4 1000m), Drake Kuo (Grade 5 600m), Dani Rodenburgh (Grade 6 Shot Put, Discus), and Sienna Chu (Grade 7 Discus).

The Sabres were once again a force on the ultimate field. Our Grade 6/7 A team won both the ISEA Championship and the Tier 1 Sabrefest Championship. The Senior Ultimate team also had a great year winning the GVISAA and LMISSAA Championships and qualifying for AA Provincials. At provincials the team battled hard and lost a tough semifinal matchup on universe point to the eventual winner St. Thomas Moore.

A big thank you to all of the internal, external, and student coaches as well as all of the parents who have supported us this year. Go Sabres!

Grade 7 Girls ISEA Champions

Grade 7 Boys ISEA Champions

School Life

Pride Parade

Alumni Reunion

Junior School Sports Day

Grade 11 Group 4 DP

Rock Climbing Festival

Principal for the Day

2023 - 2024 Prefects

Camp Sasamat

PYP Pinning Ceremony

Principal for the Day

Grade 9 OEE

Junior School Student Council

Junior School Track Meet

Model UN

Grandparents Day

Volunteer Breakfast

Spirit Day

End of the Year Carnival

Message of Gratitude at the Donor Reception

BY: BENJAMIN JUNG Grade 10, Student Ambassador

Good evening everyone. My name is Benjamin and I am a Grade 10 student. I have been attending Stratford Hall since Grade 1 which was all the way back in 2013. We’d like to thank you for joining us tonight.

Today we are going to talk about how your donations continue to enhance the outcome of a better education and create a strong next generation. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your donations that continue to support our education.

The theme of tonight’s event is leadership and I would like to highlight a contribution from the Annual Fund that really impacted me. Last month, the Annual Fund enabled four students including myself with two faculty members to travel to Rothesay, New Brunswick for the 2023 CAIS Leadership Conference. This opportunity allowed us to meet other students from across the country to discuss our roles as leaders at our

school and also to learn ways to better our school community such as hearing a keynote from two-time Olympic Gold medalist, Heather Moyse.

At Stratford Hall, students such as myself are so lucky to have so many leadership opportunities open to us, big or small. These opportunities all contribute to the fantastic Stratford Hall community that we have today, all of which would not have been possible without your generation contributions to the Annual Fund.

To conclude, we’d like to express our gratitude for your continued support of the Annual Fund. Thank you for making a difference in students’ lives and by helping to make the future leaders of tomorrow. We hope you continue to support the Annual Fund.

Trip to Rothesay, NB for the 2023 CAIS Leadership Conference

$210,000 Climbing Wall

Your commitment to Stratford Hall has enabled us to go beyond! We are extremely grateful for your generosity. It makes a difference for Stratford Hall today and in the future. Thank you!

$20,000 Queen Alexandra Elementary

$20,000 Athletics

$64,000 Soundstage Drapes

$23,000 Musical Theatre

$60,000

PYP Outdoor Learning Space (Phase 3)

$27,000 Lab Equipment

$120,000

SaveDate the

Join

Friday, November 24, 2023

6:00pm

Vancouver, BC

Term 1 (First 30 Days)

September 4

Labour Day SCHOOL CLOSED

September 5

Senior School New Student Orientation

9:30am - 1:00pm

Senior School Student Leader Orientation

12:00 - 3:30pm

PYP Club Fair

1:00 - 2:30pm

Clark Park Playdate New Junior School Students

2:30 - 3:30pm

September 6

Opening Assembly

8:30 - 9:30am

Grade 12 Breakfast

September 8

Back to School BBQ

3:30 - 5:00pm

September 14

Senior School

Meet the Teachers Night

6:00 - 8:00pm

September 18 - 22

Senior School Retreats

September 19

Junior School

Meet the Teachers Night

6:00 - 7:30pm

September 25 - 29

Bike to School Week

September 25

Photo Day ALL DAY

September 27

Terry Fox Run 9:45am

Welcome Reception for New Families

6:00 - 8:00pm

September 28

Annual Fund Kick-Off

6:00 - 8:00pm

September 29

Orange Shirt Day Observed

October 2

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Observed SCHOOL CLOSED

2 0 2 3

2023 - 2024 Key Dates

September

Tuesday 5

Wednesday 6

October Monday 2

Monday 9

Friday 20

Thursday 26

Friday 27

November Thursday 02

Friday 03

Friday 10 Monday 20

Tuesday 21

Friday 24

December

Senior School New Student Orientation, 10:30am

School Opens - First day of school for all students

Opening Assembly, 8:30 - 9:30am

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (School closed)

Thanksgiving Day (School closed)

BC Pro-D Day (No classes)

Senior School Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences, 4:00 - 8:00pm

Senior School Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences, all day (No Senior School classes)

Junior School Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences, 4:00 - 8:00pm

Junior School Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences, all day (No Junior School classes)

Last day of class before Midterm Break (Full day)

MIDTERM BREAK: MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13 - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17

Pro-D Day (No classes)

Classes resume after Midterm Break

Stratford Hall Gala

Friday 15 Last day of class before Winter Break, Early Dismissal, 12:00pm

January

Wednesday 17 Classes resume after Winter Break

Monday 8

February Thursday 1

Friday 2

Friday 16

Monday 19

Thursday 22

Friday 23

March

Friday 15

Friday 29

April Monday 1

Tuesday 2

Friday 26

May Friday 17

Monday 20

Saturday 25

Sunday 26

Let’s Talk Business, 8:30 - 9:30 am and 6:30 - 7:30pm

WINTER BREAK: MONDAY, DECEMBER 18 - FRIDAY, JANUARY 5 2 0 2 4

Junior School Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences (Goal Setting), 4:00-7:00pm

Junior School Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences (Goal Setting), All Day (No Junior School classes)

ISABC Pro-D Day (No classes)

Family Day (School closed)

Senior School Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences, 4:00-8:00pm

Senior School Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences, All Day (No Senior School classes)

Last day of class before Spring Break (full day)

SPRING BREAK: MONDAY, MARCH 18 - FRIDAY, MARCH 29

Good Friday (School closed)

Easter Monday (School closed)

Classes resume after Spring Break

Junior School Student-Led Conferences (At school by appointment)

Teacher Pro-D Day (No classes)

Victoria Day (School closed)

Graduation Convocation

Graduation Dinner and Dance

June Thursday 20 Closing Assembly, 2:00-3:00pm (Last day for students)

We can’t be more proud of you!

No matter what the world throws at you, your years of hard work, the memories made, the relationships built, the all-nighters pulled, the problems set, the hours and hours of labs conducted, the late-night essays completed, the big wins won, the tough losses taken, the extracurriculars you poured your heart and soul into, and the friends who became family, no one—and nothing—can take that away.

You are the class that is truly ready to be changemakers! You are our future leaders!

Congratulations Class of 2023.

Reach for the stars. Follow your dreams. Now and always.

We are so proud of you and wish you the very best that life has to offer.

The Class of 2023

Lamar Almoaiqel

Hanna Asin*

Radhika Assanie*

Elan Breger*

Kristen Chan*

Hannah Chin*

Alexander Coleman

Morgan Fairweather

Alyssa Fielding*

Benjamin Frketich*

Simon Gunasekera

Victoria Haussmann

Fitz Hobbs

Kaniel Jacob-Cross*

Kenji Kamachi*

Ilyas Kherani*

Emelie Kim

Hoi Laam Odessa Lee

Jin (Ryan) Lu

Ryan Mah

Te-Huei Daphne Meng*

Michael Morozov*

Madeleine Quennec*

Noelle Quennec*

Alykhan Rajan*

Kabir Sangha*

Noah Schilling

Jenna Shahi

Anisha Tang

Claire Treacy*

Karl Von Riedemann

Thomas Westlake

Hughie Williams

Sheung Yu (Lauren) Wong

Yi Fan (Carol) Xing

Dana Yamashiro*

Baichen (Jack) Ye

Adrian Yeldan

Brayden Yeung*

Grace Young*

Justin Zheng

OUR MISSION

Stratford Hall educates students to the highest global standards through the programmes of the International Baccalaureate. Excellence and confidence are developed through a challenging academic curriculum with further emphasis on creativity, action and service. We foster a strong pluralistic community built on integrity and respect.

OUR VISION

Stratford Hall strives to be a global leader in the International Baccalaureate community. Our students will gain a deep understanding of the world around them, and they will act on their connections to the outside community. They will excel to the best of their abilities, and graduates will be equipped to achieve their chosen goals. This is accomplished by acquiring and retaining the best teachers, and by a commitment to a balanced and enriched curriculum. The success of Stratford Hall is deeply rooted in the establishment of a supportive, knowledgeable and committed community.

www.stratfordhall.ca @StratfordHallSchool @Stratford_Hall @Stratford_Hall