Dragon
Tales
The Vientiane International School Monthly Magazine
Connecting th rough Sports page 20
August - October 2012 | Issue 10
e Day n O e c a e P page 26
Youth Ed
ucating Y outh page 15
Green Fingers and Friendship
“
Settling into a new country is like getting used to a new pair of shoes. At first they pinch a little, but you like the way they look, so you carry on. .
”
Making Connections in Art Grade 3 examine body systems through sculpture
Real Hero, Real Story, Real Expectations A Grade 10 student’s response to heroic characterisation
Stepping Up
Ms Nikki talks about Culture Shock when moving to a new country, page 23
Director‟s Notes page 1
Primary students instigate a community garden project
Primary News page 2
Parents and Friends take on another year of fun and fundraising
Secondary News page 8
Sports News page 20
VIS MISSION STATEMENT ທາ້ ທາຊ, ົນບ ັນານໃຈ ແລະ ກະກຽມ ນ ັກຮຽນເຂົ້າສຉ ີ ິ ຌ ົວຈິງ ູ່ ວ Áskorun hrífur nemendur og undirbýr þá fyrir lífið framundan.
Stawianie wyzwań, inspirowanie i przygotowywanie uczniow do życia
Paghahamon, Pagpupukaw, at Paghahanda sa mga Mag-aaral para sa Buhay
ความท้าทาย แรงบันดาลใจ และการเตรี ยมพร้อม สาหรับผูใ้ ฝ่ รู ้ที่ใคร่ คน้ คว้าในวิถีแห่งชีวติ uitdagend, inspirerend, en voorbereidend tot een levenlang leren Mencabar, Menginspirasi dan Menyediakan Pembelajaran Sepanjang Hayat चन ु ौती को सामना गनन उत्प्रेररत गदै (रेरणा दददै ) जीवन जजउने कऱाससक्ने
सिक्षाथॉऱाइ तयार पानेI Utmanande, inspirerande och förbereder lärande för livet Utfordrende, inspirerende og en forberedelse til resten av livet Herausforderung, Inspriration und Vorbereitung fuer ein lebenslanges Lernen 的使命是为学者们 提供一个具有挑战性，激励性及终身学习的 优异环境 Can’t see your language? Please send in your translations to rachaelp@vislao.com
Director’s Notes
Page 1
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Primary News
Primary Reflection By Mr Jon Davidson, PRIMARY PRINCIPAL
When our mission statement explicitly lays out that at Vientiane International School we aim to “prepare learners for life” we should acknowledge that everyone in our community is a learner. Most obviously it includes our students, but as teachers we also have an obligation to keep on learning and engaging with our chosen profession. In September all our teaching staff, including teacher assistants, took part in a two day training event run by an educational consultant. Tania Lattanzio ran sessions with the whole school and also with targeted groups; looking at how creating an inquiring classroom will engage students and challenge them to construct new understandings and push their learning to the next level. In recent weeks we have sent our staff to workshops run by the International Baccalaureate. At
these workshops they have gained deeper understandings of the Primary Years Programme‟s written curriculum and looked at approaches to the teaching of science in our school. Over the subsequent weeks these staff members ran their own training sessions with the rest of our staff and shared these new insights and perspectives. To run these events, the International Baccalaureate depends on a dedicated band of teachers devoting their time and energy in order to construct and deliver highly specialized workshops. We should be very proud that the school has a number of these trainers working on staff. In October we encouraged Alison Francis to run two of these sessions, one in Shanghai and one in Beijing. Judging by the positive feedback we have received from participants, Alison not only inspired teachers from numerous schools, she also did much to enhance the reputation of VIS in the region. As I look back at the first quarter of the year it is wonderful to see the progress made by our students. Those who were barely recognizing individual letters are now beginning to read. We have budding artists, musicians and athletes that are being stretched and pushed by their teachers. Whether you are 3 or 30, the dedication and enthusiasm that is demonstrated by the staff at VIS is contagious and goes a long way towards inspiring, challenging and creating learners for life.
Primary News
Page 3
Forming Friendships Through Green Fingers The Community Garden team would like to thank all of the parents and staff who have supported the project at Ban Saphanthong Tai School. The generosity shown and resources provided have contributed greatly to the project‟s success on many levels. Donations of soil, pots, seeds and tools have been much appreciated. I was surprised abou t how fast the seeds grew – it was faster than what I was expecting. I now feel it is easier to communicate with my group because I feel like we all unde rstand each other even though we spea k different languages. - Sara
Student Reflections Here is what some of the students think about the community garden
Bo Ms n M Th ari ip, say Mr er, Tu Ms i N
lly rs L a lgate nd M Mr a lwen Mil in Ms. O n Baldw a Meag
At f ma irst, Iw k e tha a g as n t sta I’ve ood ervo con rted got t first us th i f o Sch fiden eelin kno mpre at I w s t, a g m w oo m sio oul lb ud nd n ore c y gr n, bu dn’t die ow om oup t n sa o s f think forta I’ve w ble rie o f nd ou an s. - Ju r Sist d er lia
r,
e dsat n a r eB , Ton i Aoki Tam Luong y Thu
we had it because d e y jo n e I really ers and de to be think rs, and we also ma to a ic se n u u a c m com ed be as surpris friends. I w ere enthusiastic to sw my buddie s. – Bob ate with u ic commun
oy ,
Thank you! Kopjai Lai Lai!
IBPYP Creativity
Page 4
In their “Who we are� unit of inquiry Grade 3 have been looking at body systems and the way in which they connect. In visual arts they took this concept of connection and looked at the work of Alberto Giacometti. Giacometti was a Swiss sculptor who created figures with elongated limbs as if they had been stretched out. After looking at wooden mannequins the students made wire figures in different poses and covered them with aluminum foil. Next they spray painted them and organized themselves into groups. Each group connected their figures together in varied and imaginative ways.
They looked at sculptures by Alberto Giacometti
Grade 3A/C striking a pose
n n a M
s n i u eq
Aluminum foil on top of a wire frame
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S
e r u t culp
Connecting their figures together‌
C O N N E C T I O N
Grade 3J exhibiting their work
IBPYP Field Trips
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Grade 5 have been deeply involved in their unit of inquiry “How we express ourselves” delving into the central idea that “Creating and responding to art develops understanding of ourselves and the world around us.” One of the first activities they engaged with was a visit to the Fine Arts School here in Vientiane. Our students had the chance to interact with real-world artists who were learning how to master a wide range of media from ceramics to print making. Not only did this trip provide our children with inspiration and insights into their central idea, it also made many realize that although only eleven years old they too were artists. After the trip the classes were given the chance to reflect on what they had experienced and write about it in the process journals. The work being carried out in the classroom has been enriched and extended in Grade 5‟s visual arts lessons where students have been creating their own works of art and responding to that of others.
Should works of art have titles? No, because people could look at it and say “wow this could be called a… !“ and the artist could have an idea but other people might not agree to what the artists think. I also think that people could remember the picture more if they had their own idea. How might a work of art change the lives of the people who look at it? Every picture tells a story or shows a feeling. The artist’s message is important to the world around them.; how hard people work and how hard people try. Every artist has a message even if they don't mean to show people’s opinions. Kelly Allen, GRADE 5 STUDENT
Page 7
As part of our current Unit of Inquiry How the world works, Grade 4 students participated in a recent field trip to the Mekong River. Students observed characteristics of the river and surrounds, and considered flood mitigation measures including the levee bank. We also identified evidence of erosion, presence of silt and different types of rocks, and considered associated natural processes. Students also considered different land uses around the Mekong River. Despite the heat, students showed great enthusiasm, were actively engaged, and asked interesting questions during the field trip.
Click on the icon (left) to watch the Grade 4 Field Trip in an animoto slideshow.
Secondary News
Page 8
Secondary Reflection By Miss Kim Green, SECONDARY PRINCIPAL
Reflection inspires learning. As we have begun the year in the secondary school we have used our reflections on student acheivement as a tool to inspire us in our planning for the 2012-13 school year. The following information shares our reflections of and shares with you projected plans and actions targeted for the 2012-13 school year.
Growth in the IB Middle Years Programme
Perecentage of Student Acheivement (1 – 7) for the Personal Project 2010 - 2012
The Personal Project is the culminating assessment task for the IBMYP students. The grade 10 students in 2011-12 were the third group of VIS students to complete the project. Teachers work in the role of supervisors for students completing the Personal Project to provide our learners with support through the process. The personal projects in 2011-12 were moderated externally by the International Baccalaureate. The following graph clearly indicates the shift in the distribution of personal project achievement levels.
Growth in the IB Diploma Programme In 2011-12 the third group of IB Diploma candidates graduated from VIS. Through the establishment of strong student support structures, the implementation of internal assessment criteria and the close tracking of ongoing student achievement we are beginning to see trends in the IB Diploma programme where VIS results are compared favourably with global results. Percentage of Diplomas Awarded 2010-2012
Total IB Diploma points per candidate 2010-2012
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The secondary schoolâ€&#x;s goal for 2012-13 is to continue fostering a culture of excellence in student achievement. To achieve this we will be specifically focusing on
1. Increasing
the effectiveness and scope of communication of student achievement (internally and externally) 2. Planning for and implementing age appropriate ATL skills. 3. Using a variety of inquiry based teaching and learning strategies to engage learners. 4. Using a variety of strategies effectively to assess for learning. In addition to these four areas the secondary team has begun the five year IB Diploma Programme Evaluation which is due for completion in April 2013 and is involved in an IB MYP Arts Pilot. We look forward to working with you to achieve our goal this year.
Creativity in the IBMYP
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A Juxtaposition of Forms by Ms Shaw, VISUAL ART TEACHER Grade 8 students started their first unit exploring how juxtaposing forms and altering environments through 3D form could transform perceptions.
Identify: Transformation Hopes and Fears
They then explored how all objects already held connotations and associated meaning and whether people‟s thinking could be altered with a new arrangements of objects. Students also created purposeful questions for further and deeper inquiry and mailed these questions to sculpture artists who they believed juxtaposed 3D form with the environment. Sophie Ryder was one such artist who got back in touch with Ellen.
Sophie Ryder „sitting 2007‟ artscouncil.org.uk
The unit ended with the learners creating their own visual metaphors to convey their personal hopes and fears. These were displayed in the school gallery in the VIS library and it inspired other learners to come and explore artwork. For the Grade 8 students it taught them that other people can construct their own meanings onto artwork depending on their frame of references and age.
Page 10 Page 11
“The cotton threads are a metaphor for a slow comfortable life. They represent this concept because cotton is very soft, and when thrown or dropped, it falls very slowly.� Mitsuki Nori Grade 8
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Language A English
Alishaâ€&#x;s newspaper opinion piece was completed as a part of the unit, Everyone Has Weaknesses. Her writing is a response to the question, How does the presentation of heroic characters influence our lives?
Language B English
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Why do people share experiences with each other? By Mr. Tan Huynh EAL TEACHER
During the "Journeys" unit, the 7th, 8th, and 9th graders tried to answer the unit's significant questions, which are "What experiences are worth sharing?" and" Why do people share experiences with each other?". To do this, the Language B English students have partnered with a local Lao travel agency. Each week, the students go to different places in Vientiane and the surrounding area to write a travel blog to inform readers of local attractions from the perspective of a middle school student. Students learned to take photographs that are striking and communicative while practicing their writing and research skills. During the process, they learned through experience that Vientiane has lots to offer in terms of culture, entertainment, and character that a person can sometimes not see or may take for granted. Please visit the site to see Simonâ€&#x;s, Nunuâ€&#x;s, and Rachel's work http://slowboat.teamworkz.asia/category/laos/
Service
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Community and Service Assembly by Claire Butler-Walker HUMANITIES TEACHER
The first Community and Service Assembly for the 2012 / 2013 school year was a showcase of service activities that are running here at VIS. They include service activities from the Diploma Programme Community Action and Service programme and Community & Service activities from the MYP. On the video below you can hear about diverse experiences, challenges and highlights from VIS By engaging in service opportunities students are working towards achieving the IBO mission statement and the VIS mission statement by being inspired and inspiring and challenging themselves and others. Service activities at VIS are opportunities to act to make a difference and I hope that you are inspired by the activities that are already going on around us. The secret about service activities, that only those who engage in these activities know, is the reciprocity: the knowledge that service activities enrich the lives of those who receive as well as those who are giving.
Some examples of service activities: Volunteering at a local orphanage. Organizing a clothing drive for communities affected by floods. Collecting daily necessities for patients at Mahosot Hospital. Travelling with a team of dentists as translators. Running a reading group during lunchtimes for primary students. Raising funds to buy an artificial leg for a patient at COPE, Laos. Assisting in sorting out book orders at VIS. Writing a guidebook for the VIS community. Translating at ParentTeacher interviews. Raising awareness about HIV/AIDS in the community.
Click on the picture above to watch the video ‌ VIS students talk about their community and service
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Youth Educating Youth Saturday School by Nob Saysompheng GRADE 10 STUDENT
On Saturday 20th of October, the students from Ban Saphanthong Tai Primary School came to our school and were taught different things from different groups of students that participate in YEYS group. For me, I taught them IT, which is basically showing them how to use MS paint and then later on the lesson, the students had a chance to draw what they wanted and we printed it off for them to take home. There are two other members in my group; Tony and Nga. We created a lesson plan with a significant concept and objectives. I really had to think about how important the planning is in order for the students to reach the level of education intended by the plan. On Saturday we taught the students and I taught three grades, grades 4,3, and 2. I found out that the characteristics of each grades are different because of the age difference. The first grade that I had to teach was grade 4. This grade was really easy to teach because all of them listened carefully and most of the students knew what they were going to do. I felt really glad of what I had taught the students and there was one girl, who I think already knew how to use MS paint or her imagination was really good because her drawing was one of the best of the class. Grade 3 was pretty easy to teach but some of them did not look at us for the instructions but all of them did their work. For grade 2, it was really tough because they were all sweaty after the lunch and it was really hard to teach them but we made a clapping beat for the students to follow. This is what my teacher in grade 2 did to get our attention. Overall these grades did what they were supposed to do and I was very pleased of how they contributed and communicated with us. I am looking forward to teaching the students again next time. Next time we will teach by ourselves without the BSST teacher in the room and I want to see how hard could it be if when there is no teacher (the studentâ€&#x;s teacher) with the student. I think that it will be really challenging.
Students Reflections On Youth Educating Youth
IBDP News
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Learning at VIS is envisaged as a life-long experience. The IB learner profile outlines the attributes and aspirations of internationally-minded students engaged in the IB programmes. by Todd Richer DIPLOMA PROGRAMME COORDINATOR
We are now well into the academic year and students are working hard in their diploma courses. Our grade 12 students have been entered in the IBIS database, this means they are registered for IB final assessments culminating in May. The Class of 2013 is now focused on their Extended Essays. This is an important component of the IB and VIS diplomas and provides an important introduction to university approaches to learning. All students have received feedback on drafts. Finished essays must be uploaded onto ManageBac by November 21. All teacher/supervisors at VIS work hard to guide students through the process. It would be a great motivator if students could discuss the challenges of working on essays with their families. The Class of 2014 is now settled into the programme. Students have decided on their six courses. It is now time for students to continue to initiate conversations with their teachers and to commit to subjects at higher level. All students are required to take three subjects at higher level and three at standard level in order to provide students the opportunity to experience depth and breadth of study during their experience in the diploma. May 2012 VIS IBDP Final Results The May 2012 VIS IBDP final results show that VIS students are taking advantage of stimulating learning engagements. You will see that VIS students compare favorably to IBDP students throughout the world. See table below: Congratulations to the class of 2012 with a special mention to Emily Lathanavong who is the first VIS student to achieve a bi-lingual Lao/English IB diploma. Year
% IB Diplomas Awarded at VIS
%IB Diplomas Awarded Globally
May 2012
71.42
78.16
% IB Bilingual Diplomas Awarded at VIS 29
% IB Bilingual Diplomas Awarded Globally Not yet available
Total IBDP points VIS candidate average 30
Total IBDP points Global Average 29.83
Mean Grade VIS
Mean Grade Global
4.87
4.67
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Geography in the DP
Science in the DP
Students engaged with the concept of accessibility while inquiring into physical water scarcity and economic water scarcity as part of their Geography unit 'Environmental Quality and Sustainability'. Students calculated the distance in time it would take them to carry 10 litres of water 6 km. Learners also attempted to ration their 10 litre water supply for a days worth of activities. Physical water scarcity affects many communities in the world and Geography students developed their caring and knowledgeable learner profile attributes in this activity.
Grade12 Biology students explored several topics in Human Physiology. The practical experiences in these units involved dissection of pig hearts and the small intestine of a cow. They were assessed on manipulative skills for the heart dissection and showed fantastic commitment to being safe and meticulous in order to maximize their learning. The cow intestine was measured and was almost 30 metres long! This is only from a young cow and an adult should have an intestine over 50 metres long.
Inquiry in DP
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Theory Of Knowledge Click on the icon to see the student’s Power Point Presentation
During the Grade 12 SALSA in a group consisting of Arnold, Blake, Clara and Rica, we leaned a number of things after going through the process for our ToK investigation. We developed our delegation skills in assigning jobs to each member of the group such as researcher, compiler of information, interviewers. This assisted our group in working effectively with one another. We were also made known of our weaknesses with regards to time management. For example, our planning skills when it came to the places we intended to visit, we struggled and lost a fair amount of time ending up at dead-ends. However, we learned to adapt and learn from our mistakes by researching into places to visit and verifying where they were located. In regards to our KI, we succeeded to a large extent in developing a focused and clear objective. This helped us to understand our strengths in ToK. We also realized our limitations and that, overall, we were not given enough time to conduct a proper investigation and can be taken into consideration for next time. Oda Karlsen GRADE 12 STUDENT
We all pointed out one thing that was common in all groups, this was related to the reliability of our sources/ information. We all made the common mistake of forgetting to record where or from whom the information came from, making our research unreliable, and very limited. Now that we have completed the presentations, it has become clear that when developing the KI we need to go through the full process of research and change, after reflecting on the information gained. Eusteen Barte GRADE 12 STUDENT
We had a good mix of personalities in our group, and this made it easy to delegate tasks based on the different skills of the people in the group. We collaborated very well with each other, and that was very good. Because of the language barriers with Aditi, Cassian and I not speaking Lao we divided into two groups so that Praew and Aditi went to interview local people while Cassian and I interviewed tourists. It was a great trip, and we learned a lot about Lao culture, and also about how to put together a TOK presentation. Oda Karlsen GRADE 12 STUDENT
Leadership
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MRISA Leadership Summit By Rupina Baek GRADE 10 STUDENT This has been my first time joining in the Leadership Summit, and I cannot deny that this new experience was intimidating just by it‟s name. However, I decided to challenge myself and take action to an unfamiliar dimension of the MRISA event. Until then, I never expected the summit to be what I have experienced. The Leadership Summit this year was set under the theme of “Youth Educating Youth” in VIS. Nine students from our school participated, and it was overwhelming just to see students from other schools gather in a room. Although at the time I could not decide whether I had made a right choice to join in the Leadership Summit, I was excited by the thought that the students are unified under the objective of being a leader. Unlike many other MRISA events, the Leadership Summit encourages collaboration between different schools, rather than competition. The first day began with the ice breaker, which was a game that involved knowing each other, and breaking the barrier between different schools. Then, Mr. Greg Smith officially began the summit by introducing the idea and qualities of leaders. We discussed some examples of leaders and achievements they have accomplished. After brainstorming on their similarities and differences, I realized that some of the great leaders are not always respected, just like Adolf Hitler in the World War II. We were divided into five different groups. The group I was allocated was a combination of different schools, nationalities, age groups, and interests. Although it was difficult to approach them
at first, we began to start sharing our ideas and arguments by being risk-takers and open-minded. We stayed with each other for two days, and on the first day, we visited the Youth Radio Station in UNICEF. However, it was necessary to plan ahead of the visit, in order to understand how it helps the youth in Laos. As a group, we brainstormed the definition of NGO and questions we will ask in UNICEF. In the Youth Radio Station, we saw a PowerPoint presentation of how it functions and supports the youth in Laos. I learned that through participating in the radio program, children in local communities are benefited on their future career and school work. Other groups explored other NGOs such as COPE and Save the Children. Back together, we shared our understanding of the NGO, and discussed about the importance of their role in the society of Laos. On the second day, we taught the primary students from our sister school in Ban Sapanthong Thai. The biggest challenge we faced as the leaders was that communication through speaking was impossible. Experimenting with different techniques, we discovered that interaction and understanding each other does not require spoken words. The last evening of the Leadership Summit was elaborated with a Trivia Night. Again, in combination of different schools, we supported each other and built on friendship. It was amazing to discover that the students now understand each other‟s opinions, and most important of all, everyone is able to express their thoughts without hesitation or concern. The experience of participating in the Leadership Summit was valuable. If I were given another chance to join, I would not hesitate to say „yes‟. Because the benefits I have gained was bigger than the expectation, and the challenge I have accepted have proven me of its value.
Bangkok MUN (Model United Nations)
by Claire Butler-Walker TEACHER October 13th was the date of the 20th Bangkok Model United Nations held at Bangkok Patana School, Thailand. VIS took a team of six students to the event and our participation made the event an international event. The BKK MUN provided our team with the opportunity to try out our skills with seasoned „MUNers‟ and first
timers; the debates were stimulating and the delegates improved their MUN skills. Our team looked great in their suits and five delegates sponsored a resolution that was passed by their committee. The team was: Brian Kwon, Delegate of People‟s Republic of China Chris Fortin, Delegate of The
Kingdom of Tunisia Billy Chamnongphanij, Delegate of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Daniel Yu, Delegate of The Federal Republic of Niger Anthony Goffin, Delegate of The Swiss Confederation Joey Keophonexay, Delegate of Republic of Guatemala
Page 20
Sports News
VIENTIANE SCHOOLS SPORTS ASSOCIATION LEAGUES These leagues have had a successful start with the competition being exciting and the atmosphere at some of the games colourful and full of energy. From the VIS perspective results have been mixed and that has been indicative of the approach all of the schools have taken and shows everybody involved wants this venture to be a success. The strongest performer has been junior girlsâ€&#x; basketball who at the time of writing have not been defeated. Games will continue this week and then take a break over boat racing before resuming leading into the finals. Attached is the latest schedule, please note there are some alterations from those published earlier. Also please note the finals days for all three competitions.
MRISA Selection for the first MRISA teams has been very competitive and in all cases more students were trying out for teams than there were available places. This meant some people unfortunately missed selection, however they are to be congratulated for persevering and also for the mature way they accepted the news when they were informed they were not selected. On the positive side this is a reflection of the strength we now have in a variety of activities. Following are the names of those who were successful: We wish them safe travels and good luck and look forward to hearing about their successes upon their return.
Junior Basketball South Saigon International School
Senior Volleyball Northbridge International School Cambodia
Girls: Lisa Grages, Noni Flint, Nya Gnaegi, Antonia Lang, Hanna Muziol, Yu Bin Nam, Hannah Boyes, Antonia Fischer, Daria Laroy and Catherina ScanlonTana Boys: Josiah Marsh, Dario Castellano Fornelli, Chanon Buddharaksa, Victor Kuronen, Thomas Baek, David Eum, Samuel Yu, Sigve Veum Dalen, Praneer Shrestha and Zachary Wilson Coaches: Miss Anja (girls) assisted by Oda Karlsen and Rica Taylor, Mr Lucas (boys)
Girls: Alexandra Selbe, Rebekah Marsh, Rica Taylor, Oda Karlsen, Ju Hui Lee, Anna Miehlau, Nina Dereviziis, Silayan Bertomeu, Jessica Bouckeart and Jordan Conley Boys: Mikkel Karlsen, Max Terry, Kaleb Reiman, Eusteen-Em Barte, Emmanuel Jr Barte, Chris Fortin, Anthony Goffin, Danny Park, Julien Baillache and Brian Kwon Coaches: Miss Nikki (girls), Mr Nick and Mr Yoris (boys)
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Swimming SWIM SQUAD The selection process for the swim squad has been completed and those selected were: Ritco Oh, Jessica Fahrney, Nana Chamberlain, Avril Jammes, Annabella Reece, Fabian Hofmann, Benji Naarden, Matthew Fennema, Iestyn Rusinow , Georgia Boyes, Suriya Sisopha, Lianne Fahrney, Moritz Hofmann, Jisang Ryoo, John Oâ€&#x;Brien, Richie Oh, Ava Boyle, Hannah Boyes, Isabella Chapman, Maria Fennema, Vivie Chamberlain , Monica Fennema, Leila Vergana, Tiahna Boyle, Reilly Boyle, Huong Do Le, Daniel Yu, Soya Kanemaru The squad is now busily preparing for upcoming swim meets the first of these being our own invitational meet in early December. SWIM COMMITTEE In a related issue a swim committee has been formed to help guide the future direction of the swim team. The first meeting will be held shortly where executive positions will be allocated and planning for future events can begin. The members of the swim committee are: Orathai Hofmann, Moe Moe Fennema, Olwen Millgate, Jim Chamberlain, Mye Fahrney Angie Putt and Philip Graham (school representative) Philip Graham Activities Director
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Student Council News
Charity Gala
By Oda Karlsen, GRADE 12 STUDENT, STUDENT COUNCIL The 5th annual VIS Charity Gala was held on Saturday 20th of October at the Mercure Hotel. It was a glamorous evening decorated with a lovely combination of black, white and red. We celebrated the evening with approximately 140 guests who seemed pleased with the splendid entertainment provided. A live auction was held, with Jonas Grimm from Grade 12 from VIS as the auctioneer. Paintings, pictures, Lao silk, catered dinner for 4 and exclusive toiletries were some of the items that were auctioned off. The jazz band, P Bop was the main entertainment of the evening. The librarian at VIS, Mr. Philip Williams is the saxophonist in the band, and they had agreed to have a live performance which the Mrs. Olwen Millgate, Ms. Catherine O'Brien, Mrs. Kim audience were dancing to all evening and thoroughly Green, Mr. Adam Knight and Ms. Olivia Petraglia who made donations for the Charity Gala. Without all of enjoying. you, we would not have had this outstanding evening. The Charity Gala turned out to be a very This event has been one the most memorable successful event, and the Secondary Student Council made an exceptional profit that will all go towards our events for the Student Council as we know now that sister school, Ban Saphantong Tai. The Secondary we are capable of developing our sister school further Student Council would like to thank all the people and helping the younger generation in their education. who attended the Charity Gala and also those who It was truly a “Youth Educating Youth� event. sponsored us and also a thank you to Mr. Bobby Allen,
Counselor’s News Culture Shock
Settling in to your new surroundings by Nikki Hutchison, SCHOOL COUNSELOR After weeks and months of blindly struggling through a thousand different emotional states every hour, acceptance finally arrives like a warm bath at the end of a hard day. Acceptance does not necessarily entail total understanding – it‟s nearly impossible to ever claim complete understanding of another culture – but instead involves the realization that you do not have to “get” it all. You find what makes you happy and content in your new surroundings. Even though you cannot avoid culture shock entirely, there are things you can do to make it easier on yourself. The first step, of course is to recognize that what you are going through is culture shock. If you can come to terms with wild mood swings and sad times, and recognize they are part of the inevitable process, it is a lot easier to convince yourself (and children) that the bad feelings will pass. And they will. Secondly, it is crucial to learn the language as you go. Culture shock, at its simplest, is an inability to integrate, and the biggest barrier to that is generally language. The more able you are to laugh, cry and seek solace with the locals (and fellow expats), the easier it is to deal with ups and downs. Though it can be one of the toughest parts of relocating, culture shock is just as integral to the experience as food, people and scenery. By recognizing it for what it is and doing your best to cope, you can easily prevent culture shock from ruining an otherwise fantastic journey.
ACTIVE PARENTING OF TEENS - Limited Spaces Available When:
February: 6, 13, 20, 27 March: 6, 13 6:00-9:00 pm
Where:
Secondary Conference Room
Cost:
$30 which covers the cost of six sessions and an interactive parent workbook
Contact: Nikki Hutchison (nikkih@ourvis.com) to register
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“Settling into a new country is like getting used to a new pair of shoes. At first they pinch a little, but you like the way they look, so you carry on. The longer you have them, the more comfortable they become. Until one day without realizing it you reach a glorious plateau. Wearing those shoes is like wearing no shoes at all. The more scuffed they get, the more you love them and the more you can't imagine life without them.” Tahir Shah
Active Parenting of Teens by Nikki Hutchison, SCHOOL COUNSELOR The challenge of successfully ushering children through their teen years has always been among parents‟/guardians hardest -won achievements. But in today‟s society where children seem to become adults overnight, and where they often make decisions about drugs, sexuality, and violence before they understand the consequences, a parent‟s job is more important than ever. So how can you ensure that your teens develop the skills and character they need to not only survive but to thrive as they gain independence? You can create harmony and stability in your family while raising your teens to be responsible, courageous and prepared for independent life. Active Parenting of Teens, a video and discussion program by parenting expert Dr. Michael Popkin, will show you how. In six sessions packed with activities, discussion, real-world examples, and feedback, you‟ll learn a proven approach to parenting, plus indispensable techniques and insights for overcoming obstacles that will bring happiness and harmony into your home.
Community News
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Stepping Up: Parents and Friends
Chair
On Thursday 6 September 2012, the Parents and Friends of VIS met to elect new members to the committee of volunteers who play a major role in organising many of the events that happen throughout the school year. Grace Gnaegi stepped down from the role of P&F Chair and Meret Weyermann from he role of P&F Secretary. We thank them for all their hard work throughout their time on the committee. The following parents now make up the committee:
Although from Australia, Garry Riechert has lived and worked most of the last 22 years living in a number of countries, including Thailand, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Greece and Germany. Garry, his wife Sharon and children Caitlin and Cody moved to Laos in July of this year. Caitlin and Cody are in Grade 2 and EY4 at VIS. Garry is looking forward to supporting the work of all the P&F volunteers in the coming months.
We are from South Africa. After our studies my husband started working in the forestry industry with contracting companies while I started working with organisations focusing on animal welfare as well as a bit of veterinary work. During 2007 we moved to Zambia and we were there for two years. Since 2009 we were working in Tanzania until we moved to Vientiane in January 2012 where my husband accepted a position as technical support for Oji LPFL.
Secretary
We have 3 children named Regard, Mieja and Zianie. Two are in VIS (prep and EY3) and the youngest is at Tukata Kindergarten. We will be in Vientiane for the next 3 years.
My name is Michelle Brooks and I have two children who attend VIS. We are from Australia but have been lucky enough to live in and experience many different parts of the world. We have been in Vientiane since March this year and are really enjoying living in Laos. I am looking forward to assisting the VIS P&F this year in the role of Secretary.
Events Coordinator
Name: Jana Du Plessis
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Communications Coordinator
My name is Kerry Mahoney; I grew up in Boston and spent the twelve years I told people I was in my twenties living in San Francisco. I met my Australian husband in Ireland and shortly after that we moved to a small town in the outback of Western Australia where I learned a lot about poisonous snakes and spiders, mainly how to avoid them. We moved here in January from West Papua, Indonesia, where we lived on a mountain in a very remote mining town for five and a half years. I have three girls that you can usually hear before you see, two of them are at VIS and the youngest is at Alpha Montessori School. Being in a city again is great and I am really enjoying Vientiane and all it has to offer, except for the driving which frightens me on an almost daily basis. I helped out with the Fun Fair and a few other P&F events last year and, being fairly new, found that it was a wonderful way to met people and get to know the school. I am looking forward to all that we can accomplish in the next eight months, the fun we will have and the chance it will afford me to get to know everyone better.
I have two girls at VIS, Jess in Year 12 and Jayde in Year 7. The girls and I arrived in Vientiane from Busselton Western Australia in June 2011 to join my husband in permanent residency. I held the position of Treasurer last year for the P & F and have agreed to take on the role again! Often you will also see me around the school in assisting the Administration Department with various tasks and I am also the Scholastic Book Club Co-ordinator for VIS. For fun I enjoy travelling to many countries around Laos as I possibly can whilst I am so close to the rest of the world, as living in Australia we are a long way from anywhere!! Of course I also enjoy the many Spa Treatments available in Vientiane and lunching with friends! Being involved in the school through the P & F is a wonderful way to meet new people, get involved in projects that directly benefit all of our children, have fun with the kids at functions such as Halloween and the Fun Fair etc, and also knowing that you are directly assisting to better the lives of local children in Laos by also raising funds for our Sister School in which we sponsor by way of a fundraiser known as the Giving Tree which runs during December for Christmas. It is also a great boost for your own children at VIS to see that you are being involved with the school and are enjoying the time you have in Laos together! I look forward to meeting more parents throughout the year!
Treasurer
Hi! Iâ€&#x;m Michelle Bouckaert.
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Community News
VIS celebrates Peace One Day
Laura’s Reflection
on Peace One day
Library News
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Board News
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This year the Board of Trustees began the year by celebrating the completion of a major part of the Strategic Plan, when the new secondary wing was opened to the students. The Strategic Plan set out the direction of the school from 2009 - 2015, with the development of facilities suitable for a school of 550 students one of the main goals. parents
The Board of Trustees is made up of 8 elected who have four main responsibilities.
1. Hire and supervise the Director. 2. Set Strategic Direction 3. Ensure financial matters are managed responsibly 4. Develop policy The Trustees are all volunteers who give their time to ensure our school continues to reflect the needs of the parents and students who attend. Trustees are elected at the AGM, generally for a two year term. This year two Trustees were elected. Lucy O'Connor was re-elected to serve one year and Jessica Oyugi joined the Trustees for the first time with a two year term. Jessica replaced Marissa Braun who has moved to Bangkok. David Boyes will leave Vientiane in December and the Board has approved Grace Gnaegi to 'shadow' David on the Board until he leaves when she will be appointed to take his place as the next highest vote recipient in the election. This year, the Board will focus again on meeting the goals of the Strategic Plan with facility development a major area of work. Photographs: (Top left– The whole Board, with Marissa Braun , Left- Grace and Below, Jessica.)
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