APRIL 2025 NEWSLETTER

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Message

the 

from

Head of School

Dear CIS Community,

As we move through another exciting time in our school year, I want to take a moment to thank each of you—students, parents, and staff—for your continued partnership and support. Every day, I see our core values—Care, Integrity, and Success—alive in the classrooms, in our conversations, and across our campus community.

We are united by a shared commitment to a learning environment where every individual is valued and empowered to thrive, as reflected in this latest newsletter edition.

Thank you for all you do to make CIS a place where students are prepared for the future and inspired to make a difference.

Warm regards,
Dr. Chandra McGowan
Head of School

STUDENT'S
ACHIEVEMENT

The power of unity, unwavering effort, and a glorious victory at the VISA tournament

With unwavering determination and a strong sense of teamwork, the U19 Wolves have triumphed at the VISA Tournament in Hoi An, proudly claiming the championship title!

No victory comes easy. Behind today’s glory are countless hours of relentless training and continuous tactical adjustments to enhance team cohesion. Every coordinated play, every pass, and every goal not only showcases individual skill but also serves as proof of a team that understands, trusts, and fights for one another.
Facing formidable opponents, the Wolves remained composed, executed sharp strategies, and demonstrated an unshakable spirit.

Beyond their passionate strides on the field, the exceptional leadership of the Wolves' coaches cannot go unnoticed. Their strategic vision, well-calculated adjustments, and inspiring guidance have maximized the team’s potential, seamlessly uniting individual talents into a cohesive and effective squad.

Glory continues: Wolves conquer the SISAC Championship

Fresh off their victory at the VISA Tournament, the U19 Wolves football team has once again demonstrated their strength, resilience, and team spirit by claiming the title at the Saigon International Schools Sports Conference (SISAC) Football Championship. Congratulations to the team and Coach Jouko for this well-deserved triumph!

This football season has been an unforgettable journey, with the Wolves securing two championship titles (VISA & SISAC). These victories stand as a testament to the team's unwavering dedication, outstanding tactics, and fearless fighting spirit.

Match after match, the Wolves have showcased their adaptability, game control, and unwavering confidence against every opponent. The unity of these "Warriors" has been the key to their breakthroughs and continued success. Behind these remarkable performances is the exceptional leadership of Coach Jouko, whose passion and expertise have ignited the team’s determination and drive.

Ambitions & Courage – Wolves confidently opening the doors to the future

Early admission offers serve as a well-deserved crown for CIS students—young individuals who carry great ambitions, ready to venture out and constantly challenge themselves. These golden tickets from prestigious universities affirm the position of CIS students on the global education map. Ha My is one of the exemplary figures with a "portfolio" of offers from renowned universities:

- Michigan State University (MSU) – One of the leading research universities in the U.S., founded in 1855, renowned for its - outstanding academic programs and strong emphasis on practical education.
- Clark University – A university with a long-standing research tradition, founded in 1887, where creative minds thrive in a dynamic learning environment.
- Soka University of America – A relatively young liberal arts university, founded in 2001, recognized for its comprehensive educational philosophy, fostering critical thinking and social responsibility.

Accompanying My's aspirations are prestigious scholarships, totaling over $400,000 in value.

This milestone marks My’s journey of growth—not only in knowledge but also in critical thinking and skills. It also represents a significant step in her pursuit of excellence in the world of science and research.

Unleashing potential – Breaking boundaries at the EQUEST Champion Series 2024–2025

Sports are a journey of self-conquest—a space where athletes learn the values of discipline, perseverance, and true sportsmanship. At the EQuest Champion Series 2024–2025, the Wolves teams brought home a shower of impressive achievements across various sports, with passionate participation from students from Primary to High School, including:
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- Football: 3 First Place team awards; 9 Outstanding Individual Awards across key categories: Top Scorer, Best Player, Best Goalkeeper, and Dedicated Coach
️- Badminton: 4 First Place; 8 Second Place; 5 Third Place
️- Table Tennis: 2 First Place; 1 Second Place; 1 Third Place
️- Basketball: 1 Second Place; 1 Third Place.

From early steps on the court to spectacular scoring moments, each match reflected a journey of relentless training in pursuit of excellence. More than just a competition, the tournament was also a valuable opportunity for Wolves members to connect, learn, and develop their skills alongside other young talents from schools across the EQuest Education Group.
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Their spirited participation and love for sports speak volumes about a dynamic, confident generation—global citizens ready to take on any challenge.

CIS SHINE: CIS Students Step into the World through the Lens of Mathematics at IMC

From numbers to thought-provoking problems, 17 CIS students from Grades 2 to 11 embarked on a memorable journey at the IMC Global Round in Bangkok, Thailand. The age range among participants created a uniquely diverse team, as each contestant brought a distinct perspective to mathematical thinking — from the innocent curiosity of younger students to the sharp analytical minds of their older peers.

With 2 Silver Medals, 7 Bronze Medals, and 8 Honorable Mentions, our students not only challenged themselves but also connected with international friends through a shared language “Logic”. Each math problem opened a door to new ways of understanding the world—reflecting cultural and academic diversity from around the globe. Beyond the proud collection of medals, the true reward lay in the moments of discovery and the enriched experiences students gained in exploring the world of numbers.

Kickstarting a journey of excellence with shining Math medals

Participating in three prestigious math competitions: the Singapore and Asian Schools Math Olympiad 2024 (SASMO), the Vietnam Traditional Math Olympiad (VTMO), and the International Mathematics Contest 2024 (IMC) — Minh Phu shone brightly with an impressive collection of one Gold Medal and two Silver Medals. As a Grade 4 student at CIS, he has already marked his promising academic journey with tireless effort and an admirable spirit of intellectual pursuit.

For a primary school student, these achievements are not only a source of pride but also a powerful motivator, opening up opportunities for his potential to be further nurtured and developed in the years ahead. Through these experiences, Phu is learning that every moment of perseverance, every challenge he overcame when first tackling tricky math problems, has been truly worthwhile.

Breakthrough thinking opens pathways to success for CIS students at international competitions

Every challenge allows Vu Phong to sharpen his skills, broaden his understanding, and affirm his identity as a lifelong learner. His independent thinking and a strong sense of personal growth have been key factors in his continued success.

At the World Scholar’s Cup Global Round in Bangkok, Phong’s sharp analytical thinking and solid academic foundation helped him achieve remarkable results, including:

- Team Awards: 8th Place Junior Team Cup, along with multiple Gold and Silver Medals across various categories.
- Individual Awards: 7th Place Junior Scholar Cup and 8th Place Junior Challenge Scholar Cup — the highest ranking achieved by a scholar from Vietnam — along with numerous Gold and Silver Medals in Debate, Writing, Science & Technology, Literature, Art & Music, Social Studies, Special Area, and History.

In addition to the World Scholar’s Cup, Phong has also demonstrated his academic excellence at several international science competitions:

- Bronze Medal – STEMCO Biology (Winter)
- Bronze Medal – Copernicus Olympiad Science
- Bronze Medal – Asian Science & Mathematics Olympiad (Science)

For Phong, these victories go beyond accolades — each experience is a chance to grow, think critically, and elevate his capabilities. This is the true spirit of a future global citizen: someone who actively learns, adapts, and rises to every challenge.

The courage of a 13-year-old CIS student at the Vietnam Middle School Debating Championship

At the Vietnam Middle School Debating Championship (VMDC 2024), CIS Grade 7 student Song Thu delivered an impressive performance, advancing to the Semi-Finals of the Open Division and leaving her mark among many talented and determined teams.

Participating in debate competitions during secondary school offers students valuable opportunities to sharpen their critical thinking, enhance their public speaking skills, and cultivate teamwork. At an age when personality and personal viewpoints are beginning to take shape, learning public speaking lays the foundation for students to grow into more proactive, self-assured, and mature individuals. This competition also provided a vibrant platform for young CIS talents to apply their knowledge, test their abilities, and further enrich what they have learned at school.

When a Global Mindset Becomes Personal Strength
CIS Student Becomes the #1 Debater in Southeast Asia

At the Tournament of Champions at Yale University (TOC) — the global final round of the World Scholar’s Cup — CIS student Hoàng Bách earned a spot in the Top 4, was named the #1 Debater in Southeast Asia, and ranked #15 globally. He also placed 9th in the Academic Decathlon, a rigorous category that demands in-depth academic knowledge and multidimensional thinking.

Competing on a global stage like the TOC requires far more than language proficiency. It calls for independent thinking, a sharp awareness of global issues, and the courage to express one’s perspective with clarity and conviction. Supporting CIS students as they step confidently into the international arena is a solid foundation of knowledge and skills nurtured daily in CIS’s multicultural environment.

Hoàng Bách’s achievements mark a proud milestone in his academic journey — a vivid testament to his global vision, leadership spirit, and unwavering resilience — qualities that embody the essence of a future global citizen.

CIS student sharpens his character through prestigious medals

The early cultivation of critical thinking, swift reflexes, and a problem-solving spirit lights the path for students as they journey steadily through the vast world of knowledge and growth. At the Grade 5 level, participating in an international competition like the 'Singapore Math Challenge 2024 (SMC)' is a major challenge. However, Đức Thành not only overcame this challenge but also achieved outstanding results, earning the Gold Medal and the Exemplary Award (an honor given to students with particularly exceptional achievements).

Behind these prestigious awards lies focus, composure, and positive discipline — qualities CIS students develop through their dedicated efforts. Each competition not only nurtures academic abilities but also provides an opportunity for students like Đức Thành to refine their character uniquely.

HIGHLIGHT
ACTIVITIES

"OneTake" makes waves at the "Battle of the Bands" music stage

Representing CIS & SSV, at the city round of the "Battle of the Bands" competition, "OneTake" delivered an electrifying performance that lit up the stage with razor-sharp guitar riffs and powerful vocals. The band left a lasting impression with their confidence, resilience, and spirit of pushing boundaries.

This is just the opening chapter in OneTake's promising musical journey. The melodies to come are bound to resonate even further, inspiring more hearts along the way. Let’s continue to support and cheer for "OneTake", as their musical story is sure to unfold with many more incredible moments!

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As the gentle hues of spring make way for the vibrant sunshine of summer, “Spring Reminiscence 2025” emerged like a harmonious symphony – a celebration of cultural connections, community bonds, and the sharing of meaningful values.

Led by the GIN (Global Issue Network) Student Council, every corner of the event carried its own unique story, color, and emotion. From food stalls rich in cultural flavors, inspiring art exhibitions brimming with creativity, to the Costume Runway – where traditional outfits from around the world were proudly showcased, the event was a tapestry of diversity and pride.

But beyond its vibrant exterior, “Spring Reminiscence” held a deeper purpose. All proceeds from the fundraising activities were donated to charitable organizations – a heartfelt way for CIS to spread kindness and bring positive change to the community. 

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Spring Reminiscence: Where cultures connect and values flourish

Celebrating heritage, connecting cultures

In celebration of Hung Kings’ Memorial Day, CIS students have beautifully captured the essence of Vietnamese culture through creative posters showcased in their classroom hallways. These thoughtful displays go beyond simply exploring the nation’s roots, they create meaningful connections between traditions and the diverse identities thriving within an international environment.

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Professional Development Day - Striving for growth, embracing innovation

Held regularly with a focus on continuous improvement, Professional Development Day (PD Day) at CIS offers a valuable opportunity for teachers to come together, learn, share, and explore innovative teaching approaches. More than just enhancing professional skills, each session becomes a powerful tool, empowering educators to inspire and create meaningful, enriching learning experiences for their students.

This is how CIS fosters a culture of constant progress and innovation, elevating the quality of education and reaching new heights every day.

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Safety is not just a skill; it's a responsibility

“Safety doesn’t happen by chance, it’s the result of preparation, accountability, and teamwork.”

With this mindset, the teachers and staff at CIS are always ready and committed to participating in regular Fire Safety Training sessions. From mastering seemingly simple tasks like properly handling a fire extinguisher to developing critical emergency response skills, every lesson is delivered and practiced with unwavering focus and dedication.

These hands-on training moments not only build individual confidence but also strengthen the collective spirit of the team, united by a shared mission: ensuring the safety of the entire CIS community.

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When language comes to life through emotion and experience

A French lesson that starts with “Stage lights”? That’s exactly how our 8th graders kicked off their class - by performing a short play about a family’s journey across countries: from the bustling city of Denver, USA, to the romantic charm of Paris, and finally to Geneva, Switzerland.

By turning the lesson into a theatrical performance, our students were able to use French in real-life scenarios, applying the language in meaningful, context-rich situations. This approach didn’t just bring the language to life, it made it relatable and relevant to their world. Even more importantly, it gave our students the chance to dive deeper into the culture, people, and lifestyles in each destination they “visited” through the story. 

For international students at CIS, French is offered as a core second language alongside English. Bilingual thinking is a key focus - not just to help students communicate more confidently, but also to give them a head start in a globalized world, where every new language is a doorway to new opportunities.

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Welcoming the Choir from Canada: Spreading harmony through every note

At CIS, art is not confined to classroom lessons or club activities - it weaves its way into everyday school life. The recent visit from the choir “Chorale du Centre d’excellence artistique de l’Ontario” from Canada was a testament to this, playing a vital role in fostering artistic appreciation and creative thinking among our students.

Once again, the melodious sounds filled the Niagara Hall, delivering a profoundly moving concert experience. For the members of the ‘Junior Choir’ Club of CIS, it was an invaluable opportunity to observe a professional choir in action, how they perform, collaborate, and come together to create a harmonious masterpiece.

Ultimately, what lingers is not just the music, but the spirit of daring to express, daring to be passionate, and creating something beautiful together—a reflection of how art is quietly nurtured every single day at CIS.

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Mini conference and Movie day 2025: Exploring healthcare to understand yourself

Co-hosted by Vietnam HOSA and the CIS HOSA Club, the “Mini Conference & Movie Day 2025” wasn’t just another event about the healthcare field — it was an open invitation for high school students to seriously reflect on what lies ahead when choosing a career in medicine and health sciences. The event also fostered a broader sense of community, welcoming students from various international schools across the Vietnam HOSA network to learn, connect, and explore new perspectives together.

From research presentations and group discussions to interactive forums, students took on the role of active learners - not only gaining insights into the field, but also discovering more about their own interests and strengths. A highlight of the day was a session led by Dr. Ita Duron, an international medical education expert, who shared timely perspectives on how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we think about and deliver healthcare.

But perhaps the most valuable takeaway wasn’t a single fact or presentation — it was the mindset the event encouraged: that to truly understand a career path, you sometimes have to step outside the classroom, ask bold questions, immerse yourself in real experiences, and begin to picture your place in that world.

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3 days & 2 nights, and a thousand lessons beneath the forest canopy

Stepping out of the classroom and into the heart of nature, CIS Grade 7 & 8 students embarked on an immersive geography adventure at Madagui Forest City (Lam Dong). Their lessons came to life through the roar of Elephant Waterfall, winding trails through lush rainforest, and the thrill of ziplining through the trees.

As young geographers, our students took on every challenge with curiosity and determination — exploring landforms, freshwater systems, human settlements, land use, and environmental impact through real-world observation and hands-on learning.

But this trip was more than just an outdoor lesson — it was a journey of connection. Bonds were strengthened through team games, collaboration was tested and built through each challenge, and a deeper appreciation for nature quietly grew with every step into the wild.

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'University Visits' at CIS – Real Conversations, Real Guidance, Real Possibilities

At CIS, the journey toward university begins not with paperwork or test prep—but with real-world exposure and personal connections, right on our campus. Through our ongoing University Visits series, students have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with admissions representatives from a global network of partner universities spanning the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, Singapore, Switzerland, and beyond.

These visits go far beyond brochures and presentations. They are meaningful touchpoints that give students with insight into academic programs, scholarships and admissions processes—while also helping them explore options aligned with their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations.

Organized consistently throughout the school year and backed by our dedicated University & Career Guidance Team, the University Visits is not just informative—it is an integral part of our tailored, hands-on approach to helping every student confidently map out their future path.

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Education Expo 2025: An Immersive Exploration of Education

Driven by a commitment to staying ahead of educational trends and expanding perspectives on the future of learning, Education Expo: Mapping the Future provided parents with a profound exploration through in-depth insights from leading experts on pivotal topics such as artificial intelligence, talent cultivation, and strategic preparation for overseas education.

The event featured an esteemed lineup of speakers, including PhD Candidate Dr. Luong Dung Nhan, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thanh Nam, and M.A. Bui Ngoc Bao Chau, alongside distinguished coaches from the school system such as Grandmaster Tu Hoang Thong (chess), Ngo Bao Nghi (golf), and Nguyen Thi Anh Vien (swimming). Their diverse expertise illuminated the powerful intersection of education, sports, and personal development.

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CONTACT INFORMATION

Address: No 7, Street 23, Tan Phu Ward, District 7, HCMC
Email: enquiry@cis.edu.vn
Phone 1: 1900 255 636
Phone 2: 0916 95 95 95