Reflecting on the year

In what seems like the blink of any eye, the 2014-15 school year has come to a close.

It would be hard to include all of the amazing things that have taken place over the course of the year, but I think this video does a good job of capturing some of the highlights.

As I walked from my parking place at the Primary School this morning, down through the woods and across the bridge, I had a few quiet moments to reflect on what a wonderful year it’s been.

The entrance of the Primary School reminded me of the wide-eyed looks on the faces of our youngest learners, some of whom were entering school for the first time.

My walk past the air domes reminded me that at this same time last year, our building project was little more than a set of blueprints and a massive hole in the ground.

As I crossed over the bridge, our new biotope – lush with foliage and other forms of life – reminded me of the unique new learning opportunities the space has created for students in Primary all the way up to our Upper School.

The sports pitch helped me recall crisp fall soccer games, a winter rugby match and springtime baseball and softball players batting for the win.

And of course it’s hard not to notice our new Sports and Learning Center, which has taken shape over the last six months. The time-lapse video here captures one major part of the construction – the installation of 22 enormous wooden beams for the roof.

While all of these spaces are important in the make-up of our campus, what really makes this school special is the people.

I feel so fortunate to be surrounded by such talented teachers, energetic and inquisitive students, and supportive parents, and thank each and every one of you for your contributions in making our community an incredible one.

For those of you who are moving on to new adventures in other parts of the world, I wish you nothing but the best. Please do stay in touch with your FIS family.

For those who are returning in the fall, I look forward to welcoming you back to campus in August.

And for everyone, I wish you an enjoyable summer break with friends and family.