As we bring the first quarter to a close, I am heartened as I walk the corridors of the FIS and see what is going on in classrooms, and reflect on curricula and programmes led by the work of our faculty and staff. They work on the deliberate inclusion of topics where students are challenged to examine different perspectives and intentions; different actions and different outcomes in order to be able to develop creative and sustainable options and potential solutions to these global challenges.
This recognition of micro-moments reminds us that
- our intentions need to be ethical and noble in nature
- our actions need to be positive and constructive, and
- our outcomes need to make a difference.
Some recent micro-moments included our Early Years students looking at their sense of place in the world, universe, and their own number scavenger hunts, Grade 1 “exit point” celebration, the day trips and experiential learning opportunities, and of course, the everyday interactions between students, and between students and teachers. While considerably more than micro-moments, the Student Council elections in Primary and Secondary School field trips, GISST tournament, Duke of Edinburgh International Awards are all a part of the opportunities and celebrations at the FIS: everyone working together in a positive, caring, and constructive way, making a difference no matter how small.
This all epitomizes the three elements of micro-moments listed above. Eleanor Roosevelt when speaking about human rights stated that “Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home — so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world. […] Unless these rights have meaning there, they have little meaning anywhere. Without concerted citizen action to uphold them close to home, we shall look in vain for progress in the larger world” (“Human Rights”).
This is the same at the FIS, we relish these micro-moments that are part of our deliberate and core aim to promote a whole child and inclusive approach, fostering student participation and encouraging new challenges. It is not only about academics but more, much more. There are many, many more such micro-moments and I am heartened by these opportunities to recognize and challenge unkindness, resolve conflict, and nurture kindness and empathy in daily interactions.
As we look forward to one holiday, it is also an opportunity to mention another. Save the date for the return of the FIS Weihnachtsmarkt!
When: Saturday, December 10
Time: 14:00 – 17:00
We are looking for parents or students interested in setting up a booth at the market.
Also looking for volunteers for the Advent Cafe and the Craft Corner — sign up here.
As we all look forward to a welcome break, I recommend that families conduct a rapid test with their children on Monday, November 7, before setting off for school. Please do see my Newsletter article from last week regarding our COVID measures. Thank you for your support in ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all.
And finally, I would like to wish all our families, students and colleagues a wonderful relaxing holiday. To those in our community celebrating Diwali, I wish you a wonderful celebration of lights.
Source: “Human Rights.” United Nations, Accessed 27 Oct. 2022.
