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VIS Quarterly Online Magazine
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“
Dragon Tales The Vientiane International School Monthly Magazine August - October 2012 | Issue 10
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. . Ms Nikki talks about Culture Shock when moving to a new country, page 23
Director‟s Notes
page 1
Primary News
page 2
Secondary News
page 8
Sports News
page 20
Peace One Day
page 26
Youth Educating Youth page 15
Connecting through Sports page 20
”
Green Fingers and Friendship Primary students instigate a community garden
project
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 Parents and Friends take on another year of fun
and fundraising
Áskorun hrífur nemendur og un-
dirbýr þá fyrir lífið framundan.
ความทาทาย แรงบนดาลใจ และการเตรยมพรอมส าหรบผใฝรทใครคน ควาในวถแหงชวต
Paghahamon, Pagpupukaw, at Paghahan-
da sa mga Mag-aaral para sa Buhay
Mencabar, Menginspirasi dan Me-
nyediakan Pembelajaran Sepanjang
Hayat
uitdagend, inspirerend, en voorberei-
dend tot een levenlang leren
चनौती को सामना गनन उतपरररत गद (ररणा ददद ) जीवन जजउन कऱाससकन सिकषाथॉऱाइ तयार पानI
Utmanande, inspirerande och
förbereder lärande för livet
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
VIS MISSION STATEMENT
Can’t see your language? Please send in your translations to
rachaelp@vislao.com
Utfordrende, inspirerende og en
forberedelse til resten av livet
ທາທາຊ, ນບນານໃຈ ແລະ ກະກຽມ ນກຮຽນເຂາສ ຉວຌວຈງ
Stawianie wyzwań, inspirowanie i przygotowywanie uczniow do życia
Herausforderung, Inspriration und
Vorbereitung fuer ein lebenslanges
Lernen
Director’s Notes Dear VIS Community,
Dragon Tales is a collection of the action within the school over the past quarter. It brings together
about fifty days‟ worth of learning and experiences to share. You will find that there has been plenty
of action in this first quarter.
For those new to the school, you will note that we have a dragon theme within our
communications, with the Dragon Tales, Dragon‟s Flame and Dragon's Roar. Our Dragons (sporting
teams) feature within this publication as well. You can expect plenty of dragon action through the
year as physical action is an important part of our school.
The Arts are an essential part of life in our school and I am very pleased that we began the year
opening our new facility which greatly expanded the visual and performing arts spaces. There is
wonderful art created in the school each week, and we are fortunate that our campus has some
engaging and interesting public art and performance.
Service to the community is a part of the VIS ethos. We are fortunate that so many of our students
show their commitment to service through their involvement in action groups that reach out to the
Lao community. This feature of our school provides great benefits to our host country and our own
children. I trust that you will enjoy flipping through the digital pages that follow. We have made a conscious
decision to move to an electronic format so that your family can share the life of your child with
family and friends spread across the world. We know that living in Lao PDR and attending VIS holds
many wonderful moments and hope that you enjoy sharing these widely.
Please enjoy this issue of Dragon Tales.
Best wishes,
Page 1
Primary News
Page 2
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
Student
Reflections
Here is what some
of the students
think about the
community garden
I really enjoyed it because we had
to be thinkers and
communicators, and we also made
friends. I was surprised because
my buddies were enthusiastic to
communicate with us. – Bob
Bon Marisayer, M
s Noy,
Ms Thip, M
r Tui
I was surprised about 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 understand each other even though we speak different lan-guages. - Sara
Mr an
d M
rs Lally
Ms. O
lwen M
illgate
Meagan
Bald
win
Tone Brandsate
r,
Tami Aoki ,
Thuy Luong
At fi
rst,
I was
ner
vous
tha
t I w
ouldn’
t
mak
e a
good
firs
t im
pres
sion, b
ut n
ow
that
I’ve
got
to k
now m
y gr
oup
I’ve
star
ted
feeling
mor
e co
mfo
rtab
le a
nd
conf
iden
t, an
d no
w think
of o
ur S
ister
Scho
ol b
uddies
as friend
s. - Ju
lia
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.
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
Aluminum foil on top of a wire frame Mannequins
Page 5
Connecting their figures
together…
Grade 3J exhibiting their work
Sculpture
C O N N E C T I O N
IBPYP Field Trips
Page 6
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
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.
Perecentage of Student Acheivement (1 – 7) for
the Personal Project 2010 - 2012
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
Page 9
The secondary school‟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
Page 10
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.
Sophie Ryder
„sitting 2007‟
artscouncil.org.uk
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.
Identify:
Transformation
Hopes and Fears
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
“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
Page 11
Language A English
Page 12
Alisha‟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
Page 13
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 Simon‟s, Nunu‟s, and Rachel's work http://slowboat.teamworkz.asia/category/laos/
Service
Page 14
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.
Community and Service Assembly by Claire Butler-Walker
HUMANITIES TEACHER
Click on the picture above to watch the
video …
VIS students talk about their community and
service
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 Parent-Teacher interviews. Raising awareness about HIV/AIDS in the community.
Page 15
Students Reflections On Youth Educating Youth
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 student‟s teacher) with
the student. I think that it will be really challenging.
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.
IBDP News
Page 16
Year % IB
Diplomas
Awarded
at VIS
%IB
Diplomas
Awarded
Globally
% IB
Bilingual
Diplomas
Awarded at
VIS
% IB
Bilingual
Diplomas
Awarded
Globally
Total IBDP
points VIS
candidate average
Total
IBDP
points
Global Average
Mean
Grade
VIS
Mean
Grade
Global
May
2012
71.42 78.16 29 Not yet
available
30 29.83 4.87 4.67
Page 17
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
Page 18
Click on the
icon to see the
student’s Power
Point
Presentation
Theory Of
Knowledge
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
Page 19
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 Power-
Point 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
Sports News
Page 20
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 girls‟
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
Girls: Lisa Grages, Noni Flint, Nya Gnaegi, Antonia
Lang, Hanna Muziol, Yu Bin Nam, Hannah Boyes,
Antonia Fischer, Daria Laroy and Catherina Scanlon-
Tana
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)
Senior Volleyball Northbridge International School Cambodia
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)
Page 21
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 O‟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
Swimming
Student Council News
Page 22
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
audience were dancing to all evening and thoroughly
enjoying.
The Charity Gala turned out to be a very
successful event, and the Secondary Student Council
made an exceptional profit that will all go towards our
sister school, Ban Saphantong Tai. The Secondary
Student Council would like to thank all the people
who attended the Charity Gala and also those who
sponsored us and also a thank you to Mr. Bobby Allen,
Mrs. Olwen Millgate, Ms. Catherine O'Brien, Mrs. Kim
Green, Mr. Adam Knight and Ms. Olivia Petraglia who
made donations for the Charity Gala. Without all of
you, we would not have had this outstanding evening.
This event has been one the most memorable
events for the Student Council as we know now that
we are capable of developing our sister school further
and helping the younger generation in their education.
It was truly a “Youth Educating Youth” event.
Charity Gala
By Oda Karlsen, GRADE 12 STUDENT, STUDENT COUNCIL
Counselor’s News
Page 23
“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
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.
Culture Shock
Settling in to your new surroundings 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.
Active Parenting of Teens
by Nikki Hutchison,
SCHOOL COUNSELOR
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
Community News
Page 24
Stepping Up: Parents and Friends
Name: Jana Du Plessis
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.
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.
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.
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:
Cha
ir
Secr
etar
y E
vents C
oordinator
Page 25
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.
Hi! I‟m Michelle Bouckaert.
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!
Com
mun
icat
ions
C
oord
inat
or
Treasurer
Community News
Page 26
VIS celebrates Peace One Day
Laura’s Reflection
on Peace One day
Library News
Page 27
Board News 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
s t u d e n t s o n e o f t h e m a i n g o a l s .
The Board of Trustees is made up of 8 elected
parents 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.)
Page 28
Thank you
to e
veryone
who cont
ributed
to this
edition
of Drago
n Tales.
If you
would li
ke to su
bmit
an arti
cle for
the next
issue plea
se make
sure you
do so b
y Wednes
day 5 De
cember.
If
you are
a student
or a memb
er of
the
teaching
staff p
lease su
bmit you
r articl
e to
Mr Jon (
Primary)
or Ms K
im (Seco
ndary).
Other memb
ers of
staff or
members
of the
communit
y should
submit
their arti
cles to
Ms Racha
el.
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