Author: Edward Joseph Goldstein,

This past weekend SSIS celebrated International Day. It was a lively celebration of diversity and unity, bringing together students, families, and staff to explore different cultures, cuisines, and traditions; The event not only boosted community bonding and cultural awareness but also instilled pride and a sense of belonging by showcasing global customs in a fun, engaging way. Thank you to the PTA and the many volunteers that made food or shared traditions from their home countries. This week PD continues with EKC for our 1st – 5th grades. Please support your colleagues as they engage in very important professional development...

Congratulations, Grade 5, on a fantastic Week Without Walls experience! This trip was a powerful reminder of just how much can be accomplished in such a short time. Being able to join G5 on this journey reinforced the importance of the learning experiences we create and why they are so essential to our work. The time and effort we invest in these opportunities are more than just a launchpad for learning—they have the potential to ignite a lifelong passion for exploration and discovery. These moments can shape a student’s confidence, curiosity, and sense of adventure in ways that extend far...

As we move through February, our school continues to flourish both inside and outside the classroom. This past week, our Grade 4 students returned from their Week Without Walls experience, full of stories, discoveries, and newfound confidence. Whether it was collaborating, or simply learning to live alongside their peers for a few days, they blossomed in ways that only happen when we step outside our comfort zones. Now, it’s Grade 5’s turn! As they prepare for their own adventure this week, the excitement is building. There’s something special about these experiences—the independence, the teamwork, and the memories that last long...

This week, we celebrate Kindness Week, a time to recognize the impact of small gestures and intentional acts that create a culture of care and respect. Kindness isn’t just a theme for the week—it’s something we cultivate daily. Whether it’s through a smile, a helping hand, or words of encouragement, these moments matter. They shape our relationships, strengthen our community, and help every student feel seen, valued, and supported. Throughout the week, students will engage in activities that encourage them to notice kindness, practice kindness, and celebrate kindness. As educators, we have the privilege of modeling this, creating learning spaces...

Welcome back! We hope your Tet holiday was filled with rest, joy, and special moments with family and friends. As we enter the Year of the Snake, let’s embrace its wisdom, adaptability, and quiet strength—qualities that will guide us through the next part of our journey together. Our classrooms are ready to bloom again with curiosity, laughter, and learning. This is a wonderful time to refocus, reconnect, and reestablish routines that help our students thrive. Just like the snake sheds its skin for renewal, let’s also embrace fresh beginnings and new opportunities for growth during semester 2. We can’t wait...

As we reflect on last week, I am filled with gratitude for the impactful work accomplished during our IFSEL sessions. Together, we deepened our understanding of how to build meaningful connections, and support every learner’s well-being. This work strengthens the foundation of our school community, ensuring our students thrive both academically and emotionally. We have very clear next steps for our work around wellbeing and social/emotional learning and I can’t wait to get going. This week, the celebration continues with Sports Days across all grade levels. Each day brings opportunities for our students to showcase teamwork, perseverance, and joy as...

As we settle back into ourroutines, we’re excited to welcome the team from the Institute for Social and Emotional Learning (IFSEL) to work with us Wednesday – Friday. Their training promises to enrich our understanding of social and emotional practices, helping us build stronger relationships with our students and one another. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our focus on creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Together, we’ll explore strategies that strengthen emotional awareness, foster meaningful connections, and empower every member of our community to thrive. Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment to growing as educators. Let’s embrace...

Welcome back! I hope your winter break was filled with rest, joy, and moments of rejuvenation. As we step into the new year, I’m excited about the opportunities and possibilities ahead for all of us. . Over the break, our students and us had time to rest and recharge. Now we are all ready to continue to provide the care and support they need to thrive. Just as a garden flourishes with attention and dedication, so do our students when we cultivate a positive, nurturing environment. As we dive into 2025, let’s embrace this fresh start as a symbol of...

And just like that, the first semester has come to an end. Over these next three days, take a moment to reflect on the incredible progress your students have made. Consider the challenges you and your students have faced and overcome, and take pride in the achievements you’ve all shared. As educators, every step forward is a victory, and every obstacle conquered highlights your dedication and skill. Celebrate not just the academic growth of your students but also the social and emotional milestones they’ve reached under your guidance. This is also a time to recognize and appreciate yourself. Acknowledge the...

As we welcome the start of December, it’s incredible to think that we have only 13 days left before our holiday break. This time of year always brings a unique blend of excitement and reflection. It’s a chance to look back at our achievements and the progress each student has made. These final weeks are an opportunity to deepen our impact, reinforcing the learning and growth we’ve nurtured throughout the term. Let’s continue to engage our students with the same passion and dedication that has marked our year so far. As we count down to the break, let’s make every...