Dear Parents,
The school year 2009/10 is nearly over, and we look back with some sadness and some pride. Sad is the loss of our dear colleague Malcolm Davies whose legacy is huge and a challenge to all in the field of Music at the school. Sad and happy at the same time is that we see 150 students leaving ISH, most of them being the Y13 IB DP graduates, but also children who have to move on to new countries with their parents. All of them, we are convinced, go well prepared for their next stage in life. They come from a school which – and here comes something we are proud of – has been accredited by the Council of International Schools this spring, thus joining a group of quality schools located all over the world. However, we cannot stand still here, and the preparations for the next Strategic plan are nearly completed – to be shared with you upon return from the summer holidays. Our main task is to provide school places for the international community of The Hague. As this community is growing, we have to do our utmost to serve these needs. With a growth rate of over 10%, we needed to add four porta-cabin classes (surprisingly pleasing to the eye) on the Teacher parking lot. As they will be fully equipped with Smart boards and all other digital equipment, they are on par with the other classrooms we have. Let me take this opportunity to thank you all for your continuous support of the ISH: the Parents’ Association and in particular the Board and the parting Chair, Leen Maes, who gave her energy, creativity and time freely. Then all members of the MR (Participation council), consisting of students, parents and teachers – they have a difficult (legal) role to play, and always have the best for the school in mind. Finally, the teachers, who do a great job providing international style and quality education within the sometimes tight framework of Dutch state regulations. They show every day that being an educator is not a nine-to-five job. All deserve a restful holiday. Y12 though will have to get through their Extended essay, and Y10 must make good progress with their Personal project. Both groups are entering a crucial year, decisive for their academic future. Everybody still needs to have enough rest and sleep, watch the Netherlands winning the World Cup (as Austria is not in it…), read a book or two, even talk (in some cases) with the family and come back refreshed on the 25th (Y7,8,12 plus all new students) or 26th (all students) of August to a new school year with new challenges – and a lot of fun too.
Best wishes,
Peter Kotrc |
