It is a warm and bright September morning, and the air at CTBC International Academy is filled with joyous reunions, the smell of new books, and the words of parents and children excited for the new school year. Soon, students are brought to the center of their academic life—their homerooms—where they will be surrounded by passionate teachers and dedicated administrators committed to providing them with the highest tier of education.
Questions will be asked, and answers will be given, but there is so much more to the process of inspiring young minds to reach their highest potential. It is a combination of big discussions and small moments that leave an indelible impact on the trajectory of our students’ lives. Yes, roughly half the countries in the world have English as an official language. Yes, most of the financial centers of the world conduct business in English. Yes, 10 out of the top 10 universities in the world are located in English-speaking countries, with English proficiency required for admission. But as Socrates said, “Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel.”
A classroom is simply an empty space until the educator transforms it into a place of learning. This becomes apparent when we peek into one of CTBC International Academy’s many classes, even on the first day. Mr. Sims’s literature students are introduced to writers such as Jules Verne through 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea , leaving them pondering the mysteries of life yet to be unraveled.
In another classroom, Mr. Sanchez’s students are being introduced to the scientific process as a way to examine the world.
Down the hall, we find:
Mr. Benjamin’s Mathematics class, where he demonstrates the relationship between integers.
Mr. Smith’s Social Studies upperclassmen holding a discussion about the social frameworks of various cultures.
Nearby, Ms. Yuki’s Chinese class, where students are learning to become fluent in both languages.
Suddenly, the bell rings, and students file out for a delicious and nutritious lunch catered by on-site staff.
Naptime follows shortly, and the rest of the day resumes with offerings from a diverse international curriculum. Some students are even taking golf classes. Yet, despite the presence of our teachers, none of this would be possible without the administration behind us—a team of professional and steadfast individuals who, though sometimes unseen, ensure the school runs smoothly. Our principal, Karen, and our stupendous staff, Gloria and Tim, are essential to our success.
The afternoon arrives, and we come to snack time-a moment relished by everyone, from 1st graders to the teachers and administrative staff mentioned above. Only one class remains before the end of the day, after which some children will go home, while many will participate in a variety of extracurricular activities ranging from additional English classes to Model UN. We believe that the development of each individual student should be well -rounded, international, and diverse. It may be the first day of the year, but we are already striving to help our students excel. Below are a few extra photos of other teachers and administrators.