Andrew Weiser
andreww@isb.ac.th
All
Grade 9
Our Freshman are gradually getting back into the swing of school and establishing routines again. Getting off to a good start is very important to set a good tone for the semester. Starting next week myself and our two interns Ms. Brelsford and Ms. Perkins will start to meet with students to review first semester progress.
From time to time students are going to need extra help or clarification in a subject. Students are encouraged first to see their teacher after school. Flex time is 2:10 – 3:05 and nearly all teachers are in their rooms readily available to assist students with their queries. Please encourage your son / daughter to take advantage of this time if they are having difficulties in a subject. In addition, we have a peer tutoring program where students might be able to get individualized assistance from a peer who has volunteered their services. Students should drop by to see Mr. Callahan in the counseling office if they are interested in either getting help or helping others. Lastly, we do have a list of outside tutors which is vetted through our administrative office. If a student needs tutorial beyond the above fore mentioned then our HS front office can be contacted for the most up to date version of tutors offering their services.
Grade 10
The Sophomore Seminar on January 28th had the 10th graders start the process of choosing their courses for next year and beyond. We took the students’ data from their previous sophomore seminars and encouraged students to use the information about what they like and what they are good at, to think about what they’d like to study in the coming years. We explained the IB Diploma Program, a program with IB Certificates, and graduation requirements, to help students get a good idea of what their schedules and programs will look like in the coming two years. The students kept a copy of their choices. Take a look with them; at this point it is a draft schedule – they still have over a month before they will actually register for their 11th grade classes. If you have any questions about the process or program, don’t hesitate to contact your son or daughter’s counselor.
Grade 11
Last Friday, January 22 was the deadline given to students to submit their Self-Recommendations and Parent Perspective forms. If these items have not yet been completed and submitted, please do so. Also, your son/daughter should be communicating with you about when is the best day and time to schedule the Junior Conference with his/her counselor to discuss their post-secondary education process.
Also, college/university visits have resumed with a variety of schools scheduled to visit ISB in the coming months. Please see Naviance and the weekly newsletter for names of the colleges/universities visiting, dates, and times.
Grade 12
As graduation nears, here are a few resources you’ll find useful as your student transitions to the next stage in their lives.
The Global Nomad’s Guide to University Transition by Tina Quick
The Happiest Kid on Campus by Harlan Cohen
Letting Go by Karen Coburn and Madge Treeger
ISB University Advising Site: Transitions
Two weeks ago, ISB HS Counselors hosted an alumni fair welcoming ISB graduates now at university back to campus to share their wisdom and experience with parents and students. These students represented 4 different nationalities and are studying in 3 different countries. Their advice for parents:
- Be supportive and don’t try to be strict because in college students will do what they want anyway.
- Don’t try to dictate where your child goes to school or where they will study. Help when they ask. Don’t force your help if they don’t.
- High school is a lot of stress and responsibilities, but let your kids have fun. It’s super important and these memories will shape who they are.
Upcoming University Visits
Sophia University (Japan) Monday, February 1 9:00AM (Room 203)