February 11, 2026 - Elementary School Principal Blog

Dear Parents,What a wonderful week our 5th Graders have had on their Chinthe Expedition to Bulaeinn Resort! This year’s focus centered on team building, responsibility, inclusion, and gratitude.
Throughout the trip, students engaged in active community games, curricular ties, and shared read-alouds. They embraced the challenge of communal eating and practiced the vital skill of taking care of themselves and their belongings independently. We had a great deal of fun playing outdoors, enjoying delicious food, and strengthening our Grade 5 community.

A special thank you to Mr. Shumaker, Ms. Sabine, Mr. Diglin, Ms. Samia, Ms. Pinky, and Dr. Hedger for supporting this joyful event. It has been such a pleasure getting to know these students in a different context, and I already look forward to our trip next year!

As we break for the Union Day holiday and the Lunar New Year, I want to look ahead to the next eight weeks of school. This is an important and exciting learning block where students will engage in deeper, creative, and flexible thinking.

To support this momentum, we kindly encourage you to check the school calendar and avoid scheduling holidays during school time. Please also pay close attention to our 8:00 AM start time to ensure every student begins their day ready to learn.

🧧 Happy (Lunar) New Year to All!

• 🇨🇳 Mandarin: Xīn Nián Kuài Lè
• 🇰🇷 Korean: Saehae bok mani badeuseyo
• 🇻🇳 Vietnamese: Chúc Mừng Năm Mới

On behalf of everyone at ISY, have a safe, relaxing, and fun-filled break.

Regards,

Mr. Geoff Heney 
Elementary School Principal