January 16, 2026 - Elementary School Principal Blog

Hello, Elementary Parents!

I hope you have had a lovely week enjoying this “Winter” weather. One of the joys of being an elementary educator is watching the students run, jump, play, and get creative at recess. As of late, with this “cooler” weather, there have been factions at all grade levels playing different versions of tag on the playground. It is a pleasure watching the collaboration, navigating rules, excitement, and laughter of the students as they engage in this activity. 

At ISY, we believe that academic success and personal well-being are deeply connected. As a school guided by our mission to be a community of compassionate global citizens, social and emotional learning (SEL) is not an “extra,” but a foundation for how students learn, relate to others, and navigate an increasingly complex world.

When students feel safe, understood, and emotionally equipped, they are better able to focus, take intellectual risks, and persist through challenges. This week, our teachers will be learning alongside Kristine Mizzone, an internationally renowned SEL consultant, as part of our ongoing commitment to strengthening these practices across the school. This professional learning reflects our belief that supporting students’ social and emotional growth is essential to both their academic achievement and their long-term success beyond the classroom. Kristine would love to share her expertise and insights with you as parents, and we invite you to a workshop on Wednesday to hear how to help your child ‘flourish.’

As the educational leader in Yangon, we will host a conference on Friday afternoon (January 23rd) for teachers from other international schools. The focus will be on SEL, and ISY teachers will provide workshops on a variety of educational topics. On Friday, students will be dismissed at 12:00 pm.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend ahead!

Mr. Geoff Heney 
Elementary School Principal