KIS Newsletter – February 2024
Principal’s Message
Dear KIS Parents & Guardians
Welcome to our latest school newsletter. Since the resumption of classes in the Year of the Dragon, we have worked hard as a team to establish effective routines and add value to our varied learning programmes.
I am delighted to remind everyone of the KIS 30th anniversary fair on Saturday 2nd March 2024, 10am to 5pm. The event is set to be a momentous occasion, celebrating three decades of innovation, growth, and success. We are planning a spectacular fair that will highlight our journey, achievements, and the remarkable impact our community has made over the years. The fair will be a testament to our commitment to excellence and our vision for the future.
We look forward to sharing this milestone day with all members of our wonderful community.
Daniel Hilton
Principal (International Section)
Highlights of The Month
Chairman’s Commendation From the Korean Government
We are pleased to share the good news the chairman of the KIS Board of Directors (BOD) and Korean Residents Association, Mr. Cho, Sung Keon, received the government’s highest honour, the Presidential Citation of the Republic of Korea, in recognition of his contribution to the development of national education. This award is not only the chairman’s honour but also a great honour for the school.
- Field of award (Award level): Award for contribution to national education development (Presidential Citation of the Republic of Korea)
- Awardee: Mr. Cho, Sung Keon, The chairman of KIS BOD
Summary of accomplishment
- Establishing the concrete foundation of Korea International School as a top-tier school
- Enhancing school management stability by reducing school debt and resolving legal complaints
- Hosting educational programs and events and improving the quality of the curriculum by securing excellent teachers
- Ensuring financial soundness by increasing transparency in budget use and diversifying import businesses
- Improvement of the educational environment such as information technology equipment, expansion of multi-purpose sports facilities, and gym remodelling.
- Activities as Principal of Hong Kong Korean Saturday School
- Operating a curriculum for Korean students to learn their native language and Korean culture
- Hosting and supporting various events and supporting the establishment of scholarship funds
- Community education activities
- As the chairman of the Korean Residents Association, he provides support and scholarships to college students and the underprivileged.
- As the former vice chairman of the Korean Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, he supports local sports organizations and conducts volunteer work regularly.
- Establishment of various events for Korean residents to improve the social status of families and women
Accomplishment details
As the Chairman of KIS Board of Directors (BOD), he shared Korean identity and the vision of a global citizen within the school community. He led harmony with the local community, enhanced educational activities, secured HR and financial soundness, and contributed greatly to improving the educational environment. He fulfilled his role as the principal of a Saturday school to educate Korean students in Hong Kong about Korean culture. As the Chairman of the Korean Residents Association, he made outstanding contributions to educational support activities, including scholarship projects, the development of local culture and arts and the promotion of physical education as a businessman. In addition, his family also made social contributions to the development of the Korean community in Hong Kong, setting a good example for society. In particular, as Chairman of KIS BOD, he laid a long-term foundation for nurturing talent at the centre of the Korean community in Hong Kong by ensuring stable operation of school management, support for improving the quality of the curriculum, securing soundness in the financial sector, improving the educational environment, and strengthening welfare benefits for students.
Award Ceremony: To be Awarded by the Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Hong Kong on behalf of the President of the Republic of Korea (in February or March, TBD)
Lunar New Year Celebrations
The school had a wonderful Primary Assembly in the gym to celebrate the Lunar New Year on Thursday 1st February. The venue was filled with vibrant performances, including lion dancers, and music, creating a festive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. It was a great opportunity to learn about the significance of the Lunar New Year and immerse ourselves in the rich traditions of this cultural celebration.
A big thank you to ‘Hong Kong Fat Keung Sport Association‘, for coming to KIS and putting on an amazing Lion Dance performance for all staff and students to see!
On Thursday 8th February, we had our Lunar New Year Fair at school was a vibrant celebration of the Year of the Dragon. Secondary students enthusiastically participated in a variety of activities, including brush calligraphy, pitch pot, making phone charms, and many more. The fair also featured an array of snacks and drinks to mark the festive occasion. The event was a lively and inclusive way for the school community to commemorate the Lunar New Year!
The school was joined by the ‘God of Wealth’ on the last day before the Lunar New Year / Half-Term break.
Whole School Photos
Earlier this month, we had the wonderful opportunity to capture both the Primary and Secondary sections in a group photo for the upcoming Yearbook. It was truly heartwarming to witness the students’ enthusiasm as they eagerly participated in this snapshot of their time at KIS. This photo is sure to be an important and cherished part of the publication. Keep an eye out for further details in May 2024, regarding Yearbook orders and pick-up.
Year 1 CAD Trip
Year 1 students embarked upon an educational excursion to the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) on Tuesday 20th February, for their IPC Unit: ‘A Day in the Life.’ This immersive learning experience aims to introduce students to various roles within the community, including those in the dynamic field of civil aviation. During the visit, pupils gained insights into diverse professions such as pilots and air traffic controllers, thereby broadening their understanding of the intricate workings of the aviation industry.
Book Week
Primary Assembly on Monday 26th February was an exhilarating start to Book Week, providing an unforgettable experience for all involved! The students’ creativity was on full display as they were joined by a host of important book characters in the gym. The event was a true celebration of literacy, showcasing the students’ love for reading and their impressive talents.
On Wednesday 28th February, our school hosted a vibrant and creative Primary student character dress-up parade for Book Week! The mini-football pitch were filled with mini Harry Potters, Matildas, and even some Superheroes. It was a magical sight to see our students bring their favourite book characters to life with such enthusiasm and imagination. The joy and excitement radiated through the school as everyone celebrated the wonderful world of literature together!
Leading up to Book Week, primary students and teachers have dedicated themselves to embellishing classroom floors with captivating book-themed decorations. Explore the incredible themes showcased (below)
Wrapping up Book Week on Thursday 29th February, the ‘Book Land’ event provided Primary students with a diverse array of captivating activities and games aimed at nurturing a love for reading. Themed “Unlock the Magic of Reading at the Happiest Place on Earth,” the event included a Book Fair, Readaloud sessions, access to Ebooks and Audiobooks, and Character Drawing. A heartfelt thank you to the entire staff, students, and especially our wonderful parent volunteers for their unwavering support and contributions that made this event a resounding success.
Cross Country
Wednesday 28th February was a day filled with excitement and achievement at the U9 and U11 cross-country event! With 13 students participating, our U9 Boys, Gordon (4V), and U9 Girls, Gianna (4S), secured an impressive 5th place finish. The entire team displayed exceptional sportsmanship, embodying the values of teamwork, perseverance, and resilience. A huge thank you to the supportive parents and Mr Marlon for marshalling the event! Congratulations to our outstanding U9 Boys and Girls teams for their stellar performance – they truly shone on the track! Let’s continue fostering a positive environment for our students to excel in academics and sports. Special thanks to all teachers and assistants for their unwavering support – your dedication is invaluable.
Go Tigers!
Gym Renovation
We are thrilled to announce that the renovations at the Gymnasium have been successfully completed.
We are eagerly looking forward to witnessing this venue later this week at our 30th Anniversary Fair – Saturday 2nd March 2024.
Key Events Coming Soon
30th Anniversary Coming Soon – Saturday 2nd March 2024
Our 30th Anniversary School Fair is an exciting event happening on Saturday, 2nd March 2024, from 10:00 to 17:00 at the Korean International School, located at 55 Lei King Road, Sai Wan Ho. This special occasion is led and organized by the dedicated prefect team of 2023-24, who have been working tirelessly to ensure a memorable and engaging experience for all attendees.
The fair will showcase the best of the school’s achievements, traditions, and community spirit, as well as provide opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to connect and celebrate the school’s rich history. Don’t miss this special event, as the prefect team has planned a variety of activities, performances, and exhibitions to commemorate the school’s milestone anniversary.
Find out more about the School Fair by watching our promotional video or by accessing the link HERE
Refugee Collection Drive
The Year 6 students have linked up with Branches of Hope, a refugee charity, and will be doing a collection drive as part of their Moving People Exit Point. The collection will run from Tuesday 20 February 2024 until Friday 1 March, 2024.
Students and staff can support the drive by donating the following items:
- non-perishable food
- clothes
- toiletries
- stationary
Information has been sent to all Primary parents on Seesaw.
KIS News Show
Primary Student-Led News Broadcast
This initiative aims to inform our community about regular events, activities, and celebrations at our school.
Upcoming Events & Activities
- Sat 2nd Mar – 30th Anniversary School Fair, 10am – 5pm, Open To The Public, at Korean International School (More info HERE)
- Fri 8th Mar – Junior Gala, 5pm – 8pm
- Tue 12th Mar – GCSE Options Evening
- Thu 14th Mar – A-Level & BTEC Options Evening
- Mon 21st Mar – Tue 22nd Mar – Parent-Teacher Conference (PTC) – No School For Students
- Thu 28th Mar – Term 2 Ends – Half Day School
- Fri 29th Mar – Sun 14th Apr – Easter Holiday Break
- Mon 15th Apr – Term 3 Starts
Stay Connected
Additionally, all members of our community can be kept up to date with the latest events and activities through our social media channels:
