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When Jasmine Cipryk was in kindergarten she learned about plastic waste and knew what to do. She told her parents the family had to pack lunches without plastic packaging. They listened. Jasmine remembers what it felt like for her teacher to believe that any kindergartener could make a difference. 

Jasmine believes in her own junior kindergarteners too. “Small children are amazing human beings,” she says. “They are confident and capable. They are excited about everything!” Early childhood education is an important part of a child's life. Jasmine practices empathy with her students to foster their love of learning. “When they experience something new, you do too,” she says. 

Jasmine values student voice and partners with parents to create a positive school experience and classroom environment that reflects and responds to student needs and interests. Her teaching and learning philosophy draws from the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education. Community is central. 
 

Mia arrived at KIS at the start of tenth grade, her first year living abroad. Though she was nervous she knew she was not the only new student in school. “You meet people in the same situation as you,” she says, “and so you can relate to one another.” Mia felt welcomed by other students and by her teachers. Still, it can be a challenge to find belonging in a new school. 

During her first months at KIS, Mia focused on her academics. In the classroom, she appreciates that student voices are part of the learning process. Her teachers create respectful classroom environments that support conversation and collaboration and Mia likes to hear what her classmates think and know. 

Mia also values the perspective and guidance KIS teachers give. When her PE teacher suggested she play in the upcoming basketball season, Mia realized her teacher recognized her athletic potential. “I’d never played before,” Mia says, “but my PE teacher was supportive. She worked with me to improve my skills.” This experience changed how Mia thought about being involved at KIS. She realized you can find multiple ways to connect with others. During that first basketball season, Mia joined a team – and a community.

Now Mia wants her peers to take a similar risk. “It’s a challenge to put yourself out there,” she says. At KIS co-curricular activities enrich the learning experience as students explore interests and grow their potential.