MESSAGE from the PRINCIPAL
Message from the Principal
East-West has completed three years. We started in September 2006 with 80 students from Pre-school 1 to grade 2 and we had two ESL classes. In September, 2008 East-West started the school year in its new campus and as a General Education School. Enrolments this year are 260 from Nursery to Grade 6.
The students are learning and having fun while learning. In every area growth in understanding, knowledge and character is evident.
Researchers tell us that it takes 5 years for people to be fluent in a second language. For some of our students this is their third year and their competency with English is remarkable. They are, likewise, making excellent progress in Khmer and some are even learning Chinese as a third language.
I think that the teachers are the critical component in a good school and East-West has very competent, caring and, for the most part, trained teachers. The teachers want each child to succeed. Children are taught so that they understand. This means that children are taught at their ability level.
East-West is equipping students for the future. Our students are thinkers, children who can apply information, and who engage in enquiry.
We have an emphasis on reading as this is the single most important skill that children need. To enjoy reading, to process information, and to creatively and constructively think are important. People who read do well academically.
East-West has an emphasis on character and all our staff models respect. Children are encouraged to be kind and thoughtful – to build others up rather than pull them down. They are encouraged to see themselves as part of a community and the impact that each has on the community. All children , all people, make mistakes. These mistakes are opportunities to learn and change. Experiences with kindness and good discipline help students to mature.
We are an excellent school and I am delighted to be part of it. The children are wonderful to teach and the parents supportive.
Mrs. Sandra Chipps
