IMPACT 17 by Concordian International School

Issue 17 of IMPACT, the Back to School edition published in November 2016, opens the 2016-2017 academic year at Concordian International School with a tribute to the late H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej and welcome messages from the administration, including Founder and Director Varnnee Chearavanont Ross, Thai Principal Aj. Vichitvong, Head of School Laurent Goetschmann, and Dr. James Leung, the Director of Academics and High School Principal. The edition celebrates the renewal of the school's full accreditation with the International Baccalaureate Organization, the Council of International Schools, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and the Thai Ministry of Education, alongside the launch of the Concordian app and the construction of new buildings, an athletics center, a library, and a covered EY/PY playground.

The issue marks several staffing milestones, welcoming 35 new educators, new Vice Principals across the divisions, two new librarians launching a new MYP/DP library website, dedicated PYP Math and Literacy Coaches, and the school's first male counselor, Mr. Seth Ellenz. Dr. James notes that all Diploma candidates were successful in receiving their IB Diplomas based on the May 2016 examinations, and Founder Varnnee reports the Class of 2016 is attending universities around the world.

Alumni coverage looks back at the Class of 2016's Farewell Celebration on May 27th in the Amphitheater for 22 graduates, the Valedictory Ceremony on May 28th, and the 2nd Annual Dragon Alumni Reunion at Harrods Tea Room, Paragon, attended by about 40 alumni.

Flashback and showcase features highlight achievements and events: Concordian's Asian History Bowl championship, TISAC titles in badminton and table tennis, the U9 football TISAC win, and hosting the 2nd Annual SEAIS Football Tournament. Other stories cover the Thailand Model United Nations III with 263 delegates from 28 schools, the CP Lotus Shanghai internship, the Beach Clean Up at Bang Saen, the IB Retreat to Pattaya, the Grade 5 Exhibition (with a Soi Dog group raising over 20,000 baht), the Visual Art Exhibition, and traditional ceremonies including Wai Kru, Songkran, Mother's Day, talent shows, and end-of-year concerts.